Ayutthaya
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Bangkok, THA
The ruined island city-state of Ayutthaya—the once great capital of the Kingdom of Siam—is now a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lying at the confluence of three rivers north of Bangkok, Ayutthaya Historical Park protects magnificent crumbling stone temple spires, sun-worn Buddha statues, and other remnants of the three palaces, 400 temples, houses, and markets that thrived in Ayutthaya’s heyday.
Ayutthaya’s ruined temples and statues are easily visited on foot or by bike, though biking is by far the most popular option. Many half- and full-day walking, biking, and bus tours visit Ayutthaya, and you can even book a full-day bike tour departing from Bangkok.
Most tours visit the following top sights, such as Wat Phutthaisawan; St Joseph’s Church; and the Ayutthaya Historical Park’s Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, Viharn Phra Mongkol Bophit, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram. Sites farther afield, such as the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, are also sometimes included on tours.
There is an entrance fee to enter the Ayutthaya Historical Park.
Most visitors spend at least a half-day exploring the vast, 715-acre (289-hectare) city site.
If biking, note that traffic lights are missing from some intersections—be sure to look both ways, and always assume cars and trucks have the right of way.
The ruined temples are still considered sacred. To be respectful, wear long pants or skirts, show no bare shoulders, and always remove shoes before entering a temple building.
Ayutthaya is situated 47 miles (76 kilometers) north of Bangkok, about an hour’s drive from downtown. Ayutthaya Historical Park, home to four of the most popular temples as well as the Royal Palace at Wiharn Phra Mongkol Bophit, is located in the center of the present-day city and organized tours can take the hassle out of making your own way there.
For cool and dry weather, visit between November and February; however, keep in mind that this is peak season in Thailand. If possible, come during Loi Krathong, a November Thai holiday that involves ornate hanging lanterns, markets, music, and cultural performances spread over three days. No matter the time of year, visit in the early morning to beat the crowds.
The Chao Sam Phraya National Museum houses almost all of the remaining artifacts uncovered during archaeological excavations of the former kingdom. This is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the area and the people who lived here centuries ago.
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