• Ayutthaya

  • 1-2 Days
1-2 Days
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  • Ayutthaya is one of Thailand’s most remarkable and moving historical landscapes, located 80 km and 1.5 hours north of Bangkok. The city was founded in the 14th century and served as the capital of the Kingdom of Siam until it was sacked and burned by the Burmese army in the 18th century. In the 17th century the city presented breathtaking wealth, with numerous golden temples, magnificent palaces, canals, and small lakes.
    Visiting the city ruins is a profound experience while absorbing the sights of the broken towers, headless Buddha statues, crumbling stupas, and the other ruins scattered across the flat river plain.
    The famous statue of a serene Buddha head tangled in the roots of a bodhi tree at Wat Mahathat is one of the most famous photographs of Thailand, capturing the combination of destruction and beauty.
    The historical park home to the ruins of the ancient city are on an island formed by three rivers, the Chao Phraya, Pa Sak, and Lopburi. The park’s major temple complexes are concentrated in the central and western areas of the island. Being flat with manageable distances between the major sites, cycling through the ruins is far more rewarding than following a fixed tour itinerary. Bicycles are widely available for rent near the main ferry pier. Alternatively, tuk-tuks can be hired for the day at fixed rates for those preferring not to cycle in the heat.
    Reach this magnificent site from Bangkok, as part of 1-2 day trip, by train, 1.5 hours from Hua Lamphong station, or by bus from Mo Chit Northern Bus Terminal.
    Several operators offer day and overnight river cruises between Bangkok and Ayutthaya along the Chao Phraya, a scenic and memorable journey.
    Driving a car or an organized tour are obviously flexible options allowing stops at Bang Pa-In Palace and other sites on route.

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