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AYUTTHAYA


Is a city of ancient wonders, where the past and the present collide in a spectacular display of culture and history. Once the capital of the mighty Siamese kingdom, Ayutthaya was a flourishing center of trade, art, and religion for over four centuries. It was also a frequent target of invasions by the Burmese, who eventually sacked and burned the city in 1767, forcing the Thai people to abandon their glorious home and move to Bangkok.

Today, Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can explore the ruins of temples, palaces, and statues that testify to the splendor and power of the old Siamese civilization. You can marvel at the majestic prangs (towers) and chedis (stupas) that rise from the ground, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. You can also visit the museums and galleries that showcase the treasures and artifacts recovered from the archaeological sites.

Ayutthaya is not only a place of historical interest, but also a vibrant and modern city that offers plenty of attractions and activities for visitors. You can enjoy the local cuisine at the night market, where you can sample delicious dishes such as pad thai or river fish soup. You can also take a boat tour along the Chao Phraya river, which surrounds the island where most of the ruins are located. You can admire the scenic views of the city and the countryside, as well as witness the daily life of the locals who live along the riverbanks.

WAT MAHA THAT
WAT PHRA SI SANPHET
WAT LOKKAYASUTHA
WAT PHRA RAM
WAT RATCHABURANA
WAT THAMMIKARAT
WAT PHRA NGAM
BANG PA-IN PALACE
WAT YAI CHAI MONGKHON
WAT CHAIWATTHANARAM
AYOTHAYA FLOATING MARKET
WAT MAHA THAT

Is a historic temple in Thailand that dates back to the 14th century. It was the spiritual and political center of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, where the relics of Buddha were enshrined in a towering prang (spire). The temple was also the seat of the Supreme Patriarch of Buddhism, and a place of royal ceremonies and education.

The temple witnessed the tragic downfall of Ayutthaya, when it was invaded and sacked by the Burmese army in 1767. The temple was set on fire and looted, leaving behind a scene of devastation and ruin. Many Buddha statues were decapitated or stolen, and the prang collapsed.

Today, Wat Maha That is a popular attraction for visitors who want to experience the glory and tragedy of Ayutthaya. The temple complex covers a large area, with many structures to admire, such as chedis (stupas), viharns (assembly halls), ubosots (ordination halls), and mondops (pavilions). The most iconic feature is the Buddha head entwined in the roots of a Bodhi tree, a symbol of the resilience and harmony of Buddhism.

WAT PHRA SI SANPHET

Is a temple that was once the holiest and most splendid site in the ancient capital of Ayutthaya. It was built on the grounds of the old royal palace, and served as the royal chapel and the model for the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok. The temple is famous for its three majestic stupas that contain the ashes of three kings of Ayutthaya.

They are a striking sight that will awe any visitor with their size and symmetry. The temple also has other buildings that showcase the rich history and culture of Ayutthaya, such as the Vihara Luang, which housed a huge gold-covered Buddha image, also known as Prasat Phra Narai, which has a cross-shaped design influenced by European and Indo-Persian architecture.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet is a must-see attraction for anyone who wants to experience the glory and beauty of Thailand’s past. It is a place where you can marvel at the architectural and artistic achievements of a powerful and prosperous kingdom that once ruled over Southeast Asia.

WAT LOKKAYASUTHA

Is a temple famous for its enormous reclining Buddha statue, Phra Budhasaiyart, which is was constructed in the Middle of Ayutthaya Period and is 37 meters long and 8 meters high. The statue depicts the Buddha at the time of his death as he enters Nirvana. The head of the statue rests on a giant lotus flower. The lotus flower is a symbol of purity and enlightenment in Buddhism, and it is often used to represent the Buddha himself.

Facing is we have another temple, Wat Worachettharam. Originally named Wat Chao Chet and later renamed by King Ekathotsarot to Wat Worachettharam, which means “temple of sublime elder brother”. The bell-shaped stupa and a seated Buddha at its base define the whole place. A large sermon hall is the only structure more or less still intact.

WAT PHRA RAM

is a magnificent Buddhist temple that holds deep historical significance. It was constructed in the 14th century during the reign of King Ramesuan, making it one of the oldest surviving temples in Ayutthaya. The temple was built to honor King Ramesuan’s father, King U-Thong, who founded the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

The temple complex was originally much larger, encompassing a vast area that included a royal palace and several other structures. However, over the centuries, much of the complex was destroyed and lost to time. Today, only the central prang, the courtyard, and a few remnants of the original structures remain.

In 1767, the Burmese invasion led to the fall of Ayutthaya, and Wat Phra Ram suffered extensive damage. The invading forces ransacked the temple, leaving it in ruins. However, despite the destruction, the temple’s central prang still stands tall, serving as a reminder of the grandeur and resilience of Ayutthaya’s past.

Today, Wat Phra Ram stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts visitors from around the world.

WAT RATCHABURANA

Is a splendid Buddhist temple that holds immense historical and cultural significance. Constructed in the 15th century during the reign of King Borommarachathirat II, this temple stands as a remarkable example of Khmer-influenced architecture and showcases intricate details that mesmerize visitors.

At the heart of Wat Ratchaburana stands its iconic prang, a towering structure that dominates the temple grounds. Adorned with elaborate stucco decorations and intricate carvings depicting mythical creatures and gods, the prang serves as a visual feast for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship. Visitors can climb the steep staircase within the prang to reach the upper levels and witness panoramic views of the surrounding area.

One fascinating feature of Wat Ratchaburana is its underground crypt. Discovered in 1957, the crypt revealed a hidden chamber filled with treasures and relics. Intricate gold jewelry, precious Buddha statues, and other ceremonial objects were unearthed, giving insight into the opulence and religious practices of the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

WAT THAMMIKARAT

Is a stunning Buddhist temple. The intricate architecture and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination. The temple is known for its remarkable features, including the presence of 50 majestic lion statues that guard its entrance and create a striking first impression.

Another interesting feature of Wat Thammikarat is the presence of roosters throughout the temple complex. These vibrant and colorful birds roam freely, creating a lively and unique atmosphere. The roosters are considered sacred in Thai culture, symbolizing good fortune and protection against evil spirits.

The temple’s architecture is also worth noting, with its elegant columns that contribute to its overall beauty. The columns are intricately designed, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans who built the temple. 

WAT PHRA NGAM

This hidden gem is a favourite of mine. Wat Phra Ngam is a Buddhist temple located in Klong Sa Bua sub-district of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya district, outside the city town.

The temple is known for its beautiful architecture, including the structured octagon pagoda and the arched entrance made from bricks called “the Gate of Time“. The gate is cuddled entirely with the giant Bodhi Tree and is considered a natural gate of the tree.

The mystical structure as if gazing through the frame is the old stupa right within the arch. The glow of the last light of the day shines through the arch, which we can imagine that is just like we step from the present to the past days. The Gate of Time has become a trendy photogenic spot for tourists to visit and shoot pictures.

BANG PA-IN PALACE

Also known as the Summer Palace, was built in the 17th century by King Prasat Thong and was later restored by King Mongkut in the 19th century. The palace complex is situated on Bang Pa-In Island in the Chao Phraya River and is surrounded by lush greenery.

The palace features a blend of Thai, Chinese, and European architectural styles and comprises several buildings, including the Aisawan Thiphya-Art Pavilion, the Phra Thinang Warophat Phiman, and the Phra Thinang Uthayan Phumisathian. The Aisawan Thiphya-Art Pavilion is a small, elegant building located in the middle of a pond. It was built in 1876 by King Chulalongkorn as a place to relax and enjoy the view of the surrounding landscape. The Phra Thinang Warophat Phiman is a two-story building that was built in 1889 by King Chulalongkorn as his residence. The building features a blend of Thai and European architectural styles. The Phra Thinang Uthayan Phumisathian is a two-story building that was built in 1903 by King Chulalongkorn as a place to receive foreign dignitaries.

WAT YAI CHAI MONGKHON

Is a stunning temple that will take you back in time to the glorious days of the Ayutthaya kingdom. This temple was built by King U-Thong in 1357 and was later enlarged by King Naresuan the Great to commemorate his victory over the Burmese army. You can admire the majestic main chedi that stands 62 meters high and is surrounded by hundreds of Buddha statues draped in saffron robes. You can also climb up the steps to get a panoramic view of the temple grounds and the nearby countryside.

Don’t miss the impressive reclining Buddha that measures 7 meters long and 2 meters high and is one of the oldest in Ayutthaya. You can also pay your respects to the sacred Phra Phuttha Chaiya Mongkhon statue that is housed in the ordination hall.

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is not only a historical site, but also a living temple where monks reside and practice their faith. You can witness their daily routines and rituals, and even join them in meditation or chanting if you wish. You can also make merit by offering food, flowers, or candles to the monks or the Buddha images. 

WAT CHAIWATTHANARAM

Is a temple built in 1630 by King Prasat Thong as a tribute to his mother’s residence in that area. The temple’s name literally means the Temple of long reign and glorious era. It was designed in Khmer style to gain Buddhist merit and as a memorial to his mother.

The temple has a central 35-meter-high prang with four smaller prangs. About halfway up, there are hidden entrances, to which steep stairs lead. The central platform is surrounded by eight chedi-shaped chapels, which are connected by a rectangular cross-shaped passage. Along the wall, there were 120 sitting Buddha statues, probably painted in black and gold.

The eight chedi-like chapels are formed in a unique way. They had paintings on the interior walls, the exterior ones decorated by 12 reliefs depicting scenes from the life of Buddha (Jataka). Just fragments of the paintings and the reliefs survived. In each of the rectangular chedis were two sitting Buddha statues, and in each of the four middle chedis was one big sitting Buddha statue, also lacquered in black and gold. The ceiling over those statues was of wood with golden stars on black lacquer.

AYOTHAYA FLOATING MARKET

 Is a cultural and shopping destination. The market covers an area of approximately 70 acres and is regarded as the largest tourist attraction in the aspect of cultural heritage conservation.

It was established with a primary purpose to serve as both a tourist destination and an educational institution for the preservation of Thai arts and culture, retaining all aspects of Ayutthaya floating market from the past. These include traditional costume, stunning architecture, unique culture and tradition, authentic amusement, folk performance, and the simple lifestyle of Thai people. While exploring the market, tourists can savor some tasty and delicious food or shop for souvenirs at various stores, scattering around the market.

Another unique feature of the Market is the fact that each building or attraction was named after major markets in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, which enables visitors to know about local products of each district and remember the names of various markets in Ayutthaya, such as Chao Phrom Market, Sena Market, and Nakhon Luang Market.