In Ayutthaya, time seems to stand still. The atmosphere of the city is striking, and the streets are lined with brick walls where frangipani trees, towers and old chedis still stand. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991, the entire Ayutthaya complex takes on the air of Angkor Wat, its Cambodian neighbour. For lovers of architecture and ancient history, the setting is almost fantastic. A visit to Ayutthaya is a must if you want to discover the country. Situated 80km north of Bangkok, this temple city offers an urban landscape, divided between unspoilt wilderness and more than 375 temples and 29 forts. Visually, Ayutthaya is unforgettable. In fact, its famous Buddha head embedded in an ancient fig tree, a very popular attraction, is memorable and photogenic. Like an adventurer in search of treasure, you can explore its ancient temples and spectacular historic sites full of mystery. A journey through time guaranteed.
More than 300 years ago, Ayutthaya was the largest city in the world and was regarded as a huge trading centre between East and West. It was home to over a million people, including merchants and dignitaries from all over the world.
Its strategic location on the banks of three rivers linked to the sea protected it from attack by naval warships while allowing trade to flourish.
The floating Buddha in Ayutthaya
- © achiaos / ShutterstockHowever, it all came to an end in April 1767, when the Burmese armies laid siege to the city for 14 months. Art treasures, libraries and important historical documents were destroyed, along with most of the city. The stone palaces and monasteries were spared, and have now become the emblems of Ayutthaya.
Ayutthaya was never rebuilt. A new capital was established at Thonburi, near modern Bangkok, after the departure of the Burmese army.
In 1991, part of Ayutthaya Historical Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, the park is a mixture of old and new, with historic sites scattered around a modern Thai city.
The majority of them can be found in Ayutthaya Historical Park. Nothing is too far away, and it's easy to get around on foot, by bike or by tuk tuk.
Thailand
It is estimated that the city boasts over 400 historic sites. The absolute showpiece remains the historic park with its five temples (or 'wats'). Among the largest temples are Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mahathat and Wat Ratchaburana, and a day's visit to the main attractions is enough. However, if you also want to explore the surrounding buildings, it's worth staying longer.
The Buddha integrated into a tree
- © lisanna01 / ShutterstockMost of the monuments to visit are in Ayutthaya Park, so to make sure you don't miss out on anything, here's a summary of the best temples to explore at a glance:
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Ayutthaya. This huge temple dating from 1357 is located on the outskirts of the city and is a popular stop on excursions. The 8-metre-high Chedi is particularly impressive, and a stroll around the grounds reveals a wealth of historical features, including Buddha statues decorated in typical orange robes, and the Reclining Buddha from the time of King Naresuan the Great.
Opening hours: 8am to 5pm | Fee: 50 cents per person
Reclining Buddha from the time of King Naresuan the Great
- © stockphoto mania / ShutterstockWat Chai Watthanaram is one of the most important temples in Ayutthaya and is on UNESCO's World Heritage List. Built in 1630, the temple has a central 35-metre Khmer-style tower flanked by four smaller prangs (a spire-like tower). The complex was once a royal temple.
Opening hours: 8am to 5pm | Price: €1.30 per person
Wat Chai Watthanaram at sunset
- © Chongsiri Chaitongngam / ShutterstockWihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit, the ultimate jewel, is the city's most important attraction, thanks in particular to its bronze Buddha, some 12.5 metres high and one of the largest gilded Buddha statues in Thailand. It dates back to the early days of the Ayutthaya Empire, and was gilded in 1991 to mark the Thai king's birthday.
Opening hours: 8am to 5pm | Admission: free
One of Thailand's most famous attractions is Wat Mahathat Ayutthaya. This fascinating temple is located in the heart of the historical park, to the east of Rama Park. The complex dates back to 1374 and has been enlarged and embellished many times.
When you visit, you'll discover a 46-metre-high tower and the famous Buddha head in the roots of a tree. For believers, this is a very sacred place and must therefore be treated with great respect.
Opening hours: 8.30 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Price: €1.50 per person
Wat Phra Sri Sanphet one of the most magnificent in Ayutthaya
- © Sunnyrain / ShutterstockWat Phra Sri Sanphet is also well worth a visit. In the past, this complex was one of the most magnificent in Ayutthaya. Built around 1448, this sacred site was gradually extended and was once the royal temple. Today, you can discover its 3 imposing chedis, which have been perfectly preserved thanks to several restorations.
Opening hours: 8am to 5pm | price: €1.30 per person
The Chao Sam Phraya National Museum is one of the most important museums in Ayutthaya. If you have the time, you should definitely visit this fascinating exhibition. The museum consists of three buildings, where you can learn many anecdotes about ancient times.
Opening hours: 9.00 am to 4.00 pm | Price: 4 euros per person
The 19-metre Buddha inside Phanan Choeng temple
- © Santi Rodriguez / ShutterstockWat Phanan Choeng is well worth a visit for its cross-legged Buddha statue, located directly inside the temple. It stands around 19 metres high and is one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand.
Opening hours: 8.00 am to 5.00 pm | Price: 50 cents per person
Wat Lokayasutharam, known as the Temple of the Resting Buddha, is a highlight of Ayutthaya. This complex is famous for the enormous Reclining Buddha, which is around 42 metres long and 8 metres high. His head, which is supported by his right hand, rests on four lotus buds.
Opening times: no official opening times | Admission: free of charge
Bang Pa In is located 20 kilometres south of Ayutthaya and is one of the region's most stunning attractions. The whole complex attracts hikers and Ayutthaya pilgrims alike. This wonderful place is located on the Chao Phraya River and is surrounded by high walls. You can visit a beautiful garden, beautifully decorated palaces, as well as towers, pavilions, statues and even a royal observatory.
Opening hours: 8.00 am to 3.30 pm | Price: €2.50 per person
The Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, also known as the Summer Palace, is a complex of buildings once used by the Siamese rulers of the Ayutthaya kingdom.
- © GC photographer / Shutterstockyou must dress respectfully when visiting these sites. You will need to cover your shoulders and knees. Opt for loose, long clothes that are comfortable to withstand the heat and humidity.
Ayutthaya is connected to Bangkok by road, rail and even river! It's also a stop on the Bangkok-Chiang Mai rail route, making it easy to get to.
Trains to Ayutthaya usually depart from Hua Lamphong station in Bangkok, and travel through the picturesque countryside for about an hour and a half. The train is probably the easiest, cheapest and fastest option. Tickets can be purchased on arrival or in advance via 12Go, with prices starting from 15 baht. Tuk Tuks are waiting at Ayutthaya station at all times of the day, ready to take you to your accommodation or directly to the sights.
Buses/minivans run from the Mo Chit North Bus Terminal in Bangkok. Minivans also run to and from Ayutthaya from the Victory Monument in Bangkok.
👉 If you want to cruise around Ayutthaya along the Chao Phraya, you can book your Ayutthaya cruise on this website.
