ayutthaya travel map

Ayutthaya: The definitive Guide

How to visit ayutthaya historical park (thailand).

You’re planning to visit Ayutthaya , the most famous historical park in Thailand , and you’re looking for info to plan your visit?

You’re at the right place!

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya is home to dozens of ancient temples, and the least I can say is that they are very impressive.

Along with the historical park of Sukhothai , it’s really one of the must-see archaeological sites on a trip to Thailand!

To help you plan your visit , I have prepared this guide to Ayutthaya. I will start by telling you more about the 6 main temples , and will give you all by best tips to make the most of your visit.

In addition to the temples guide, I will also give you my selection of the best hotels in Ayutthaya depending on your budget , and will explain how to get to the historical park from Bangkok .

So, what are the best things to see in Ayutthaya? Where to stay?

How to visit Ayutthaya: all the info you need!

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Let’s start with some practical information to visit Ayutthaya.

How to visit all the temples, what types of tickets you need and how much it costs: I will tell you everything!

First and foremost: The archaeological site is vast and the temples are located in different places in the city . It’s therefore not possible to visit everything on foot.

If, like us, you have rented a car to visit Thailand , then it’s not an issue and you can drive from one temple to another. There are free parking lots at the entrance of each area in the historical park .

We visited Ayutthaya in January (high season) and we always found parking spots.

The other option to visit Ayutthaya is to rent a bike. This is the solution chosen by most people who don’t have a car, and who arrive from Bangkok by train or bus (I tell you more about it in “How to get to Ayutthaya” section, at the end of this article).

Almost all of the city’s guesthouse and hotels rent bicycles for 50 Bahts a day or even for free if you have booked a night at their place. There are also rental agencies in front of the most important temples.

If you’re comfortable riding a scooter or a motorcycle , you can also rent one in Ayutthaya. Less tiring and faster than cycling!

Simply ask your hotel for advice on the choice of the rental company. It will cost you between 200 and 300 Bahts to hire a scooter/motorcycle for a day in Ayutthaya.

Lastly, you can rent a tuk-tuk to visit the historical park. The tuk-tuk will drop you off at the entrance of each temple and wait for you there.

The fare is usually 200 Bahts per hour (of course it’s not the cheapest option!) or 1200 Bahts per day , but you can try to negotiate a bit.

Opening hours: The temples of the historical park of Ayutthaya are open every day from 8 am to 6 pm .

The entrance fee to most temples is 50 Bahts per person , but some less known or less touristy temples charge 20 Bahts or are even free to visit.

If you have the time and intend to visit several temples, both in the historical park and the more remote ones, you should buy the Pass that allows you to visit 6 temples for only 220 Bahts. It’s available at the entrance of each of the 6 temples.

It is very convenient and valid for 30 days. So if you’re spending 2 days in Ayutthaya, you don’t have to hurry to visit all 6 temples.

Here is the list of the 6 temples included in this pass (I will provide more details a bit below):

• Wat Mahathat
• Wat Ratchaburana
• Wat Phra Si Sanphet
• Wat Phra Ram
• Wat Maheyong
• Wat Chai Watthanaram

When visiting Ayutthaya (especially if you’re exploring the site by bike), remember to bring caps, sunscreen and a bottle of water.

For ladies, you must wear clothing that covers your legs when visiting the temples. Bring long trousers or a loose skirt in your bag.

Naturally, people visit Ayutthaya to explore the historical park and the numerous temples.

I have prepared a short list of the important temples to see and those that I found the most interesting.

Let’s start with the 6 temples included in the 220 Baht Pass:

1) Wat Mahathat: built in the 14th century, it’s the oldest temple in Ayutthaya and one of the most photographed temples today.

Here you will find the famous Buddha head entwined in a tree trunk, which has become the symbol of the park. The head is considered sacred and many Thai people come here to worship her.

As you walk around the temple, you will see that the majority of Buddha statues have been beheaded by the Burmese. The entrance fee is 50 Bahts without the Pass.

2) Wat Ratchaburana: built in the 15th century, this Khmer -style temple houses the largest chedi (also called Stūpa ) in Ayutthaya.

The Wat was built by the king in memory of his 2 brothers who fought to death trying to conquer the throne following the death of their father.

Both of them died and the 3rd child inherited the kingdom . It costs 50 Bahts without the Pass.

3) Wat Phra Si Sanphet: also known as the Old Palace or the Grand Palace (not to be confused with the one in Bangkok!).

This temple built in the 16th century is the largest temple in Ayutthaya and has 3 magnificent and extremely well preserved chedis .

The temple is an excellent photo spot and is definitely one of the 3 most beautiful temples to visit in Ayutthaya! The entrance fee is 50 Bahts without the Pass.

Just before the entrance of the Wat Phra Si Sanphet , you can explore the interior of Wiharn Phra Mongkon Bophit. It houses a huge gold seated Buddha statue, which is almost 12 metres high.

4) Wat Phra Ram: a Khmer-style temple with an immense prang surrounded by smaller chedis. The temple is very beautiful, and is nestled in a natural setting. Entrance costs 50 Bahts without the Pass.

5) Wat Chai Watthanaram: its construction began in the 17th century and lasted for almost 20 years. This Khmer-style temple located on the river banks features a large central prang, about 35 metres tall, surrounded by several smaller chedis.

You really should go there to experience the sunset , it is truly splendid! Along with Wat Phra Si Sanphet, it’s one of the temples I enjoyed the most during my stay in Ayutthaya. The entrance fee is 50 Bahts without the Pass.

6) Wat Maheyong: located outside the historical park, towards the floating market. Unfortunately, t here isn’t much left of it , which perhaps explains why it is not flocked by tourists. If you have taken the Pass and you have a little time to spare, you can always go and have a look.

In addition to these 6 temples included in the Pass, you really should go see the next 3 temples during your visit to the historical park of Ayutthaya:

7) Wat Yai Chaya Mongkon (or Mongkhon): a magnificent temple with a large bell-shaped chedi flanked by 2 large seated stone Buddhas covered with golden robes.

All around the chedi are several other Buddha statues and a small garden at the back. At the entrance, there is also a 7-meter long sleeping Buddha statue. The entrance fee is 20 Bahts.

This one is in my top 3 most beautiful temples to see in Ayutthaya!

8) Wat Lokayasutharam and its 42-metre long sleeping Buddha. Very impressive! No entrance fee.

9) Wat Phanan Choeng houses a gigantic 19 metre-tall seated Buddha statue. This temple is very popular among Thai people and ceremonies are held there every weekend. The entrance fee is 20 Bahts.

Here is another nice activity you can do in Ayutthaya: a boat tour around the island and the historical park to discover the temples from another angle.

These cruises are organised in the late afternoon and allow you to make at least 3 stops to gaze upon the temples. The last stop of your tour will be Wat Chai Watthanaram, the best place to watch the sunset. And when you go back, you can see the other illuminated temples.

The trip lasts from 2 to 3 hours for about 200 Bahts per person. 

This tour is offered everywhere, by tour agencies as well as by guest houses and hotels.

You’re going to Ayutthaya?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Ayutthaya on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Ayutthaya.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Ayutthaya, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Ayutthaya!

If you’re looking for an hassle-free solution, you can visit Ayutthaya from Bangkok with an organised day trip.

These guided tours are really the best way to visit Ayutthaya if you don’t want to deal with the organisation . In addition, you will have a guide to learn more about the history of the site and get interesting anecdotes!

To help you out, I have selected the 2 best day trips to Ayutthaya here:

• From Bangkok – Visit to Ayutthaya by bus and boat

The tour leaves Bangkok early in the morning. They even pick you up from your hotel . You will get to Ayutthaya by bus and will have the opportunity to discover the temples of the historical park during the day.

And for the return journey, instead of taking the bus again, you will get back to Bangkok by boat!

The river cruise also includes a buffet lunch .

The rate of around 65€ per person includes pick-up in front of your hotel, transportation, guide, entrance fees to temples, cruise and lunch.

To book your day trip to Ayutthaya from Bangkok , it’s very easy, simply click on the button below:

• From Bangkok – small group guided tour of the temples

That’s about the same as the previous trip: everything is organized for you!

A minibus will pick you up in Bangkok and take you to Ayutthaya. There, you will enjoy a guided tour of the 4 main temples.

Lunch is also included.

However, for this trip, the return journey to Bangkok is by minibus and not by boat.

You need to book this tour by clicking here:

How many days to visit Ayutthaya?

You should plan for a minimum of one day to visit Ayutthaya. There are many temples to see and the historical park is really vast.

Try to be there as early as possible in the morning to see as many things as possible. And ideally, you should finish at the Wat Chai Watthanaram for sunset.

It’s best to spend a night in Ayutthaya: you can then enjoy the illuminated temples at night and perhaps visit one or 2 temples the next morning , before continuing your trip in Thailand!

The 3 best things to do around Ayutthaya

In addition to the historical park, there are a few other places to see near Ayutthaya. Here they are!

About 20 km from Ayutthaya , you should visit Bang Pa In palace.

The palace is unique and includes several monuments of totally different architectural styles . There is for example a Chinese temple, a Thai-style pavilion and a very colourful tower that kind of looks like a lighthouse.

Surrounded by a lake and pretty well-maintained gardens, the place is really pleasant!

The park can be visited easily on foot, but you can also hire a small golf cart to move around (400 Bahts for an hour).

Entrance to the palace costs 100 Bahts, but be careful of the opening hours, as the site closes early, around 4 pm.

To reach Bang Pa In Palace from Ayutthaya , if you don’t have a car, the easiest way is to take the train . The journey takes only 15 minutes and costs only 3 Bahts (yes, you read that right!).

From the arrival station, it takes about 25 minutes on foot to get to the palace (1.7 km), but you can also take a song thaew or a motorcycle taxi.

Only 75 km from the historical park, Bangkok is the nearest “big city” from Ayutthaya .

And it’s very likely that you have planned to visit it during your stay in Thailand!

As you may imagine, there are tons of things to do and see in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand.

To organise your visit to the city, you should really read my definitive guide to Bangkok by clicking on the following link: The 20 best things to do in Bangkok.

In this guide, you will find all the information you need to prepare your visit: the best things to do , my recommended itineraries to visit Bangkok in 1, 2 or 3 days , a tourist map, my selection of the best hotels and much more!

Only a 1 hour drive north of Ayutthaya , you can also visit Lopburi.

The city is known for being home to hundreds of monkeys and most tourists go there to see them. In addition to the monkeys, you can see a few ruined temples, Lopburi being one of the oldest cities in Thailand.

The main temple to see in the city is Prang Sam Yot . It’s also where the majority of the monkeys are living!

When going to see monkeys, be careful with your hat or glasses and store your food in your bag. And remember, these are wild animals, there’s always a risk of being bitten or scratched.

• Early Bird Hostel Ayutthaya: Hostel located 700 metres from Wat Mahathat. Dormitory bed from €13, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly staff, cleanliness, privacy thanks the curtain. Perfect for backpackers!
• Baan Baimai Boutique Room: Located 1.7 km from Wat Mahathat or 5 minutes by car. Spacious and well decorated double room from € 27. Strong points: quiet, decor, private parking. An excellent choice for cheap accommodation in Ayutthaya!
• P.U. Inn Resort: Located 5 minutes from the bus station and 10 minutes from Mahathat temple. Comfortable and colourful double room from €45. Strong points: swimming pool, central location, warm welcome.
• Baan Thai House: Located 1.4 km from Wat Yai Chai Mongkon. Spacious villa with balcony and garden or lake view from €65, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, outdoors, good meals, setting, calm.
• Classic Kameo Hotel & Serviced Apartments, Ayutthaya: 5 minute drive from Yai Chai Mongkon Temple. Double room with kitchenette and sitting area, modern and spacious, from €75, breakfast included. Strong points: facilities, comfort, swimming pool, spa.
• Sala Ayutthaya: Located 1.6 km from the historical park and the Wat Chai Watthanaram.  Modern double room with exposed red bricks from €140, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, view of the river and the temples, food quality, hotel design. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Ayutthaya!

For evening meals in Ayutthaya, you should really visit the Night Market , taking place every evening. On weekends , you can also enjoy the other Night Market, located near Wat Phra Si Sanphet.

There, you will find numerous street food stands where you can try the local cuisine. The perfect opportunity to taste everything!

The atmosphere is very pleasant , with wooden tables for eating and traditional dance shows.

How to get to Ayutthaya?

You should get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok (only 75 km), it’s the easiest!

To do so, several options are available, depending on your budget and  preferred mode of transportation. And of course, there are also the organized day trips I told you about earlier!

Here are you options to get to Ayutthaya:

If you have rented a car to visit Thailand, it will take you only 45 minutes to get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok.

It’s best to rent a car at Bangkok’s Don Muang Airport, as it’s located right on the way to Ayutthaya. It means you won’t have to start driving in Thailand in the city of Bangkok, stuck in traffic.

And if, like us, you have opted for a road trip to Thailand , including a visit to Ayutthaya, Sukhothai and up to Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai for example, you can then leave your car at the airport of one of these 2 cities , without paying extra charges.

If you are interested in renting a car in Thailand , you should use Rentalcars.com website .

It’s super convenient, as it allows you to compare car rental prices between all car rental agencies at a given location .

They also offer a “full protection” insurance (don’t forget to check the box when booking): in case of damage or even if your car gets stolen, you’ll get a full refund of the costs. Tested and approved, they have already refunded me for more than 1200 euros!

To check the prices of rental cars in Thailand, simply click on the button below:

If you don’t want to rent a car but you still want to go from Bangkok to Ayutthaya quickly, you can hire a private driver for a day.

He will pick you up in front of your hotel to take you to Ayutthaya . He will then take you to the entrance of each temple of the site and wait for you for as long as it takes.

In the late afternoon, he will take you back to Bangkok. 

You need to book your private driver by clicking on the button below:

*Please note that the reason I recommend this particular service is that the cars are in good condition, comfortable and the driver is driving safely. This is not always the case in Thailand so you should really avoid booking on random websites.

To go to Ayutthaya from Bangkok , you can also take the train.

This is the most economical option with a one-way journey that will only cost you 15 Bahts! Allow about 2 hours to get there by train, or even a little less, if you take the express train.

Hua Lamphong station is the derparture point for trains to Ayutthaya. You can get there with the MRT (This is the name of the metro) and stop at Hua Lamphong station).

To take the bus to Ayutthaya, take the BTS (also called “Sky train”) in Bangkok to Mo Chit stop. You will arrive directly at the bus station of the same name.

There are trips several times per hour, all day long. It costs around 50 baht for a 1h30 journey.

At the Mo Chit bus terminal, you can also take a minivan to Ayutthaya.

The advantage compared to a conventional bus is that they are a little faster (about 1 hour drive). It’s barely more expensive, costing 70 Bahts.

Minivans leave as soon as they are full, but there are always some available.

Here is the tourist map of Ayutthaya, which will be given to you at the entrance of the site. You can save this map on your smartphone, it’s the most convenient!

To help you find your way around and organise your visit to the temples of Ayutthaya , I have prepared a map with an itinerary to discover the main temples.  You can display the map legend by clicking the button at the top left with a small arrow.

The temples with a blue pin are those planned for a day trip . Those with orange pins are optional . You can visit them if you have time or, if you spend 2 days in Ayutthaya.

As I told you, Ayutthaya was the second capital of the kingdom of Siam. The first capital was in Sukhothai, some 370 km to the north.

Like Ayutthaya, Sukhothai has now been renovated and the historical park includes several beautiful temples to discover.

Many travellers choose to visit only one, due to lack of time and therefore wonder which city to choose between Ayutthaya and Sukhothai.

I was lucky enough to be able to visit the 2 during my trip to Thailand and I really loved both. I found that the temples of Ayutthaya were more impressive but those of Sukhothai are in a more natural environment, which balances things out .

If you are staying in Thailand for a short time, it’s best to go to Ayutthaya, as it is very close from Bangkok.

But if you’re in Thailand for 2 or more weeks, I really recommend you to go and see both and form your own opinion.

From Ayutthaya, you can reach Sukhothai by bus (direct journey of 6 hours) or take a train to Phitsanulok and then a bus to Sukhothai.

From Bangkok, there are also flights to Sukhothai.

To discover Sukhothai, you should read my article about the historical park:  Sukhothai: the definitive guide.

Let’s end this guide with a short overview of Ayutthaya’s history . It’s good to know it beforehand since not much explanation is available there.

Ayutthaya was the second capital of the kingdom of Siam , from 1350 to 1767. It has succeeded the city of Sukhothai , located further north.

In fact, the city of Ayutthaya was chosen for its strategic location, surrounded by rivers. They served as natural barriers, but not only that: they also helped to facilitate international trade with China or India .

The city was a major economic and commercial centre , with more than a million people living there.

Long considered the most powerful and rich city in Southeast Asia , it was home to no less than 400 temples!

The city was completely destroyed in 1767 , following an attack by the Burmese. In order to assert their domination, they decided to decapitate all Buddha statues.  Thousands of residents were enslaved and all treasures were looted.

Ayutthaya subsequently lost its status as capital to Thonburi for a while, and then to Bangkok.

It was not until 1969 that major restoration works were carried out to restore some of the marvellous temples you can discover today. Nowadays, the site is a must-see for a road trip in Thailand !

And do you plan to visit Ayutthaya during your holidays in Thailand? If you have any questions, feel free to ask me in the comments.

Thailand travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Thailand : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Thailand are listed there.

The 25 Best Things to Do in Thailand

• Itinerary: One week in Thailand – Perfect to visit Bangkok, Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai!
• Itinerary: 6,7 or 8 days in Thailand – 2 itineraries to the southern islands, starting from Phuket or Krabi
• Itinerary: 10 days in Thailand – The perfect itinerary to discover the best of Thailand!
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Thailand – Discover Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, + Best Southern islands!
• Itinerary: 15 days in Thailand – The best itinerary to visit the most beautiful Southern islands
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Thailand – Discover the best of Thailand in 20-21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Thailand – The most complete itinerary to visit Thailand!
• Road trip in Thailand: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 and 30 days
• Ayutthaya: The definitive guide to visit the archaeological park
• Bangkok: The 30 best places to visit
• Chiang Mai: The 20 best things to do
• Chiang Rai: The 17 must-see attractions
• Koh Lanta: The 15 most beautiful places to see on the island
• Koh Yao Noi: All the things to do on this paradise island!
• Krabi: Top 17 best places to visit
• Phuket: The 23 best things to do
• Sukhothai: How to visit the historical park?
• 3 days in Bangkok – The best itinerary to visit the Thai capital in 72h!
• 3 Days in Chiang Mai – The perfect itinerary to visit the Chiang Mai in 72h!

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Map of Ayutthaya — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Ayutthaya, Thailand for travelers! Check out Ayutthaya’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Ayutthaya? See our Ayutthaya Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Ayutthaya. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Ayutthaya map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Ayutthaya by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 16 attractions in Ayutthaya

Wat chaiwatthanaram, ayutthaya historical park office.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Wat maha that, wat yai chai mongkhon.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan

Wat ratcha burana, wat phra ram, elephantstay, wat phutthaisawan, wihan phra mongkhon bophit, wat thammikarat, wat na phra meru rachikaram, ศูนย์ท่องเที่ยวอยุธยา, chao sam phraya national museum.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Soi Wat Maheyong

Top 10 restaurants in ayutthaya, pae krung kao restaurant.

Coffee Old City

Chao Phrom Market

Pa lek boat noodle, sukunya somtum, ban u thong, earl thai restaurant, the summer house ayutthaya, malakor kitchen and cafe ร้านมะละกอ, baan kao nhom, transportation in ayutthaya, nearby airports, don mueang international airport, suvarnabhumi airport, highways and major roads.

• Phahonyothin Road (Route 1)
• Asia Highway (Route AH1)
• Ayutthaya-Chonburi Expressway
• Ayutthaya bypass road
• Ratchaphruek Road
• Asia Road (Route 347)
• Bang Pa-In - Ayutthaya Road
• Pa-Meung-Tha-Ra-Rue Road
• Sing Buri-Lop Buri Road
• Paholyothin Road (Route 32)

Top searches in Ayutthaya

Popular road trips from ayutthaya, what's the weather like in ayutthaya.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Ayutthaya for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Ayutthaya in January
• Weather in Ayutthaya in February
• Weather in Ayutthaya in March
• Weather in Ayutthaya in April
• Weather in Ayutthaya in May
• Weather in Ayutthaya in June
• Weather in Ayutthaya in July
• Weather in Ayutthaya in August
• Weather in Ayutthaya in September
• Weather in Ayutthaya in October
• Weather in Ayutthaya in November
• Weather in Ayutthaya in December

All road trips from Ayutthaya

• Ayutthaya to Siem Reap drive
• Ayutthaya to Pattaya drive
• Ayutthaya to Singapore drive
• Ayutthaya to Ho Chi Minh City drive
• Ayutthaya to Hua Hin drive
• Ayutthaya to Hong Kong drive
• Ayutthaya to Kuala Lumpur drive
• Ayutthaya to Hanoi drive
• Ayutthaya to Phnom Penh drive
• Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai drive
• Ayutthaya to Kanchanaburi drive
• Ayutthaya to Kathu drive
• Ayutthaya to Krabi Town drive
• Ayutthaya to Hoi An drive
• Ayutthaya to Yangon (Rangoon) drive
• Ayutthaya to Luang Prabang drive
• Ayutthaya to Damnoen Saduak drive
• Ayutthaya to Chiang Rai drive
• Ayutthaya to George Town drive
• Ayutthaya to Hue drive
• Ayutthaya to Vientiane drive
• Ayutthaya to Nha Trang drive
• Ayutthaya to Macau drive
• Ayutthaya to Sukhothai drive
• Ayutthaya to Melaka drive
• Ayutthaya to Patong drive
• Ayutthaya to Da Lat drive
• Ayutthaya to Bagan drive
• Ayutthaya to Halong Bay drive
• Ayutthaya to Battambang drive

Explore nearby places

• Nakhon Luang
• Ang Thong City
• Wiset Chai Chan
• Khlong Luang
• Lat Lum Kaeo
• Pathum Thani
• Phra Phutthabat

All related maps of Ayutthaya

• Map of Uthai
• Map of Nakhon Luang
• Map of Tha Ruea
• Map of Bang Pa-in
• Map of Bang Ban
• Map of Bang Pahan
• Map of Bang Sai
• Map of Pa Mok
• Map of Wang Noi
• Map of Maha Rat
• Map of Nong Saeng
• Map of Ang Thong City
• Map of Ban Mo
• Map of Wiset Chai Chan
• Map of Nong Khae
• Map of Khlong Luang
• Map of Sam Khok
• Map of Sao Hai
• Map of Nong Suea
• Map of Saraburi
• Map of Thanyaburi
• Map of Kaeng Khoi
• Map of Rangsit
• Map of Lat Lum Kaeo
• Map of Chaiyo
• Map of Pathum Thani
• Map of Pho Thong
• Map of Pak Kret
• Map of Lam Luk Ka
• Map of Phra Phutthabat

Ayutthaya throughout the year

• Ayutthaya in January
• Ayutthaya in February
• Ayutthaya in March
• Ayutthaya in April
• Ayutthaya in May
• Ayutthaya in June
• Ayutthaya in July
• Ayutthaya in August
• Ayutthaya in September
• Ayutthaya in October
• Ayutthaya in November
• Ayutthaya in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Ayutthaya?

Get inspired for your trip to Ayutthaya with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Ayutthaya Itinerary
• 2-Day Ayutthaya Itinerary
• 3-Day Ayutthaya Itinerary
• 4-Day Ayutthaya Itinerary
• 5-Day Ayutthaya Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
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Guide to Visiting Ayutthaya in Thailand

History, Getting There, and What Not to Miss While in Ayutthaya

Sometime in the 1700s, Ayutthaya may have been the biggest city in the world.

In fact, before Thailand became “Thailand” in 1939, it was “Siam” — the European name for the Kingdom of Ayutthaya that thrived from 1351 to 1767. The remnants of that ancient empire are still scattered in the form of brick ruins and headless Buddha statues throughout the old capital city of Ayutthaya.

Before Ayutthaya’s fall to Burmese invaders in 1767, European ambassadors compared the city of one million to Paris and Venice. Today, Ayutthaya is home to only around 55,000 residents but remains a top place to visit in Thailand .

The Ayutthaya Historical Park became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. Outside of Angkor Wat in Cambodia , very few places will inspire your inner archaeologist as much as Ayutthaya. It’s the type of place where King Naresuan the Great once challenged his counterpart to a one-on-one elephant duel — and won.

When you're ready to escape the tourism boom in Bangkok, head north for some serious Thai history.

Getting to Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is located just a couple hours north of Bangkok. Fortunately, getting there is quick and straightforward. Although Ayutthaya can be made in a day trip (independently or via organized tour ) from Bangkok, opt to spend at least one night so that you aren’t too rushed between sights.

• Ayutthaya by Train: Paul Theroux was right — traveling by rail really is the only way to travel, particularly in Thailand . It beats even the nicest buses. Not only can you stretch and mill around without attracting stares, you’ll miss some of Bangkok’s nightmarish traffic. Scenes of suburban life normally obscured from tourists flash by outside the windows. Trains to Ayutthaya leave frequently from Hualamphong Station in Bangkok; the trip takes around two hours.
• Ayutthaya by Bus: If taking the train isn’t an option, buses to Ayutthaya leave Bangkok’s Moh Chit station (the northern bus terminal) approximately every 20 minutes. The ride costs under US $2 and takes around two hours, depending on traffic.

See guest reviews and prices for hotels in Ayutthaya on TripAdvisor .

Visit the Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre

A quick visit to the Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre should be first on your agenda as it provides some historical context.

Although the center is small and doesn’t provide an abundance of information in English, it does provide a historical overview ​with intricate to-scale models and old photographs. Overall, the exhibit does a pretty decent job of depicting what daily life in Ayutthaya might have been like.​

A little historical insight helps prevent the many ruins in Ayutthaya from blurring together as you rove around all day. The hour (or less) of time and small entrance fee are worth the investment.

Find the study center on Rojana Road next to the university.

Grab a Bicycle and Begin Exploring

Thailand is a great place for driving a scooter , assuming you’ve got the nerves to join the fray on two wheels . But Ayutthaya is better by bicycle, even for non-enthusiasts. Cycling between ruins is easy and enjoyable; roads are in fairly good condition. Renting a bicycle will allow you to spend more time inside the major stops and less time moving between.

Ayutthaya is a defensible city-island strategically located at the confluence of three rivers. Getting lost is pretty much impossible, even for us experts at getting lost. Being surrounded by a moat of water on all sides keeps you from carelessly ending up in Chiang Mai if temporarily turned around.

The archaeological park sits roughly in the center of the island. A convenient ring road circles the city along the water.

Tip: Many of the rental bicycles look as though they’ve seen some combat. A few may even predate the Vietnam War! Check that tires don’t wobble and brakes work before getting too far from the rental shop.

If you prefer for someone else to do the pedaling, cyclos (three-wheeled rickshaws with the driver in the back) will accommodate two people. You’ll need to negotiate with the driver for an allotted amount of time before beginning your tour.

See the Famous Buddha Head

One of the most iconic images of Thailand comes from Ayutthaya: a stone Buddha head set in a living tree. The famous tree is located inside Wat Mahathat.

Although the sizable temple was destroyed by the Burmese, a Buddha head miraculously survived. During the 100 years the temple was left abandoned, the head was lifted as a tree grew around it. The tree lovingly conformed to the head rather than crushing it to dust.

Construction of Wat Mahathat began in 1374 and was finished sometime between 1388 and 1395. Entrance is 50 baht. Although very photogenic for tourists, the tree with the Buddha’s head is considered very sacred. Show proper respect when visiting by not turning your back to Buddha for selfies with the tree.

Note: There's a reason why most of the Buddha statues in Ayutthaya are decapitated: collectors — both private and institutional.

Although some prominent universities and museums around the world did the right thing by returning Thailand's looted cultural relics, many did not. There's actually a good chance that Buddha head you see in your favorite museum is still waiting to get back to Ayutthaya where it belongs.

Visit the Largest Temple in Ayutthaya

Wat Phra Si Sanphet is the largest temple in Ayutthaya and definitely one of the most famous. It once held a 52-foot-tall Buddha cast in 1500 that was entirely covered with hundreds of kilograms of gold. You can guess where the looting Burmese invaders went first in 1767.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet was once used for royal ceremonies and contained the ashes of royal family members. Entrance is 50 baht.

Visit the Royal Palace

What’s left of the Royal Palace stands at the site of Wat Phra Si Sanphet, so you can see both while there. A scaled-down model of the palace inside the Historical Study Centre provides a glimpse of its former grandeur.

The Royal Palace was constructed by King Ramathibodi I — the king who founded Ayutthaya in 1350. Eight forts once surrounded the palace, and 22 gates permitted entrance for people and elephants. Today, very few buildings remain intact, but you can really feel the history beneath your feet.

See Portuguese Skeletons

Thailand is the only country in Southeast Asia to have not been colonized by European forces at some point.

Historians generally credit Thailand’s amazing ability to craft strategic treaties and trade agreements. Those timely agreements pitted opposing forces (mainly the British and French) against one another.

When Malacca (now in Malaysia ) was flourishing with help from the Chinese, it became a threat in the region. Ayutthaya played nice with the Portuguese who then subsequently captured Malacca. Problem solved. The modern firearms brought by Portuguese traders also came in very handy while fighting the Burmese.

Portuguese traders and missionaries first came to Ayutthaya in 1511. Some of them are respectfully on display inside the restored Dominican Church at the site of the Portuguese village.

See a Buddha Statue Older Than Ayutthaya

Although temple burnout can come swiftly and unexpectedly after exploring too many wats in Thailand, there is one particular Buddha image you should definitely prioritize.

The short ferry ride off of the island to Wat Phanan Choeng is enough to put off most tourists, but the temple actually predates Ayutthaya by 26 years. No one is sure who built the temple; various kings helped restore it. The Buddha statue inside — known as Phra Chao Phanan-Choeng — dates back to 1325 and is famous throughout Thailand.

The golden Buddha image is one of the oldest and largest around. The statue is a massive 62 feet tall and over 46 feet wide, making it difficult if not impossible to photograph in its entirety. Written chronicles claim the statue cried tears while the Burmese were burning the city.

Thai and Thai-Chinese people visit Wat Phanan Choeng for lucky predictions.

See a Unique Temple

Wat Naphrameru, located off the island about 500 meters north of the Royal Palace, was where the Burmese king decided to set up cannons pointed directly at the palace. Good plan; bad execution. Much to the relief of the Ayutthaya royal family, one of the cannons exploded while being fired and mortally wounded the Burmese king.

Because Wat Naphrameru served as a forward operating base for the Burmese army, it wasn’t as destroyed as other temples.

Inside the temple is a rare seated Buddha image (19 feet tall), depicting Buddha as a prince in worldly regal attire before attaining enlightenment. These types of images are rare in Thailand.

Eat Boat Noodles

Ayutthaya was once a thriving capital city, so culinary influences from around the world passed through. Chinese, Indian, Persian, Japanese and European traders came — and ate — in droves. For this reason, the food in Ayutthaya is more diverse than other Thai cities that are larger in size.

The aptly named “boat noodles” ( kuay tiow ruea ) are indeed cooked on boats — the authentic ones, anyway — and are arguably Ayutthaya’s signature dish. Just look for long, slender sampans with steaming cooking pots on board. Expanding your noodle repertoire beyond only pad thai feels good.

Boat noodles are typically rice noodles in a pork broth. Additional ingredients may vary from shop to shop, but portions are usually cheap and small. Don’t feel guilty for ordering more than one bowl; patrons usually do.

Visit the Night Market

Although prices are very fair if you do a little negotiating, the two nightly markets in Ayutthaya aren’t really just about shopping. As with the rest of Asia, the markets serve as a social hub and cheap eating spot. Cultural lessons, people watching, and authentic food abound in the markets.

Even if you eat somewhere else, save room for a sweet treat or drink in the market. The night markets in Ayutthaya begin getting busy around sundown and typically stay open until 9:30 p.m.

Skip the Floating Market

If you didn’t get your fix in Bangkok, Ayutthaya has its own floating market. Although clearly a tourist trap, the market can serve as a last-resort diversion for travelers who are burned out on visiting temples. Food, noodle boats, souvenir shops, and daily cultural performances are found inside.

Note: Unlike the original in Bangkok, this floating market was built with tourists in mind. Don’t expect an authentic experience. Rather than the standard Thai/Tourist dual pricing scheme, entrance fees are charged on a whim, reportedly based on appearance.

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Vital Information for the First-Time Visitor to Thailand

THE ESSENTIAL AYUTTHAYA GUIDE

AYUTTHAYA GUIDE

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THAILAND TEMPLES & RUINS

Ayutthaya is a magical place. A city whose history seems to have been largely forgotten by the rest of the world. But this UNESCO World Heritage site is most definitely on a par with the likes of Bagan or Angkor Wat. If you have an interest in history, or appreciation of architecture, then a couple of days in Ayutthaya should absolutely be part of your Thailand travel plans.

To help you make the most of your time in Ayutthaya, this guide outlines the best wats to see, plus the ideal time of day to visit each site for the best light. We’ll also cover how to get around, where to eat, where to stay, and how to get to Ayutthaya.

Note that while it’s entirely possible to visit Ayutthaya as a day trip from Bangkok , we highly recommend spending at least two full days here. There are many sights to see and the hot, humid weather makes it exhausting to try and do in one day. It’s much better to split your visit over two days, with a break during the hottest part of the day. 

AYUTTHAYA HISTORY BEST AYUTTHAYA TEMPLES AYUTTHAYA ITINERARY AYUTTHAYA MAP BEST SUNRISE WATS BEST MORNING WATS BEST SUNSET WATS BEST MORNING/AFTERNOON WATS GETTING AROUND AYUTTHAYA WHERE TO EAT IN AYUTTHAYA AYUTTHAYA ACCOMMODATION GETTING TO AYUTTHAYA

AYUTTHAYA HISTORY BEST AYUTTHAYA TEMPLES AYUTTHAYA ITINERARY AYUTTHAYA MAP BEST SUNRISE WATS BEST MORNING WATS BEST SUNSET WATS BEST WATS IN THE MORNING OR AFTERNOON GETTING AROUND AYUTTHAYA WHERE TO EAT IN AYUTTHAYA AYUTTHAYA ACCOMMODATION GETTING TO AYUTTHAYA

AYUTTHAYA HISTORY

A mere 300 years ago, Ayutthaya was the largest city in the world and a key trading hub between East and West. It had over 1 million inhabitants, with merchants and dignitaries from all over the world calling it home. It was established as the second Siamese capital after Sukhothai, and flourished between the 14th and 18th centuries. Its strategic location on the banks of three rivers connected to the sea protected it from attack by sea-going warships, while enabling trade to prosper. The city’s wealth and importance is evident to this day in the sheer number and size of Buddhist monasteries remaining.

It all came to an end in April 1767 however, when Burmese armies razed the city to the ground after a 14 month siege. Art treasures, libraries and important historic documents were all destroyed, along with the bulk of the city. All that remained were the stone palaces and monasteries, the defining features of Ayutthaya today.

The Burmese forces left after just a few months, forced to defend their own capital against Chinese invasion. Chaos ensued. Ayutthaya was never rebuilt in the same location, a new capital established at Thonburi instead, further down river near modern day Bangkok.

In 1991, part of the Ayutthaya Historical Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with an extension under preparation to cover the entire area of the city as it existed in the 18th Century.

BEST AYUTTHAYA TEMPLES

Today Ayutthaya is an interesting mix of old and new, characterised by magnificent historical sites scattered around a modern Thai city. The majority of them are found in the Ayutthaya Historical Park, but a few noteworthy others are located outside of this central area. Nothing is too far though, and it’s easy to get around on foot, bike or by tuk tuk.

There are five wats within the Ayutthaya Historical Park that we recommend you visit, plus two more across the river that are must-sees. From a photography perspective, we struggled to find good information about opening hours, lighting conditions, and the best spots for sunrise and sunset. In the end we took our chances and kicked ourselves a few times, but fortunately for you, we’re here to give you all the info we lacked. Taking into consideration the best light, opening hours and weather, here’s where and when to visit the best of Ayutthaya.

AYUTTHAYA ITINERARY

(start early morning around 8am)

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon Wat Ratchaburana Early Lunch at Coffee Old City Rest at the Hotel Wat Mahathat Dinner at Bang Lan Night Market

Wat yai chai mongkhon wat ratchaburana early lunch (coffee old city) rest at the hotel wat mahathat go for dinner (bang lan night market).

(organise bike the day before or walk, start sunrise)

Wat Lokayasutharam

Wat phra si sanphet, wat phra ram, wander historical park, lunch at mae pranee boat noodles, rest at the hotel, wat chai watthanaram , dinner at bang lan night market, eat lunch (mae pranee boat noodles), go for dinner (bang lan night market), ayutthaya map.

Use the map below to help lead you to all the places mentioned in this Ayutthaya guide. You can also download the info  to Maps.me ( iOS / Android ) or Organic Maps ( iOS / Android ) for use offline. Tap the menu button at the top left for more details, to toggle layers on and off, and switch between satellite and terrain view. Tap the star symbol to save this map to your Google maps. 

BEST AYUTTHAYA WATS TO VISIT AT SUNRISE

Many of Ayutthaya’s historical sites are only open from 8am – 6pm, or thereabouts. This means you won’t be able to capture the best sunrise photos at them, and it’ll already be getting hot by the time the gates open.

We scouted out a few spots and concluded that the best places for sunrise photos and early exploring are as follows.

There is no entrance fee here or restricted opening hours so you’re free to visit at any time. The most impressive thing to see at this wat is the huge reclining Buddha. At 42 x 8 metres, it’s an imposing sight! The Buddha faces west, so if you position yourself right you can get a shot of the sun rising behind the Buddha. Otherwise, it would be better to visit this spot later in the afternoon when the sun is shining on the Buddha and not glaring at your lens.

Free Entry Open All Hours

One of the most impressive and most popular sites to visit in Ayutthaya, this is also known as The Grand Palace.

It doesn’t officially open until 8am, however there is a hidden entrance on the northern side of the wall that is likely to be open. We actually spotted it after seeing some stray dogs run from one side of the wall to the other and followed them through the small tunnel to see for ourselves. We wandered around for a bit in the early morning solitude, our only company the dogs and a passing monk who was using the same sneaky entrance as us.

8am – 6pm

Ayutthaya Historical Park

While the main wats within the Historical Park don’t open until 8am, you can still gain access to the area at any time. There are a number of smaller sites of interest that you can explore at dawn. Otherwise, set up a sunrise shot just beyond the walls of the best known sites such as Wat Mahathat, or Wat Phra Ram seen below.

BEST AYUTTHAYA WATS TO VISIT IN THE MORNING

Wat yai chai mongkhon.

This impressive complex, a little out of the centre, is best visited in the morning to take advantage of the light. There are a number of things to see, the imposing central stupa surrounded by sitting Buddhas unlike any other in Ayutthaya. A reclining Buddha, adorned in yellow, faces east, hence best viewed in the morning. The central stupa, with two large sitting Buddhas either side, also faces east. You can climb the stairs and walk around the platform halfway up. There are more Buddha statues at the back of the central stupa, on the eastern side facing west. Smaller seated Buddhas form a square all around the central stupa. It’s a unique wat to explore and not to be missed.

8am – 5pm

BEST AYUTTHAYA WATS TO VISIT AT SUNSET

Wat chaiwatthanaram.

Among the most beautiful and famous sites of Ayutthaya, Wat Chaiwatthanaram is best enjoyed at sunset.

It sits on the banks of the western side of the Chao Praya river, a special setting.

The restoration work here is impressive, and still ongoing on some parts. The Khmer style central prang is reminiscent of the temples of Angkor and a wonderful sight. It’s surrounded by four smaller prangs, some headless seated Buddhas, and various outlying structures. You can walk all around the grounds and enjoy the view from every angle.

There’s not much shade though, so visiting later in the day is a good idea in order to avoid the intense sun. Hang around for sunset and enjoy the changing colours in the sky and brickwork of the ruins themselves. A security guard will no doubt try to round you up before 6.30pm and direct you towards the exit. Instead, head to the wall running alongside the river.  As the blue hour sets in, flood lights illuminate the temple for a whole new perspective. At 7pm the final whistle will blow to usher you out.

  8am – 6.30pm

BEST AYUTTHAYA WATS TO VISIT IN THE MORNING OR AFTERNOON

The following sites all have a bit of shade where you can escape the heat for a while, and ruins that can be viewed from all angles, so regarding the best light, the time of day for your visit isn’t quite as important .

Wat Ratchaburana

The large central prang here is different in style to others around Ayutthaya. Indian architectural influences can be seen, with large carvings and statues adorning each side. You can climb up the steep stairs and inside the prang, offering a great view over the complex and surrounding area. Look out for the bats in the dark room at the back! There’s a mural in the crypt, accessed via a staircase inside the prang, however it was closed for maintenance during our visit.

In the grounds, large Buddha heads are dotted around and leafy trees offer a bit of shade. Don’t miss the perfectly framed view of the central prang through the doorway of a ruined building near the entrance.

Wat Mahathat

Probably the most photographed and recognised Wat in all of Ayutthaya, thanks to its picturesque Buddha head entwined in the roots of a banyan tree. Centrally located and on everyone’s must-see list, this spot is perpetually busy. Besides the famous Buddha head (which is found in the southeast of the complex, facing north), there are a number of stupas, Buddhas and buildings to explore, all in various states of crumbly disrepair. There are nice shady spots to escape the sun, especially around the banyan tree Buddha head. As you should always be lower than the Buddha as a sign of respect, be sure to kneel when taking photos here.

This peaceful, shady complex doesn’t seem to draw quite the same crowds as others, despite being one of Ayutthaya’s most impressive wats. The tall central prang is splendid, with smaller stupas around. The Khmer style structures are in a good state of repair, and it’s the perfect spot to sit back and relax on the grass, taking in all the surrounding sights and sounds.

Wat Phutthai Sawan

This working temple on the southern bank of the Chao Phraya River houses a modern complex next to the original temple. There’s a bright white central prang, which is something different to see, however perhaps the most impressive sight is the reclining Buddha. It’s nowhere near as big as the one at Wat Lokayasutharam, but it’s attractively housed inside crumbling walls, with stone windows making the perfect frame through which to view it. You can walk inside the old walls, getting close to the Buddha, which faces northwest. We wouldn’t consider this a ‘must-see’, but if you have extra time during your visit then it’s a nice enough spot.

Historical Section Open 8am – 5.30pm

There are many more historical sites to visit and if you have a particular interest in Ayutthaya’s history and architecture, you could easily spend a week here wandering all over the city. We feel the sites outlined in this guide are the most spectacular places to start your explorations though, and ideal for a 2 day itinerary.

You must dress respectfully when visiting these sites. That means covering your shoulders and knees, irrespective of gender. Opt for loose, long clothing which will be more comfortable in the heat and humidity.

SEE MORE FROM THAILAND

The Essential Ayutthaya Guide

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3 Great Local Markets Around Chiang Mai

Songkran Festival In Chiang Mai

How to get around ayutthaya.

It’s perfectly possible to explore many of Ayutthaya’s best sights on foot, especially if you base yourself in central accommodation. Cycling is also popular, and there is no shortage of bike rental shops/stalls. If you’re short on time (or just prefer the less sweaty option) then hire a tuk-tuk for the day, or jump in one to reach the temples further afield. Tours are also an option, making life extra easy!

With the exception of Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Wat Chaiwatthanaram and Wat Phutthai Sawan, everywhere else mentioned in our Best of Ayutthaya section is easily walkable. We explored Ayutthaya on foot over two days, hiring a tuk-tuk to take us to the further away sights beyond the river. Walking will allow you to take it at an easy pace, wandering to and fro along the leafy paths of the Historical Park, maybe even spotting a monitor lizard or two!

Bike rental is cheap and plentiful, costing around 50 baht a day.  Many people opt to cycle around Ayutthaya. We had originally planned to until we realised just how close most places were to walk. We also headed out exploring at the crack of dawn, before the bike rental shops were open, so just kind of never got round to hiring them.

Most bikes come with a basket on the front and curved handlebars (much more tricky to ride if you ask me!). Your accommodation may hire them out, otherwise we saw numerous rental spots along Naresuan Road and elsewhere.

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Tuk Tuks are readily available for hire throughout the city, with the option to hire one for a specific journey, or for the day. You can negotiate to a degree with the drivers, however there are standard fares outlined on boards at tuk tuk hubs so don’t expect to pay less than this. The going rate is approx 200 baht/hour per person, so this is definitely a more expensive sightseeing option, but not ridiculously so. 

We chose to hire a tuk tuk to visit Wat Chaiwatthanaram on our first morning, negotiating a rate of 250 baht from near our accommodation (Stockhome Hostel) to the wat and back again (this included waiting for over an hour). The following day a trip to Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Wat Phutthai Sawan, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, then back to the Bang Lan Night Market (around 3 hours total) cost us 700 baht. We paid 100 baht from Ayutthaya Train Station to Stockhome Hostel .

AYUTTHAYA TOURS

There are cycle, boat, train, tuk tuk and coach tour options for visiting Ayutthaya. Most of these are day trips from Bangkok, which we feel are a bit rushed, but if you’re short on time and keen to include Ayutthaya in your Thailand travel plans then they are a great option. Check out various tour options with Viator or Get Your Guide . 

*Unfortunately elephant rides are offered at Ayutthaya Historical Park. Please don’t ride elephants here, or anywhere, as it supports and encourages animal cruelty*

WHERE TO EAT IN AYUTTHAYA

If you’re spending a couple of days exploring Ayutthaya, it’s good to have some cafes and restaurants up your sleeve to rest at during the hottest part of the day. By night, you’ll no doubt be ready for a feast after all that exploring!

Coffee Old City

Coffee Old City is a great option for escaping the midday heat. Directly opposite Wat Mahathat, this central spot is a cool haven with friendly staff, fast service and great views. They serve good food, including veggie options, and very refreshing drinks. They have air conditioning inside, plus a few tables outside. It gets pretty busy in here, so best to head a little early around 11am to grab a good table.

Monday  – Saturday

 8am – 5.30pm

ก๋วยเตี๋ยวแม่ปราณีรสเด็ด (Mae Pranee Boat Noodles)

This streetside local eatery  on Naresuan Road, is jam packed with locals every lunch time. The food here smells divine, alas, we never got the chance to taste it ourselves. But if there’s one thing we all know, a place that busy with locals must be good!

Closed Tuesday

8am – 4pm

Bang Lan Night Market

A trip to a night market is always a feast for the senses, and Ayutthaya’s main Bang Lan Night Market is no different. Bustling with food, clothes, toys and all sorts, head to the eastern end for sit-down food stalls, or pick up some takeaway and stroll while you eat. Whatever you decide on, don’t miss the one man show at the oyster omelette stall. Omelette Man is a master of his craft, expertly creating his delicious crispy oyster omelette to a soundtrack of Creedence, Neil Young, Lionel Ritchie & friends. He moves like an erratic dancer, with flicks and flashes here and there, tossing bean sprouts on his divided rounds of egg with exotic flair and panache. Mesmerising to watch and scrumptious to devour.

At the far end the second last stall does excellent hot pot, grilled crusted whole fish and smaller dishes like Tom Yum Goong and stir fry, with plenty of tables to sit out at.

Daily 4pm – 9pm

AYUTTHAYA ACCOMMODATION

There’s a variety of accommodation options to be had in Ayutthaya, from hostels to boutique pool resorts. There are loads of decent budget to mid-range places within walking distance of Ayutthaya Historical Park, mostly clustered around the streets to the east of Wat Mahathat. A few to check out are Zleepinezz Hostel , Nakara Hostel or Baan Luang Harn . We stayed at Stockhome Hostel and although the style was really nice the unwelcoming and unhelpful staff let it down. Baan Thai House is an attractive traditional wooden Thai resort close to the train station, and for something extra luxurious check out iuDia Hotel or Sala Ayutthaya , next door to each other on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, each offering spectacular views.

HOW TO GET TO AYUTTHAYA

Ayutthaya is connected to Bangkok by road, rail and even river! It’s also a stop on the Bangkok – Chiang Mai railway route, making this an ideal place to stop off on your way to/from Northern Thailand .

Trains to Ayutthaya run regularly out of Hua Lamphong station in Bangkok, trundling through scenic countryside for around 1.5 hours. If you’re travelling independently (as opposed to an organised tour) then the train is probably the easiest, cheapest and fastest option. Tickets can be bought on arrival or in advance via 12Go , with prices starting at as little as 15 baht for 3rd class. Tuk Tuks wait at the station in Ayutthaya at all times of day, ready to whisk you to your accommodation or straight to the sights.

Buses/minivans run from Mo Chit Northern Bus Terminal in Bangkok, but unless you happen to be staying near here, the train station is more convenient to get to. Minivans also run to and from Ayutthaya from Victory Monument in Bangkok. You can book in advance via 12Go .

If you’re keen to cruise around Ayutthaya along the Chao Phraya, booking a tour is the best way. You can search a number of Ayutthaya cruise options here . 

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO AYUTTHAYA

We hope you’ve enjoyed our guide to Ayutthaya and find it useful in planning your own trip. Happy sightseeing, and if you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comment section below.

THANKS FOR READING!

If you’ve found this guide helpful, please consider leaving us a small tip. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps cover the costs of running this blog.

Kim and Del Hogg

If you’ve found this guide helpful, please consider leaving us a small tip.

Your support is greatly appreciated and helps cover the costs of running this blog.

ORGANISE YOUR TRIP TO AYUTTHAYA NOW

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*Some of the links in this post are affiliate links – if you purchase a product or service via these links, we may earn a small commission  at no extra cost to you . This helps offset the cost of running this blog and keeps us travelling so that we can continue to produce great content for you. We greatly appreciate your support!*

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10 leave a reply.

Thanks for sharing this very informative post about Ayutthaya. We just spent two days there and followed your suggested itinerary, which turned out great.

Loved your detailed post about Ayutthaya. Lovely photos. Thanks for sharing.

Is “The Essential Ayutthaya Guide” available in multiple languages for international tourists?

Hey there, just wanted to tell you this was a great article. Complete, informative. Wonderful job!

Thanks, Francois!

Thank you so much for sharing your informative post.

You are very welcome, glad you found it useful.

I look forward to seeing your next post.

Ayutthaya is so beautiful! This guide is so good. Cant wait to go back to Thailand and visit Ayutthaya

It is isn’t it? Thanks so much and glad you enjoyed the guide! Hope you make it back to Thailand soon. Cheers, Kim

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Thailand Travel Diaries

All About Thailand

Ayutthaya Travel Guide: A Complete Guide

Ayutthaya was once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam and is located around 85 kilometers north of Bangkok. Find out where to go and what to do in Ayutthaya so you may have the most memorable experiences possible.

In this post, we will provide a complete Ayutthaya Travel Guide, beginning with the monuments and continuing on to the most significant temples and ruins. In addition, we will suggest activities and adventures that you may partake in during your time in Ayutthaya that will contribute to the overall quality of your trip and make it even more memorable.

In the year 1350, King U-thong established the city of Ayutthaya. The Ayutthaya Historical Park, which was designated a World Heritage Site in 1991 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), is one of the most highly recommended stops along your tour through the city. You may explore some of Ayutthaya’s most famous temples and even get lost inside of them if you go to the historical park in the city.

Despite the fact that this city is well-known for the significant ruins that can be seen there, it is also well-known for its history as an important trading port in nations located in both Asia and Europe.

When you are making plans for your vacation, bear in mind that a visit to Ayutthaya for only one day will be sufficient for you to acquire an impression of the locations and monuments that are most representative of the area.

Ayutthaya Travel Guide: Why travel to the city of Ayutthaya?

Tourists who are interested in history will find Ayutthaya, which is located in Thailand and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , to be an exquisite paradise. It is believed to have been established in the year 1350 and served as the capital of the Siamese Kingdom for more than 400 years. During this historical period, it was both a significant urban region and a hub for commercial activity across the world. In the year 1767, the city was the target of a severe assault by Burmese forces, which caused the destruction of the majority of the city.

There are a lot of ruins left behind from this time period that may be explored today. If you wish to include Ayutthaya in your travel plans, you should read our comprehensive guide to the city since it has all of the information you want to make informed decisions about your time there.

Where exactly is the city of Ayutthaya situated? It can be found around 80 kilometres to the north of Bangkok, which is the capital of Thailand. Ayutthaya Historical Park is an island that is surrounded by the rivers Menam, Lopburi, and Pasak. This island is home to the majority of the remnants of the ancient temples and palaces of Ayutthaya.

Ayutthaya Travel Guide: What is the best time to visit Ayutthaya? Weather in Ayutthaya

The weather in Ayutthaya is often quite hot and humid during the entire year. On the other hand, the year may be broken down into three distinct periods:

• The dry season (July to October)
• The warmest season (March to June)
• The wettest season (March to October) (November to February)

It is recommended that you schedule your trip to this city, as well as the majority of this region of Thailand, between the months of November and February, when the weather is often a little bit more bearable.

• Best months of the year to visit Ayutthaya – The months of November, December, January, and February are ideal for taking pleasure in the metropolis (without rain and with more pleasant temperatures).
• Worst months of the year to visit Ayutthaya – In this part of the country, the heaviest rain falls throughout the months of July, August, September, and October. These are the months with the longest rainy seasons.

Ayutthaya Travel Guide: Where to sleep in Ayutthaya?

If this is your first trip to Ayutthaya and you want to see the city’s temples, the area around the historic park is where you should look for a place to stay. You can reach the majority of the larger luxury hotels in the area through a quick tuk-tuk ride, but there are a great number of quaint and homey cottages within walking distance. If you are traveling on a tight budget, you may choose among hotels that are lower or mid-range in price. We are going to provide you with some rock-solid advice for accommodations so that you may make the most informed choice possible.

Ayutthaya Travel Guide: What to see in Ayutthaya

A tour of Ayutthaya will allow you to learn about the country’s history and go back in time to explore the monuments and ruins that shaped the city’s past.

We explain what to see in Ayutthaya so that you are aware of the many locations that should not be left off your itinerary.

Ayutthaya National Park

When visiting Ayutthaya, a stroll through Ayutthaya National Park is a definite must. It is without a doubt the crown gem of the city and the most popular attraction in the region. In this ruinous complex, you may explore historic temples and palaces.

The Burmese destroyed Ayutthaya, the capital of Siam for three centuries, in 1767. As a result of the destruction, what were once temples and palaces are now simply ruins. During your time in Ayutthaya, you will notice that the National Park may be separated into two sections: “on the island” refers to the temples that are located in the city’s centre.

Visiting hours and prices

The Ayutthaya National Park is open daily from 8:00 a.m. till 5:00 p.m. It is recommended to tour the park on foot as well as to rent a bicycle and pedal among the Ayutthaya temples.

In the complex of ruins, some temples are free to visit, while others pay roughly 50 baht (approximately €1.3). If you wish to visit many temples that have an admission price, you can purchase a daily pass for 220 bahts (about €5.6).

Here are the top temples in Ayutthaya that you should consider while picking what to see in Ayutthaya:

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Ayutthaya National Park’s main temple is Wat Phra Si Sanphet. It is situated in the heart of Ayutthaya on an island. The Burmese set fire to the temple in order to melt the gold statue of Buddha and demolish it. Wat Phra Si Sanphet’s Buddhist stupas (chedis) are currently the most well-preserved structures, since they were repaired a few years ago.

Wat Mahathat

One of the most amazing areas of Wat Maha This is a massive statue of the Buddha’s head entangled in the branches of a tree. Despite being partially concealed, she is among the most well-known statues in this shrine. Do not overlook this classic picture!

Wat Maha This temple is also known as the huge relic monastery. It is constructed in the Khmer style, which is representative of Cambodian architecture. It was constructed in 1374 at the behest of King Borommaracha I, although neither its appearance nor the name he gave it were as they are now. Prior to his successor Ramesuan’s arrival, the monastery was not enlarged and given its current name.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

The Buddhist Wat Chaiwatthanaram Temple was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1991. It is located outside of Ayutthaya Island. In other words, it is one of the Ayutthaya temples not located in the Ayutthaya National Park’s historic core.

This temple is located on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River and is accessible by road and river.

The temple was constructed in 1939 by Prasat Thong, who governed Thailand from 1629 and 1656. It consists of five large pagodas, four smaller pagodas, and one 35-meter-tall tower. Eight more pagodas surround the five pagodas that are situated on a rectangular platform.

Reclining Buddha of Ayutthaya at Wat Lokayasutharam

At the Wat Lokayasutharam temple is an enormous reclining Buddha that is 37 metres in length and 8 metres in height. This is the largest reclining Buddha statue in Ayutthaya, while other sculptures of a similar design may be seen around the city. The head of the Buddha rests atop a lotus blossom. This Buddha is located in the Pratoochai neighbourhood, behind the Old Palace, and is the most interesting landmark in its vicinity.

Wat Phra Ram

This Ayutthaya temple is located next to Wat Phra Sri Sanphet. It was the location of the Wat Phra Ram, where King Ramathibodi was cremated during the fourteenth century. However, the precise date of the temple’s construction is not known with certainty.

You will be able to witness a central prang and lesser stupas surrounding it. It is constructed in the Khmer style and resembles the temples found in Angkor today (Cambodia). The price to enter the temple is 50 Thai Baht (€1.3).

Chao Sam Phraya National Museum

If you’re wondering what to see in Ayutthaya after visiting the temples, we recommend paying a visit to the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum. There are almost 2000 pieces of various types discovered during excavations at Ayutthaya temples. The majority of them are Hindu and, more specifically, Buddhist in nature.

Ayutthaya Travel Guide: What to do in Ayutthaya?

Visit the floating market of ayutthaya.

Floating markets are common in Thailand, so stopping by the Ayutthaya floating market, also known as Klong Saba, might be a fascinating visit if you want to buy some local food. The Ayutthaya Floating Market takes place on a big pond on the city’s northwestern outskirts.

For just 20 baht (about €1.3), you may take a boat ride through this market’s 200 floating stores and buy mostly Thai culinary goods. You may also purchase antiques and souvenirs. This market, unlike other Asian marketplaces, does not need bargaining.

An tour to Ayutthaya and its floating market will provide you with insight into the city’s people’speople’s everyday lives and the local items they eat.

Take a bike ride through the national park

Renting a bicycle to explore Ayutthaya is a highly suggested alternative during your vacation. Even if you just have a short time in the city or wish to tour Ayutthaya in one day , a bike path will allow you to conveniently travel near to the city’s key areas of interest.

Renting a bike and going on your own path is extremely inexpensive. A day’s rental of a bike can cost as much as 30 baht (0.8€). If you prefer a guided trip, you may sign up for an Ayutthaya group tour, which will show you the highlights of the Ayutthaya National Park.

Take a boat ride on the rivers that surround the city

If you want to view the city in a new light, take a boat excursion via the rivers that surround it or the canals that intersect it. A canal trip in Ayutthaya costs around 200 Baht per person (about 5 euros). Some of the trips include stops at temples across the city.

Ayutthaya Travel Guide: Festivals in Ayutthaya

In addition to the sights to view in Ayutthaya and the activities available on any given day of the year, it is worthwhile to consider the city’s festivals. We have some suggestions!

1) Loi Krathong

This event is held across the country, although Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai are particularly well-known. It is observed in November, precisely on the full moon night of the Thai lunar calendar’s twelfth month.

During this festival, Thais lay floating boats made of banana leaves or krathongs (incense sticks) in rivers or canals as a show of appreciation for water. The festival is conducted in honour of the water deity. During Loi Krathong, Thais also celebrate the end of the monsoon season.

2) Ayutthaya Heritage Fair

This festival is conducted in December to commemorate the designation of the Ayutthaya Historical Park as a World Heritage Site in 1991. It lasts a week and includes concerts, light and sound shows, singing and beauty contests, and many other events.

Ayutthaya Travel Guide: How to get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok?

We recommend taking a bus from Bangkok to Ayutthaya if you want the cheapest alternative, or a train, cab, van, or boat if you want a more exclusive and genuine choice.

From Bangkok to Ayutthaya by bus

You should proceed to the Mo Chit Bus Station (N8) in the city’s north. Every 20 minutes, buses depart from Bangkok for Ayutthaya. The trek takes about two hours.

From Bangkok to Ayutthaya by train

In this situation, you should take the train to Hua Iamphong station. The rail travels provide several alternatives. Tickets to Ayutthaya are mainly of the Rural Commuter kind.

From Bangkok to Ayutthaya by Cruise or Boat

If you want to have a genuine and unique experience, we propose sailing to Ayutthaya on the Thanatharee, a voyage that will enable you to get to know the nation in a new way until you arrive in Ayutthaya.

When you get in Ayutthaya, the Thanatharee organisation will leave you with some bicycles so you may explore the Ayutthaya National Park on your own. Return to the boat for lunch and enjoy a traditional Thai cuisine.

Thanatharee Ship – Thanatharee Ship

Aside from Thanataree cruises, there are other options for getting from Ayutthaya to Bangkok by water . The ride along the Chao Praya River is highly recommended since you may explore the natural and cultural environment of the surrounds, as well as visit some of the city’s most prominent temples from the boat.

Getting to Chiang Mai from Ayutthaya

Many people continue their journey across Thailand to the north, notably towards Chiang Mai, after spending one or more days in Ayutthaya. We’ll give you some ideas so you may explore what other options you have for getting from Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai.

If you wish to go from Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai, we recommend flying instead of driving because the trip is lengthy. Even yet, if you’re on a limited budget and don’t mind spending a few more hours on the road, the road is always a fantastic alternative. You can take the bus in this scenario. There is also a railroad that connects the two cities. Let’s take a closer look!

From Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai by plane

The flight from Chiang Mai to Ayutthaya (or vice versa) takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. It is the most convenient and comfortable alternative, but it is also the most expensive. Even so, keep in mind that internal flights are not particularly expensive, so it may be worthwhile.

From Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai by bus

It is the slowest choice, but it is also one of the least expensive. If you plan to go by bus from Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai, keep in mind that the distance between the two cities is around 600 kilometres. This equates to around 9 hours by bus.

The journey will cost you around €25.

Train from Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai is the cheapest but also the slowest alternative. The journey lasts roughly 10 hours and costs between €11 and €45, depending on the class in which you travel.

Would you like to visit Thailand now that you know what to see and do in Ayutthaya and have had the finest experiences? Explore our tours through the greatest parts of the country, including the magnificent city of Ayutthaya and its national park.

Ayutthaya Travel Guide: Travel tips for Ayutthaya

We give some suggestions or advice that may be valuable to you, especially if you are visiting the region for the first time, so that your vacation to Ayutthaya is a resounding success and you enjoy it to the maximum.

• ​​Dedicate more than one day to visit Ayutthaya – We recommend staying at least two nights in Ayutthaya unless you dislike cultural tours or temples. There is a lot of history to explore, as well as numerous ruins! One day is insufficient.
• Ayutthaya is a good escape option from Bangkok – If you are staying in Bangkok and want to get away from the city’s hustle and bustle, Ayutthaya is a terrific spot to go. In many respects, Ayutthaya is the polar opposite of Bangkok. It might be because the city is tiny, having a population of less than 60,000 people. Even the busiest temples were not overcrowded, and the people are really kind.
• Bicycling is the best way to see the temples in Ayutthaya – Ayutthaya has several temple remains, some of which are too far apart to cover on foot. Some visitors rented tuk-tuks to tour Ayutthaya, although this costs more money and limits your ability to travel at your own leisure.
• Wear light clothing, sunscreen and a hat – Even when standing in the shade, Ayutthaya is quite hot.
• The national currency is the optimal way to pay for purchases and services – The Thai baht is the country’s currency.
• Find out about the history of the ruins before visiting them – Unless you visit the ruins with a guide who explains the culture and history of the area on the spot, we urge that you learn about these topics ahead of time so that you may completely appreciate your visit experience and are more valuable to you.
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Ayutthaya City Map

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The old royal city lies on an island formed by the confluence of three rivers, with a little help from man, I think. Following ancient beliefs about the layout of cities, in which the city is thought of as a living thing, the king's abode sits at the 'head' in the north-center part of the island. An important temple - Wat Mahathat - is at the 'heart' in the center. Significant religious and government buildings face east, towards the rising sun.

The entire island was once ringed with a defensive wall, guarded by 16 forts. In the end the wall didn't protect the city from the invading Burmese. Little of the wall exists today, since many of its bricks were carted off to build the new capital at Bangkok.

Most of the major sights lie within the Historical Park in the north-center of the island. Lining the banks of the rivers around the island are several grand temples, which are also worth a visit.

For those staying a night or more in Ayutthaya, there are some hotels and other accommodations spread all over the island as well as near the train station. 'Budget' travelers will want to head to a street sometimes referred to as 'Farang Street' off Naresuan Road near the fresh market, which resembles a miniature Khaosan Road . There are several guesthouses on the street, along with restaurants and places where you can rent bicycles.

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Enigmatic temple ruins are strewn across the modern city of Ayuthaya (อยุธยา), whispering of its heyday as one of the world’s wealthiest and most cosmopolitan cities. Once replete with gilded temples and treasure-laden palaces, this island capital of Siam was brutally sacked by the Burmese in 1767. Today, dozens of ruins remain from this period of thriving trade and art and offer a tantalizing glimpse into its glorious past. Standing among towering stupas, it's easy to imagine how international merchants visiting from around the globe were left in awe.

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Experience the real Ayuthaya. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Bang Pa In Palace

Ornate buildings are sprinkled across Bang Pa In Palace's 19-hectare gardens. First established in the 17th century, the palace was revived in the 19th…

Wat Ratchaburana

The prang (Khmer-style spire) in this large temple complex is one of the best extant versions in the city. There are giant stucco-sculpted Garuda on the…

Wat Chai Wattanaram

Glorious in the early morning light and also at sunset, this temple is Ayuthaya's most impressive off-island site thanks to its 35m-high central prang …

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon

Visitors to this photogenic ruin 2km southeast of the island can climb stairs up into the crypt of the stunning 60m-tall, bell-shaped chedi (stupa). There…

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

At this captivating ruined temple, three wonderfully intact stupas form one of Ayuthaya's most iconic views. Built beginning in 1448, this was a private…

Wat Tha Ka Rong

With animatronic ghosts, supersized crows and glowing Buddhas, Wat Tha Ka Rong is eerie and playful in equal measure and feels more like a carnival than a…

Wat Na Phra Men

Featuring a gorgeous 6m-high Buddha flanked by maroon columns, this active temple was one of the few to escape the wrath of Burma's invading army in 1767;…

Wat Mahathat

Ayuthaya's most photographed attraction is in these temple grounds: a sandstone Buddha head tangled within a bodhi tree's entwined roots. Founded in 1374,…

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Latest stories from Ayuthaya

Budget Travel

Jan 15, 2016 • 5 min read

So, you're taking the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and want to visit Ayuthaya and Lopburi on the way, but your schedule is too tight to…

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• 1.1 Orientation
• 2.2 By train
• 2.3.1 From Northern Bus Terminal
• 2.3.2 From Southern Bus Terminal
• 2.3.3 From Kanchanaburi
• 2.3.4 Leaving
• 2.4 By mini-bus
• 2.5 By boat
• 3.1 By bicycle
• 3.2 By tuk-tuk
• 3.3 By motorbike driver
• 3.4 By boat
• 4.1.1 New Temples
• 4.1.2 Museums
• 4.2.1 Foreign settlements
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 12 Stay safe

Ayutthaya ( Thai : อยุธยา), full name Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya (พระนครศรีอยุธยา), is an ancient capital and modern city in the Central Plains of Thailand , 85 km (53 mi) north of Bangkok . Its proximity to Bangkok makes this city of 51,000 people (2020) a popular day-trip destination for travellers from that city.

Understand [ edit ]

Founded around 1350, Ayutthaya became the second capital of Siam after Sukhothai . It was named after the city of Ayodhya in India , where legend has it Rama, one of the avatars of the Hindu god Vishnu, had his capital city, and whose rule is considered by Hindus to be the epitome of good governance and moral society. Throughout the centuries, an ideal location between China, India, and the Malay Archipelago made Ayutthaya the trading capital of Asia and even the world. By 1700 Ayutthaya had become the largest city in the world with a total of 1 million inhabitants. Many international merchants set sail for Ayutthaya and were amazed by its beauty and riches. Dutch and French maps of the city show grandeur with gold-laden palaces, large ceremonies, and a visiting flotilla of trading vessels from all over the world. This era ended when the Burmese invaded Ayutthaya in 1767 and almost completely burnt the city to the ground.

Today, only a few remains give a glimpse of the impressive city it must have been. Its remains are characterized by the prang (reliquary towers) and large monasteries. Most of the remains are temples and palaces, as those were the only buildings made of stone at that time. The cultural value of Ayutthaya's ruins was officially recognized in 1991, when the historic city became a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Its popularity among domestic tourists has exploded since 2018 due to the overwhelming popularity of the Thai historical drama Love Destiny , which was set in 17th-century Ayutthaya.

Orientation [ edit ]

Ayutthaya is an island at the confluence of three rivers: the Chao Phraya river, the Lopburi River, and the Pa Sak River. As the train station is on the east bank off the island, most visitors will need to cross the river by ferry boat. Navigating your way around the island is not particularly hard: U Thong Rd is a ring road that circles the island completely. Most temple ruins can be found at the northwest corner of the island, while accommodation and night life is clustered around the northeast. As non-Siamese were not allowed to live inside the city walls, the remains of foreign communities can be found off of the island.

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ]

From Bangkok, one can get to Ayutthaya by various routes:

• Take Hwy 1 (Phahon Yothin) via Pratu Nam Phra In and turn onto Hwy 32, then, turn left to Hwy 309 to Ayutthaya.
• Take Hwy 304 (Chaeng Watthana) or Hwy 302 (Ngam Wong Wan), turn right onto Hwy 306 (Tiwanon), cross Nonthaburi or Nuanchawi Bridge to Pathum Thani, continue on Hwy 3111 (Pathum Thani–Sam Khok–Sena) and turn right at Sena onto Hwy 3263 to Ayutthaya.
• Take Hwy 306 (Bangkok–Nonthaburi–Pathum Thani), at Pathum Thani Bridge intersection, turn onto Hwy 347 and 3309 via Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre, Bang Pa-In, to Ayutthaya.
• Take Expy 9 (Si Rat Expressway) via Nonthaburi–Pathum Thani and down to Hwy 1 to Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre, turn left onto Hwy 3469 towards Bang Pa-In and turn right at Worachet intersection to Ayutthaya.

One can also contact a taxi company for pick up at either Bangkok airport. For example: Car Service , phone: +66 2 8195390, email: [email protected] . Advance booking possible. ~1,200 baht one-way.

By train [ edit ]

The cheapest and most scenic way of reaching Ayutthaya is by train. These run every hour or so from Bangkok via Don Muang to Ayutthaya, taking 80 min to 2 hours. Fares are 15 baht for third-class, ordinary train, no air-con, no reserved seat; 20 baht for third-class, "rapid" train, no air-con, no reserved seat; 65 baht for ordinary train, no air-con, reserved seat, 245 baht for "rapid train", air-con, reserved seat, and 345 baht for special express train, with air-con, a meal, reserved seat. In rush hour the trains are horribly overcrowded, but the rush is inward to Bangkok - daytrippers coming outward will dodge this. See Thai Railways website for timetable and fares.

Trains from Bangkok through Ayutthaya continue east to Ubon Ratchathani (7 a day, 7 hr), north to Lop Buri , Phitsanulok (for Sukhothai ), Lamphun and Chiang Mai (5 a day, 10 hr), and northeast to Nong Kai and Tha Naleng for Vientiane in Laos (3 or 4 a day, 8 hr). There are sleepers on all these routes.

The 14.357 100.583 1 railway station is east bank of the river, not on the town island. There is a bridge with a walkway just to the south. Alternatively take a short ferry ride - walk across the main road and down the small street straight ahead. Ferries run every few minutes and cost 5 baht. A tuk-tuk from the station should cost no more than 100 baht for two people.

By bus [ edit ]

From northern bus terminal [ edit ].

Buses now operate every 20 minutes or so from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal directly to Ayutthaya. First-class air-con buses charge 50 baht. This trip is scheduled to be around an hour and a half, but allow at least two hours for the trip since the buses stop rather frequently and there are often jams on the roads out of/into Bangkok. For more details, call Tel. +66 2 9362852-66 or see BKS or Ayutthaya Bus Terminal, Tel. +66 35 335304.

From Southern Bus Terminal [ edit ]

There are minibuses to Rangsit, in the north of Bangkok, costing 50 baht. In Rangsit they stop at a highway junction, where you can transfer directly onto another minibus going to Ayatthaya, costing 40 baht as of Dec 2015. Total travel time 1½-2 hours.

From Kanchanaburi [ edit ]

From Kanchanaburi , take a local bus leaves roughly every 2 hours from the main bus station to Suphanburi taking 2 hours for 60 baht (Feb 2024), then another local minibus to Ayutthaya for 100 baht (1.5 hours). A taxi from Kanchanaburi costs 2,000-2,500 baht (2 hours).

There is also a central bus station east of town serving northern destinations. It can be reached by songthaew. Ask around to find the appropriate stop.

Leaving [ edit ]

In Ayutthaya, the central BKS bus station is on the south side of Naresuan Rd next to the Chao Phrom Market. Songthaews to Bang Pa-In also leave from here. Some 1st-class buses to Bangkok, however, leave from the north side of the road some 500 m to the west, on the other side of the khlong (canal); the queue for air-con buses is easy to spot.

By mini-bus [ edit ]

Convenient mini-bus service (can get stuck in traffic, but makes no stops like regular buses) operates in front of the Northern Bus Terminal , on the other side of the road.

The cost is 70 baht (Feb 2020) and takes 1-1.5 hr. Mini-buses don't have much space for big bags, and you must wait until the bus is fully filled.

Mini-buses from Kanchanaburi can be arranged by guest houses or any tour operators for around 350 baht.

By boat [ edit ]

Cruise boats run up the river from Bangkok , often stopping at Ko Kret and Bang Pa-In along the way. You'll need to book in advance as there are no scheduled services, just trips for tourists. It's a fairly lengthy trip (at least one whole day) and some of the larger boats offer (pricey) overnight tours.

Travelling by boat to Ayutthaya is popular among foreigners as it reveals the beauty and lifestyle of the people on both sides of the Chao Phraya River, and also recalls life at the time of the Ayutthaya Kingdom when the Chao Phraya River served as the highway for trade with foreign countries.

Get around [ edit ]

By bicycle [ edit ]

Cycling around the ruins is the most enjoyable way to spend the day. The archaeological park is easily reachable and manageable on bike even if you aren't very fit. The paths are paved and the distances between temples are short. You can rent a bicycle for around 40 baht/day. The bicycles are not necessarily well maintained, so be sure that they work properly (wheels are firm and inflated, seats adjusted to your height and well attached, handlebars don't slip); good shops will give you a bike lock as well. There is a good bike shop directly opposite the train station.

Free area maps are available from hotels.

The park opens at 07:30. It is recommended that you begin your tour early, before the tour groups arrive from Bangkok. Take plenty of water with you.

• Soi 2 (where the majority of tourist hotels and restaurants are found) have numerous bike rental facilities. They are all next to each other so it will be easy to shop around and find the one with the best bike for you.
• Tour With Thai (TWT) (before Tony's Guest House [not far from mini-bus stop at Soi 2]) has bicycles big and small size and seat for small child for rent. If you are short of time, you can hire a motorbike here.

By tuk-tuk [ edit ]

Alternatively, you can get around town by tuk-tuk (motorized 3-wheeler). Ayutthaya's tuk-tuks are larger than the Bangkok variety and you can easily squeeze six people in on facing benches. Only "official" tuk-tuk drivers or tourist "helpers" can pick up passengers from the train station. You can verify their status by looking for their photos/name on a "Tourist Officials" board displayed at the south end of the platform. These people are required to charge/work for fixed rates, usually quoting 300 baht/hr, but this can usually be bargained down to a slightly lower price (e.g., 1,000 baht/4 hr).

You can also flag down tuk-tuks from the street and try to hire them. Most drivers carry with them a stack of postcards featuring the famous sites of the city to ease communications. They also are used to the standard temple-hopping circuit. If you have a map you can point out any of the destinations that you wish to see and they'll often quote a trip price and will wait for you at each stop. 200 baht/hr seems to be the starting point for tourist tuk-tuks picking up backpackers away from the station, although it may be possible to negotiate a lower price.

If entering the city by mini-bus, there is a possibility your driver will drop you off at a tuk-tuk who offers to take you around the wats from 2,000 baht. The driver may have a book filled with positive testimonials in a range of different languages from tourists who were his past passengers. Don't let these positive comments convince you otherwise, simply say "no, thanks" and move on to find another tuk-tuk driver with whom you can negotiate a fair rate.

From Ayutthaya, mini-buses can be taken from the railway station into the city. Hiring a mini- bus within Ayutthaya costs between 400-500 baht/day. For travelling between Ayutthaya and Bang Pa-in, mini-buses regularly leave Chao Prom Market, Chao Prom Rd starting from 06:00.

By motorbike driver [ edit ]

If you are alone, using a motorbike driver can cost less than a tuk-tuk (though with less luggage carrying capability). For example, to tour the further out ruins you will manage a lower cost per hour from a motorbike driver than tuk-tuk driver. They are easy to recognise - orange hi-vis jackets with a large one or two digit number on them. They can often be found hanging around on Pridi Banomyong Road (unlikely to be hanging round the station area).

Boat trips to enjoy the beautiful scenery and Thai lifestyle along the Chao Phraya River, the Pa Sak River and around the town island of Ayutthaya are available. A longtail boat can be chartered at the pier in front of Chanthara Kasem National Museum, Pom Phet Pier, and Wat Phananchoeng Pier. The fare depends on the route and duration. Rice barges are also available to groups. They offer a relaxed way to see Ayutthaya.

See [ edit ]

Ayutthaya is 76 km (47 mi) north of Bangkok and boasts numerous magnificent ruins. The ruins indicate that Ayutthaya was one of Southeast Asia's (and probably the world's) most prosperous cities in the 17th century. Ayutthaya Historical Park, a vast stretch of historical sites in the heart of Ayutthaya city, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since December 1991.

There were three palaces in Ayutthaya: Grand Palace, Chantharakasem Palace (the Front Palace), and Wang Lang (the Rear Palace). In addition, there were many other palaces and buildings for royal visits outside Ayutthaya, such as the palace at Bang Pa-In and Nakhon Luang Building at Nakhon Luang .

You can buy a single ticket covering entry into Ayutthaya Historical Park monuments for 220 baht. It's a Fine Arts Department-issued ticket and can be purchased from any of the monuments covered that charge for entry (i.e., you buy a single ticket for entry to that monument (typically 50 baht) or you can buy the multiple site ticket). However, it can get complex as not all sites charge anyway, e.g., Wat Plub Pla Chai is free uncontrolled entry) and not all sites are Fine Arts Department sites and they don't recognise the ticket e.g. Wat Thammikarat which is 20 baht.

If staying in the city start early when the parks open and see the main sites before the tour buses arrive from Bangkok. Or start later but avoid the sites the Bangkok day tours visit and return to those sites later when the tour buses have departed. There are plenty of sites worth visiting that the tour buses skip (as they have less time due to the drive from & to Bangkok).

It seems there is an ongoing scam, not against tourists, but against the government. Ladies selling tickets take the money from you and allow you to enter, but will not give you a ticket (and probably put the money in their own pockets). If you want your money to go for temple renovation and conservation instead of going into private pockets, insist on a ticket.

On the island [ edit ]

The temples with entry charges are usually in ruins, so there is no dress code, although visitors are still requested to refrain from blatant stupidity like clambering up the Buddha statues. Working temples tend to charge no fees and there are often no officials to check that a dress is appropriate (though it is advised to follow these customs to show respect for sacred places).

• 14.34631 100.57628 1 Phet Fortress ( Southeast island ). This fortress was the city's most important defensive structure in the 15th century. It was built of wood in 1350 CE by King Mahachakraphat, and later rebuilt with bricks. A few walls still remain and the grounds have a nice view of the river. The fortress is close to Wat Suwan Dararam, and is right beside a ferry that can take you to Wat Phanan Choeng.  
• 14.3528 100.5477 2 Phra Chedi Suriyothai ( เจดีย์พระศรีสุริโยทัย ), U-Thong Rd . A white and gold-coloured chedi built as a memorial to a previous queen. Set in small, well-kept gardens, it is the memorial for the first heroine in Siamese history. It's of some interest as a proof of the honour that ancient Siamese society gave to women. It was renovated in 1990, and during the renovations some antique objects were found such as a white rock crystal Buddha image in the posture of subduing Mara, a chedi replica, and a golden reliquary. These ancient objects were brought under the care of the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum. Free .  
• 14.3549 100.5577 3 Viharn Phra Mongkol Bopit , Sri Sanphet Rd ( Next to Wat Phra Si Sanphet ). An impressive building that houses a large cast-bronze Buddha image. It was originally enshrined outside the Grand Palace to the east, but it was later transferred to the current location and covered with a Mondop. During the second fall of Ayutthaya, the building and the image were badly destroyed by fire. The building was renovated, but does not have the beautiful craftsmanship of the previous ones. The open area east of the sanctuary (Wihan) used to be Sanam Luang, where the royal cremation ceremony took place. Free .  

• 14.34843 100.56421 11 Tomb of Sheikh Ahmad Qomi ( on the grounds of Rajabahat Institute, behind the Ayutthaya History Study Centre ). Burial place of a Shiite Muslim historical figure who was the Minister of Civil Affairs under King Songtham (/1611-1628) of Siam. He is known for putting down a Japanese rebellion, and for being the first advisor to the Siamese King on Islamic Affairs. This tomb has alternating Thai and Arabic calligraphy just below its dome, and is a place of worship among Thai Buddhists and Muslims. ( updated Mar 2017 )
• 14.342077 100.548926 12 Wat Wang Chai ( Located on the south-eastern corner of the island ). ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 14.344971 100.553012 13 Wat Sangka Thae . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 14.345401 100.556942 14 Wat Som . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 14.359035 100.558162 15 Old Royal Palace . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 14.341311 100.550769 16 Wat Luang Chi Krut . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 14.344011 100.554031 17 Wat Chedi Yai . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 14.342144 100.555546 18 Wat Jao Prap , Srinagarindra Park . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 14.34311 100.556154 19 Wat Ubosot . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 14.344497 100.555881 20 Wat Jao Prahm . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 14.362216 100.567995 21 Wat Suwannawas . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 14.356997 100.553336 23 Wat Worachettharam . ( updated Aug 2022 )

New Temples [ edit ]

Museums [ edit ].

• 14.34937 100.56555 25 Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre ( ศูนย์ท่องเที่ยวอยุธยา ), Rojana Rd (Rotchana Rd) , ☏ +66 35 245124 , +66 35 245123 . Interesting museum about the history of Ayutthaya. It's best to visit this museum before heading out elsewhere, as it places the remains into a historical perspective. A big part of the museum is dedicated to Siam's relations with other peoples, but village life, art and culture are also dealt with. The centre was established by the Fine Arts Department and developed to be a tourist information centre by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) with high reliefs of six great kings and queens from the Ayutthaya Kingdom on the facade of the building. The center is home to TAT information centre, an exhibition on Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya's tourism and a contemporary art gallery. Admission for foreigners: 100 baht/adult, 50 baht/child .  
• 14.3651 100.5746 26 Chantharakasem National Museum ( พิพิธภัณฑสถานแห่งชาติ จันทรเกษม ), Uthong Rd , ☏ +66 35 251586 , +66 35 252795 . W-Su 09:00-16:00 . In Chantharakasem Palace, it was originally the residence of King Naresuan the Great, and was built in 1557 CE before he ascended the throne. It was known as the "palace to the front". Later, during Ayutthaya period, it became the residence of the crown prince. The palace was destroyed in Burmese–Siamese War (1765–1767) (war of the second fall of Ayutthaya) and remained deserted until the reign of King Rama IV of the Bangkok period, who rebuilt the palace to its present dimensions. Some of the buildings on the premises are now used as the national museum. 100 baht (foreigners) .  

Off the island [ edit ]

Much of Ayutthaya's history revolves around trade with other nations, but these nations were not allowed to set up camp inside the city walls. Thus, surrounding Ayutthaya's waters are plenty of remains from the countries that once set sail here, such as the settlements of Japan, the Netherlands and Portugal, as well as the interesting Thai-Chinese temple of Wat Phanan Choeng.

Foreign settlements [ edit ]

• 14.3339 100.57439 37 Portuguese Settlement ( South of the island, access via Rte 3413 after turning south from the bridge connecting the island, past Wat Chaiwatthanaram and Phutthai Sawan ). A scattering of ruins, highlighted by the Dominican church. Inside the church are the excavated remains of members of the settlement. It is kind of an eerie sight, but interesting. The skeletons of those inside the church apparently belong to those who were of higher status within the settlement, like priests. It was said to be the largest community of Westerners after it was settled in the early 1500s. The settlement was destroyed in 1767 after the fall of Ayutthaya. Donations welcomed .  

Do [ edit ]

• Chao Phrom Market ( Next to the Pasak River on U-Thong Rd ). This market offers food, clothing, and day-to-day necessities at a variety of shops and stalls. More for locals, the market lacks the usually touristy trinkets; however, the food is fantastic, good clothing deals can be found, and the visit may be of interest for those who wish to experience a more authentic Thai marketplace.  
• Festival Ayutthaya, World Heritage Fair, or Thai lifestyle . A festival of varying names around the (ancient) city with various stages showing theatre, dance and music for free. Main light and sound show at Wat Pra Mahahtat (200 baht). Hundreds of food stalls around the area. Annual festival. Late December.  
• Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Centre Fair (งานประจำปีศูนย์ศิลปาชีพบางไทร) At the end of January. Held annually toward the end of January at Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Centre, the fair features displays and contests of the arts and crafts products, sales of local products and cultural performances.
• Songkran Festival (งานเทศกาลสงกรานต์) April 13. Held annually on 13 April in front of Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, it features a traditional procession, Thoet Thoeng drums procession, Song Nam Phra ceremony of the miniature of Phra Mongkhon Bophit image, and Nang Songkran beauty contest.
• Wai Khru Bucha Tao Ceremony (พิธีไหว้ครูบูชาเตา) Around April – May. A wai khru ceremony held by blacksmiths and knife-makers of Aranyik knives at Ban Ton Pho, Ban Phai Nong and Ban Salai, Tambon Tha Chang, Nakhon Luang District to pay tribute to their masters and forge spirits. The ceremony is usually held on an early Thursday morning which may be the 7th, 9th, etc. day of the waxing moon of the 5th lunar month (around April – May) in order to express gratitude to their masters, sweep away possible accidents during their works as well as for their own auspiciousness and prosperity. After chanting for a congregation of angels and saluting the Triple Gem, the master of the ceremony will chant for a congregation of gods which include Siva, Vishnu, Brahma, Vishnukarma, Matuli, Vaya, Gangga, 8 ascetics, as well as Thai, Lao, Mon, and Chinese masters who have imparted them with the ironwork skills, for them to receive their offerings and bless all participants. All tools and equipment will be gilded and lustral water made to sprinkle on the tools and participants.
• Bang Sai Loi Krathong and Traditional Long Boat Races (งานลอยกระทงตามประทีปและแข่งเรือยาวประเพณีศูนย์ศิลปาชีพบางไทร) November. It is an annual festival held toward the end of November at the Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Centre, Amphoe Bang Sai. Activities include Nang Nopphamat beauty contest, contests of processions, Krathongs, and hanging lanterns, folk entertainment, traditional and international long boat races, and sales of the Centre’s products.
• Ayutthaya World Heritage Fair (งานแสดงแสงเสียงอยุธยามรดกโลก) December. To commemorate the occasion of the Ayutthaya Historical Park being declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO on 13 December 1991, a celebration is held annually for 1 week during the same period of the year. The Fair features local ways of life, handicrafts, Thai traditions and culture as well as the light and sound presentation on the history of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya.
• Ayutthaya Maha Mongkhon (อยุธยามหามงคล – ไหว้พระเก้าวัด) Buddhist Lent Festival. Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Administration in collaboration with the Tourism Business Association and TAT Central Region Office: Region 6, organise the Ayutthaya Maha Mongkhon programme for participants to visit nine temples in the province during the Buddhist Lent Festival.

Buy [ edit ]

• Aranyik Knives , Ban Ton Pho and Ban Phai Nong villages in Tambon Tha Chang, Amphoe Nakhon Luang , ☏ +66 3571 5346 . Daily, 08:00-17:00 . Aranyik Village is in villages numbered 6 and 7, Ta Chang sub-district, Nakhon Luang District. Aranyik Village is actually two villages: Ban Ton Pho and Ban Nhong Pai. Both are known as centres of Thailand's knife-making. Dating back to early Ratanakosin period, the villagers at Ban Ton Pho and Ban Nhong Pai, who were Vientianese from Laos, mostly worked as goldsmiths and blacksmiths, especially those who made knives. Later, in 1822, the goldsmiths quit their jobs, leaving only the blacksmiths; therefore, the villagers' main living became the smithery. Buyers found the Aranyik knives to have good quality, and told others about the knives. The reputation of Aranyik knives spread even though they were made at Ban Ton Pho, Ban Nhong Pai and other villages. Aranyik knives remain the pride of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, owing to their durability, as some can be used for generations. Tourists can stay at the local home stay at Aranyik Village. They can also watch a knife-making show, try making knives, and buy knives. ( updated Jul 2017 )
• Bamboo Fan ( พัดสานไม้ไผ่ ). Bamboo fan weaving in Ban Phraek District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, has been inherited from the olden days. Formerly, the fans were woven with a quite simple technique into a rough design. The border was usually trimmed and sewn by hand with plain white cloth. Later, its form changed to imitate that of a Bodhi leaf or a heart shape. The border is trimmed with gold cloth while the weaving techniques and designs have become more complicated. ( updated Dec 2016 )
• Palm Leaf Fish Mobile ( ปลาตะเพียนสาน เครื่องแขวน ). Weavers of the palm leaf fish mobile, and other palm leaf products, in this province are Thai Muslims. The skills have been inherited for over 100 years. It is assumed that Thai Muslim spice traders who sailed their houseboats along the Chao Phraya River in the olden days were the first to have woven fish mobiles from palm leaf, out of inspiration from their affectionate bond with water and their surroundings, referring to a Thai barb with which they were familiar and using leaves from various species of palm grown locally. Originally, each woven fish mobile was not as colourful nor numerously composed as in the present, using only a mixture of natural pigment and varnish for the final touch. The fish mobile, mostly in red, is usually hung above a baby’s cradle so that Thai children are familiar with it since their babyhood. ( updated Dec 2016 )
• Palm Leaf Hat ( งอบใบลาน ). A handicraft that has been inherited since ancient times. Weaving a palm leaf hat requires no less craftsmanship than any other kinds of basketwork. The weavers have to be skilled and patient as the crafts will have to undergo a number of weaving steps. The palm leaf hat is now an OTOP product of Tambon Bang Nang Ra, Amphoe Bang Pahan, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. It has gained popularity among Thais and foreigners and is available in various provinces around the country. ( updated Dec 2016 )
• Roti Sai Mai ( โรตีสายไหม ). A snack consisting of candyfloss (sai mai) wrapped with flat bread (roti) was devised by Thai Muslim vendors. ( updated Dec 2016 )

Eat [ edit ]

Ayutthaya is famous for its river prawns, but also plenty of other delicious dishes.

• Boat noodles ( ก๋วยเตี๋ยวเรือ kuaytiao ruea ) ( In front of telephone authority building and (2nd location) opposite Sri Nakharin Park along U-Thong Rd ). Original boat noodles were cooked on a boat. It's noodles and soup with meat and vegetables. They are served in a little bowl and most people would eat more than one to relieve their hunger. Besides normal boat noodles, there are three local noodle restaurants offering unusual, but delicious noodles such as cow's internal organ noodles, pork leg noodles, and sliced chicken noodles. You can find these noodles restaurants by using GPS coordinates; 14°21'56.00"N, 100°34'31.90"E, 14°21'37.27"N, 100°33'44.86"E and 14°21'57.62"N, 100°34'16.75"E respectively. 10 baht/bowl .  
• 14.36664 100.57264 1 Hua Raw Market , Uthong Rd . This market in a building seems to be open from 11:00 to 16:00, but it sometimes also works as a night market. Ask your guesthouse for the local of night markets, as they might change.  
• Malakor , Chee Kun Rd ( opposite Wat Ratchaburana ). Reasonably priced restaurant with great views of Wat Ratchaburana and very good food. Meat in most dishes can be substituted with tofu. Patrons have the choice of eating indoors or on the balcony. Also available is some of Ayutthaya's best coffee. Most mains 45-60 baht .  
• 14.365882 100.574783 2 Night Market in front of Chankasem , Uthong Rd ( 200 m down the road from the Hua Raw Night Market ). This night market is an excellent place to have dinner outside. Tables along the river offer a breathtaking view of the temple. 50 stalls sell typical Thai food. Some stalls sell desserts, other juices, for cheap prices, so be sure to try a bit of everything. Very popular with the locals.  
• Roti Saimai ( โรตีสายไหม ) ( U-Thong Rd and Si Sanphet Rd junction, opposite Ayutthaya Hospital ). Roti Saimai is a Thai-style candy floss wrapped in a thin flatbread, a very popular local dessert.  
• Sai Thong . Riverside restaurant with a huge menu (over 100 items) serving Thai dishes of every description as well as some of their own concoctions. Most mains from 100 baht .  
• Siam Restaurant , Chee Kun Rd . Serves a large menu of unremarkable Thai Thai and Vietnamese food, but makes up for it with an excellent location with views of Wat Mahathat as you eat, air conditioning, and possibly the best toilets in the city. Most mains 50-100 baht .  
• Vegetarian Restaurant , Khlong Makham Rieng Rd ( 50 m south of the junction with Naresuan Rd ). Daily, early-14:00 . Typical Thai vegetarian restaurant ("rahn-a-hahn jay"). 8 different meals available. 15-25 baht .  
• Baan Kao Nhom - Traditional Thai Sweet Dessert Cafe , Amphoe Pra Nahkon 2/10 . Nice little café with traditional sweets, good coffee, shakes. Sweets also as take away in nice packages, e.g. as gifts. ( updated Dec 2015 )
• Phak Hwan - Restaurant near Wat Suram Dararam , 4, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya (street leading to the wat, left hand side) . Good inexpensive place to eat before or after visiting the Wat. Seating on solid wooden benches and tables betweens flowers and a small water fountain. Popular with locals and viaitors from Bangkok. ( updated Dec 2015 )
• 14.3534 100.5455 3 Ayudhayarome ( Ban Mae Choi Nangram Restaurant ) ( from old city, make first right after crossing Watkasadtrathirat Bridge; keep going past Wat Kasattrathirat Worawihan, then it's down the road on the right ). 10:00 - 22:00 . Riverside restaurant with good selection of well prepared, tasty Thai dishes. Nice view of Chedi Sri Suriyothai. Fantastic service – waitstaff wear earpieces connected to walkie talkies and never let your glass stay empty. Highly recommended. 100-250 baht . ( updated Dec 2015 )
• Bang Ian Road Night Market ( Near the junction of Bang Ian Road & Chikun Road ). Daily from 17:00 till late. Market where locals buy food and desserts. Hawkers with sit-down places to eat can be found further inside. ( updated Mar 2017 )

Drink [ edit ]

The main traveller-oriented area is Soi Torgorsor, between Pamaphrao Rd and Naresuan Rd, opposite the west end of Chao Phrom Market. It has a number of bars staying open until late, some with projection screens for sports.

• Jazz Bar , Soi Torgorsor . Shares a food menu with Chang House next door but offers a better soundtrack. When the jazz band aren't playing the instruments are pick-up-and-play, or you might find yourself dodging insulting trivia questions thrown at you by the staff.  
• Street Lamp , Soi Torgorsor . Street Lamp offers wooden seating spilling into the street in front of the attached guest house. Live music in the evenings is provided by the charismatic Mr Noi playing his way through rock classics in a gravelly faux-American accent and inviting members of the audience to join in.  
• Wat Yai Coffee ( Rd 3477, 2 min south after the roundabout from the centre ). Nice small coffee shop, served by a staff who are friendly (and a bit shy to foreigners). 25-45 baht .  

Sleep [ edit ]

Most tourists visit Ayutthaya on a day trip from Bangkok , but there are numerous options available if you wish to spend the night here.

There are a large number of traveller-oriented guest houses on and around Soi 2 between Naresuan Rd and Pamaphrao Rd, opposite the western end of the Chao Phrom Market. Accommodation in the upper price brackets is limited though there are some options by the riverside.

Budget [ edit ]

• Allsum Hostel , 50/ 1 Soi Bang Ian Rd . No-frills hostel with dormitories only. Dorms are air-conditioned, with common areas on the 2nd floor. Staff are helpful, hostel is clean and the place rents bikes at 50 baht/day. Individual beds are curtained for privacy. Beds from 250 baht including breakfast . ( updated Mar 2017 )
• Ayutthaya Guest House . A friendly place offering all en suite rooms. With Internet access and a "order what you like" restaurant. The three 300 baht rooms along the side alley have air vents open to a public restaurant next door. Air-con with TV for 400 baht, fan-only with TV for 300 baht .  
• BJ Guesthouse ( before (diagonally opposite) P-U Guest House ). Old, small Thai house, family-run, where you can feel like living in a Thai family. Backpacker atmosphere with basic and clean single/double rooms. One big room with air-con and private bathroom. The owner (Sato) is very relaxed and helpful. Bike and motorbike rental and Thai meals available. Double (fan) 160-200 baht, single (fan) 150 baht .  
• Chang House , Naresuan Rd, Soi 1 . Very nice and familiar place, the owner is very friendly, as well as the very beautiful daughter, there also some friendly Thai people who frequently go there at night. Good food for the right price. Cheap beer and drinks. Tables outside on the road and it's completely open.  
• The Lima Place , 139 Moo 2 Bankao ( 1.5 km (0.93 mi) from Ayutthaya Railway Station ), ☏ +66 86 8892389 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . The hotel has 75 rooms. 562/618 baht for air-con king/twin bed, fan room king/twin bed 450/506 baht .  
• Mint Guest House ( In the alley in front of the train station ). Clean rooms with fan and a separate washroom. Plus points: it's within sight of the train station and night market manned by a friendly, jovial owner. It's a bit off the main attractions, but motorbikes can be rented for 150 baht/day. 200 baht .  
• P-U Guest House ( Hidden off Soi Torgorsor, keep walking north until you see the P-U sign on the left, at the end of the small lane ). Despite its name, the place provides rooms for a decent price (~800 baht for twin with fan and private bath, not including breakfast, making this one of the most expensive places on Soi Farang. One hour free Wi-Fi only. 800-1,200 baht .  
• Sherwood House ( Known to locals as the MM Pool ), 1/25 Dechawut Rd , ☏ +66 86 6660813 . In the heart of downtown, this cosy guest house has five rooms and a free swimming pool. Around the corner from a food fair and walking distance from the on-island ruins. The house has a decent restaurant offering both Thai food and Western food, and bicycle rentals. Free Wi-Fi. Fan double 290 baht, air-con double 390 baht. Shared bath .  
• Tanrin Boutique Guest House ( Behind train station ), ☏ +66 81-755-6675 . Check-out: 12:00 . The basic room for 300 baht with fan, bathroom and small terrace and free hot water. Friendly staff. 300-600 baht . ( updated May 2017 )
• Thong Chai Guest House ( on a road directly opposite Wat Ratchaburana ). Away from the action, but closer to the sights, this guest house offering fan-only rooms at 200 baht/night with private baths. This is a more Thai-oriented guest house that may be too basic for you. Compared to what you get in Bangkok for 200 baht this is worse: no place to hang up the towel. You get a soap, but there is no place to put it in the bathroom. No sink: You can't wash your stuff. No flush (this is indeed Thai style). 200 baht .  
• Toto House ( Immediately to the left of Ayutthaya Guesthouse ). This place is right beside Ayutthaya Guesthouse on Soi 2 (the wooden fronted building on the left.) Good clean fan rooms that seemed freshly painted and with new furniture. Comfortable double beds. Clean Western toilets across the corridor with bum gun and shower adjoining. Friendly and helpful owner. Plenty of sockets in the room to charge stuff. Bring your own towel. Free Wi-Fi that works in the rooms. Good value. Fan double from 150 baht .  

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 14.361563 100.575561 1 Baan Lotus , 20 Pa-Maphrao Rd , ☏ +66 35 251988 . Rebuilt teak houses in a wonderful garden, and a deck with tables and hammock built over a lotus-filled pond. The elderly lady who runs the establishment does hand-washed laundry at a reasonable price and can arrange reliable tuk-tuk tours of the historic sites. Free Wi-Fi, bicycle rental at the usual price. Air-con 600 baht, fan 500 baht .  
• 14.3534 100.57804 2 Baantebpitak , 15/15 Pathon Rd, Pathon Soi 3 ( 10 min walk from Wat Maha That ), ☏ +66 89 8499817 . Check-in: 13:00 , check-out: 11:00 . Charming guesthouse. Close to the historical park, offers great comfort to those who wanted to stay close to the ruins and away from busy tourist streets. It is close to the main ruins on the island and local night markets. A la carte breakfast. Swimming pool, satellite TV, hot shower, fridge, free tea & coffee & Wi-Fi in rooms. 1,200-2,200 baht .  
• The Old Palace Resort , 1/35 Moo 5, Tavasukree ( Near Wat Na Phra Men ), ☏ +66 89 7797250 . Check-in: 13:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Family-run resort in the quiet northern part of Ayutthaya. The fee for small wooden bungalow includes breakfast and free Wi-Fi. 800 baht .  
• Promtong Mansion , 23 Pathon Rd, Pathon Soi 19 ( 5 min walk from Wat Maha That ), ☏ +66 89 1656297 . Check-in: 13:00 , check-out: 11AM . Close to downtown, this guest house offers great comfort to those who wanted to stay close to the ruins & away from busy tourist street. It is next to Sherwood House, and is close to the main ruins on the island & local night markets. A la carte breakfast, tax & vat included. Satellite TV, hot shower, fridge, free tea & coffee & Wi-Fi in rooms. Deluxe & family rooms available. Single fan/air-con:500/700 baht, Double fan/air-con:700/1,000 baht, Twin fan/air-con:800/1,000 baht .  
• Somjai Place Ayutthaya , 69/16 Buawaan Soi Rattranachai District ( In the heart of the city ), ☏ +66 88 9756199 (For foreigners), +66 35 322145 (For Thais) , fax : +66 35 322145 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Free Wi-Fi and LAN, showers, desks, coin-operated washing machine. Close by: Wat Phra Mahathat (5-10 min walk, 1 km (0.62 mi)); Wat Ratburana (7-15 min walk, 1.2 km (0.75 mi)); Chao Prom Market (5-7 min walk, 500 m). Ayutthaya Railway Station (5-10 min walk, 1 km (0.62 mi)), minibus and bus stops to other districts and provinces, (5-7 min walk, distance 400-600 m).  

Connect [ edit ]

Respect [ edit ].

Wear long trousers/skirts to temples, and no sleeveless T-shirts or revealing blouses. Treat Buddha images with utmost respect, just as you would in the rest of Thailand.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Ayutthaya has a lot of hungry stray dogs in poor condition. They can particularly be a problem in the off-season when there aren't so many people in the streets. While largely docile and harmless, to avoid being chased around by a pack of them it is best not to walk around alone, particularly at night. For those accustomed to travel in developing areas, there should be no problem.

When cycling around the city beware of motorcyclists. Do not put any valuable items in your handlebar basket, as they may be snatched at traffic lights. Also, female travellers have been groped by passing-by motorcyclists, so beware if someone slows down next to you.

Some small shops sell bottles of water that are not completely full. Check before you buy and if not full assess risk and decide: there will likely be an alternative shop nearby.

There are many hospitals, clinics and pharmacies in Ayutthaya. Several major ones are:

• Ayutthaya Hospital
• Navanakorn Hospital
• Sena Hospital
• Ratchathani Hospital
• Supamitr Sena Hospital
• Peravech Hospital
• Wangnoi Hospital
• Rojanavech Hospital

Go next [ edit ]

• Bang Pa-In — famous for its eccentric palace and only 20 km (12 mi) to the south
• Kanchanaburi — the famous bridge over the River Kwai and numerous World War II museums
• Khao Yai National Park — first and 3rd largest national park of the country
• Lopburi — the next destination if you take the train north, with monkeys and ancient ruins
• Nakhon Ratchasima — gateway to the Isaan region
• Sukhothai — another former capital of Siam with impressive ancient ruins

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20 Places to Visit in Ayutthaya + Things To Do

Ayutthaya is a historic city located north of Bangkok in Thailand. It was once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam (what is now Thailand) and the center for commerce and global diplomacy. Today, Ayutthaya stands by its distinction as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features one of the most impressive ruins, a fantastic look into the historic core of the country.

The Ayutthaya Historical Park is your key to uncovering the city’s storied past. Its sights have an outstanding universal value for their charm and mere presence. Visiting the park will introduce you to even more UNESCO World Heritage Sites in this part of the country, including Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, and Wiharn Phra Mongkhon Bopit.

Ayutthaya is about an hour’s travel from Bangkok. Thailand has two international airports, Don Mueang airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport, which serve international flights from Seoul, Delhi, Tokyo, Ho Chi Minh City, Beijing, and others.

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted below. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. But before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip!

Ayutthaya travel essentials

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Ayutthaya Day Trip with Sunset Boat Ride from Bangkok

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) – Bangkok/Pattaya/Hua Hun Private Transfers

Ayutthaya Private Car Charter from Bangkok

Ayutthaya City Tour from Bangkok with Traditional Thai Dress and Tuk Tuk Ride

Ancient Ayutthaya Tour from Bangkok

Ayutthaya City Culture Biking Tour

View all travel tips on: Ayutthaya .

Ayutthaya Historical Park

Location : หมู่ที่ 4 196 Khlong Tho Rd, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

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1. Wat Maha That

Location : Naresuan Rd, Tha Wasukri, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

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2. Wat Ratchaburana

Location : ถนน ชีกุน ตำบล ท่าวาสุกรี Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

3. Ayutthaya Ancient Royal Palace

Location : Pratu Chai Sub-district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

4. Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit

Location : นเรศวร ประตูชัย Naresuan Rd, Pratu Chai Sub-district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

5. Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Location : Ban Pom, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

6. Wat Phra Ram

Other interesting attractions in Ayutthaya

7. Kum Khun Phaan (Teak House)

8. Chantharakasem National Museum

Location : Tumbol huaroe U-tong rd 13000, 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

9. Wat Phanan Choeng

Location : 2 หมู่ที่ 12 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

10. Wat Phutthai Sawan

Location : หมู่ที่ 8 15 Samphao Lom, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

11. Wat Yai Chai Mang Khon

Location : หมู่ที่ 3 40/3 ตำบล คลองสวนพลู Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

12. Wat Phu Khao Thong

Location : หมู่ที่ 2 153 Phu Khao Thong, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

More sights to see and things to do in Ayutthaya

13. King Naresuan The Great Monument

Location : Lum Phli, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

14. Queen Suriyothai Monument

Location : Ban Mai, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

15. Saint Joseph Catholic Church

Location : Samphao Lom, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

16. Portuguese Village

17. Wat Kudee Dao

Location : 19 ซอย ป่าโทน 19 Pratu Chai Sub-district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

18. Wat Kasattrathirat Worawihan

Location : 33/5 ตำบล บ้านป้อม Tambon Ban Pom, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

19. Wat Pakkran

Location : ปากกราน, Pak Kran, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

20. Wat Na Phramane

Location : Khlong Sa Bua, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

Where to go near Ayutthaya & beyond

Save on Google Maps .

Bangkok, central Thailand Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

Don Mueang Airport (DMK) – Bangkok/Pattaya Private Transfers

Private City Transfers between Bangkok and Pattaya, Ayutthaya, Hua Hin & More

Top discounts

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (ARL) Ticket

Bangkok Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

See more : Bangkok travel tips

Location : Sukhothai province, central Thailand . Save on Google Maps .

Sukhothai Travel Essentials

Sukhothai Biking Tour – Half Day and Whole Day Tours

Sukhothai One Day Tour

Sukhothai Highlights Half Day Tour

See more : Sukhothai travel tips

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Ayutthaya that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya tourist spots, things to do in Ayutthaya, where to go in Ayutthaya & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Ayutthaya

Click below & search recommended Ayutthaya hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

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Guide to Visiting Temples in Ayutthaya in a Day (Incl. Map & Itinerary)

Author:  Caroline

Buddha heads are engulfed by banyan trees, 300 hectares of temples, and a history dating back many, many centuries. A day trip to Ayutthaya is the perfect way to learn more about the illustrious history of Thailand. Learn the origins of 7 of the most striking temples in Ayutthaya and how to visit them.

When visiting Thailand , the temptation is high to inhale the delicious Thai food in Bangkok and get lost in the ample (streetfood) markets and temples for a few days before jet-setting off for a relaxing holiday on one of the many Thai islands. 

Before heading towards the islands, however, consider using expanding your knowledge of Thailand by undertaking a few well-planned day trips from Bangkok. The most popular one was a day trip to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand in the 14th century.

This Ayutthaya itinerary guides you through the various ways to get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok, the best temples in Ayutthaya to visit as well as other things to do in the city aside from ‘mere’ temple hopping and ads in things not to do as a tourist while visiting Ayutthaya.

Please note:  This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).  Learn more .

Visiting Ayutthaya at a glance

Visiting Ayutthaya but no time to scroll through all the practical information. Everything you need to know to start planning your day trip to Ayutthaya is right here at your fingertips.

PRACTICAL INFO Getting there: Train, book ticket online Best Tour: Sunset bike tour What to wear: Bring a sarong (women)

WHERE TO STAY Best Location: Old Palace Resort Affordable Comfort: Pan Din Boutique Quaint Guesthouse: Niwas Ayutthaya

GETTING AROUND : Look into renting a bike at one of the many bike rentals dotted around the historical park. Only cash payment is accepted and a deposit is required for the bike lock.

History of Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya was founded in 1350 and was the second capital of Thailand (then Siam) . After the fall of Angkor, Ayutthaya consolidated its power and became an important connecting point between the East and the West. The city became the center for global diplomacy and commerce. The Royal Court of Ayutthaya exchanged ambassadors with many countries, even reaching as far as Europe. Foreigners were welcome in the court and served in the employ of the government. What is most interesting is the foreign influences that can still be seen in the surviving architecture of the ruins today.

The city fell in the 18th century after it was destroyed by the Burmese (now Myanmar). After the fall of Ayutthaya, the capital was moved to Bangkok.

Ayutthaya today

The Ayutthaya Historical Park was classified as a Unesco World Heritage site in 1991. Most buildings that remain today are monasteries and palaces, as these were the only buildings made out of stone at the time.

The total area of the World Heritage property is 289 ha and it contains over 400 temples. To make your Ayutthaya day tour go off as smooth as possible, make sure to jot down which of the temples you want to visit and plan accordingly, even at breakneck speed 400 in a day is a little optimistic.

To make things easier my favorite seven are: Wat Phra Mahathat, Wat Chaiwatthanaram , Wat Yai Chai Mang Khon, Wat Si Sanphet, Wat LokayaSutharam, Phra Mongkhon Bophit Chapel, and Chedi Phukhao Thong .

Note: There are plenty of places to go in Thailand , but for temples Ayutthaya was by absolute favorite, despite it being very busy.

Temples of Ayutthaya: Map

Plan your perfect Ayutthaya Itinerary with the help of this interactive Google Map . Red pins indicate what to do in Ayutthaya, while the yellow pins indicate the bus and train station. Do not be fooled though, distances are pretty large and covering all the various temples will be a lot easier if you rent a bike.

Ayutthaya temple tours and activities

Getting to Ayutthaya and spending the day exploring temples is very easy to do without a tour. It does however require a bit of research and hopping on and off public transport. Or you could invest in a tour of Ayutthaya, there are plenty of really great (affordable) tours. Some include pick-up from your hotel in Bangkok

VALUE FOR MONEY: Day trip from Bangkok

Guided (small) group day trip to Ayutthaya leaving from Bangkok. Includes pickup and dropoff at the hotel, a guided visit to 4 of the main temples in Ayutthaya as well as a delicious local lunch.

BEST RATED TOUR: Private day trip to Ayutthaya from Bangkok

The highest-rated tour on Get Your Guide, perfect for visitors who are curious to get a better understanding of the history of Ayutthaya and Thailand. Includes a guided visit to 7 of the most important religious temples in Ayutthaya as well as a delicious local lunch.

7 Best temples in Ayutthaya to visit on a day trip from Bangkok

Walk in the footsteps of ancient aristocrats through the stone-ruined temples in Ayutthaya.  When embarking on a day trip to the city of Ayutthaya from Bangkok, you will get the chance to immerse yourself in this once-global capital and revel in the structures that are almost 700 years old.  Grab your camera, slip on your walking shoes, and get ready to experience the mystical wonder of these seven must-see temples in Ayutthaya.

1. Wat Phra Mahathat

Once the site of royal ceremonies, the house of Buddha’s holy relic, and one of the most historically significant temples of its age, Wat Phra Mahathat is a temple you must visit during your trip to Ayutthaya. This ancient monastery was once considered the spiritual heart of Buddhism in the Kingdom of Ayutthaya and home to the high seat of the Supreme Patriarch of Buddhism. 

Wat Phra Mahathat has significantly been affected by decay, fire, and foreign invasion since its original construction in 1374. One of the original Prangs (the tall conical-shaped towers) fell due to corrosion in the 17th century. In the late 1700s, the temple was further destroyed during the Burmese invasion and was set on fire.

The temple has mostly fallen to ruin in the past 100 years (since the central Prang collapsed again in the 20th century). However, Wat Phra Mahathat is still mostly standing, serving as an impressive archaic ruin to explore, and regarded as one of the top attractions in Ayutthaya.

Entrance Fee: 50 TBT ($1.5) Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 08:00 AM to 6:00 PM

2. Wat Chai Watthanaram

This widely beloved temple, constructed in 1630, stands as one of the most beautiful and most famous temples in Ayutthaya. You might think that you recognize Wat Chaiwatthanaram due to the fact it was fashioned after Angkor Wat in Cambodia. 

Interestingly, this temple was only recently abandoned and was not regarded as a site of preservation until 1987.   Wat Chai Watthanaram was subject to looting, deterioration, and unsolicited housing until the Fine Arts Department of Thailand declared this a place of historical significance and conservation. 

Wat Chai Watthanaram is located just beside the island that Ayutthaya was built on, and lives along the bank of the Chao Phraya River. Despite its only recent conservation efforts, Wat Chaiwatthanaram is known to be one of the best Ayutthaya temples.

Entrance Fee: 50 TBT ($1.5) Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 08:00 AM to 5:00 PM

3. Wat Yai Chai Mang Khon

Experience a living Thai temple that still functions as a place of worship at Wat Yai Chai Mang Khon. At this temple, experience the turns of time from its construction in 1357 to the present day. Walk past the iconic line of Buddhas and live in the history of the worshipers who have come from afar for over 600 years to experience the serenity of this temple. 

Wat Yai Chai Mang Khon is one of the few temples in Ayutthaya where you can actually climb to the top. It is worth the climb up 50 steps to reach the top of the chedi (pagoda), and experience the views over the temple. 

Since Wat Yai Chai Mang Khon is still a functioning temple, you may encounter monks living at the temple and other inhabitants. When you visit you will recognize that the temple also serves as a place of homage to King Naresuan who was victorious over the Burmese in the 16th century and is a prominent figure in the history of Ayutthaya.

Entrance Fee: 20 TBT($0.60) Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 08:00 AM to 5:00 PM

4. Wat Si Sanphet

Considered the holiest temple of the kingdom of Ayutthaya, Wat Si Sanphet was once a temple of brilliance and grandiosity built on the grounds of the prior royal palace. This holy estate was grand and opulent. Imagine a golden Buddha standing 24 meters high amongst the royal chapel and characterized by three chedis, enshrined in the ashes of three Ayutthaya kings. 

Due to the significance of this site, and its exclusive use by the royal family, the temple was almost entirely destroyed during the Burmese invasion in 1767. The building was set on fire and the gold was melted down and looted. Only one chedi remained after this invasion and the other two were restored by the Fine Arts Department in the 1950s. 

Today you can visit the restored temple, examine some of the remaining foundations of the royal chapel, and examine how this temple is still used today as a holy site for the royal family.

Entrance Fee: 20 TBT ($0.60) Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 08:00 AM to 6:00 PM

5. Wat Lokaya Sutharam

Known for its 42-meter-long (138 feet) reclining Buddha, Wat Lokaya Sutharam is a favored temple in Ayutthaya by domestic and international visitors. Curators of the temple are unable to identify exactly when this Buddha and temple were rectified, but based on similar architectural styles and materials there is the assumption that this structure dates to the early Ayutthayan era. 

If you are a connoisseur of history and art you will appreciate this monumental Buddha who has been watching visitors for hundreds of years. In the 1950s when the Fine Arts Department began their restorative efforts, the head was adjusted to match a modern style common amongst today’s Buddha images, but the foundations and general structure are still the original stone.

The remaining structures surrounding the reclining Buddha are ruins but are still attractive to walk around and admire. Admission to this site is free and there are nearby vendors selling crafts and art which is a popular shopping stop amongst the visitors to this temple.

Entrance Fee: Free Opening Hours: Site does not close

6. Phra Mongkhon Bophit Chapel

This chapel houses an infamous bronze cast Buddha which has seen different homes in the Ayutthaya area and has a rich history for a statue measuring 12.5 meters in height and 9.5 meters wide. This Buddha has stood against the elements and political trials and tribulations of Ayutthaya.

The first original structure housing this relic was struck by lightning in the early 1600s and was moved to a different location where a new structure was constructed. Once again, 100 years later, the covering structure (mondop) was also struck by lightning and caught fire. The roof collapsed causing the Buddha to, unfortunately, lose its head. A new preaching hall was constructed where this reconstructed bronze Buddha lived for another 150 years. 

Fast-forward to the Burmese invasion of 1767, the chapel was once again burned and destroyed (this time damaging the Buddha’s right arm and the head, again.). It wasn’t until the 20th century that restoration efforts began on this war-torn Buddha. By 1957 this enormous bronze cast monument was restored to its former glory, and the present-day chapel was erected. 

When you visit the chapel today, you can appreciate the history this enormous Buddha has experienced and can marvel at its size and shimmering glory.

Entrance Fee: free Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 08:00 AM to 6:00 PM

7. Chedi Phu Khao Thong

This monumental temple holds a vengeful tale that marks Thai victory over Burmese rule. Located outside the parameters of Ayutthaya, this chedi was constructed by the Burmese King to commemorate his victory over the Siamese in 1569. However, the chedi was not completed at this time and only the foundational base was finished. 

In 1587 when Naresuan took back the kingdom of Ayutthaya, he built a Thai-style temple on top of the Burmese foundation to stake his victory and liberation from Burma. 

Over the next 200 years, the chedi was not as frequently used and began to deteriorate. A new chedi was constructed using the foundations from the original structure, in the mid-1700s. Chedi Phukhao Thong is a perfect time to visit if you want to experience the mystical energy of these ancient time-worn structures in peace and away from the crowds. Due to this temple’s location, it is not as frequently visited by tourists and offers a more serene experience.

One of the best activities in Ayutthaya to do (and not known to many) is to climb to the platform at the base of the chedi for a new perspective over the surrounding fields.

Entrance Fee: free Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 08:00 AM to 6:00 PM 

3 Additional things to do on your Ayutthaya day tour

Aside from temple hopping, the Ayutthaya Historical Park has more to offer its visitors. Find the famous Buddha head that is entwined in a Banyan tree, marvel at the colossal Buddha in Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan and witness the magic of the temples illuminated at dusk.

1. Marvel at the giant Buddha at Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan

This temple is home to a 19-meter (62 feet) tall Buddha decorated with the gold garnishings of this multicultural site. This active temple is a site of appreciation for the Thai-Chinese population in the area, due to its ties to a refugee community from the age of the Song Dynasty in China. 

This impressive Buddha is a reason in itself for visiting this temple and is a refreshingly local site that is not as frequented by tourists. Ideal for those wanting more exposure to the modern culture of the Ayutthaya area.

2. Find the famous Buddha head wrapped in the roots of a Banyan Tree

This iconic scene of a Buddha head intertwined amongst the roots of a great Banyan Tree is a landmark of tourism in Ayutthaya and in Thailand in general. Photos of this scene are blasted across the internet as tourists take an appreciation for this artistic and somewhat haunting display. 

This famous floating head exists amongst the grounds at Wat Phra Mahathat, will you be able to spot it?

3. Experience the Temples in Ayutthaya at Night

When twilight falls on the temples of Ayutthaya, the mystical atmosphere of the night offers a brand new perspective on this historical site. 

Of course, nothing about the temples actually changes at nighttime, but there is a certain magical sensation one might experience when seeing these ancient sites up-lit against the night sky. 

It’s a great idea to make your day trip to Ayutthaya truly an all-day trip so you can experience seeing the temples lit up at night, for yourself. Stay for the day, experience the sunset over the temples as day turns to night, and watch as the lights come on!

It’s a good idea to plan out your Ayutthaya itinerary in advance and know which sites you want to see at night, so you can check their hours of operation! Hours may change depending on which season you visit so be sure to check the Thailand Tourism website for the most up-to-date information.

Tip: Why not take a sunset bike tour through the Ayutthaya Historical Park. This 3-hour guided tour starts at sunset and takes you through all the lit-up temples.

What not to do on your day trip to Ayutthaya

Whatever you do, please do not decide to clamber on the back of an elephant to ride around the Ayutthaya Historical Park. In fact, remove any notion of riding an elephant in Thailand at all. While it might be a bucket list item to ride an elephant, please read up on the maltreatment of these majestic beings and the awful process they go through to be domesticated for riding. More information can be found on the PETA website. Still, want to get up close and personal with a Thai elephant? Why not look into an ethical elephant sanctuary instead. The sanctuaries will teach you the right way to interact with elephants and how you can help out with the plight of the Thai elephant.

How to get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok

There are a variety of different ways to get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok, the cheapest being by train and the easiest the use of a Minivan.

Train from Bangkok to Ayutthaya

Daily trains run between Bangkok’s Hualamphong Train Station and Ayutthaya. Train rides take between 80 and 150 minutes to get there. The train has a second and third class (no AC). Third-class tickets cannot be reserved in advance, second-class tickets can be reserved online or directly at the ticket office in the train station. The railway station in Ayutthaya is not within walking distance from the Ayutthaya Historical Park. You will need to take either a ferry or a Tuc Tuc to get to your destination.

Book Tickets: Check timetables and book tickets online for the train.

Take a minivan between Bangkok and Ayutthaya

We opted to take a minivan to get to Ayutthaya. The vans depart from the Bangkok Northern bus terminal Moh Chit . Getting to the bus station means taking the BTS to Moh Chit station followed by a short taxi ride to the bus station or a 20-minute walk. Tickets for the minivan can be purchased at the bus station directly, it is not possible to purchase tickets in advance. Purchasing tickets can only be done in cash, card is not accepted. We got a little lost trying to find exactly where to purchase tickets as the station is a bit of a maze. In the end we asked a local who helped us find the ticket counter. The minivan does not have a set departure hour, instead opting to leave when it is full. The minivan makes several stops along the way, make sure to stay in the van until the very last stop: Naresuan Alley .

Travel fips for visiting Ayutthaya temples

A couple of the most asked questions regarding a one-day trip to Ayutthaya. Includes what to wear, the best time to go, and what the entrance fees are for most activities.

How to get around the Ayutthaya Historical Park

Rent a bicycle for a day. The bicycle costs 50 TBT ($1.5) for a day and you will need to leave some form of ID (passport or credit card) as a deposit. Most hostels and guesthouses rent out bicycles for the day Alternatively, you can grab a Songthaew (for lack of a better word, an oversized Tuk-Tuk). The Songthaew seats 6 people comfortably and will be charged a fixed price of 300 TBT ($9) per hour.

Are there any entrance fees to be paid?

Entrance to the Ayutthaya Historical Park is free, however, the larger temples will ask foreigners to pay an entrance fee of 50 TBT ($1.5).

Dress code for Ayutthaya

There is no specific dress code for visiting Ayutthaya. But if you plan on visiting any of the Ayutthaya Temples please bear in mind these are religious sites, therefore dress respectfully.

Best time for a day trip to Ayutthaya?

November to February are the best months to visit Ayutthaya as they are dry and not (yet) unbearably hot and humid.

How many days to spend in Ayutthaya

A one-day trip to Ayutthaya is great to get an initial feeling of the site and to see the most famous temples. If however, you have a bit more time on your hands consider spending the night in Ayutthaya. This gives you the option to see the historical park at night, and perhaps grab a late breakfast in one of the markets in downtown Ayutthaya.

Day trip to Ayutthaya conclusion

The wealth of history of the sheer variety of temples is astounding. Within minutes of arriving at the historical park, it will become abundantly clear why the site is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage. Consider renting a bike to cover more ground and squeeze in a few additional beautiful temples in Ayutthaya into your itinerary.

MORE RESOURCES FOR TRAVELING AROUND ASIA

THAILAND: Guide to Sukhothai National Park THAILAND: Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries in Thailand SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL: Sustainable tourism tips and tricks

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13 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ayutthaya

Written by Meagan Drillinger and Casey Hynes Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The old Thai capital of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , is one of the most impressive ruined cities in Asia and a must-see for history buffs visiting Thailand. While a modern-day city has grown up around the ruins, you can find the historic core of Ayutthaya at the Ayutthaya Historical Park.

The Menam, Lopburi, and Pasak rivers ring Ayutthaya Historical Park, the island where most of the temple ruins lie. Wandering through this once-thriving ancient city will make you feel like you've stepped back in time. Besides exploring all the temple ruins, other popular things to do include caring for rescued elephants and biking through the old French, Portuguese, British, and Dutch quarters.

You can easily access Ayutthaya from Bangkok via train, bus, or with a tour. Allow at least two days to see all the tourist attractions, and longer if you don't want to feel rushed. Ayutthaya is steeped in history, and you'll want to absorb the full experience while you're here.

See also: Where to Stay in Ayutthaya

1. Wat Chaiwatthanaram

2. wat phra si sanphet, 3. wat ratchaburana, 4. wat mahathat, 5. wat yai chai mongkol, 6. wat na phra men, 7. wat thammikarat, 8. chao sam phraya national museum, 9. wat suwan dararam, 10. bang pa-in palace, 11. foreign quarters, 12. elephant stay, 13. wat phu khao thong, 14. wat phra ram, 15. wat tha ka rong, where to stay in ayutthaya for sightseeing, visiting ayutthaya from bangkok: take a guided tour, map of tourist attractions in ayutthaya.

Restoration efforts starting in 1987 transformed Wat Chaiwatthanaram from a looted ruin to one of the most visited attractions in the Ayutthaya Historical Park. This large complex on the west bank of Chao Phraya river is one of Ayutthaya's most impressive temples and offers insight into the influence of Buddhism on the Thai community.

Built in the traditional Khmer style, the complex consists of a central prang or spire perched atop a rectangular base amid four smaller prang and eight chedi-like temples or merus. Reliefs portraying scenes from the life of the Buddha once adorned the exterior of the merus, but only fragments now remain. Sunset is an especially beautiful time to visit, when the buildings glow in the late light.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet is the loveliest but also the most historically important temple in old Ayutthaya. Its three large chedis and numerous smaller ones make this wat – also known as the King's Temple – one of the most impressive sights in the ruined city.

Two of the large chedis, the eastern and central ones, were built in 1492 by King Ramathibodi II to house the ashes of his father and elder brother. His own ashes are interred in the third chedi, built in 1530 by his son and royal successor, King Boromaraja IV.

All three chedis were plundered by the Burmese, though they failed to find the hundreds of small Buddha statues in bronze, crystal, silver, lead, and gold now on display in the National Museum, one of the top things to do in Bangkok . Other smaller Buddha figures were also taken to the capital to be placed in Wat Buddhaisawan (now also part of the National Museum in Bangkok) and the western wiharn of Wat Pho.

You'll see the ruins of Wang Luang , the Grand Palace, to your left as you leave the wat. Nothing is left except the foundations, as the palace was thoroughly destroyed by the Burmese.

King Boromracha II (1424-48) had Wat Ratchaburana built in memory of his elder brothers Ay and Yi, who were killed in a duel over the succession to the throne. Columns and walls of the wiharn still stand, as do some ruined chedis. The large prang, with its fine figured stucco portraying nagas supporting garudas, is exceptionally well preserved.

You'll find some interesting wall paintings in the two crypts in the lower part of the prang, likely the work of Chinese artists who settled in Ayutthaya and had the skill to harmonize such different styles as those of the Khmer and Burmese, Lopburi, and Sukhothai.

Two more chedis at the crossroads house the ashes of the royal brothers, while a third commemorates Queen Si Suriyothai who, during a battle with the Burmese in about 1550, dressed as a man and rode into the fray on a white elephant to save her husband's life - but lost her own in the process.

Immediately across the road from Wat Ratchaburana stands Wat Mahathat, which tradition claims King Ramesuan built in 1384. Its most famous feature and one of the most famous places to visit in Ayutthaya is the face of a stone Buddha peeking out from among the roots at the base of a tree. The central prang here is one of the old city's most impressive edifices.

In about 1625, the top portion broke off, being rebuilt in 1633 some four meters higher than before. Later, it collapsed again and only the corners survived. In 1956, a secret chamber was uncovered in the ruins. Among the treasures found inside were gold jewelry, a gold casket containing a relic of the Buddha, and fine tableware.

On the eastern outskirts of Ayutthaya stands the exceptionally striking Wat Yai Chai Mongkol (or Mongkhon), its huge chedi rising from a square base surrounded by four smaller chedis. One of its most notable features is the massive reclining Buddha near the entrance.

The wat, built in 1357 under King U Thong, was assigned to monks of a particularly strict order trained in Sri Lanka, members of which still live there. Before you leave, climb the stairs of the chedi for views over the statues and gardens.

Opposite the Grand Palace, Wat Na Phra Men (also called Wat Na Phra Meru) is one of the few temples to have escaped destruction by the Burmese. It is not known when the temple was built; existing records show merely that it was restored under King Boromakot (1732-58) and again during the early Bangkok period.

The bot (largest room in the temple) is large and imposing, with beautiful wood carvings on the gable and door panels. Strangely, a large figure of Buddha found here is dressed in royal garb, which is highly unusual.

Just outside of the Ayutthaya Historical Park, this large working temple has long been overgrown, but the ruins are still considerable. You can see sections of the terrace, the pillars of the portico, and a chedi encircled by lion statues.

A curiosity here are the dozens of brightly colored rooster statues, thought to be offerings brought by locals. Other highlights include the large bronze Buddha head and the golden reclining Buddha hidden in one of the buildings to the right of the chedi.

Set in several buildings surrounded by lily ponds, Chao Sam Phraya National Museum was founded by King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1961. It houses a number of sculptures and works from different periods throughout Thailand's early history, including several superb golden Buddha statues, gold jewelry and utensils, and ornate teak friezes.

Highlights include a seated Buddha and a huge bust of the Buddha in the U Thong style, as well as gold artifacts from the Ayutthaya period. One entire room of the museum is dedicated to showcasing the Buddha's bones and the gold casket found in an underground crypt under Wat Mahatat.

Wat Suwan Dararam stands proudly surrounded by three small lakes. Built around 1700 by the grandfather of Rama I, it was extended by the rulers of the Chakri dynasty, who also carried out a considerable amount of restoration work and decorated the temple with numerous paintings, which are now among its best known features.

Murals in the temple depict subjects such as Buddha's struggle against Mara while obtaining enlightenment, as well as battles with mythical figures and a dramatic battle scene between King Naresuan the Great and the Burmese army. Wat Suwan Dararam is the only temple on Ayutthaya island still inhabited by monks.

If you tire of seeing ruins and are looking for a little more modern regality, head to Bang Pa-in Palace, dating to the 17th century. Also known as the Summer Palace , this royal residence is one of the best-preserved compounds in the area.

The buildings feature several architectural styles, including traditional Thai and Chinese structures, and there's also Phra Thinang Uthayan Phumisathian - a two-story Victorian style mansion . Another interesting spot is Ho Witthunthassana, the three-story, tower-style building used for scoping out the countryside and watching for royal elephants.

In its glory days, Ayutthaya drew settlers from all over the world, making the city a diverse and cosmopolitan one. As you'll see from a map, many of these foreign quarters lie quite close to one another, so you can visit the old French, Portuguese, British, and Dutch quarters by taking a sightseeing bike ride through the area.

The European influence is responsible for the number of Catholic churches in the area, including St. Joseph's Church , which still stands today. Located in the French quarter, the church was built in 1666 and is a testament to the French settlers, who left home to settle in what was formerly Siam.

Ayutthaya also had a strong Japanese presence, and you can still explore an old Japanese quarter here. The riverside Japanese settlement was separate from the European ones, divided by the Suan Phlu Canal.

Address: 30 Mu 11 Tambon Samphao Lom, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Tourists can bond with one of Thailand's most revered animals by spending a few days at the Elephant Stay. The minimum booking is three nights and includes an elephant you'll care for under the watchful eye of experienced mahouts throughout the duration of your stay.

Guests feed, bathe, and ride their assigned elephants. This organization is a non-profit devoted to conservation and supporting retired elephants. It also operates an active breeding program and rescue and rehabilitation program.

Visitors stay in an air-conditioned bungalow with their own bathroom. Because there are only eight bungalows accommodating two people each, this guarantees a quiet, intimate experience where your main focus will be the animals you're interacting with.

Address: 34 Royal Elephant Kraal, Ayutthaya

Official site: http://www.elephantstay.com/

This original Mon-style chedi sits outside the historical park, away from the busy crowds and amid green rice paddies. For the best views of the peaceful surroundings, visitors can climb halfway up the chedi to a platform.

The current 50-meter-tall building dates back to 1569 and has been modified over the centuries to incorporate both Thai and Burmese details. Rarely visited by foreigners, the massive four-sided structure is an imposing view and a great way to expand your Ayutthaya trip.

A statue of King Naresuan - who established a monastery in the area in the 14th century - that sits near the chedi, and a Buddha footprint from Saraburi are also worth seeing here.

It's hard to believe that Wat Phra Ram is often skipped when travelers come to the Historical Park. One look at these crumbling, magnificent ruins, and you'll be glad you made the stop. It's not far from Wat Phra Si Sanphet, which makes it an easy temple to visit on your tour of the park.

Wat Phra Ram was established in the 14th century. The temple was built by King Ramesuan on the site of where his father, King Uthong, was created. This is one of the earliest temples to be built in Ayutthaya. Its central Khmer-style prang is impressive and still beautifully intact.

What's special about Wat Phra Ram is that, because it is often skipped, it receives far fewer tourists than some of the other nearby attractions. It also has a very overgrown vibe, which will make you feel like you've discovered the site yourself.

Be sure to leave time to head over to the Buena Phra Ram, the pond behind the ruins, which is a beautiful spot to sit and reflect.

Not far from the striking Wat Chaiwatthanaram, is the still active Wat Tha Ka Rong. You may do a double-take when you arrive at this temple, as it is probably unlike anything you've seen before.

Colorful, kitschy, and full of animatronic mannequins that collect donations, Wat Tha Ka Rong is really a sight to behold. The site was once a campsite for Burmese troops during the White Elephant War in the 16th century. Today it's a kaleidoscope of colors, a collection of beautiful altars, and a very unique way to experience Ayutthaya.

The temple is buried behind a covered plaza that houses thousands of animal and super hero statues, life-sized stuffed animals, flickering candles, and shrines. You'll even find a floating market at the temple, open on weekends, where you can purchase a delicious plate of Pad Thai, among other favorite dishes.

It's truly one of the more unique experiences you can have here, and given the lack of tourists, it will be a true glimpse into a local experience in modern-day Ayutthaya.

If you're visiting Ayutthaya for the first time and plan to tour the temples, the best place to stay is near the historical park. Most of the larger upscale hotels lie a short tuk-tuk drive away, but you'll find plenty of small, homey guesthouses within walking distance. Below are some highly rated hotels in these areas:

Luxury Hotels:

• Ayutthaya has few luxury options, and they lie a drive from the historical park. The best of these include the Kantary Hotel , 14 minutes by car from the ruins, which offers apartment-style accommodation, buffet breakfasts, and a swimming pool.
• A little closer to the historical park, the Classic Kameo Hotel & Serviced Apartments offers fully-equipped deluxe accommodations, a pool, and a fitness center.
• Set in lush gardens, steps away from the floating market, Baan Thai House exudes authentic Thai style with its teak villas, spa, and peaceful pool area.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Close to the night market, Ayutthaya Grand Hotel offers large, clean rooms as well as a pool and gym.
• In the center of town, the older Ayothaya Hotel has a swimming pool and great-value rates, which include a hearty breakfast.
• Steps away from the ruins and the night market, Prom Tong Mansion is a more intimate and relaxed option.

Budget Hotels:

• Near restaurants and entertainment and less than a five-minute walk from the closest temple, Goodmorning by Tamarind Guest House scores rave reviews for its friendly staff and great-value rooms. Bikes and scooters are available for rent.
• Friendly Adam Place offers free bikes, and basic but spacious rooms with air-conditioning.
• Within walking distance of the historical park, the hip Stockhome Hostel Ayutthaya offers both dorm rooms and private rooms.
• Ayutthaya Temples and River Cruise : If you want to see all the highlights of Ayutthaya from Bangkok in one day, an Ayutthaya Temples Tour with River Cruise from Bangkok is a fantastic option. An experienced guide takes you to Ayutthaya Historical Park to see the prime sites, including Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Yai Chai Mang Khon. For the return trip to Bangkok, hop aboard a riverboat for a relaxing cruise along the Chao Phraya River, gliding past magnificent temples on the banks of the river. The tour includes lunch, entrance fees, and pickup and drop-off from central Bangkok hotels.

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10 unmissable ayutthaya temples: an itinerary you’ll want to steal.

Ayutthaya was hot. Brutally hot. The sort of heat that rapidly sapped your energy, reducing you to a damp, slowly moving shadow of your usual self.

Even the locals were also wilting. This included Ayutthaya’s notoriously territorial dogs who were too hot to raise a sleepy eyelid, let alone a cautionary growl.

Most people visit Thailand’s ancient capital as a hurried day trip from Bangkok. With the mercury hitting the mid-30s, for this reason alone I was glad that I had decided to stay in Ayutthaya for two nights and see what the city had to offer at a more relaxed pace.

Ayutthaya is a friendly, laid-back city and It’s very easy to put together a DIY tour. And staying overnight allows you to soak up the atmosphere of the city when the day-trippers have got back on their coaches.

You can also see the temples illuminated at night, fit in a massage and visit Ayutthaya’s great night market. To help you make the most of your time exploring Thailand’s ancient roots here’s my tried and tested itinerary that visits the best Ayutthaya temples.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Ayutthaya is one of Thailand’s archaeological gems

Awash with Buddhist temples and monasteries, this former Thai capital is rich in historical treasures. Ayutthaya is most famous for being the location of the much-photographed Buddha head entwined in the roots of a banyan tree.

It was founded in 1350 by Ramathibodi, Ayutthaya was the second capital of the Siamese kingdom after Sukhothai. It flourished for over 400 years until it was attacked by the Burmese, who razed it to the ground. The city fell in 1767. Most of the palaces at Ayutthaya were built with wood and did not survive the fires that devastated the city. But these fires spared its brick and stone temples, with their Sri Lankan and Khmer architectural styles.

How Many Days Do You Need in Ayutthaya?

With a little planning, it’s entirely feasible to visit Ayutthaya as a day trip from Bangkok. However, this will be a long and tiring day, made worse by the heat and humidity. If at all possible, I urge you to spend at least one night there. Not only will you be able to visit Ayutthaya’s temples in a more relaxed fashion, but it will also allow you to take a river cruise and visit one of the night markets.

How I Visited Ayutthaya

As I stayed two nights in Ayutthaya, I could spread my temple-hopping over a day and a half:

DAY ONE TEMPLES (HALF-DAY)

DAY TWO TEMPLES

I travelled by  train from Hua Lamphong station , on the northern edge of Bangkok’s Chinatown area. Long distance trains moved to the shiny new station at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in 2023.

Although ticket prices vary according to the type of train, they are very cheap (in 2019, my one-way third-class ticket cost a mere 15 THB). There is no need to book a ticket in advance; just turn up at the station and buy a ticket for the next train at the counter.

If you would like to check the times, here is the  train timetable for services between Bangkok and Ayutthaya .  Although Ayutthaya is only 80km or so from  the temples of Bangkok , the train journey took 1 hr and 30 minutes.

Ayutthaya is built on an island and the train station sits just across the river from this island.

I jumped in a  tuk-tuk  from the station. There will be tuk-tuk drivers queuing up for your custom. Expect to haggle.

Visiting Ayutthaya Temples: Essential Information + Map

To help you on your way, here’s a map with the temples included in this Ayutthaya itinerary. Day one temples are indicated in red; day two temples are in purple.

For an interactive map, click here or on the image itself.

Ayutthaya Temples: Entrance fee and Temple Pass

The major temples in Ayutthaya have a modest entrance fee which you pay at the temple entrance. Active temples are usually free to enter. If you are visiting several temples, you are better off buying a temple pass . These six main temples of Ayutthaya are included in this pass:

Wat Phra Mahathat

Wat ratchaburana, wat phra ram, wat phra si sanphet, wat chai watthanaram.

• Wat Mayehong

Depending on the source, there will be variations in the spelling of these temples, but you should be able to figure it out.

Getting between the temples in Ayutthaya

Four of the six main temples are located  on the island : – Wat Phra Mahathat – Wat Ratchaburana – Wat Phra Ram – Wat Phra Si Sanphet Wat Chai Watthanaram and Wat Mayehong are off the island . Pick up a  free temple map  at your hotel or guesthouse or download a map of Ayutthaya Historical Park here .

The temples off the island are best visited by tuk-tuk, boat or bike . Don’t underestimate the distances between temples. A fun way of visiting the temples is on a guided bike tour.

Ayutthaya 6-hour guided bike tour | CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Ayutthaya 3-hour guided bike tour | CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Dress code for visiting the temples in Ayutthaya

As these are current or former temples,  dress respectfully . For women, this means no short shorts or skirts and covering your shoulders.

As you will need to remove your shoes to enter the temples, it makes sense to wear shoes that you can slip on and off easily and bring some wet wipes to clean your feet.

Ayutthaya Itinerary: Day 1 (Afternoon Only)

If you aim to arrive in Ayutthaya by lunchtime, you will have the rest of the day to explore its temples.

My advice is to pick accommodation within easy walking distance of Ayutthaya’s Historical Park, as this is where Ayutthaya’s main temples are located.

Wat Phra Mahathat is the superstar of Ayutthaya’s temples, its overgrown, faded splendour the epitome of the ancient capital’s former grandeur. Built to house the remains of the Buddha, Wat Phra Mahathat is achingly beautiful in a romantic, crumbling way.

There are dozens of red brick spires, leaning at precarious angles, vegetation sprouting through the brickwork. Scattered throughout the complex are countless headless Buddhas, seemingly discarded. 

Don’t miss the serene Buddha head cradled in the loving embrace of the roots of a Bodhi tree, reminiscent of Ta Promh in Cambodia.

On the opposite side of the road to Wat Phra Mahathat is the towering monastery of Wat Ratchaburana.

This was built in 1424 by King Boromraja II on the ground where his two elder brothers, Ai and Yi, were killed in elephant-back combat. This left the way open for Boromraja to succeed to the throne.

By way of contrast to the red brick of Wat Phra Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana’s white towers soar upwards, their restored stuccowork providing a glimpse of the temple’s former splendour.

Ayutthaya Itinerary: Day 2

MORNING TEMPLE HOPPING

Day two of your Ayutthaya itinerary picks up where you left off the previous evening, continuing your visit to the temples in Ayutthaya’s Historical Park.

I recommend making an early start to see the sights before the heat of the afternoon, and to get a head-start on the day trippers from Bangkok.  

Built in the late 14 th  Century on the site of Ramathibodi’s cremation, Wat Phra Ram is slightly underwhelming. However, there are occasional glimpses of its past grandeur through the remaining stuccowork on the  prang  (temple spire).

Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bopit

Cross over the road from Wat Phra Ram to visit Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bopit.

This modern complex was built in 1956 to house one of Thailand’s largest Buddhas with assistance from the Burmese to atone for flattening Ayutthaya two hundred years earlier. Standing a proud 12.45 m high, this bronze Buddha with its flashing mother-of-pearl eyes is encircled by smaller Buddhas lightly cased in gold leaf, which flutters and sparkles in the breeze.

Adjacent to Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bopit is Wat Phra Si Sanphet, which was built in 1448 as a private chapel.

The site is well-preserved and the three grey chedis, constructed to house the ashes of kings, are an iconic image of Ayutthaya.

From Wat Phra Si Sanphet, take a tuk-tuk to visit the next two temples. After a bit of haggling, this cost me 300 baht with waiting time and a return trip back to my guesthouse.

Wat Na Phra Men

Used by the Burmese as their main base during their siege of Ayutthaya, Wat Na Phra Men is the only temple that survived the devastation of 1767. However, because of frequent refurbishment, it looks disappointingly new.

Wat Tha Ka Rong

Now for something completely different: Buddha goes to Las Vegas!

This temple is a complete contrast to the graceful Ayutthaya temples of the previous day. I half expected to see slot machines around the next corner.

Wat Tha Ka Rong’s sprawling complex features motion-activated skeletons and mannequins greeting you with a  wai  and asking for a donation.

It was now lunchtime and very hot! I took advantage of access to the swimming pool at the sister guesthouse and treated myself to a Thai massage. Suitably chilled, I was now ready to continue temple hopping.

AFTERNOON BOAT TOUR

A late-afternoon boat trip is a perfect way to visit Ayutthaya’s riverside temples in a relaxed way. You also get to see more of the city and benefit from a cooling breeze. Just avoid sitting towards the rear of the boat unless you have ear defenders!

Arranged through my guesthouse, this two-hour boat trip cost 220 baht which included a tuk-tuk transfer from my guesthouse but excluded temple admission fees and return transfer.  

Wat Phanan Choeng

Built in 1324, Wat Phanan Choeng predates the founding of Ayutthaya and is famed for its 18-meter-high golden Buddha, Thailand’s largest ancient image. Legend has it that tears flowed from its eyes when Ayutthaya was ravaged by the Burmese.

Don’t leave Wat Phanan Choeng before checking out the beautiful murals adorning the walls of the two smaller chambers in front of the main one housing the Buddha image.

Wat Phuttai Sawan

Built in 1353, this monastery was built alongside the royal residence and was one of the first temples built in Ayutthaya.

Wat Chai Watthanaram was built in 1640 by King Pra-Sat Thong as a memorial to his mother. Considered one of Thailand’s most significant monuments, is magnificently restored and a must-see on any Ayutthaya itinerary.

A 35-meter central  prang  is flanked by four smaller prangs, which are in turn surrounded by eight  merus , structures used as crematoria. Look out for remnants of the paintings that decorated the interior walls of the  merus.  Fragments of the Buddha statues that graced these  merus  can also still be seen.

Watching the sunset behind Wat Chai Watthanaram was a fitting end to my Ayutthaya itinerary.

Organised Day Tours to Ayutthaya

Although it’s relatively straightforward to visit Ayutthaya’s temples independently from Bangkok, if you are short on time or just prefer to have someone do the organising for you, several tour companies operate day excursions.

When I’m away, my platform of choice to book day tours is GetYourGuide as it usually has a wide choice and has generous cancellation terms (usually free to cancel within 24 hours of your scheduled excursion).

Here are a few highly-rated tours that should fit the bill.

Ayutthaya full-day trip from Bangkok with cruise and lunch

Travel to Ayutthaya from Bangkok by air-conditioned van or bus and benefit from the services of a guide. All entrance fees, lunch and a river cruise are included in this very affordable excursion.

>>> CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE

Ayutthaya full-day trip from Bangkok with lunch

This option is cheaper still but does not include a river cruise.

>>> CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE

Ayutthaya & Ayothaya floating market day trip

Combine a visit to Ayutthaya’s temples with the Ayothaya floating market. Includes a long-tail boat ride.

Where to Stay in Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is not exactly a destination for flashpackers . You won’t find much in the way of top-end hotels or fine dining.

But that doesn’t matter. I stayed in one of my favourite places in many years of travelling and dined out well at the night market. 

I stayed at the  Prom Tong Mansion  which was exceptional. It has an excellent location – a ten-minute walk from the main night market – and Jeeda, who runs the guesthouse on behalf of her family, could not do enough for me. When I was leaving, she sent me on my way with a small souvenir and some Oreos for the journey.

>>> FIND OUT MORE

Here are a few other places to stay in Ayutthaya that I have found to suit other tastes:

Q Zone Boutique House

This air-conditioned hotel is close to the temples at Ayutthaya Historical Park and has garnered great reviews. There’s an on-site restaurant and free bikes are available.

>>> CHECK RATES & BOOK

Pan Din Boutique

Another highly rated budget option close less than a mile from Ayutthaya Historical Park

>>> None of these places take your fancy? Find other great accommodation choices in Ayutthaya.

Solo Travel in Thailand

Thailand is easily one of the  best solo destinations in Asia . And it’s no surprise that surveys of solo travellers report that it is one of the favourite countries in the world to travel alone , especially for those travelling alone for the first time .

It is very  budget-friendly . Transport is cheap and there is plenty of accommodation to suit all budgets, from a thriving hostel scene and guesthouses like this one to high-end hotels (take a peek at the Santhiya Koh Yao Ya Resort ).

With its  well-trodden tourist path and excellent infrastructure , there should be no difficulty in meeting fellow travellers and getting around. 

Ready to visit Ayutthaya’s temples?

Ayutthaya is a superb addition to your Thailand itinerary. Its UNESCO-listed temples provide a window into the glories of the country’s former capital and the town itself is friendly and relaxed. Furthermore, it’s an easy journey from Bangkok.

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

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12 Things To Do In Ayutthaya: Complete Guide To Thailand's Famous UNESCO World Heritage Site

Ayutthaya, Thailand is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers many things to do and explore.

When considering a trip to Thailand, many travelers might focus on Bangkok, the lively Thai capital . But not far away is the smaller city of Ayutthaya, full of rich history, gorgeous sights, and a small-town feel that is refreshing after vacationing in adventurous Bangkok.

For those using Bangkok as a home base for myriad day trips in the area , or for anyone looking for an off-the-beaten-path exploration of Thailand, Ayutthaya offers a jam-packed itinerary.

Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is full of historical landmarks, breathtaking temples, and other things to do and see.

18 Tour Ayutthaya Historical Park

Ayutthaya Historical Park is home to multiple notable Ayutthaya landmarks, all stemming from the old city's roots in 1351 (though the city may be even older).

• Travelers can walk through the Historical Park for free, though paid tours/guides are available.
• Some temples charge an entrance fee of around 50 baht ($1.44 USD)

Fun fact: "Wat" in Thai means "enclosure"; a wat is a complex of temples.

17 See The Buddha Head At Wat Mahathat

Wat Mahathat is one of many historical landmarks in Ayutthaya's Historical Park, and this is one of the most prized sites. The former royal temple was home to the Buddha's holy relic and is one of the oldest temples in the city.

• A highlight at Mahathat is the 'head of Buddha' at the base of a tree (which scales a brick wall).
• Wat Mahathat entrance fees are 50 baht ($1.44 USD)

16 Visit Wat Chaiwatthanaram (By Boat)

Another noteworthy historical landmark in Ayutthaya Historical Park is Wat Chaiwatthanaram, the largest wat in the Park. Technically, the Wat is not part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it holds historical and political significance.

Travelers can reach Wat Chaiwatthanaram by road or boat, and the site is typically the last on a boat trip.

• Wat Chaiwatthanaram entrance fees are 50 baht ($1.44 USD)

15 Explore Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Another historical landmark to see at Ayutthaya Historical Park is Wat Phra Si Sanphet. The "Temple of the Holy, Splendid Omniscient" was a respected holy site in its heyday and was considered the grandest of its era.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet is home to a giant Buddha head thought to be from a massive 52-foot-high statue that was destroyed during the Burmese-Siamese War.

• Wat Phra Si Sanphet entrance fees are 20 baht ($.58 USD)

14 Tour Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is a Buddhist temple that lies among the other temple complexes in Ayutthaya Historical Park. Once a monastery called Wat Pakaew, this site features a restored Buddha image, a Buddhist temple, and a Chedi (pagoda) that memorializes King Naresuan the Great's reign.

• Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon entrance fee is 20 baht ($.58 USD)

13 Gaze At Buddha At Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit

Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit is a Buddhist temple that is well-known for its gigantic Buddha statue, one of the largest in all of Thailand.

• Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit is free to visit

This historical landmark is also a busy modern temple that sees many worshippers each day.

12 Worship At Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan

Another iconic Buddha statue sits in Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan, and this one survived the destruction of war in surrounding areas. Many people come here to worship in modern times.

• Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan entrance fees are 20 baht ($.58 USD)

11 Dive Into History At Chao Sam Phraya National Museum

Ayutthaya's Chao Sam Phraya National Museum showcases artifacts from the ancient city. Three separate exhibition buildings showcase tableware and other antiques, pottery, and rotating exhibitions of historical Thai objects.

• Chao Sam Phraya National Museum entrance fees are 150 baht ($4.33 USD)

10 Get Whimsical At Million Toy Museum

A short trip (whether on foot or bicycle) away from Ayutthaya Historical Park is Million Toy Museum, where visitors can see toys through time. The two-story building features tons of toys, many in glass cases, making this a kid-friendly adventure but also one that children will enjoy.

• Million Toy Museum entry fees are 50 baht ($1.44 USD)
• The site also features a garden and cafe.

9 Embark On A Boat Tour Or River Cruise

A river cruise is a gorgeous way to see Ayutthaya, including many of its historic sites. A variety of tour options are available, from full-day river cruises to short boat tours of specific attractions.

Cruises are available through various travel agencies in the area, but adventurous visitors can also arrange a private cruise with boat operators on the pier.

8 Cycle Through Historic Ayutthaya

Renting a bicycle in Ayutthaya is an excellent way to get around, but it can also be a means of seeing the sights. Guided bike tours are available for a fee, but travelers can also rent a bicycle and set out on their own.

• Bicycle rentals typically cost 40 to 50 baht (up to $1.44 USD)

Plan a bicycle route in Google Maps before departing to avoid getting lost and ensure that the itinerary is sufficient for travel time between sites.

Related: Snorkel Thailand: 13 Best Places To Explore Underwater

7 Take A Tuk Tuk Tour

Riding in a tuk tuk can be a fun experience for travelers of all ages in Thailand, and it's a convenient way to get around. Consider hiring a tuk tuk for a day tour; most offer services by the hour.

• How much is tuk tuk tour in Ayutthaya? A tuk tuk tour will cost travelers around 200 to 300 baht per hour; between $5 and $9 USD.

6 Best Time To Go

Like all of Thailand, Ayutthaya experiences a range of weather conditions in each season. Summers can involve high temperatures with frequent showers, clouds, and humidity.

Generally, April is the hottest month in Thailand (summer temperatures range from March to June) while November through March is the coolest and dryest (though the priciest for travelers).

Travelers can also plan their trip to experience festivals in different seasons. For example, a November trip is ideal to experience Loy Krathong, which celebrates water spirits and honors Buddha. April is a great time to visit for Songkran, the Thai New Year, during the first full moon in April.

5 Best Ways To Get Around

Ayutthaya is mostly walkable if tourists plan to see the main UNESCO World Heritage Site and surrounding temples. However, depending on the weather conditions, it may be wise to take a bicycle or hire a ride.

• Is Ayutthaya a day trip from Bangkok? Yes—the trip takes about an hour or so by car.
• Is there a boat from Bangkok to Ayutthaya? Yes, travelers can get from Bangkok to Ayutthaya via boat; the trip takes about three hours each way, and Thai River Cruise includes a buffet lunch.

Travelers can also use the train station in Ayutthaya to get around to other parts of Thailand, including Bangkok.

An all-inclusive boat tour from Bangkok to Ayutthaya will cost about $63.44 USD (2200 baht) per adult.

4 Where To Eat

Whether travelers have a hankering for food from home or want to try iconic dishes that Thailand is known for , Ayutthaya delivers.

• Nong Nine bike & restaurant for morning smoothies and lattes.
• Jintana Service for convenient vegetarian dishes (near the train).
• Tuk Restaurant ร้านข้าวต้มริมทาง for a cheap and filling lunch (but wait times can be long).
• Earl Thai Restaurant for a variety of Thai dishes in a comfortable atmosphere.
• Here Kae Pork Satay หมูสะเต๊ะเฮียแกละ อยุธยา for mouthwatering skewers (best to call ahead to order to avoid wait times)
• เกรท Great Steak & Thai Cuisine for "American comfort food" and sandwiches.
• Eatory for Italian dishes in a quirky environment.
• Bai-Plu for live music events and drinks.
• BROWN ALE AYUTTHAYA for craft beer and cocktails.
• Planet Earth Bar & Restaurant for a lively environment.

Related: Step Back In Time & Visit The Oldest Restaurants In Bangkok

3 Where To Stay

Accommodations in Ayutthaya, like elsewhere in Thailand, can be supremely affordable. Travelers have plenty of choices in terms of location, budget, and amenities.

Budget-Friendly Hotels & Hostels in Ayutthaya

• Baan Mee Suk Ayutthaya starts at $14/night and offers dorm-style bedrooms and a shared lounge area.
• Zleepinezz Hostel starts at $19/night and is within a five-minute walk from the Historical Park.
• Klong Suan Plue Resort starts at $24/night with convenience to the Historical Park, an on-site restaurant, and rustic ambiance.

Mid-Tier Accommodations in Ayutthaya

• Baan Canalee starts at $53/night and offers a natural ambiance (lots of greenery) and convenience to Ayutthaya Historical Park.
• บ้านไม้87 Ban Mai 87 starts at $56/night with balconies (river views), complimentary breakfast, and earned a Sustainable certification.
• Baan Luang Harn starts at $44/night and is convenient to Ayutthaya Historical Park, with on-site dining, outdoor spaces, and a quaint charm.

High-End Hotels in Ayutthaya

• Sala Bang Pa-In starts at $265/night and lies on a private island with boat service at the ready.
• Sala Ayutthaya starts at $192/night and offers waterfront views, outdoor dining, and indoor pools.
• Baan Pomphet starts at $135/night and has an on-site restaurant/bar, gardens, and an outdoor pool.

Related: Why The Mountain Lanes Around Thailand's Chiang Mai Are Perfect For A Motorbike Road Trip

2 Tips To Know When Visiting

Thailand is an exciting place to visit, but even smaller towns can have a buzzing 'vibe.' Expect cultural sites to be busy and always watch out for motorcycles and bicycles while walking (or driving).

One perk in Thailand is the relative affordability of goods and services; even $100 USD can go far in Thailand , depending on what travelers decide to splurge on.

Related: Thailand Currency: Everything You Need To Know About The Stretch Of The U.S. Dollar

Note that Ayutthaya is nearest to Bangkok, but quite far from tourist destinations like Phuket (where beaches abound) .

1 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Ayutthaya

The perfect day in Ayutthaya starts with a smoothie or latte from Nong Nine bike & restaurant, followed by biking around Ayutthaya Historical Park to see the sights. After lunch, hire a river boat or a tuk tuk to explore more of the area in comfort.

Later, visit the Million Toys Museum or Chao Sam Phraya National Museum (depending on travelers' interests) before dining out for dinner. Spend a quiet evening on the hotel patio or balcony, soaking in the sights and ambiance.

Q: Is a day trip to Ayutthaya worth it?

Most visitors to Bangkok find plenty of things to do and see in the big city . But taking a tour to Ayutthaya is an inexpensive way to slow down and see the sights.

• A taxi trip from Bangkok to Ayutthaya only costs about ฿900, or just over $25 USD.

Q: What is the dress code for Ayutthaya Thailand?

Ayutthaya, Thailand does not have a set dress code, but it makes sense to dress modestly (cover knees and elbows) while visiting temples.

Q: How long to spend in Ayutthaya?

Ayutthaya's top attractions can be seen on a day trip from Bangkok, but the city can easily take up two or three days, depending on travelers' interests. Plan for at least two days for maximum enjoyment.

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The Perfect Ayutthaya Day Trip From Bangkok

Table of Contents

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During my recent trip to Thailand, I took a wonderful day trip to Ayutthaya. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been high on my Southeast Asia bucket list for years so I couldn’t wait to see it with my own eyes. In this guide, I’ll explain how to get from Bangkok to Ayutthaya and what to do in the region during a day trip.

AYUTTHAYA ESSENTIALS Accommodation  – Booking.com / Hostelworld Transport – 12Go Activities: GetYourGuide Guide book: Lonely Planet Thailand

As a guest of TakeMeTour and the tourism board, I was especially excited to eat authentic Thai food in local homes as part of the Local Table campaign to ‘see Thailand through a local’s eyes’. If you know me, that’s totally up my street! I was shown around by a lovely local, Mai, and her husband. Book the exact foodie/Ayutthaya tour I did here .

Related read: the ultimate 2 day Bangkok itinerary

Ayutthaya intro

A fun fact about Thailand is that Bangkok hasn’t always been the capital. Let me introduce Ayutthaya, an ancient historical city with a fascinating – if dark – history. A yutthaya was founded in 1350 and destroyed by the Burmese in the 18th century, meaning it was Thailand’s capital for 500 years.

With Angkor Wat vibes, the temple site is now in various states of disrepair: some temples remain crumbled whereas others stand tall and foreboding. It’s not hard to envision Ayutthaya’s past splendour. 

In 1767, Ayutthaya was burnt to the ground by the Burmese in a battle over land and power. The royals fled to Bangkok following their defeat and the prosperous city was left to ruin. While it was never rebuilt, it’s now known as an archaeological site. Personally, I find the ruins of this once-decadent kingdom much more interesting than a modern reconstruction.

How to get from Bangkok to Ayutthaya

Since one day is enough in Ayutthaya to see the main sights, many people come for the day. It’s easy to travel the 85km distance from Bangkok to Ayutthaya, making it a convenient addition to your Southeast Asia itinerary . You can take a day trip from Bangkok to Ayutthaya by bus, train, taxi or tour.

Bangkok to Ayutthaya by train

From Bang Sue Grand Station or Hua Lamphong Station , you can catch a train from Bangkok to Ayutthaya from around 50 THB . Journies typically take between 1 hour 10 minutes – 2 hours 30 minutes. Browse and book on 12Go Asia . There are a few seating options to choose from. Usually, 2nd Class seating has reclining chairs whereas 3rd Class seating areas have harder bench chairs. In 2nd class, there’s the choice between AC and fan, but 3rd Class usually only has a fan. In hot weather, you won’t regret paying a few baht extra for AC!

Ayutthaya from Bangkok by bus

From Mo Chit Station, buses depart regularly taking around 2 hours (but avoid rush hour if possible). Use 12Go Asia to book from 60 THB.

Bangkok to Ayutthaya by taxi

Finally, you could hire a taxi if you’re with a group. This will take around 2 hours depending on traffic and cost around 1,700 THB each way. Use 12Go Asia to book .

How to get around Ayutthaya

If you’re taking a day trip to Ayutthaya by public transport, consider hiring a tuk-tuk and driver when you arrive. The temples since they’re all quite spread out and it’s hot walking in the heat. A tuk-tuk tour should cost 300-500 THB ($10-15) for the day; feel free to haggle. You might get lucky if the driver knows some facts about the area.

Best Ayutthaya day tours from Bangkok

Visiting Ayutthaya from Bangkok is pretty easy without a tour but if you want to see all the best temples, you’ll need a set of wheels. 

For this reason, a tour is a great option. Many companies offer cheaper Ayutthaya day trips from Bangkok but personally, I love hanging out with the locals and eating their cuisine. If you don’t fancy the gastronomy tour I took with Take Me Tour, browse other day tours from $30 .

The cheapest option is a regular small group tour but you could also consider one an Ayutthaya tour from Bangkok including a river cruise , a floating market tour or, if there’s a group of you, a private tour .

Things to do during a day trip to Ayutthaya

Let’s get excited to see Ayutthaya, shall we? If you’re travelling from Bangkok to Ayutthaya independently, these are the places I recommend you work into your itinerary. If you’re taking an organised Ayutthaya day trip from Bangkok, it’s down to their itinerary but I can basically guarantee you’ll visit Wat Mahathat, the famous Buddha head among the tree roots. Note – temple spellings vary but you should be able to work it out!

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is one of the biggest and most impressive temples in Ayutthaya. It’s one of a few that Thai people use as a place of modern-day worship. Mai presented me with a beautiful circular garland of pink and white flowers that I could present as an offering to join the ceremonies.

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon was once the royal temple but, like the others, it was looted and left to ruin. In the 1950s it was revived as a monastery and is still home to practising monks today. Entrance fee : 20 TBH.

Wat Phanan Cheong

Next, we stopped next at Wat Phanan Cheong . The main draw isn’t the building but the enormous gold Buddha statue – 57 feet tall, in fact!  Although it’s not well known, this was once of the highlights of my day trip to Ayutthaya because we saw the locals at worship. Wat Phanan Cheong was actually built before the rest of the Ayutthaya temples, though the Buddha appears modern and maintained. Rumour has it he cried real tears when the Burmese ransacked Ayutthaya. Entrance price: 20 TBH.

Wat Mahathat

The final Ayutthaya temple we visited was my favourite. The Buddha head entwined in tree roots looks like something out of Tomb Raider – it’s hard to believe it ended up there by accident! The backstory is that when the Burmese looted  Wat Mahathat , they beheaded most of the Buddha statues. Not only was this the ultimate form of sacrilege, but it was also because the statues’ heads were filled with gold. While no one knows exactly how this specific head ended up in the tree roots, it’s thought that it was dropped in haste and eventually grown over. Nowadays you can take a photo of it, but only on the condition that you’re sitting down. To be taller than a Buddha is the ultimate sign of disrespect. Entrance fee : 50 TBH.

Wat Lokayasutharam (reclining Buddha)

One site I missed in Ayutthaya was the Wat Lokayasutharam , a reclining Buddha statue measuring 42 metres in length and 8 metres in height. I’ll get it on my itinerary for next time.

Cost of visiting Ayutthaya from Bangkok

Aside from the cost of your transport or Ayutthaya day tour, there’s no specific entrance fee for the temple site. However, individual temples have their own entrance fees, usually around 50 THB (prices listed above). Another option is to get a temple pass for 220 THB which includes access to the six following temples:

• Chai Watthanaram
• Wat Phra Si Sanphet
• Wat Phra Mahathat
• Wat Ratchaburana
• Wat Phra Ram
• Wat Maheyong.

This can be brought from the entrance. However, if you’re not planning to visit all of these temples, your best bet for a one day trip to Ayutthaya is buying them individually.

Tips for visiting Ayutthaya

As with visiting any other Buddhist temple site, there are a few etiquette rules to stick to. When visiting Ayutthaya, remember to:

• Look but don’t touch!
• Don’t position yourself higher than a Buddha or point directly at one. Try not to point your feet towards one either.
• Bring water, sunscreen and a sun hat. There’s not much shade to be found.
• If you’re travelling by boat, bring a book or other form of entertainment. There’s bound to be traffic on the way back.

Other highlights from my Ayutthaya day trip

While visiting Ayutthaya was a massive highlight, there were more attractions than I expected dotted around Bangkok. Between leaving the temples and returning home, I also did the following things…

Tucking into a Thai lunch on Mai’s shrimp farm

I’d been looking forward to lunch all morning, especially since learning that giant river prawn is an Ayutthaya speciality. Part of the reason I was travelling with TakeMeTour was to participate in the LocalTable campaign, an initiative celebrating authentic food in local homes.  Even if you’re not dining with a local, I would of course recommend enriching your Ayutthaya itinerary with delicious local Thai food! As soon as we pulled up at Mai’s countryside farm, I knew I was in for a treat. She proudly told me everything was organic and grown or farmed onsite. The enormous shrimp that we fished were each the size of my hand! Her husband also popped me on the sidecar of his motorbike so we could pick lotus flowers and stems to use in the meal. 

On the menu were the following:

• Tom yum goong  (a hot and sour Thai soup made with prawn)
• A whole fried fish
• Lotus stem stir fry 
• Shrimp and mushroom soup.

As if this wasn’t enough, Mai whipped out a few extras: a bamboo stir fry and a Thai omelette. I was stuffed but bravely soldiered on 😉 After eating enough to feed a small army, we hung out on Mai’s farm. She took me for a coffee across the road, where I was stunned to find a Western-style cafe hidden off the road in the middle of nowhere! It really is a crazy world sometimes. However, the highlight for me was climbing aboard a wooden rowing boat and exploring the lake.

Stopping at a pancake house for roti sai mai

I cannot believe much I managed to eat on this day trip (okay that’s a lie!). Mai and her husband took me to a well-loved pancake factory in the region where we watched staff flipping green pools of pancake batter called roti sai mai (flavoured with natural pandan) and stretching out the sugar fibre. These tasted like candy floss and looked like a wig of my hair – can you see the resemblance? 😉

Unfortunately, it’s not mapped on Google but if you travel on the TakeMeTour, they’re bound to take you there. I was sent home with a takeaway bag of green pancakes stuffed with candy floss, just in case I got hungry that evening!

Wat Phai Rong Wua (Giant Buddha)

This enormous Buddha statue might not attract endless visitors due to its rural location but it’s worth a visit. It’s a 1-hour drive from the temples so if you have your own vehicle, it’s a cool addition to an Ayutthaya itinerary. The statue is 9 storeys (26 metres) tall and you can see it from miles away. The site is also filled with other smaller Buddha statues, a gorgeous ornate temple and one unique (and gory) attraction…

The Temple of Hell

As Mai and her husband showed me around the Buddha temple site, I noticed a sign pointing to a destination I suspect is uncommon for tourists taking a Bangkok to Ayutthaya day trip: the Temple of Hell. They seemed surprised that I wanted to explore it – I guess it’s not your average tourist attraction. But I love a quirk, so in we went. I’d visited a similar place on the outskirts of Singapore and had a rough idea of what to expect. Like when I visited the one in Singapore, my stomach began to turn. These Buddhist temples of hell have one main purpose: to demonstrate the punishments of the afterlife for those who misbehave on earth. I believe parents take their children to teach them a (traumatising) lesson. I can’t believe how graphic the statues are. They display very specific punishments: for example tongues being violently pulled out for lying, and naked climbs up a tree of thorns for those who commit adultery. I’ll be honest – the light was fading and I was feeling a little spooked out. I was happy to exit the Temple of Hell!

Sunset in a giant birds nest

Every time I thought the tour was ending, Mai and her husband pulled another treat out the bag. The final one was a sunset visit to this awesome viewpoint in the countryside. It was essentially a bamboo tower, all crisscrossed like a birds nest to form an oval shape. We had to climb about 12 ladders to reach the top – but the views for miles around were worth it! We could see no houses or villages, just winding waterways with a few local boats gliding down them. I knew Thailand was vast but I really felt it while looking out over the endless countryside.

Here are a few FAQs about travelling from Bangkok to Ayutthaya. Drop any more in the comments box at the end of his post and I’ll get back to you.

Is Ayutthaya worth visiting?

Yes, if you love architecture and history, Ayutthaya is worth visiting. But don’t expect all the temples to be in great condition: those in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are better kept.

Is there a dress code in Ayutthaya?

There’s no official dress code for Ayutthaya but it’s best to be modest. Dress appropriately by covering your shoulders and knees (you’ll be able to hire sarongs at the temples if you need). You can wear a dress or shorts to Ayutthaya providing they cover your knees.

Looking for a lovely place to stay in Bangkok?

I was hosted at the boutique Spades Hotel during my time in Bangkok. After my busy day trip to Ayutthaya, I couldn’t wait to collapse in my comfy bed. In the lobby, there’s a vintage clothes stand where you can pick up some bargains, and there’s also an adorable cafe with cupcakes and afternoon teas. The surrounding area is atmospheric with lots of street food, plus it’s a short walk to the station which connects you with the rest of Bangkok. Check availability and prices here .

Other info for visiting Bangkok

Despite the fact it’s big and it’s busy, a trip to Bangkok isn’t so overwhelming. Here are a few tips to make everything simpler still…

Getting there

AirAsia fly all over Southeast Asia so if you’re travelling onwards from Bangkok, you’ll find flights from a little as $20.

Getting from the airport

There are plenty of taxis waiting around the airport but as usual, I called a Grab. My driver couldn’t speak English and I couldn’t speak Thai but he communicated by speaking out loud into his Grab app which translated onto my screen. Amazing! You can expect the ride to cost around 300 TBH. Make sure to leave enough time when going back to the airport. On the way into the city, my ride took 30 minutes but on the way out, it took almost 2 hours. It was rush hour the day before a public holiday but it’s not unusual for Bangkok to be gridlocked. Luckily I made my flight!

The most important thing millennials need – internet ! I had a pre-booked dtac sim card which was really helpful – I found the counter at Don Meaung Aiport and the staff set it up for me right away. Easy peasy.

Thanks for reading my Ayutthaya day trip guide!

If you’re planning on visiting Ayutthaya from Bangkok, I hope I’ve made it a little clearer for you.

Note: I was a guest of TakeMeTour while visiting Bangkok but as ever, all opinions are my own.

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Check out my other Thailand blogs:

• 101 Asia backpacking tips
• A solo female travellers guide to Thailand
• 11 fun things to do in Chiang Mai
• How to get to Doi Inthanon from Chiang Mai
• The perfect 2 day Bangkok itinerary
• What to eat in Chinatown Bangkok
• Chiang Rai itinerary & travel guide
• Visiting Bangkok Airplane Graveyard

See you next time for more adventures,

Ps. Liked this one day trip Ayutthaya? Pin it for later!

VISITING THAILAND?  These are my trusted resources: Getting around by air – it’s easy to get between cities by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Buses – buses are comfy and efficient. Use 12Go to book . Trains – these are a good option for long journeys because you have a bed rather than a seat. Use 12Go to book . Driving in Thailand – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals. For hotels, I use Booking.com – they also have self-catering apartments. You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . I also check Viator and Klook in case they have a better price. For food tours with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

3 thoughts on “ The Perfect Ayutthaya Day Trip From Bangkok ”

Hey Rose, do you happen to remember the tour name you used as there a quite a few options for the area on takemetour?

Hey Holly! Click the link in the ‘How to visit Ayyuthaya’ section 🙂

Great job, encourage the women to have a solo trip. Thank You.

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Perfect One Day In Ayutthaya Itinerary

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Feb 4, 2023 | Asia , Thailand , Travel Tips

When in Thailand most of us end up in Bangkok at some point. Being the capital of Thailand, Bangkok welcomes a lot of visitors every year. I first visited Bangkok in 2016. There’s a lot of fun things to do in Bangkok . Although, if you’re planning on avoiding the busy capital and want to visit other places around Bangkok, why not consider a day trip to Ayutthaya?

Ayutthaya is a historical city where you can find ruins and temples. As it’s not too far from the capital, it becomes the perfect day trip from Bangkok. Let’s take a look at why you should visit Ayutthaya and how to make the most of your trip while you’re there.

Ayutthaya Travel Guide

Where’s ayutthaya.

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Ayutthaya Travel Blog

The distance from Bangkok to Ayutthaya is only about 80 kilometres. Ayutthaya is located in the north of Bangkok. It takes about an hour to get there by car depending on the traffic situation.

Getting to Ayutthaya

The easiest way to get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok is with a tour. The tours usually include a pick-up at your hotel which makes everything go smoothly.

You could also get to Ayutthaya by train if you decide to spend a bit more time in the area. This would also be the cheapest option.  You could also take the bus but the train is still cheaper! If you decide to take the train you can find a tuk-tuk driver to get to your destination, hire him for the day or even hire a bicycle to ride around the temples.

You can read about general transportation tips in Thailand here .

What’s so interesting about Ayutthaya?

Vacation in Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is known because of its temples and ruins. It’s a great option if you want to learn more about the history of Thailand as well as visiting the beautiful temples in Ayutthaya. You should also know that the historical park was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Planning your upcoming adventures? Travel by bus! (It's cheap!)

I’m not the best person to explain the whole history of Ayutthaya but I’ll try my best to keep it short and sweet. Back in the day Ayutthaya Kingdom was the Siamese Kingdom. During the 16th century, the city of Ayutthaya was under attack. There was a big war between the Siamese and Burmese. These attacks and wars lasted for a pretty long time. Nowadays, the ruins, temples and palaces of Ayutthaya remain and it became a pretty interesting place to travel to from Bangkok.

Ayutthaya Day Trip Itinerary

The perfect day trip to Ayutthaya should include the most beautiful temples and ruins. Here’s a list of the Ayutthaya temples I visited.

Note that all temples have an entrance fee which is TBH 50 unless stated otherwise. (The tour I booked included all entrance fees.)

Most Beautiful Temples in Ayutthaya:

Wat chaiwatthanaram.

Wat Chiwatthanaram is a Buddhist temple located in Ayutthaya. It’s the most popular temple in the city.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Wat Phra Si Sanphet was the holiest site located in the Old Royal Palace of Thailand. It’s also one of the most beautiful temples in Ayutthaya.

Wat Mahathat

Wat Mahathat is another Buddhist temple. This one also has something very special. It’s where you’ll find the famous Buddha head covered in tree roots.

Visiting a Buddhist Temple for the First Time | Etiquette

If you’re visiting a Buddhist temple for the first time, here are a few things to keep in mind so you can visit the temple in a respectful way.

• Dress respectfully – your clothes should cover your shoulders and knees. You can bring a sarong if you don’t know how to cover yourself properly!
• Take off your shoes (you can keep your socks on if they are clean).
• You should not step on the threshold (the thing that separates the inside from the outside). According to Thai culture, it’s bad luck to step on it!
• If you decide to sit, do not point your feet towards the statue. Take a look at how the locals are behaving, that might help!
• Do not climb or sit on the ruins.

Going Beyond Ayutthaya | Making the Most of Your Day Trip From Bangkok

Why should you go beyond ayutthaya what are the other cool places to visit around bangkok.

Once you visited a few temples you might be ready for some more,or for some amazing foodie experiences.  

Ang Thong Province

Did you know that in the Ang Thong Province (about 30-40 minutes from Ayutthaya) you can find the biggest Buddha of Thailand? (It’s also one of the biggest in the world.) While you’re in the area you could also visit San Chao Rong Thong Market. I personally love markets! It’s an excellent way to experience culture in a different way – you can meet locals, try different food experiences as well as stimulating your nose with all these smells!

Sing Buri Province

Sing Buri is known for its delicious and huge river prawns. I had the pleasure to enjoy a fantastic meal at Kung Phao Mae Thong Chup as part of the project Local Table .

What was on the menu?

• Gigantic Shrimp
• Stir-fried coconut shoots with shrimp
• Sour and spicy fish soup
• Steamed rice

Should you do-it-yourself or book a day trip?

When it comes to traveling some day trips can be easy or quite challenging to organize. If you’re planning on doing a day trip from Bangkok to Ayutthaya you could do it on your own. Although, if you’re planning on going beyond Ayutthaya and experiencing a day similar to the one I just described, why not book a Bangkok day trip to Ayutthaya…and beyond!

This perfect day trip to Ayutthaya from Bangkok was organized via TakeMeTour. It was the perfect mix between a typical Ayutthaya day trip and extra bonuses such as markets and Thai foodie experiences.

If you’d like to experience this Ayutthaya itinerary, check out this amazing day trip .

What are the advantages to go on an Ayutthaya day tour with TakeMeTour?

• My local expert, Arnon, brought me to all the places that should be on an incredible Ayutthaya itinerary.
• Arnon picked me up in Bangkok and dropped me off after the tour.
• He had great recommendations for food and surprised me with extra desserts during the day!
• It allowed me to go further than I would have managed on my own.
• As he speaks Thai, it makes everything easier when it comes to traveling around – especially when it came to ordering our meal in Sing Buri.

Where to stay in Bangkok

I had the pleasure to stay at Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 4 . Located right in the middle of the business centre, it’s an ideal location if you’re into shopping, nightlife and street food. The area is quite busy, which means you could be stuck in traffic! That being said, you might have to do a bit of planning if you’re hiring a driver, etc.

My room was modern, clean and provided amazing views over the city. The staff was lovely and there is a restaurant on site which serves International food. On the 25th floor, there’s also a rooftop bar as well as a pool. The views are pretty incredible, especially at night time.

You can also browse other accommodation options in Bangkok here or check on Booking.com or via HostelWorld if this one is outside your budget.

Check out all the day trips from Bangkok !

Other things to consider when you arrive in Bangkok

Getting a sim card in thailand.

When in Thailand, stay connected! As soon as you get through the customs at the airport you’ll find plenty of options when it comes to SIM cards. To be fair, it’s actually overwhelming. You can also book your SIM card in advance via TakeMeTour and pick it up when you arrive. It’s affordable and very useful!

Getting to your hotel from the airport

I personally used  Grab to get to my accommodation in Thailand. You can choose between a motorbike or a car, although the price difference isn’t much.

Disclaimer: I was invited to Thailand as part of a trip organized by TakeMeTour, Local Table and Tourism Authority of Thailand. As always, all opinions are my own.

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"Land of Wats"

Ayutthaya tourism.

Ayutthaya, short for Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, is a small city in Thailand containing archaeological sites like temples, monasteries, palaces, etc. It lies just 80 kilometres north of Bangkok and is an ideal destination for a day trip from Bangkok. Often referred to as Krung Kao or 'ancient capital', Ayutthaya was a significant centre of trade, economy, art and culture during its time and successfully flourished for over 400 years. It is a beautiful city oozing history and culture and a UNESCO world heritage site. It derives its name from the Sanskrit word for the place Ayodhya of Ramayana, the birthplace of Lord Ram.

Architecturally rich, it is a magical land for photographers. Ayutthaya offers a lot of Wats and monasteries like Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana and many more, where tourists usually go for sightseeing. It is a popular day trip choice for travellers in Thailand who want to see something different that has visually more heritage. Today, compared to ancient times, a lot of modern Thai culture is evolving in this place. A lot of guesthouses and cafes have been built for tourist recreation.

Things To Do In Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya Historical Park

Wat Mahathat

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Bang Pa-in Palace

Elephant Stay

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Nightlife in ayutthaya.

• Ayutthaya has very little to offer when it comes to nightlife. Exploring the city at night is fun, but drinking at bars and clubs is rare here.
• Sometimes, some local vendors roadside set up drink stalls.
• On the outskirts of the city, there is the Grand street market area where there are bars with bar girls, karaoke clubs and massage parlours.
• One of the best of these bars is the Cowboy Bar.

Shopping in Ayutthaya

When it comes to shopping, Ayutthaya has a variety of unique products to offer at its markets.

• The most famous are the handicrafts made by skilled local men and women. It includes pottery, jewellery, and weaving.
• The Bang Sai is well known for its authentic hand-made products that travellers can buy as souvenirs.
• The floating market of Ayutthaya is another one that this city boasts about, and you can buy beautiful wooden toys here.
• The night markets here also offer local delicacies.

Traveller Tips

• Visit Ayutthaya during the offseason to avoid crowds.
• Most of the structures at Ayutthaya are historical ruins; thus, they may not always be open for public visits.
• Rent bikes to ease out your visit.
• Carry hard cash as most temples and Wats require an entry fee.
• Most locals may not know or be comfortable with English. Hence, it is necessary to familiarise basic communicating essentials before your Ayutthaya tour.
• Carry a cap or an umbrella during your day visits at all times.
• Follow the dress code (covering knees and shoulders). Ensure not to show much skin as it can be locally unacceptable.

Ayutthaya Currency

Money exchange in ayutthaya, daily budget in ayutthaya, do's and don'ts in ayutthaya.

• Ayutthaya is a temple and monastery city. Hence respectful dressing is required.
• While visiting temples, both women and men are expected to cover themselves appropriately.
• If the weather is humid, capris or knee covering shorts can be worn.
• General etiquettes and manners like not touching the Buddha statue, and not pointing your feet at anyone, are to be followed.
• Thai people are known to be extremely polite and go out of their way to be kind to visitors. Therefore it is advisable never to lose face in public.
• Tipping at high-end restaurants can be done, but local vendors usually don't expect tips. However, if you particularly appreciate someone's services, you can definitely tip them.

Regional Language

Ayutthaya history.

How was Ayutthaya Formed?

Prince U Thong founded the city of Ayutthaya, or later known as Ramathibodi in 1350. He named it 'Ayutthaya' after the kingdom of the same name in the Thai national epic, the Ramakien.

The city, which was the second capital of the Siamese Kingdom, flourished from the 14th to 18th centuries and grew to become one of the largest and wealthiest centres of trade and commerce. It enjoyed an ideal location as an international trading centre, being close enough to China, India and the Malay Archipelago. It was built on an island surrounded by three rivers: the Chao Phraya, the Pa Sak and the Lopburi river and was also connected to the Gulf of Siam.

By 1700, Ayutthaya had become the largest city in the world with a total of 1 million inhabitants. Based on maps and other sources, it is known that the city of Ayutthaya also had an extensive and developed plan, including roads, canals and even an advanced hydraulic system. People from all over the world, such as China , India, Japan , Portugal and France , were taken with Ayutthaya' s grandeur and beauty. Foreign influences were visible in the art and architecture of the city, as well as in its trade and economy. The buildings and architecture of the city consisted of a unique and vibrant mixture of styles and borrowed from various cultures and art forms like that of China, Japan, Persia and India. Some surviving architects from Ayutthaya even attempted to recreate Ayutthaya' s architectural form in the newly chosen capital of Bangkok.

Fall of the City of Ayutthaya

In 1767, the Burmese attacked Ayutthaya and burnt down the entire city, forcing the inhabitants to flee. Most of the buildings in Ayutthaya were made of wood and could not hold out after the fire. The attack also destroyed a majority of the art, literature and historical records of the city, indicating the end of the kingdom. Many of the survivors were forced into slavery. Following the downfall of the empire, General Phraya Taksin established a new capital at Thonburi.

Ayutthaya Today

The city of Ayutthaya was never rebuilt or restored until the 1960s when the Thai Fine Arts Department began to restore some of its ruined monuments and temples. Today, Ayutthaya remains as archaeological ruins in the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. Its remains include 'prangs' (or the reliquary towers), monasteries, temples, ancient statues, shrines, stupas and palaces.

The ruins of the historic city of Ayutthaya found in the Ayutthaya historical park was officially recognised for its historical importance and cultural value, and was marked as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991.

Suggested Itinerary for Ayutthaya

Best time to visit ayutthaya, top stories about ayutthaya tourism.

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7 Most Popular Ayutthaya Attractions

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on March 4, 2024

As the former capital of the Thai Kingdom, Ayutthaya was an impressive site, with three palaces and more than 400 temples. Home to over a million people, the island city was one of Asia’s major trading ports and international merchants visiting from around the globe were left in awe. In 1767, the Burmese attacked and conquered Ayutthaya. The majority of the once magnificent reliquary towers, monasteries, temples and palaces were destroyed during this invasion. However, several structures have been restored and tourists are welcome to visit these wonderful Ayutthaya attractions.

7. Wat Phu Khao Thong [SEE MAP]

Out in the flat plain of rice fields and fish ponds, northwest of Ayutthaya rises the stark white stupa of Wat Phu Khao Thong. The name literally translates to “Golden Mount.” The original chedi on the site was built in 1569 by the Burmese during a brief occupation of Ayutthaya. When they were finally run out of the city, Buddhist law prohibited the Thais from pulling down this reminder of Burmese occupation. They had to put up with it for nearly 200 years until the temple finally collapsed due to lack of maintenance. King Borommakot promptly put up the chedi more or less as you see today on the Burmese base. Visitors can climb halfway up, from which the surrounding rice fields and the town of Ayutthaya can be seen.

6. Wat Ratchaburana [SEE MAP]

Wat Ratchaburana was founded in 1424 by King Borommarachathirat II on the cremation site of his two elder brothers. The two brothers had fought to their deaths in a duel for the royal succession. The temple’s main prang (tower-like spire) is one of the finest in the city. The prang’s crypt, accessible by steep stairs, houses faded frescoes. The crypt’s Buddha images, now housed in the Chao Sam Phraya Museum, exhibit both Khmer and Sukhothai influences.

5. Wat Phanan Choeng [SEE MAP]

On the south side of Ayutthaya, right where the Chaophraya and Pasak rivers meet, is one of Ayutthaya’s oldest temples. The large wihan, the highest building within the temple complex, houses an immense gilded 19 meter (63 feet) high seated Buddha from 1334. On the walls of the wihan are hundreds of niches containing small buddha images. Each Buddha represents a donation to the temple. If you make a big enough donation (about 500 Baht at least) you can get your own Buddha placed on the wall.

4. Wat Phra Si Sanphet [SEE MAP]

Wat Phra Si Sanphet was built by King Boromatrailokanat in 1448 as his private chapel within the grounds of the former royal palace. It was reportedly one of the grandest temples in the ancient capital, and it is still one of the best preserved on the island. The temple took its name from the large standing Buddha image erected there in 1503. The statue stood 16 meters (53 feet) tall and was covered with more than 150 kilograms (330 pounds) of gold. The Buddha was smashed to pieces when the Burmese sacked the city. King Rama I collected the remaining pieces and placed them in a chedi at Wat Po in Bangkok. Today, the distinctive three pagodas of Wat Phra Si Sanphet are one of the most famous sights in Ayutthaya.

3. Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon [SEE MAP]

Wat Yai Chai Mongkol (or Wat Chao Phaya Thai) is an active temple in the southeastern part of the ancient city. An impressively large Reclining Buddha statue lies in the temple grounds. The temple was built in the 1357 during the reign of King U Thong, the first ruler of Ayutthaya. A large chedi was built in 1592 to celebrate King Naresuan’s single-handed defeat of the then Burmese crown prince in a duel on elephants.

2. Wat Chaiwatthanaram [SEE MAP]

Wat Chaiwatthanaram lies on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, just outside the old city of Ayutthaya. The Khmer-style temple was constructed in 1630 by King Prasat Thong to honor his mother. Situated atop a rectangular platform, a 35-meter (115-foot) high central prang (tower-like spire) is surrounded by four small prangs, which are in turn flanked by eight chedi (stupa)-shaped chapels that sit outside the platform perimeter. Buddha statues once populated the chedis and the outer walls of the temple, painted vividly in gold and black, but fragments are all that remain of these decorative elements.

1. Wat Phra Mahathat [SEE MAP]

Wat Mahathat (Temple of the Great Relics) is located almost right in the center of Ayutthaya. Apart from being the symbolic center where the Buddha’s relics were enshrined, Wat Mahathat was also the residence of the Supreme Patriarch or leader of the Thai Buddhist monks. At the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767, the large temple was quite thoroughly ransacked by the Burmese. Still, it is one of the most popular attractions in Ayutthaya due to the famous tree that has grown around a Buddha head.

Best Time to Visit Ayutthaya

Although Ayutthaya has three seasons, it remains very hot and humid the whole year round. November through to February is the best time to visit as it’s slightly cooler, there is less rain and you can take relaxing cruises along its river or even to Bangkok.

As conditions are better for sightseeing, the temples and palaces get very crowded with hotel prices also being higher. December in particular is very busy thanks to Thailand’s numerous national holidays and the week-long Ayutthaya World Heritage Fair. As temperatures remain in the thirties (mid-80s), you’ll still need to hydrate and seek shade if it gets too hot.

After this, the hot season sets in from March to June and most tourists stay away as the city becomes unbearably hot. If you can brave averages of 35°C (95°F), Songkran or Thai New Year in April can be a good excuse to visit when the prices and crowds are low.

Although July to October is the rainy season and an incredible amount of rain pours down, the summer months still see a lot of visitors. This is because both the Buddhist Lent Festival and candlelit Khao Phansa Festival take place. After August, numbers drop drastically until November comes around again.

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Reader interactions.

March 5, 2021 at 2:59 pm

Definitely gotta get here. I love history and visiting places I could only imagine

September 2, 2018 at 6:25 am

Nice photo of the White Golden Mountain (Wat Phu Kao Tong). We recently visited Ayutthaya and the tempe is now really white and gold. It’s beautiful.

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Thailand warns public on danger of toxic fumes from Ayutthaya and Rayong chemical blazes

Monday, 13 May 2024

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Toxic fumes released from chemical and industrial waste blazes have sparked public health and safety concerns. - Photo: AFP

BANGKOK (Bernama): Members of the public in Rayong and Ayutthaya are warned about the danger of toxic fumes following two chemical blazes there recently.

The director-general of the Department of Health, Dr Atchara Nitiapinyaskul, said people who live in the proximity of the incidents should be vigilant and observe their family members for symptoms.

She said the department is monitoring the two incidents, which occurred at Moo 2, Phachi sub-district in Ayutthaya province, and Map Ta Phut Tank Terminal in Map Ta Phut Industrial Port, Rayong province.

"We have sent our teams to assess the environmental health risks and impact on public health in these two areas. We have opened a Medical and Public Health Emergency Operations Centre in Ayutthaya," she said in a statement recently.

Dr Atchara advised local government agencies to organise evacuation drills so that people will know how to escape from potential disasters and to prevent health risks.

"If you experience symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain or body irritation, immediately seek medical attention," she said.

The warning came after a blaze at a chemical warehouse in Phachi on May 1, which affected residents of several communities in the district. Then on last Thursday, a pyrolysis gasoline tank of Map Ta Phut Tank Terminal Co Ltd in Rayong city exploded, causing a fire that killed one person and injured four others. - Bernama

Tags / Keywords: Thailand , chemical , blazes , health , Atchara , Rayong , Ayutthaya

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