Ayutthaya, Thailand’s ancient capital, is a captivating blend of historical grandeur and cultural richness. Once a thriving metropolis and a major center of global trade, Ayutthaya is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a glimpse into Thailand’s illustrious past.
Visitors can explore the majestic ruins of grand temples, palaces, and statues that tell stories of the Ayutthaya Kingdom’s golden age.
Highlights include the iconic Wat Mahathat, known for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, with its impressive prang towers.
The Chao Sam Phraya National Museum houses remarkable artifacts, showcasing the city’s vibrant history and craftsmanship. Strolling through the ancient city, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry, experiencing the serene ambiance and architectural splendor.
Ayutthaya’s blend of history, culture, and spirituality makes it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to connect with Thailand’s heritage.
Things to do in Ayutthaya:
1. 1. Wat Chaiwatthanaram:
It is a magnificent Buddhist temple, located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. Many temples in Thailand took their design from this building. Here you will find a raised platform and eight towering chedis, or chapels.
All the chedis there are attached to secret passageways and have colorful paintings illustrating the life of Buddha inside. There are 120 sitting Buddha statues dotted around the area.
Earlier the Buddha statues were painted in black and golden color but, now you will see them dressed in orange drapery.
2. Wat Lokaya Sutha:
This is the Temple of the Reclining Buddha located in northwest Ayutthaya, in the Practu Chai Sub-district. The highlight of this unmissable spot is the ginormous reclining Buddha statue, 42 meters long and 8 meters high.
The brightly colored orange cloth wraps the Buddha. At one of the sides of the statue, you will find a small altar where you can make your offerings. Moreover, you can explore the monastery floors, walls, and pillars. It opens from 8 am to 4:30 pm.
3. Chao Phrom Market:
This market is located at Th Naresuan. It is a bustling market that you must visit to try some Muslim food, curries, and a taste of the spicy dip. This market also offers authentic fresh produce and other daily necessities.
In this market, you can shop for clothes, jewelry, food, and spices. Here you can closely explore Thai culture and lifestyle. This market opens from 5 am to 9 pm.
4. Boat Tour, Ayutthaya:
A boat tour is the most enchanting experience in Thailand. On this boat tour, you can explore Thailand’s ancient temples and traditional Thai-style houses.
This tour also includes the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You can start your tour either from Ayutthaya or Sukhothai. The best time for a boat tour is between December and February.
5. Night Market, Ayutthaya :
This is a perfect place for an evening stroll. The market welcomes you with thatch roof kiosks, bamboo tables, and vendors in old-fashioned attire. The female vendors wear tube skirts and traditional shawls over their shoulders and kids play around wearing Chang Ken.
As the darkness begins to fall, you will find the market illuminated with lamps adapted from the chicken coop. In this market, you can eat traditional food, and shop for local produce and souvenirs.
This market opens every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 5 pm to 10 pm.
Food to try in Ayutthaya:
1. King River Prawns:
Ayutthaya is popular for its gigantic river prawns. All the restaurants serving these prawns are located on U-thong Road.
The prawns of about thirty centimeters are sliced in half, grilled, and served with spicy seafood sauce.
2. Kuaitiao Ruea:
This Thai noodle dish has a strong flavor. This dish contains both pork and beef and dark soy sauce, pickled bean curd, and other spices. These noodles are served with meatballs and pig’s liver.
Noodles are seasoned with pig or cow blood mixed with salt and spices.
How to reach, Ayutthaya :
1. By flight:
Ayutthaya does not have an airport. You have to take a flight to Bangkok’s Don Muang. It is about 55 km from the city centre.
2. By road:
Ayutthaya is well connected to Bangkok and other nearby cities by road. The distance between Bangkok and Ayutthaya is about 88 km and it will cost you about 800-1200 Baht.
3. By train:
Trains run from Bangkok to Ayutthaya regularly. Ayutthaya can be reached by train from the Hua Lamphong Station in Bangkok.
