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Ayutthaya Travel Guide

Travel to Ayutthaya - Atmospheric Ruined Capital

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Atmospheric and tranquil Ayutthaya lies 76 kilometres north of Bangkok and boasts a wide range of magnificent ruins in the old city, evidence of its importance in Thai history and indicating Ayutthaya was one of Indo-China's most prosperous trading centres. The huge and extremely atmospheric ruins have been UNESCO's World Heritage Site since its inscription in 1991 and the city remains one of the most accessible must-sees in the greater Bangkok area – don’t miss Ayutthaya as the city is a real treat, one of Thailand's historical highlights.

Ayutthaya served as the Thai capital for 417 years between 1350 and 1767 and was once one of the biggest cities in Southeast Asia, acclaimed by many travellers traders and diplomats as one of the most illustrious and glittering city that they had ever visited; the map of Ayutthaya published in 1691 by Simon de la Loubere in Du Royaume De Siam is proof of such recognition.

The Kingdom of Ayutthaya reached its zenith in the 16th century when the Kingdom’s territory extended far beyond present-day Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar. It was a magnificent city with three palaces and over 400 magnificent temples on an island bisected by canals. Its demise came in 1767 when after a siege lasting 15 months it was conquered by the Burmese. When King Taksin the Great finally liberated the Kingdom, a new dynasty was established and the capital was moved to Thonburi.

Today the town lends its name to Ayutthaya Province, its importance not forgotten.

Attractions in Ayutthaya

The ruins of the town are within the old city walls and are perhaps one of the kingdom’s most atmospheric places to visit. Rows of headless Buddhas amongst crumbling walls, stupas and the remains of once-important temples and yet the temple compounds are still awe-inspiring, even in the disrepair of today.

Architecturally speaking the buildings of Ayutthaya are a fascinating mix of Khmer (ancient Cambodian style) and early Sukhothai styles. Obelisks called ‘prangs’, denote Khmer influence and look something like the famous towers of Angkor Wat. The more pointed stupas are ascribed to the Sukhothai influence. The gardens are a feature of the city and add a formal elegant to the ruins – wonderful places to sit and relax. For new arrivals who had limited their visit to Bangkok, similarities may be noted with Bangkok’s riverside Wat Arun, an 18th-century structure that was built in the Ayutthaya style, a melding of Sukhothai Buddhist influences and Hindu-inspired Khmer motifs.

Activities in Ayutthaya

Allow a half day to visit Ayutthaya, easily reached by bus or train from Bangkok. As with most archaeological sites visiting with a local guide will enhance your visit. An overnight stay is recommended as this will allow an exploration in the wonderful late/early light, adding to the already tangible atmosphere or the town.

Relaxing

The beautiful grounds surrounding some temples and ruins are great places to take some time out. Head to Chao Phrom market during the day or the Hua Raw night market for a taste of local cuisine.