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 of hours north of Bangkok. Fortunately, getting there is quick and straightforward. Although Ayutthaya can be visited on a day trip, it is advisable to spend at least one night to fully absorb its rich history without feeling rushed.

• Ayutthaya by Train: Traveling by rail is a fantastic choice, particularly in Thailand. It beats even the nicest buses. Not only can you stretch and walk around, but you’ll also avoid some of Bangkok’s notorious traffic. Scenic views of suburban life 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 depart every 20 minutes from Bangkok’s Moh Chit station (the northern bus terminal). The ride costs under US $2 and takes around two hours, depending on traffic.

You can check reviews and prices for accommodations nearby.

Visit the Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre

Address: Thanon Rochana, Tambon Pratuchai, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand

Phone: +66 35 245 123

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

Although the center is small and doesn’t offer extensive information in English, it provides a historical overview with intricate to-scale models and old photographs. Overall, the exhibit effectively depicts what daily life in Ayutthaya might have been like.

Grab a Bicycle and Begin Exploring

Thailand is a fantastic place for exploring on two wheels. However, Ayutthaya is particularly enjoyable by bicycle, even for those who aren’t avid cyclists. Traveling between the ruins is easy and enjoyable, with roads in fairly good condition. Renting a bicycle allows for leisurely exploration and more time at the major sites.

Being strategically located at the confluence of three rivers, Ayutthaya is almost impossible to get lost in. A convenient ring road circles the city along the water.

Tip: Ensure your rental bicycle is in good working order before venturing too far from the rental shop, as many may be a little worn out.

If cycling isn’t your preference, cyclos (three-wheeled rickshaws) are available, accommodating two people, and require negotiating the fare before starting your tour.

See the Famous Buddha Head

The most iconic image in Ayutthaya is a stone Buddha head embedded in a living tree, located within Wat Mahathat.

Although the large temple was destroyed by the Burmese, this Buddha head somehow survived. As the tree grew around it during a century-long abandonment, it conformed to the head rather than destroying it.

This temple’s construction began in 1374 and was completed between 1388 and 1395. Entrance to Wat Mahathat is 50 baht. The tree holding the Buddha’s head is considered sacred, and visitors should show proper respect while taking photographs.

Visit the Largest Temple in Ayutthaya

Address: 9H45+963, Pratu Chai Sub-district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand

Wat Phra Si Sanphet is the largest temple in Ayutthaya and one of the most well-known. It once housed a 52-foot-tall Buddha covered in gold. Unsurprisingly, this was one of the first targets for looting by the Burmese invaders in 1767.

This temple was used for royal ceremonies and contains the ashes of royal family members. The entrance fee is 50 baht.

Visit the Royal Palace

What’s left of the Royal Palace is located at the site of Wat Phra Si Sanphet. A scaled-down model of the palace inside the Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre offers a glimpse of its former grandeur.

The Royal Palace, constructed by King Ramathibodi I in 1350, was once surrounded by eight forts and welcomed both people and elephants through its 22 gates. While few structures remain today, the historical significance is palpable.

See Portuguese Skeletons

Address: 8HRV+83G, Khlong Suan Phlu, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand

Phone: +66 81 556 7904

Notably, Thailand never experienced colonization by European forces. This remarkable feat is attributed to the strategic treaties and trade agreements made throughout its history.

Portuguese traders and missionaries first arrived in Ayutthaya in 1511 and can be respectfully spotted inside the restored Dominican Church at the site of the former Portuguese village.

See a Buddha Statue Older Than Ayutthaya

Address: 8HVH+MG9 ตำบล คลองสวนพลู อำเภอ พระนครศรีอยุธยา จังหวัดพระนครศรีอยุธยา 13000, Thailand

Phone: +66 35 243 867

This unique Buddha statue should definitely be on your itinerary. The temple, Wat Phanan Choeng, predates Ayutthaya by 26 years and is home to a renowned statue known as Phra Chao Phanan-Choeng, dating back to 1325.

This golden Buddha image stands 62 feet tall and is famous throughout Thailand. Written accounts mention it weeping during the burning of the city.

See a Unique Temple

Address: 76, Tambon Lum Phli, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand

Phone: +66 80 668 1070

Wat Naphrameru, located just north of the Royal Palace, was where the Burmese king aimed cannons at the palace—though one cannon exploded and inadvertently wounded him!

Inside this temple, a rare seated Buddha image depicts Buddha as a prince before reaching enlightenment. These depictions are quite uncommon in Thailand.

Eat Boat Noodles

Ayutthaya’s culinary scene reflects its historical prominence as a thriving capital city. Various culinary influences from around the world have made the food in Ayutthaya more diverse compared to larger Thai cities.

The signature dish, “boat noodles” (kuay tiow ruea), is cooked on boats, which makes for a unique dining experience. Boat noodles typically feature rice noodles in a flavorful pork broth, with varying additional ingredients. Don’t hesitate to try multiple bowls as they are inexpensive!

Visit the Night Market

Address: 9H59+W38, Bang Ian Rd, Tambon Tha Wa Su Kri, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand

Although prices at the night markets are fair with a bit of negotiation, the experience extends far beyond shopping. Engaging social hubs, people-watching, and authentic food abound here, making the night market a cultural experience.

Remember to save room for sweets or drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that typically lasts until 9:30 p.m.

Skip the Floating Market

Address: 65/19 Tambon Phai Ling, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand

If you haven’t visited a floating market in Bangkok, Ayutthaya offers its own version. However, be aware that it caters mainly to tourists and may not provide an authentic experience.

While it features food, noodle boats, souvenir shops, and daily cultural performances, entrance fees may be inconsistently charged.