Ayutthaya, the historic capital of the Thai Kingdom, was an amazing site with three castles and over 400 monasteries. The island town, home to nearly a million people, was among Asia’s largest commercial ports, and foreign merchants arriving from all over the world were taken aback. The Burmese invaded and seized Ayutthaya in 1767.
During this invasion, the bulk of the previously spectacular reliquary structures, monasteries, shrines, and palaces were demolished. Several monuments, however, have been repaired, and visitors are invited to view these great Ayutthaya sites.
Listed below are the top 5 places you should visit in Ayutthaya
1. Ayutthaya Historical Park
Take a vacation and relax on the island, which is surrounded by three key rivers: the Lopburi, Pasak, and Chao Phraya. The ancient temples, palaces, & remnant buildings of the ancient civilization of Ayutthaya are among Thailand’s most valuable historical monuments. Since 1991, the 715-acre region has been designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO because it depicts the glory days of one of Indochina’s biggest kingdoms.
The centerpiece of the park is the 19-meter-tall Buddha image at Wat Phanan Choeng, which is highly famous since this is among the must-see Ayutthaya tourism spots, and visitors come to photograph the splendor of the majestic Buddha image.
Location: Khlong Tho Road, Ayutthaya, Thailand
Entry Fee: Rs. 109 or 50 BAHT
Timings: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
2. Palace Bang Pa-In
If you’re tired of witnessing ruins and want to experience some modern regality, go to Bang Pa-in Palace, which dates from the seventeenth century. This royal house, also known as the Summer Palace, is among the best-preserved complexes in the area.
There are numerous architectural styles represented in the structures, including ancient Thai & Chinese constructions, as well as Phra Thinang Phumisathian, a two-story Old victorian style home. Ho Witthunthassana, a 3-story, tower-style edifice used for looking over the landscape and keeping an eye out for royal elephants, is another noteworthy stop.
The Palace is around 60 kilometers north of Bangkok. The temple, which is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, is a delicate representation of a bygone age. The Palace is lavishly built, with brightly colored architecture. It was previously used by Thai Kings.
Location: Bang Pa-In District, An len, Phra, Ayutthaya, Thailand
Entry Fee: Rs. 218 or 100 BAHT
Timings: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
3. Wat Ratchaburana
Wat Ratchaburana was constructed in remembrance of King Boromracha II’s elder brothers Yi & Ay, who were murdered in a fight over the future of the kingdom. The wiharn’s pillars and walls, as well as several destroyed chedis, still survive.
The temple boasts one of the best major prangs in the city. The temple is famous for its prang, which is essentially a tower-like spire. It is ornately carved and incorporates features of Hindu and Buddhist architecture. The big prang is particularly well preserved, with finely detailed stucco depicting nagas supporting garudas.
The crypt of the prang, accessible by steep stairs, has fading paintings. The Buddha images from the crypt, which are now kept at the Chao Phraya Sam Museum, show Sukhothai and Khmer influences.
Location: Ratchaburi, Ayutthaya, Thailand
Entry Fee: Rs. 68 or 30 BAHT
Timings: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
4. Market Chao Phrom
The word ‘shopping’ excites us; therefore it is time to explore the market, which is on the list of sites to see in Ayutthaya. Chao Phrom Market is the best place to go if you want to experience something new and discover the underworld of Ayutthaya.
If you want to sample sweet Muslim delicacies, experience curries, or discover the flavor of a Spicy Dip, the busy underground market is the best place to go. Many stores sell amulets, which are an important component of Thai culture.
Apart from Muslim appetizers, the market is well-known for its Chinese cuisine. The location is a genuine market with fresh products. If you intend to stay in Ayutthaya, Thailand, for an extended period of time and want to see the country more, this is the place to go for daily requirements.
Location: Chang Wat Phra Nakhon, Ayutthaya, Thailand
Expenses upto: 200 BAHT to 1000 BAHT
Timings: 3:00 AM to 6:00 PM
5. Stay of Elephants
Staying a few days at the Elephant Stay allows visitors to bond with one of Thailand’s greatest adored creatures. The minimum booking is 3 days and 2 nights which includes an elephant that you will care for under the supervision of trained mahouts during your stay.
Elephant Stay, situated in the heart of the Imperial Elephant Kraal in Ayutthaya, is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection of aging elephants. By touring this Ayutthaya tourist site, visitors may form bonds with around 60 elephants and enjoy their vacation surrounded by nature.
Guests are allocated elephants to feed, wash, and ride. This non-profit is dedicated to the conservation and care of retiring elephants. It also has a busy breeding program, as well as a rescue and rehabilitation program.
Location: Kraal Village, 74/1 Moo 3 Tumbol Suanpik, Ayutthaya, Thailand
Bookings Costs:
1. One Day: Rs. 5000
2. 2 Nights and 3 Days: Rs. 18,000
3. 6 Nights and 7 Days: Rs. 30,000
4. 13 Nights and 14 Days: Rs. 52,000
Timings: Open All Days
Conclusion
Ayutthaya, the historic Thai capital and a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site, is among Asia’s most stunning ruined towns and a must-visit for history fans visiting Thailand. We have listed the top 5 Best places to visit in Ayutthaya above. You can visit Ayutthaya and explore the ancient beauty of Thailand. If you still have any doubts left then let us know in the comments below. Thank you for reading our article thoroughly.
Read More Articles on Thailand:
- 10 Famous Places in Thailand to See in November
- Top 10 Tourist Places to Visit in Chiang Rai
- 10 Popular Destinations to Visit in September in Thailand
- 12 Top-Rated Places To See In Chiang Mai
- Thailand’s 10 Popular Places to Visit in December
- Top 10 Honeymoon Resorts in Thailand from Budget to Luxurious
