Ayutthaya : A Great Day Trip From Bangkok

I had 48 hours before my flight back to Beijing and wanted to escape the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. I did some research and came across Ayutthaya, the Kingdom of Siam’s (modern day Thailand) ancient capital. Ayutthaya was established in 1350 and flourished for over 400 years. It became a bustling trade hub known for its stunning temples and diverse cultural influences, blending Khmer, Chinese, and Persian styles. However, in 1767, the city was devastated by the Burmese army, leading to its decline. Today, Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can explore ancient ruins and soak in the rich history of Thailand.

How to visit Ayutthaya

The easiest way is to book a tour. I booked a private one on viator.com, which included transportation and entry fees. The price was a little steep for one person ($180), but I like the idea of having all the logistics taken care of and not having to worry about anything. You can probably take public transportation and save tons of money or hire a taxi driver for the day.

What to expect on the tour

You’ll explore several stunning temples on this journey, which I’ll highlight below. The tour also includes a lunch stop. Overall, you can expect the tour to last about 8-9 hours.

Bang Pa In Palace

Nestled along the serene Chao Phraya River, is a hidden gem in Thailand that beautifully blends history and natural beauty. Famous for the stunning Bang Pa-In Palace, a royal retreat with lush gardens and intricate architecture, the area invites visitors to explore its charming temples. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance.

Wat Mahathat

Wat Mahathat in Ayutthaya is a must-visit for anyone exploring Thailand. This ancient temple is famous for its stunning architecture and the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots—a perfect spot for a photo! As you wander through the ruins, you can really feel the history of the old capital. It’s a peaceful place to reflect and soak in the unique blend of nature and history. Definitely a great stop for anyone looking to experience a bit of Thailand’s rich past.

Wat Phra Sri Sanphet

Wat Phra Sri Sanphet is one of Ayutthaya’s most impressive temples. Once the royal temple of the kingdom, it features three stunning chedis that stand tall against the sky. The architecture is breathtaking, and wandering around the ruins gives you a real sense of the city’s grandeur. It’s a great spot to take some pictures and soak in the history.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

This was my favorite temple in Ayutthaya. Built in the 17th century during the reign of King Prasat, Wat Chaiwatthanaram is a great example of Khmer architecture and is designed to symbolize Mount Meru, which is central to Buddhist cosmology.

The layout truly reflects the importance of this temple in Thai history. It was originally built as a royal temple and served as a place for religious ceremonies.

One of the standout features of Wat Chaiwatthanaram is the line of seated Buddha statues that welcome visitors along the main walkway. These statues represent the temple’s dedication to Buddhism and offer a glimpse into the artistry of the period.

I throughly enjoyed Ayutthaya and highly recommend this as a day trip option for anyone visiting Bangkok, especially if you’ve already been to Bangkok.