Thailand · City Guide
Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya was the second capital of the Kingdom of Siam and one of the greatest cities in the world in its time, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of extraordinary ruined temples, headless Buddha statues, ancient chedis and a historical park that reveals the magnificent scale of a civilisation that flourished from 1350 until its destruction by the Burmese in 1767. Just 80 kilometres from Bangkok, Ayutthaya provides one of the most important and accessible historical experiences in Thailand.
Elect's take
"Ayutthaya is the Thai historical site I would prioritise above all others for visitors based in Bangkok. The scale of what was clearly an extraordinary civilisation, the haunting beauty of the ruins and the ease of access make it an outstanding day trip or short break destination."
The Ayutthaya Historical Park contains the ruins of the royal palace and dozens of magnificent temple complexes, including Wat Phra Si Sanphet with its three iconic chedis, Wat Mahathat with the famous Buddha head entwined in tree roots, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram on the river bank. Exploring the park by bicycle is one of the great pleasures of a visit. The elephant kraal enclosure provides insight into the Siamese tradition of war elephants. Boat trips around the island city provide beautiful views of the riverside temples. The Archaeological Museum provides excellent historical context.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Ayutthaya Historical Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site of extraordinary ruined temples from the ancient Siamese capital.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet
The three iconic chedis of the former royal temple, the most celebrated image of Ayutthaya.
Buddha Head in Tree Roots
The famous image at Wat Mahathat of a stone Buddha head enveloped in tree roots.
Cycling the Park
Exploring the historical park by bicycle, one of the great pleasures of a visit to Ayutthaya.
River Temple Views
Beautiful boat trips around the island city with views of riverside temple ruins.
Wat Chaiwatthanaram
A magnificent Khmer-style temple complex on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.
Experiences in Ayutthaya
River CruiseAnantara Hotels & Resorts
Bangkok & Ayutthaya, Thailand
Loy Pela Voyages — Adventure to Ancient Siam (3 Nights / 4 Days)
River CruiseAnantara Hotels & Resorts
Bangkok & Ayutthaya, Thailand
Loy Pela Voyages — A Journey Through Time (2 Nights / 3 Days)
River CruiseAnantara Hotels & Resorts
Bangkok & Ayutthaya, Thailand