Ayutthaya - Thailand
The ancient city of Ayutthaya is one of the most important historical places of
Thailand, a beautiful Tranquil city of spectacular ruins (Ayutthaya
temples). For 400 years, from
1350, Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam and has been home to more than 33 kings.
It was once glorified as one of the biggest cities of southeast Asia, wealthy
and powerful merchants came here from all over Europe and far east. However, the
city was completely destroyed by a brief Burmese invasion in 1767 and the new
capital was established at Bangkok. Its remains, characterized by the prang and
gigantic monasteries which give an idea of its past splendor. Several ancient
ruins and art works can be seen here revealing it's rich heritage and glorious
past. Today, this ancient city of Thailand is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ayutthaya
(Thailand) is conveniently accessible due to good roads and a short distance from
Bangkok.
Location:
Ayutthaya is located at 72 kilometers north of Bangkok.
How to get to Ayutthaya, Thailand:
It is easily accessible by bus, train or boat from Bangkok, Thailand. The roads are good and there are several luxury buses available to make the journey comfortable. One whole day is sufficient for sightseeing of Ayutthaya (Thailand). Guided tours are also available that give complete information on the city, its history and its attractions.
Bangkok-Ayutthaya Cruise:
There are cruises available from Bangkok to Ayutthaya which take about 2 hours one way. This is one the best way to enjoy Ayutthaya tourism and experience a part of Thailand that still follows traditional rhythms. Tourists can also take a bus from Bangkok to Ayutthaya and return by boat after seeing the Ayutthaya temples, or the other way round. These boats are very comfortable with extensive outdoor deck for clear views. They also have air conditioning and ample seating arrangements with lunch, Dinner and snacks served on board.
Tourism Attractions of Ayutthaya Thailand:
The architecture of Ayutthaya is a fascinating mix of Khmer, or ancient Cambodian style, and early Sukhothai style. Ruined Ayutthaya temples are scattered all over the place, the main temples can be visited on foot. You can also hire a bike and go a little further to see more of this extensive site. Some of these temples are built in the Khner style, many of them are ruined but are still magnificent. These Ayutthaya temples have several statues of Buddha, including one in Wat Phra Meru from Srilanka that is said to be 1,300 years old. Sadly a lot of these statues have been destroyed and stolen over the years. However, this is a sacred site of the Thai people who dress many of the Buddha figures in yellow color robes, scatter flower petals and burn incense sticks reverently at their feet. Some of the most popular temples are:
This was the largest among Ayutthaya temples and has three magnificent stupas built in the fourteenth century. This is the most important temple within the Royal Palace compound and corresponds to The Emerald Buddha Temple in Bangkok's Grand Palace.
Wat Mongkhon Bophit:
This temple contains one of Thailand's largest Buddha image which was cast in bronze in the fifteenth century. Ayutthaya temples are a must see attraction of Thailand.
Wat Yai Chaimongkon:
Saffron-robed images of Buddha and golden-clothed chedis are fascinating at this stunning temple.
Wat Phra Mahathat:
This temple has a Buddha head surrounded by a tree. This Wat also has rows of headless Buddhas. Ayutthaya temples have a very important place among the Thailand's historical sites.
OTHER AYUTTHAYA THAILAND TOURISM ATTRACTIONS:
Ayutthaya Thailand Historical Study Centre
This centre is located on Rochana Road. It is a national research institute devoted to the study of Ayutthaya, especially during the period when Ayutthaya was the capital of Thailand. The centre also consists of a library with books and other material on its glorious past.
Chao Sam Phraya National Museum of Thailand:
This museum houses images of Buddha and popular carved pannels along with different kings of Buddhist altar. These objects of art are more than 500 years old. The museum also houses a collection of local articrafts of Thailand.
Along with the magnificent temples, Ayutthaya tourism has a lot more to offer, some of the other popular Ayutthaya Thailand attractions are - Ancient Palace (Grand Palace), Chandra Kasem Palace, Wat Ratburana temple, Wat Na Phramen, Khun Phaen House, Chedi Phu Khao Thong, The Elephant Kraal, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Wat Phrachao Phananchoeng, Wat Suwandaram, Wat Chaiwatthanaram.
Getting around Ayutthaya Thailand:
The best way to enjoy Ayutthaya tourism is by a bicycle, but take a guidebook so you know what you are seeing. The city is easily accessible by bus or train from Bangkok. Guided tours are also available from Bangkok that bring the Tourists to Ayutthaya for site seeing. Tourists can also hire a samlor or songthaew (a pickup truck adapted to carry passengers) by the hour. Boats are also available for a circular trip around the city.
Ayutthaya temples are the main attraction of the city. Ayutthaya temples are a very famous Thailand tourist destination.
