Beyond Bangkok
Ayutthaya: the back story
The back story
About Ayutthaya: the back story
Ayutthaya, north of Bangkok, was the capital of the Siamese kingdom for four centuries; its ruined temples and palaces stand on an island ringed by rivers and form the Ayutthaya Historical Park, listed by UNESCO as the Historic City of Ayutthaya (finearts.go.th; TAT).
The temples
Wat Mahathat, with the Buddha head entwined in tree roots, Wat Phra Si Sanphet with its three great chedis, Wat Ratchaburana and riverside Wat Chaiwatthanaram are the highlights (TAT).
Getting there and eating
Ayutthaya is reached by road or by train from Krung Thep Aphiwat; the MICHELIN Guide lists eight Bib Gourmand addresses in the province, from boat noodles to riverside Thai kitchens.
Hire a bicycle or a driver: the temples are spread across the island.
Our advice: go early, before the heat, and finish at Wat Chaiwatthanaram at sunset. Dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered, and take your shoes off before entering the halls.
Why it's on our list
- The temples
- Getting there and eating
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Ayutthaya: the back story before you go.