Ayutthaya
★ 4.7🇹🇭 AyutthayaSuggested visit 1 dayBest season November to February, the cool season
World HeritageHistoric siteArchaeological site
The ruins of the old Siamese capital, its brick prangs and headless Buddhas scattered across a river island.
Overview
Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam from 1350 to 1767 and one of the most prosperous cities in Southeast Asia, with over a million inhabitants at its height. It was sacked and burned by Burmese forces in 1767, leaving only the brick and stone. The best-known ruins are Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, with the Buddha head in the tree roots at Wat Mahathat the signature image. It joined the World Heritage List in 1991.
History
Founded in 1350 as the capital of the Ayutthaya kingdom, it traded with European powers in the 16th and 17th centuries, was destroyed by Burmese forces in 1767 and inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1991.
Highlights
- •The Buddha head in the tree roots at Wat Mahathat
- •The three chedis of Wat Phra Si Sanphet
- •The riverside prangs of Wat Chaiwatthanaram
- •Cycling around the island
Practical tips
- •When photographing the Buddha head, crouch so you are not above it
- •Little shade on site — bring water and sun protection
Practical information
- Best time
- November-February
- Tickets
- Combined site ticket about THB 220
- Opening hours
- 8:00-18:00
- Local food
- Pad thai, boat noodles, mango sticky rice
- Getting around
- About 1.5 hours by train or minibus from Bangkok.
- Visa
- A visa is required; Chinese citizens may enter visa-free for 30 days.
Traveller reviews
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