Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
AYOTHAYA FLOATING MARKET
Market
floating market sells a range of snacks, artwork and clothes. Set on wooden plat-
forms above the water, the market is covered and so is ideal if the city's fierce heat
gets too much. Traditional shows take place throughout the day and long-tail boats
(20B) can be hired. The market is to the east of the old city off Th Dusit, near Wat
Kudi Dao.
WAT CHAI WATTANARAM
Temple
( admission 50B)
Just 40 years ago this temple was immersed in thick jungle. Today
it is one of Ayuthaya's most-photographed sites thanks to its impressive Khmer-
style central
prang,
which stands 35m high. Built in 1630 by King Prasat Thong, the
temple is a great place to watch sunsets. The site is west of the island and can be
reached on bicycle via a nearby bridge.
ELEPHANT KRAAL
Elephant Stockade
Wild elephants were once rounded up and kept in this
kraal
(stockade). Each year
the king would watch as the finest beasts were chosen and either put to work or
used as war machines. This restored
kraal,
which has 980 teak logs, is northeast of
the island.
Helping an Old Friend
Elephants helped Thailand win wars, build cities and transport kings. However, today
these animals are the ones needing help, as their natural habitat has been slashed back
and they are reduced to begging for food in the street. With only 4000 domestic and wild
elephants remaining in Thailand, they need all the assistance they can get.
part by running a hugely successful breeding program and providing brief tourist rides
around the ruins. This nonprofit organisation protects elephants by buying sick or abused
animals, including bulls that have killed villagers.
