Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Ayutthaya
Founded in 1320 Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam for more then 400 years. Today it is a
bustling city whose ruins and museums bring in many visitors every year. Due to its prime
location geographically Ayutthaya became a huge trading center and the largest city in the
world in the year 1700 with a million inhabitants. It was invaded in 1767 by the Burmese
(Myanmar) and it was almost completely burnt to the ground. Located just 2 hours north of
Bangkok by train, Ayutthaya is an island at the convergence of three rivers, the Chao Phraya
river, Lopburi River, and Pa Sak River. Once you've arrived the best way to get around is
by bicycle, all of the sights are relatively close to each other and it is a much safer biking
destination than in Bangkok. Check out Soi 2 for bike rental options.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya Historical Park has a lot to offer so hit the
ground early when it opens at 7:30am. There are three main palaces, the Grand Palace, Ch-
antharakasem Palace, and Wang Lang. Before visiting the ruins it is a good idea to stop by
the Ayutthaya Historical Study Center, a museum with good information about the ruins that
will add to your understanding of what you are about to see.Next check out the Phet Fort-
ress ruins dating from the 15th century. There are also a number of temples nearby that are
worth visiting including Wat Phra Mahathat with its headless Buddhas, the largest temple
Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and while you're in the area the adjacent Viharn Phra Mongkol Bopit
which houses a very large cast-iron Buddha is worth a stop.Since Ayutthaya is an island and
formerly a global trading hub there are many international settlements off of the island as
they were not allowed to build on the island. Today you can visit the former Japanese, Por-
tuguese and Dutch settlements over the river from Ayutthaya. Also over the river are many
temples of interest including the Wat Phanan Choeng which houses the oldest Buddha statue
in Ayutthaya.In the center of Ayutthaya you can get a taste for Thai culture at the floating
market although it was created for tourists. There are boat rides and historical shows in ad-
dition to the normal market hustle and bustle. For a more authentic market check out the
Chao Phrom Market which has tasty food but is geared to locals shopping for food, clothes
and other daily needs. Ask around about the latest night markets as they can change. As a
riverside city the seafood is always fresh so this is a great place to try some river prawns.
Also popular are the boat noodles with meat and vegetables that are, as expected, cooked
on a boat. For a drink later in the night, check out Soi Torgorsor for its bars and live music.
Many people visit Ayutthaya as a day trip from Bangkok but there is plenty of budget ac-
commodation available near Soi 2. There are some upmarket options but for the real luxury
you may want to stay in Bangkok and visit Ayutthaya for the day. On your way to Ayutthaya
you can stop at the Summer Palace at Bang Pa-In, a good way to break up the journey.
