Thailand

The former capital of the Kingdom of Siam, Ayutthaya, is now a tourist city that can be explored in a day or more from Bangkok. A gigantic open-air museum with its palaces, temples, monasteries, and large Buddha statues, Ayutthaya immerses us inexorably in the history of Thailand. Its rich cultural heritage has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

History

Ayutthaya derives its name from an Indian city named Ayodhya that belonged to Rāma. This appellation comes from Sanskrit, which translates to "that which cannot be conquered."

The city was founded in 1350 and became the second capital of the Kingdom of Siam after Sukhothai. Its area covered over 289 hectares. To fortify it, it was built on an island surrounded by the waters of the Chao Praya River and the Pa Sak River.

Ayutthaya reached its zenith between the 14th and 18th centuries. During these periods, the city had nearly a million inhabitants. Moreover, its strategic position allowed it to be spared from seasonal floods. It was one of the most important and cosmopolitan agglomerations to have existed. In fact, this city was even considered the world's center of diplomacy and commerce. It facilitated increased trade between the eastern and western worlds.

Burmese attacks on Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya was besieged for the first time by the military forces of the Burmese king Bayinnaung in 1569. Later, in 1767, other elements of the Burmese army led by King Hsinbyushin (of the Konbaung dynasty) invaded the city, and following this attack, the city was almost completely destroyed. The inhabitants of the time had to abandon the area. The remaining ruins visible on site are mostly temples that were never rebuilt. These archaeological remains would later constitute the Ayutthaya Historical Park.

Exploring the Ruins of Ayutthaya

Located a 1.5-hour drive from Bangkok, Ayutthaya is often visited for a day to explore its ancient ruins and rich cultural heritage. However, it may be interesting to stop for at least two days to enjoy the mysterious atmosphere of the city and discover its hidden treasures.

On foot, by bicycle, or even by tuk-tuk, wander through the city to discover the ruins. The temples follow one another but are not alike, and each has its own story.

Wat Yai Chai Mongkohn Temple

This temple was built towards the end of the 16th century after King Naresuan's victory over a Burmese prince in a singular combat. Its name translates to "the great monastery of victory." It stands out thanks to its immense chedi, over 60 meters high, guarded by two large Buddha statues. As you stroll through its alley, you will also see numerous Buddha statues lined up.

Please note that there is an entrance fee of 20 baht, and the site is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Wat Lokayasutharam Temple

This temple attracts travelers for its famous reclining Buddha. The statue measures nearly 37 meters long and about 8 meters high. Its head rests on a lotus flower. For your information, this Buddha is a renovated version dating back to 1950. Moreover, Thais regularly come here to pray and make offerings.

Free admission

Wat Mahathat Temple

This is the most famous temple in Ayutthaya and the most visited. Indeed, this sanctuary is renowned for its famous Buddha head imprisoned in the roots of a tree. It was built in 1374 and was commissioned by King Boromma Rachathirat I. Like the other temples of Ayutthaya, it also houses a main chedi, but this one is in ruins. You will also find decapitated Buddha statues here.

Entrance fee : 50 baht

Wat Phra Sit Sanphet Temple

This temple is undoubtedly the most imposing in Ayutthaya, with its three large central chedis. It was built in the 15th century under the reign of King Borom Traï Lokanat. The site was then embellished by the successors of this sovereign, notably Ramathibodi II. At the beginning of the 16th century, the latter ordered the placement of a Buddha image covered with gold plates, which he named "Phra Si Sanphet," hence the temple's name.

Entrance fee : 50 baht

Wat Chai Wattanaram Temple

This Khmer-style temple is located outside the island that forms the ruins of the city of Ayutthaya. It is located more precisely to the west of the site, on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. This sanctuary was built in 1630, during the reign of King Prasat Thong. It is equipped with a main chedi surrounded by eight chedis. For your information, Wat Chai Wattanaram was built to honor the deceased mother of this sovereign.

Entrance fee : 50 baht

Some rules to respect when visiting a temple in Thailand

• Respect silence
• Always wear decent clothing (no shorts, mini-skirts, tank tops, let alone swimsuits)
• Remove shoes (when entering the various buildings of a temple).
• Never point your feet towards a Buddha statue (considered an impure body part).
• Do not climb old monuments.
• Do not sit on the platforms reserved for monks.
• No smoking
• Do not show public displays of affection (kissing, hugging, etc.).

Ayutthuya Floating Market

In addition to exploring the temples, a visit to Ayutthaya is also an opportunity to visit its floating market. It is open every day from 9 a.m to 6 p.m. It is especially busy on weekends. Travelers go there not only to eat some typical Thai dishes cooked in boats but also to buy various souvenir items.

How to get there?

Ayutthaya is located about 80 km from Bangkok, and this distance is covered on average in 1 hour 30 minutes. As for the means of transportation to get there, you have the choice between the bus, minibus, car, or train.

With your Sawa’Discovery agency, you will benefit from a car with a driver to take you there.

How to explore the Ayutthaya site?

You can visit the Ayutthaya site by bike, tuk-tuk, scooter, or electric bus.

By bike

This means of transportation is undoubtedly the most convenient way to explore Ayutthaya. Moreover, its price is affordable (about 50 baht), and you will be able to visit at your own pace and fully enjoy the scenery. Before taking your bike, the rental company will require an identity document from you and will provide you with a lock for the bike's security.

By tuk-tuk

This essential means of transport is available for rent on-site for about 1,200 baht per day. You can also rent it per hour (around 200 baht). The driver will wait for you until the end of your visit.

By scooter

The price of renting a scooter in Ayutthaya is around 300 baht per day.