Ayutthaya
Historical Park, part of the UNESCO cultural sites list, served as the Thai
capital for 417 years. The historic city, which came into existence in the
14th century, today shelters many graceful ruins and artworks. Thirty-three
monarchs of different dynasties governed from Ayutthaya, bedecking it's
buildings with a gamut of architectural styles.
Synopsis
| Country |
Thailand |
| Location |
80 kilometers south of Capital Bangkok |
| Accessibility |
Easily through Bangkok |
| Accommodation |
Easily available |
| Dining |
Good variety |
Tour Attractions
Ayutthaya is counted among the most important historical places in
Thailand. Main attractions of the treasure trove of history lovers are as
follows:
Old Palace
Located near the northern section of the city wall, the palace was
constructed by King U-Thong in 1350. King Borom Trailokanath later turned
the palace into a monastery. Later rulers built several worthy halls,
extending the palace.
Chantarakasem Palace
King Rama IV of Bangkok put the palace in use as a summer retreat. Today,
one of it's buildings displays a small but interesting collection of
historical relics found in the place.
Bang Pa-in Summer Palace
The palace was once used by the Ayutthaya royal court as a summer retreat,
but it's fortune declined after the fall of Ayutthaya. The credit of
restoring the palace goes to King Rama IV, who used it for stay in summer
season. The structures here follow a variety of architecture styles.
Phom Phet (Diamond Fort)
The Diamond Fort is the only fort in Ayutthaya which has survived the wear
and tear of time. The fort, also called Phom Phet Pairote, is situated in
Bangkaja, which is the confluence Chao Phraya and Pasak rivers.
St. Joseph's Church
It is where Catholic Christians worshipped uninterruptedly over hundreds of
years in Thailand. The place brings the religious tolerance of the Siamese
kings to the fore. The present church was built in bricks and mortar in the
European style in the later part of the 17th century. However, the original
church was built in wood.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet
The temple is acclaimed for it's three bell-shaped chedis, which symbolise
Ayuthaya. Counted among the grandest temples in the prime of the kingdom,
the temple is still one of the most prized assets of Ayutthaya.
Wat Phra Ram
Erected in 1369, the temple is famous for it's chedis and the towering
prang. Although in ruins today, the remaining stucco work provides testimony
to the rich work done on the monument.
Wat Phanan Choeng
On the confluence of the Chao Phraya and Pasak rivers is Wat Phanan Choeng,
one of the most vibrant and oldest temples in Ayuthhaya.
Wat Phu Khao Thong (Golden Mount)
The white chedi of Wat Phu Khao Thong sits in the sprawling plain of rice
fields interspersed with ponds. Chedi is now restored and a huge idol of
King Nateusan put on a marble base.
Wat Chai Wattanaram
One of the most absorbing of the monuments of the old Ayutthaya, it was
constructed by King Prasat Tong in 1629. August Buddha images line the inner
wall of the courtyard of the structure.
Viharn Phra Mongkol Bopit
It hosts a huge Buddha image, harking back tto he 15th century. The image
was restored many times and is highly regarded by the Buddhist visitors.
Wat Phra Mahathat
One of the most ancient temples in Ayuthaya, it is said to be built by King
Boromaraja in the 14th century. It's central prang once climbed to the
height of stupefying 165 feet. Testimonials of the original stucco works can
still be seen on some chedis.
Climate
| Hot |
March to Mid-June |
| Rainy |
June to October |
| Cool |
November to February |
How To Reach
International visitors can reach Ayutthaya through Bangkok. Various means
of reaching Ayutthaya from Bangkok are as follows:
By Train
All trains bound for north and north-east region stop at Ayutthaya. The
train journey is fast and comfortable.
By Road
Air-conditioned and normal buses operate regularly between Bangkok and
Ayutthaya. From Kanchanaburi, one can board a bus for Suphanburi. Then take
another bus for Ayutthaya.
By Boat
Boats too ferry between Bangkok and Ayutthaya. It is advisable to book in
advance.
Accommodation & Dining
All type of accommodation is easily available. Food shops and restaurants
serve visitors in Ayutthaya city. Mainly Thai and Vietnamese cuisine is
available. Global cuisine can be enjoyed in select restaurants
