Founded in 1350, Ayutthaya served as the capital of the Siamese Kingdom for 417 years. At its peak (16th-17th centuries), it was known as the "Venice of the East" — a city boasting 3 palaces, 375 temples, and surrounded by three rivers. In 1767, the Burmese completely destroyed Ayutthaya. The capital was moved to Bangkok, and today the ruins of this ancient city are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The temples of Ayutthaya blended architectural styles from various regions. Here, you could find Khmer-style temples with tall prangs (spire towers, Siamese-style temples featuring bell-shaped chedis (stupas) and hybrid designs combining Siamese, Khmer, and Burmese elements
Though the temples were destroyed, even the restored ruins impress with their grandeur. Wall frescoes have only partially survived. Today, five key temple complexes have been restored and are open to visitors.
Top 5 Temples of Ayutthaya
1. Wat Phra Si Sanphet (Royal Palace). The royal family`s main temple
• Three majestic chedis housing royal ashes
• Palace ruins and ancient monk cells
• Elephant rides around the grounds (500 THB/30 min)
2. Wat Chaiwatthanaram. The most photogenic riverside temple
• Khmer-style architecture (reminiscent of Angkor Wat)
• Stairways to upper terraces — best sunset views
• Preserved Buddhist relief carvings
3. Wat Mahathat (Temple of the Buddha’s Head). Ayutthaya’s most sacred site
After the Burmese invasion, monks hid the head of a sacred Buddha statue in tree roots. Over 250 years, a banyan tree "swallowed" the relic — now a symbol of rebirth.
4. Wat Ratchaburana. The secret treasury
• Underground crypt with ancient frescoes
• A steep spiral staircase (caution: narrow!)
• Site where golden artifacts were discovered (now in museums)
5. Wat Phra Ram. Temple near the Royal Palace
• Lotus pond with turtles
• Khmer-style prang towers
• Perfect for atmospheric photos
How to Visit Ayutthaya?
From Bangkok:
• By train (1.5 hrs, 20 THB)
• By minivan (1 hr, 60 THB from Victory Monument)
• Guided tour (from 1,500 THB)
On-site transport:
• Tuk-tuk rental (300–500 THB/hour)
• Bicycle rental (50 THB/day) — for the brave (it’s hot!)
Tips:
✔ Wear modest clothing — no shorts in temples
✔ Bring water + umbrella — little shade
✔ Avoid 12:00–15:00 — extreme heat
Why Visit?
Ayutthaya offers:
✅ Thailand’s history in ruins
✅ Mysticism (the Buddha’s head embraced by a tree)
✅ Angkor Wat vibes without the crowds
For those seeking the soul of ancient Siam.
