[THAILAND] Ayutthaya - Historical Ruins of the Siamese Kingdom

08:00 Travel Bunny 0 Comments


Just 80 kilometers north of the neon lights and gridlock of Bangkok lies a city frozen in time -Ayutthaya. It is is one of Thailand's most significant historical sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was the flourishing capital of the Siamese Kingdom for 417 years, from 1350 until its destruction in 1767. 

After a morning visit to the nearby Ganesh Shrine, we embarked on our second day trip, this time to the ancient capital of Ayutthaya. The tour started from 9am till 5pm.


Our first stop in Ayutthaya was Wat Mahathat. It is famous for the iconic image of a Buddha head entwined in the roots of a banyan tree. It was a major royal monastery.

Tip: When taking a photo of the Buddha head, crouch down. It is considered disrespectful to position your head higher than the Buddha’s.

Dress Code: Even though these are ruins, they are sacred sites. Shoulders and knees must be covered. Carry a sarong or scarf just in case.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet was the most important royal temple, once part of the Royal Palace complex. Its three distinctive bell-shaped chedis (pagodas) are a symbol of the Ayutthaya period.
The boys tried riding an elephant for the first time. The ride was about 15 minutes.
Wat Thammikarat is a unique site because it is a restored ruin that remains an active temple today. It is home to a revered, large Reclining Buddha image (about 12 meters long) housed in a newer Viharn (assembly hall).
After lunch, we continued to explore Chai Watthanaram Temple. This is is one of Ayutthaya's most iconic and photogenic temples, known especially for its striking riverside location and magnificent Khmer-style architecture. A massive, tall central Prang (35 meters high) surrounded by four lesser prangs and eight Cheldis (or towers), all connected by a cloister gallery that once housed 120 Buddha images (most are now headless).

Exploring the magnificent ruins and historical parks of Ayutthaya was an incredible journey back in time. Recommended to anyone who is looking for a break from the modern chaos of Bangkok. 

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