This central Thailand province is home to Ayutthaya - Thailand's former capital and one of the country's leading tourist attractions. Easily accessible from Thailand's current capital (just 86 kilometers north of Bangkok) and rich in historical significance, the ancient city of Ayutthaya (or, more formerly, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya) was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong and remained the country's capital until 1767. During this period 33 kings from a variety of dynasties ruled Thailand from Ayutthaya until it was invaded by the Burmese in 1767. Today's Ayutthaya has been on UNESCO's world heritage list since 1991 and is full of important reminders of the area's former glory. With three rivers and a large canal encircling Ayutthaya, boats (particularly long tail boats) represent an ideal way to access the city's various historical sites. They are also by far the best way to appreciate the province's 2,556 square kilometers of landscapes and views. Being so close to the capital, Ayutthaya can be approached as a day out or an extended visit. Numerous tours are available to the area, most originating in Bangkok.
"Must see" in Ayutthaya
Wat Phananchoeng This monastery is located just south of Ayutthaya city on the east side of Chao Phraya River. Strangely,... read more
Ayutthaya Historical Park The Ayutthaya Historical Park was designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 1991. The park covers the... read more
Bang Pa-In Palace Bang Pa-In Palace comprises a collection of buildings of various ages and various architectural styles... read more
Wat Chaiwatthanaram Wat Chaiwatthanaram is an imposing monastery located in the west of Ayutthaya on the Chao Phraya River.... read more
Wat Phra Si San Phet Built in the reign of King Boromtrilokanath, Wat Phra Sri San Phet was the biggest temple in the area... read more
Wat Yai Chaimongkon Wat Yai Chaimongkon is located near the main Ayutthaya ruins and a short distance from the walls of Ayutthaya.... read more
Wihan Phramongkhon Bophit Wihan Phramongkhon Bophit contains one of the largest bronze Buddha images found in Thailand and also... read more
Wat Phra Mahathat Built in 1374 at the start of the Ayutthaya era, Wat Mahathat is an impressive temple ruin originally... read more
