Top Things To Do In Ayutthaya

The ancient Kingdom of Ayutthaya flourished from the 14th to the 18th century, when it was the capital of Siam. It became a major center of trade and one of largest city’s in the world, before being invaded and razed by the Burmese army in the mid 18th century. Today, the remains of its palaces, temples, and monasteries provide a glimpse of how beautiful and cosmopolitan, this city once was. This post covers the top ruins and things to see and do in Ayutthaya.

Top Temples On Ayutthaya Island

Ancient Ayutthaya was built on an island, surrounded by three rivers, inland of Bangkok by 50 miles (80 km). The predominant river, the Chao Phraya, leads all the way to Bangkok and the sea.

This thriving Kingdom was home to three palaces, 400 temple monasteries, and was a center of global diplomacy, a testament to the economic might, technological prowess, and sophistication of its citizens.

This historic, UNESCO listed city is now an archeological park.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

This temple, on the grounds of what was once 13th century King Ramathibodi I’s Royal Palace, was the most important in the kingdom. It reportedly once contained an image of the Buddha covered in 375 pounds (170 kg) of gold, until destroyed by the Burmese. The three restored chedi (below) contain the ashes of three ancient Kings.

How To Get To Wat Phra Si Sanphet: Centrally located in the Ayutthaya Historical Park, Wat Phra Si Sanphet is east of Rama Public Park.

Wat Maha That

This was a Royal monastery, where the King held important ceremonies, like the Royal Kathin. It also held relics of the great Buddha and was the seat of the supreme patriarch of Buddhism, making it the center of Buddhism in the Kingdom.

Artifacts found in the the crypt during restoration are on display at the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum. They include relics, gold ornaments, votive tablets, and images of the Buddha.

Wat Ratchaburana

Wat Ratchaburana was built by King Borommarachathirat II in commemoration of his brothers, who both died fighting for the throne. The name means ‘the Temple of Royal Restoration’.

Artifacts found here are also on display at the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum.

How To Get To Wat Ratchaburana: Wat Ratchaburana Wat is located on Ayutthaya island, located north of Wat Maha That.

Wat Phra Ram

Built in the 14th century, Phra Ram is composed of a large prang on a stepped terrace with chedis. This location was chosen by Phra Ramusuan as this is where his father was cremated.

How To Get To Wat Phra Ram: Wat Phra Ram is located on Ayutthaya island, directly west of Rama Public Park off Naresuan Road. for details.

Wat Mongkhon Bophit

Chao Sam Phraya National Museum

Created mainly to display the artifacts found at Wat Maha That and Wat Ratchaburana, there are thousands of items on display here, along with history on the area. It’s a good place to start or end your visit in Ayutthaya.

How To Get To Chao Sam Phraya National Museum: The Chao Sam Phraya Musuem is centrally located on the island, on the west end of Rochana Road.

Top Temples Outside Ayutthaya Island

There are also two great temples to visit outside Ayutthaya Island.

Wat Chai Watthanaram

Wat Chai Watthanaram, outside Ayutthaya island, is a must-visit temple. Commissioned by King Prasat Thong in the 17th century to honor his mother, it’s lovely. It has a large Khmer style Prang in the center, with four smaller prangs, and the ruins of many Buddha’s.

Remnants of the more than 100 Buddha’s that used to be here (below).

How To Get To Wat Chai Watthanaram: Wat Chai Watthanaram is located west of the Chao Phraya, it’s about a 45-minute walk from Wat Phra Si Sunphet crossing Wat Kasattrathirat Bridge, or a 10-minute taxi ride.

Want To See More Of Thailand?

Thailand is a beautiful country and fabulous place to visit, full of dazzling temples, friendly people, and lots to explore.

Each city offers something unique. Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, is a must-visit location, with its opulent Grand Palace, important temples, flourishing food scene, hip nightlife, and floating markets.

There’s also Chang Mai, in northern Thailand, which is a little quieter, and therefore a great place to experience some local Thai culture, as well as exquisite temples, lively street markets. It’s also usually full of friendly backpackers.

And if you’re into beaches, there are several options including Phuket, Krabi, the Phi Phi islands, and much more.

For an overview of all the top sites, how to get around, safety, scams, logistics, and more, see the Thailand Travel Guide. It’s full of information on how to plan the perfect getaway here.