Ayutthaya Travel Guide: Ancient Temples and Royal Ruins

Ayutthaya at a glance

Ayutthaya sits on an island in the middle of the Chao Phraya River, 80km north of Bangkok. It was the capital of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya from 1350 until 1767 — one of the wealthiest trading kingdoms in Southeast Asia during its 400-year existence. The city was deliberately burned by the Burmese army during an invasion, and the ruins that remain are what makes it one of the most significant archaeological sites in Thailand.

Most visitors come from Bangkok as a day trip. The train takes 1.5 hours and runs frequently — it’s one of the best train journeys in the country for the price.

What to see

Wat Phra Si Sanphet — The royal temple that stood at the heart of the palace complex. Three large chedis in classic Ayutthayan style. The most photographed ruins in the park.

Wat Mahathat — Famous for the sandstone Buddha head entwined within tree roots — the result of a tree growing around a fallen statue over centuries. The image is one of the most reproduced in Thailand. Visit in the morning before the heat.

Wat Ratchaburana — Adjacent to Wat Mahathat. A large, relatively well-preserved prang (Khmer-style tower). Gold artefacts discovered here during excavation are now in the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum.

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon — On the east side of the island, away from the main cluster. A large reclining Buddha and an impressive chedi you can climb. Less crowded than the central sites.

Wat Phu Khao Thong — The ‘Golden Mount’ — a large white chedi built to commemorate a 16th-century military victory. Located just north of the island, accessible by bicycle. Good views from the top.

Chao Sam Phraya National Museum — The best context for what you’re seeing in the ruins. Gold votive objects, Buddha images, and artefacts from Ayutthaya period excavations. Worth an hour before starting the temple circuit.

Practical information

Getting there from Bangkok — Train from Hua Lamphong is the most reliable option. Third-class (฿20, no reservation needed) works fine. First trains depart around 5:30am; last trains back around 8pm.

Best time — Early morning or late afternoon. The ruins at golden hour are significantly different from midday in the heat. Many visitors arrive at 10am and leave by 2pm — going earlier or staying overnight changes the experience substantially.

Bicycle — Most guesthouses near the station rent bicycles. The main temple cluster is 15–25 minutes by bike from the station bridge. Bring water.

Overnight stay — Worth it if you have time. Guesthouses cluster near the train station and around the palace ruins. Prices start around ฿400–600 for a basic room.