🛕 Central Thailand (near Bangkok)
Things to do in Ayutthaya
The ruined temples of Thailand’s old royal capital
Ayutthaya was the glittering capital of the Siamese kingdom until it was sacked in 1767 — today a UNESCO historical park of crumbling temple spires, rows of Buddhas and the famous stone Buddha head cradled in tree roots. It’s an easy day trip from Bangkok, best explored by bicycle among the ruins.
Time needed
1 day (day trip)
Best time
November–February is cool and dry — the best time
Region
Central Thailand (near Bangkok)
Don’t miss
The temple ruins by bike
Cycle (or tour) between the great ruins — Wat Mahathat with its tree-wrapped Buddha head, the three chedis of Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and riverside Wat Chaiwatthanaram. Sunset over the spires is magic.
Check availability on GetYourGuideTop things to do in Ayutthaya
- Wat Mahathat — the iconic Buddha head entwined in fig-tree roots.Find tours
- Wat Chaiwatthanaram, the riverside temple, glowing at sunset.Find tours
- A river cruise from Bangkok along the Chao Phraya.Find tours
- A day tour pairing Ayutthaya with the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace.Find tours
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How to get to Ayutthaya
About 1.5 hours from Bangkok. The cheap local train, a minivan, or a guided tour all work; many tours return by river cruise.
Best time to visit
November–February is cool and dry — the best time. Go early to beat the heat, as the ruins are exposed; sunset light on the temples is the photographer’s hour.
Ayutthaya tips
- Rent a bicycle at the park — the ruins are spread out and cycling is the ideal pace.
- Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) — these are sacred Buddhist sites.
- Go early or late to dodge the fierce midday heat, and carry water.
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