The former capital of the Siamese kingdom, Ayutthaya is one of Thailand’s most evocative destinations, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the ruins of a once-glittering city rise among rivers and trees. An easy day trip from Bangkok, it offers a powerful journey into the nation’s royal past. This guide brings together our Ayutthaya series to help you explore its greatest temples.

The Historical Park

Ayutthaya Historical Park preserves the heart of the ancient city, a compact island studded with prangs, chedis and rows of weathered Buddha statues. Best explored by bicycle or tuk-tuk, it rewards slow wandering among the ruins of a capital that once rivalled the great cities of the world.

The Great Temples

Our guides cover Ayutthaya’s essential sights: Wat Mahathat with its famous Buddha head in the tree roots, the majestic riverside Wat Chaiwatthanaram, and the royal Wat Phra Si Sanphet with its three iconic chedis. Each tells part of the story of the lost capital.

Planning Your Visit

Ayutthaya is about 80 kilometres north of Bangkok, reachable by train, minivan, tour or river cruise. It makes a rewarding day trip, though staying overnight lets you enjoy the ruins at sunrise and sunset. Use the guides below to plan your route around the temples.

Our Ayutthaya Travel Guides

• Ayutthaya Historical Park: Thailand’s Ancient Capital
• Wat Mahathat: The Buddha Head in the Tree
• Wat Chaiwatthanaram: Ayutthaya’s Riverside Temple
• Wat Phra Si Sanphet: Ayutthaya’s Royal Temple

See everything in one place: The Complete Ayutthaya Guide.