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Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya was the Thai capital ruled by 33 kings for over 400 years. The city was sacked by the Burmese in the late 1760's. Ayutthaya is 80 kilometers north of Bangkok and is filled with numerous ancient ruins. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you have lots of time and can afford a day or two, then a trip to Ayutthaya is worth it. But, if time is an issue, there are day trips from Bangkok. The best way, in my opinion, is to take a relaxing boat up the river from Bangkok. The trip lets you see a little of river life and lets you roam around Ayutthaya before sending you back to Bangkok in a minivan. The trip is definitely worth the 1400 Baht I paid. The Oriental, Shangri-La and Marriott hotels offer the trip on the nicest boats but there are other companies that do it in less style and are a little cheaper. There is also the option of doing the trip on a 2 day overnight luxury cruise for 8000+ Baht.

It is easy to get around Ayutthaya. Rent a bike from a guest house or take a tuk tuk. Be warned that the tuk tuk drivers will probably overcharge you but they are still cheap. Lots to see on the Island but the western half of it is best.

Historical Study Centre: This centre is a good place to start. It is located on Rotchana Road and is devoted to the historical study of Ayutthaya when it was the capital. There is a museum, information centre and a library. Open Wed-Sun. 9-4. Baht 100.

Chao Sam Phraya National Museum: This is also on Rotchana Road just down the street from the study centre. If you like gold, you will like this museum. It houses some very neat antique bronze Buddha images, carved panels, numerous gold artifacts, pieces of old art and a large collection of local artifacts. Open Wed-Sun. from 9-4. Baht 30.

Chan Kasem Palace: This Palace is located in the northeast corner of the Island. This palace was built by King Naresuan as a defensive fort. Like many ruins in Ayutthaya, the palace was destroyed by the Burmese and left un-repaired for a long time but was ultimately reconstructed. Lots to see but it is a little jumbled. Open Wed-Sun. 9-4. Baht 30.

Elephant Kraal: The Kraal, located a short distance north of Chan Kasem Palace, was used for the capture of wild elephants in ancient times and was last used in 1903. It is a spacious enclosure made of massive teak logs. One can't help imagining it full of elephants.

Wats: They are all over the place and are worth stopping at. Some are only ruins while others hold enormously important Buddhas.

Wat Phu Khao Thong The Golden Mount Pagoda is 80 meters high and is located on Ayutthaya's northern outskirts. Built in Burmese style by King Burengnong of Burma to commemorate the Burmese victory during the 1569 invasion. When Ayutthaya's independence was restored in 1584, the pagoda was remodeled in Thai style. In 1956 a 2500 gram golden ball was placed on top of the pagoda to celebrate the Buddhist religion's 25th century.

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon: Also called "Wat Chao Phraya Thai", it is located a few minutes outside of Ayutthaya. It was built by King U-Thong in 1357 for meditation. In 1592, after defeating the Burmese Crown Prince in single-handed combat on elephants, King Naresuan constructed the temple's large pagoda to match the high pagoda at Wat Phu Khao Thong.

Ayutthaya River Cruise: One of the best things to do in Ayutthaya is to get on a boat and cruise the rivers surrounding the city. The cost is low and you can find organized trips as well as hiring a longtail boat.