Ayutthaya is home to some beautiful ruins that make an important part of the history of Thailand. Here are some of the top-rated tourist attractions that you must see in Ayutthaya.
Bangkok, Phi Phi Island, Langkawi Island, night markets, street food, and full moon parties are some of the words that one associates with the country of Thailand. While these are some of the integral and most important parts of Thailand, they are not the only ones. If you have a Thailand visa, you must not limit your holiday to just visiting the beaches and vibrant cities. On the other hand, pay a visit to Ayutthaya. Once the capital of the Thai Kingdom, the flourishing kingdom was destroyed by the Burmese. However, the ruins of the place remain and can give you a glimpse of the once thriving city. If you are planning to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, here are some of the top-rated tourist attractions that you muse see in Ayutthaya.
Visit these Fabulous Places in Ayutthaya on Your Trip to Thailand
Wat Chaiwatthanaram
Considered to be one of the highlights of Ayutthaya, Wat Chaiwatthanaram is a Buddhist temple constructed in the Khmer style. The temple has a rectangular base and a central spire along with 4 smaller spires. Built by King Prasat Thong, the temple was used for several religious ceremonies. Although the temple was destroyed during the Burmese attacks, it has been restored, and you would be able to see several sculptures depicting from the life of Buddha. The best time to see this temple is during sunset, when the light of the setting sun makes the building glow.
Wat Ratchaburana
Built by King Borommarachathirat II in 1424, the Wat Ratchaburana was founded to commemorate his two elder brothers who died in a duel against each other. The design of the temple is influenced by both Hindu and Buddhist architectures. One of the main attractions of the temple is the large prang, where you can see carvings of nagas supporting garudas. The crypt of the temple was stolen; however, the relics were recovered, and you can see most of them inside. Wat Ratchaburana is a glorious temple, one you must not miss when you are in Ayutthaya.
Wat Mahathat
Located across Wat Ratchaburana is Wat Mahatha, which was built by King Tamesuan in 1934. One of the most important as well as impressive temples of Ayutthaya, it was also the home of the supreme monk of the Thai kingdom. A large Buddha statue sits in front of the temple edifice. However, the most popular attraction of the place is the face of Buddha (made of stone) peeking out from the base of a large tree. Although the central prang collapsed, a secret chamber was found inside the ruins in 1956. Several treasures including a golden casket with a relic of Buddha along with gold jewelry and find tableware were found inside.
Wat Yai Chai Mongkol
Located at the southeastern outskirts of Ayutthaya city, Wat Yai Chai Mongkol can be recognized by the huge chedi surrounded by four smaller chedis. Apart from this, there is a huge reclining Buddha statue that you muse see. You would also see smaller Buddha statues sitting in the mediation pose here. Built by King U-Thong in 1357, this temple was home to the monks who returned from Sri Lanka. The tallest chedi of this temple can be seen as soon as you enter the city of Ayutthaya when travelling from Bangkok. While visiting this temple, do climb up the chedi to see amazing views of the gardens as well as the statues.
Wat Lokkayasutharam
Located at the western side of Ayutthaya is the Wat Lokkayasutharam, which is known to be the most interesting place to visit if you want to know more about Buddhist spiritualism. The main highlight of the place is the huge reclining figure of Buddha. This statue of Buddha is 137 feet long and 26 feet tall. The statue is made of brick and covered with white plaster. Most of the year, this statue of Buddha is covered in an orange sarong, although in the summer months, you would get to see the statue without the sarong. Apart from the reclining statue of Buddha, you can find several more interesting relics here.
Chao Sam Phraya National Museum
Established in 1961 by King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum is the largest museum of the region. If you want a deep insight into the history of Ayutthaya, this is the place you must visit. The museum houses several relics that were found during the excavation of the city. A bronze statue of Buddha, ornate teak friezes, and gold jewelry and utensils are some of the exhibits that you would see at this museum. The Chao Sam Phraya National Museum is also home to the treasures that were found in the crypts of Wat Mahathat and Wat Ratchaburana. Well, there are many intriguing museums in Bangkok as well that can introduce you to the art and culture of Thai.
Chao Phrom Market
A visit to Ayutthaya need not be only about sightseeing. On the other hand, you can take a break from your exploration by visiting the Chao Phrom Market. Although not as large as the markets you find in Chiang Mai and Bangkok, Chao Phrom Market has its own charm. The market is one of the major places where you can buy fresh produce, both vegetables and meat. Apart from this, it is one of the best places to try some Thai delicacies, including kow mow (pounded unripe rice served with shredded coconut), ka-nom chan (rainbow colored coconut jellies), and golden foi thong. You can also buy amulets here, which are considered to be auspicious in Thai culture.
Apart from the temples mentioned above, you can see several more magnificent temples at Ayutthaya. If you want to explore the place thoroughly, you must dedicate at least 2 days to Ayutthaya. So, when you get your Thailand visa, do not just go to the popular places like Bangkok and Koh Phi Phi. Rather explore the city of Ayutthaya to see a different side of Thailand. For more cultural indulgences, do visit the famous Bangkok temples.