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General Information
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
The Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya or Ayutthaya in short, is one of Thailand's
historical and majestic highlights. Serving as the Thai capital for 417
years (1350 1767: Kingdom of Ayutthaya), it was once glorified as one of the
biggest cities in Southeast Asia. During the 17th century, most foreign
visitors to Ayutthaya, traders or diplomats alike, claimed Ayutthaya to be
the most illustrious and glittering city that they had ever visited. The map
of Ayutthaya published in 1691 by Simon de la Loubere in Du Royaume De
Siam is proof of such recognition.
The Kingdom of Ayutthaya reached its apex in terms of sovereignty, military
might, wealth, culture, and international commerce in the 16th century when
the Kingdoms territory was extended far beyond present-day Laos, Cambodia,
and Myanmar. Ayutthaya even had diplomatic relations with Louis XIV of
France and was courted by Dutch, Portuguese, English, Chinese and Japanese
merchants.
Visitors can explore and appreciate Thai history in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya,
which is situated only 86 kilometers north of Bangkok. Visitors to Ayutthaya
can marvel at its grandeur reflected through numerous magnificent structures
and ruins concentrated in and around the city island surrounded by Maenam
Chao Phraya, Maenam Pa Sak and Maenam Lopburi.
More importantly,Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park, an extensive
historical site in the heart of Ayutthaya city, has been included in
UNESCO's World Heritage list since 13 December, 1991.
The Past
The Kingdom of Ayutthaya was built and developed in leaps and bounds. The
ruins in Ayutthaya that survived the test of time embody both the glorious
and ignominious stories of the Kingdom.
This ancient capital of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, founded in 1350 by King
U-Thong, had thirty three kings of different dynasties and reached its peak
in the middle of the18th century. A magnificent city with three palaces and
over 400 magnificent temples on an island threaded by canals Ayutthaya was
truly an impressive city that attracted both Europeans and Asians. After a
15-month siege the Kingdom of Ayutthaya was conquered and completely
destroyed by the Burmese in 1767. When King Taksin the Great finally
liberated the Kingdom, a new dynasty was established and the capital was
moved to Thonburi.
The seal of Ayutthaya depicts a conch on a pedestal tray placed in a small
castle under a Mun tree. According to legend, King U-Thong, founder of the
Kingdom of Ayutthaya, discovered a beautiful conch buried in the ground
being prepared for the establishment of the seat of his Kingdom.
Consequently, he had a tiny castle built to house the shell. Hence, the
provincial seal.
The Present
Today, there are but groups of crumbling ruins and rows of headless Buddhas
where once an empire thrived. The temple compounds are still awe-inspiring
even in disrepair and a visit here is memorable and a good beginning for
those drawn to the relics of history.
The architecture of Ayutthaya is a fascinating mix of Khmer (ancient
Cambodian style) and early Sukhothai style. Some cactus-shaped obelisks,
called prangs, denote Khmer influence and look something like the famous
towers of Angkor Wat. The more pointed stupas are ascribed to the Sukhothai
influence. For new arrivals who had limited their visit to Bangkok,
similarities may be noted with the riverside Wat Arun, an 18th-century
structure that was built in the so-called Ayutthaya style, a melding of
Sukhothai Buddhist influences and Hindu-inspired Khmer motifs.
Ayutthaya is administratively divided into 16 districts: Phra Nakhon Si
Ayutthaya, Ban Phraek, Bang Ban, Bang Pahan, Bang Pa-in, Amphoe Bang Sai,
Bang Sai, Lat Bua Luang, Maha Rat, Nakhon Luang, Phachi, Phak-Hai, Sena, Tha
Rua, Uthai and Wang Noi.
How to get there
From Bangkok
By Car:
Alternative I: Take Highway No. 1 (Phahonyothin Road.) then take Highway No.
32 to Ayutthaya.
Alternative II: Take Highway No. 304 (Chaeng Watthana Road.) or take Highway
No. 302 (Ngamwongwan Road.); turn righ to Highway No. 306 (Tiwanon Road.),
then take Highway No. 3111 (Pathum Thani - Samkhok - Sena) and turn right at
Amphoe Sena to Highway No. 3263
Alternative III: Take Highway No. 306 (Bangkok - Nonthaburi - Pathum Thani
Road.) then take Highway No. 347
By Bus:
Ordinary buses run between the Bangkoks Northern Bus Terminal (Mochit 2 Bus
Terminal) and Ayutthaya's main terminal on Naresuan Rd. every 20 minutes
between 5 a.m. and 7 p.m. The fare is 30 bahts and the trip takes around
2hours. Air-conditioned buses operate the same route every 20 minutes from
5.40 a.m. to 7.20 p.m. (every 15 minutes between 7a.m. and 5p.m.) at the
rate of 47 bahts, the trip takes 1.5 hours when traffic to north of Bangkok
is light, otherwise it will take two hours.
By Train:
Trains to Ayutthaya leave Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Station approximately every
hour between 4.20 a.m. and 10 p.m. The 3rd class fare is 15 bahts for the
1.5 hour trip. Train schedules are available from the information booth at
Hua Lamphong Station. Alternatively, call 0 2223 7010, 0 2223 7020, or 1690
or visit www.railway.co.th for
reservations.
By Boat
There are no scheduled or chartered boat services between Bangkok and
Ayutthaya. However, several companies in Bangkok operate luxury cruises to
Bang Pa-In with side trips by bus to Ayutthaya for approximately 1,500 bahts
to 1,800 bahts per person, including a sumptuous luncheon. Longer two days
trips in converted rice barges start at 4,800 baht.
Travelling around Ayutthaya and from Ayutthaya to nearby attractions
Song taew and shared tuk-tuk will go anywhere for 10 to 30 bahts/person
depending on the distance/destination. A tuk-tuk from the train station
going to any point in the old Ayutthaya zone is approximately 30 bahts. Note
that the trip on the island (old Ayutthaya city) itself costs 20 bahts/trip
maximum.
To tour the ruins, the most economical and ecological option is to rent a
bicycle from one of the guesthouses (40 to 50 bahts/day). Walking is also an
option, but not recommended during the hot or rainy seasons. It is possible
to charter a sam lor, tuk tuk or song taew by the hour or by the day to
explore the ruins but the prices are relatively high by Thai standards (150
bahts/hour, or 500 bahts for the entire day).
Another interesting activity is chartering a boat from the Tha Chan Kasem
(Chan Kasem Pier, next to Hua Ro Market) for a semicircular tour of the
island and seeing some of the less accessible ruins. A long tailed boat with
a capacity of up to 8 people can be hired for 400 bahts for a 2 to 3 hour
trip with stopovers at Wat Phutthaisawan, Wat Phanan Choeng and Wat Chai
Wattnaram.
Mini - bus services operating from the railway station into the city are
also available. Hiring a mini - bus within Ayutthaya costs 250 - 300 bahts/day.
If you wish to travel between Ayutthaya and Bang Pa - In, mini - buses
regularly leave Chao Prom Market (on Chao Prom Road). Daily schedules start
from 6.30 a.m. with a fare of 30 bahts. The trip takes approximately 50
minutes.
Attractions
Amphoe Bang Pa In
Bang Pa-in Summer Palace
A few miles down the Maenam Chao Phraya from Ayutthaya is the Bang Pa-In
Summer Palace. The site was first used by the royal court as a summer
retreat in the 17th century. However, the Palace was destroyed with the fall
of Kingdom of Ayutthaya and was restored by King Rama IV in the mid-19th
century. Most of the buildings that exist today date from the reign of King
Rama V, who regularly spent his summers there. The structures represent a
variety of architectural styles, set in a large park around ponds and
waterways. The only royal residence open to the public is the Chiness-style
Wehat Chamroon Palace, constructed entirely of materials imported from
China. In addition, there is an Italian-style palace, a circular pavilion
with steps leading down to a pool, the graceful Thai-style Aisawan Tippaya
Asna Pavilion in the middle of a lake, and, across one of the waterways, a
Buddhist chapel in the neo-Gothic style with stained-glass windows.
Scattered around the extensive gardens are European statues as well as
monuments ordered to be built by King Rama V in memory of members of his
family, one of them a much-loved Queen who drowned in a boating accident.
Places of interest in the Bang Pa-in Palace are as follows:
Phra Thinang Utthayan Phumisathian
This is a 2-story elaborately constructed building, which is tinted
alternately in dark and light green, located to the east, opposite the pond.
Its balcony is similar in design to that of a Swiss chalet. Before being
destroyed by fire during the restoration in 1938, the whole building was
built from wood and decorated with mahogany furniture ordered directly from
Europe.
Wat Niwet Thamaprawat
This temple, which was built Rama V (Chulalongkorn), looks more like a
Gothic Christian church than a Thai temple. Visitors can access the temple
by crossing the river in a small trolley-like cable car. The crossing is
free of charge.
There are several nice boat trips departing from Bangkok to Bang Pa-In
Palace, especially through cruise tours. The Palace is open from 9 a.m. to 3
p.m. daily with an admission fee of 50 bahts. Tel: 035 261004 or 035 2243273
for more details.
Gong Khong Market
A newly established market worth visiting. Showcasing Ayutthaya's old way of
live, the market's name is derived from an action of visitors who need to
bend down (Gong Khong) when looking or purchasing the products. A wide range
of reasonably priced local products including fresh and chemical-free
vegetables and fruites, as well as OTOP products, food and desserts are
available.
Amphoe Bang Sai
Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Craft Centre
The Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre, which covers an area of 285 rai of
land (or 14 acres), is a place where visitors can see the activities of farmers in the 4 regions of Thailand. In addition to being an important
training center for craftspeople, there are interesting products on sale such as fern basketry, wickerwork basketry, artificial flowers, hand-woven
silk and cotton, silk production and etc. The Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre is open daily except Mondays from 8.30 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. Admission
fee is 20 bahts. Call 035-366092, 02-2258265 (st1:City w:st="on">Bangkok) for additional information.
The Support Arts and Craft International Centre of Thailand (SACICT)
The Support Arts and Craft International Centre of Thailand (SACICT) is
located on the left bank of the Chao Phraya River at Chang Yai Sub-District,
Bang Sai District, next to the Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Center, on an area
of over 18 acres. It comprises 2 main buildings, Phra Ming Mongkhon Hall, a
large three-storey building, as the display and exhibition center of craft
products for export, with a usable area of 34,340 square meter, and the
Marketing Building for Bang Sai Center Products, with an area of 7,000
square meters, which was completed in July 2004.
The Ministry of Commerce presented the Support Arts and Crafts International
Centre of Thailand (public Organization) as a tribute to Her Majesty Queen
Sirikit of Thailand, at the special function entitled Support Atrs and
Crafts International Centre of Thailand paying tribute to the Great Queen of
Siam on the Auspicious 72nd Birthday Anniversary held during August 2004.
Within SACICT, the exhibition are on the 1st floor is where prime craft
products selected from 76 rovinces all over the country are put on display
in the revolving exhibits changed every 3 months. Products that are of
extraordinary beauty are permanently displayed in the Hall of Fame to be
appraised by tourists and the general public on a wide scale. Also, craft
products of the Bang Sai Folk Arts and Crafts Center which won prizes at an
international level are on display.
Moreover, there is the Support shop, as the outlet of craft products made by
trainees at the Bang Sai Folk Arts and Crafts Center, and from other Support
Centres around the country, 22 in number. There is also the OTOP shop, where
OTOP goods from all over the country are on sale.
The 3rd floor of SACICT serves as the area for trade negotiations, where
craft products are marketed and distributed to the market on a wide scale.
For more information, visit www.sacict.net
Amphoe Nakhon Luang
Prasat Nakhon Luang
This ruin of the royal residence for summer retreats is on the east bank of
the st1:place w:st="on">Pasak River. It was used by various Kings of Ayutthaya as a temporary camp en route a visit to the Lord Buddha's
Footprint in Saraburi or a trip to Lopburi. Prince Damrong surmised that this residence was built during the reign of King Song Tham when the
Footprint was discovered. The original building was later strengthened with brick and plaster during the reign King Prasat Thong. According to the royal
annals, King Prasat Thong sent artists to Khmer in 1631 to copy the plan of a Khmer prasat from the capital city of Angkor Thom, hence the name Phra
Nakhon Luang. However, only a simplified version of the original prasat was constructed and is currently a part of a temple where the monks help to keep
the building in a state of good repair.o:p>
Aranyik Village
The name "Aranyik" is traditionally related to the history of the Ayutthaya
period, when wars were fought in hand-to-hand battles. Aranyik village
emerged as a place where sword smiths specialised in battle swords worked.
To this day, Aranyik Village remains at the forefront as the country's
leading producer of hand made, high-quality knives and swords
Now also noted for its five-star OTOP products, Aranyik has diversified its
product range to suit modern-day markets and requirements. Cutlery,
dinnerware and other table accessories are produced and exported. These
represent another great tradition that thrives even in modern times.
Production is in the villages of Ban Ton Pho and Ban Pai Nong. However, the
OTOP Village is located at Ban Sarai, Tha Chang Sub-District, Nakhon Luang
District. It is here that visitors can take a closer look at how Aranyik
knives and other related products and made while exploring the villagers'
remarkably charming traditional way of life. Homestay accommodation is
available.
Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Ancient Forts and Fortresses
There are many forts along the city wall and fortresses around the outer circle. Most of them are situated at waterway intersections.
Ayutthaya Historical Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya's historic temples are scattered
throughout this once magnificent city and along the encircling rivers.
Several of the more central ruins Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mongkhon Bophit,
Wat Na Phra Meru, Wat Thammikarat, Wat Ratburana and Wat Phra Mahathat can
be visited on foot.
It is possible to add more temples and ruins to travel itineraries by
touring the city on a rented bicycle. An ideal combination of modes of
transportation for visitors interested in seeing everything would be to hire
a bicycle for the central temples and charter a long-tail boat to take a
tour of the outlying ruins along the river.
Ayutthaya Historical Park is situated opposite the Chao Sam Phraya National
Museum. The main attraction in the historical park is Viharn Phramongkol
Bophit which houses one of the largest bronze Buddha images in Thailand.
Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre
This compound is located on Rochana Road and is a National Research
Institute devoted to the study of Ayutthaya, especially the period when it
was the capital of Thailand. The Centre is responsible for the Museum of the
History of Ayutthaya, which exhibits reconstructions from the past. In
addition, the Centre provides information services and has a library
containing historical materials about Ayutthaya.
The Centre opens daily from 9.00 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. On official holidays
service hours are from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. For more information, please
contact Tel: 0 3524 5124 (Admission fee is 100 Bahts)
Ayutthaya Studies Institute
Sited next to Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre is an institute established
with the aim of unertaking further study and research on Ayutthaya's
history, its arts and culture, ways of life as well as local wisdoms. Aside
from this, Ayutthaya Studies Institute also serves to promote this ancient
capital by initiating several tourism-related projects with a prime focus on
local culture and wisdom. Featured in the projects are a wide array of
activities such as demonstration of OTOP products and performances. As well
as this, a learning centre on arts, culture and local wisdom and an
information centre providing local guide services for both Thais and
foreigners alike are also established. The institute, which is an
organization of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Rajabhat University, has recently
arranged an interesting exhibition showcasing Ayutthaya's timeless treasures
- a combination of history, arts and local wisdom. Five traditional Thai
houses located in the area of the instutute are dedicated to this
exhibition. Those wishing to experience first-hand the diverse aspects of
Ayutthaya's glory should not miss cultural and arts performances scheduled
to perform every Saturday and Sunday,from 5.00 p.m. onwards. For further
information, please contact 0 3524 1407 or 08 9115 5181.
Chankasem or Front Palace National Museum
Chankasem Palace was built during the reign of King Maha Thammaraja, the
17th King of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya. During the reign of King Naresuan the
Great the Palace became his permanent residence. Chankasem Palace, like the
other palaces, was destroyed during the Burmese invasion. It has been
renovated and reopened as a museum open to the public on Wednesdays through
Sundays from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
Chao Sam Phraya National Museum
This museum is perfect for history buffs who admire fine arts and handicraft
of the Ayutthaya period. Housed in the museum are various original antiques,
mostly made of gold and decorated with precious jewels. In addition, there
are various antique bronze Buddha images and famous carved panels. Of note
is a receptacle in the Thai Pavilion that contains relics of the Lord Buddha
and other objects of art that are over 500 years old.
The museum which is located on Rochana Road, opposite the city wall is open
daily, except Mondays, Tuesdays and national holidays, from 09.00 a.m. until
4.00 p.m. (Admission fee is 10 Bahts). For more information, call: 0 3524
1587
Chedi Phra Si Suriyothai
This pagoda is situated at the original site of the Rear Palace, in the west
of the city. It is a memorial to Somdet Phra Suriyothai, who was the royal
consort of Phra Mahachakkaraphat and the first heroine in Thai history. When
the Burmese army intruded in 1548, Somdet Phra Suriyothai, clad in a
warrior's suit, interrupted the fighting between the King and Phrachao Prae
of Burma and was cut to death. Her death saved Ayutthaya from another attack
from the Burmese.
Elephant Kraal Pavilion
The Pavilion, utilized as the royal seat to witness the elephant round up,
is situated north of the city island. In the past wild elephants would be
trained here to become war or transport animals. It is thought that in the
Ayutthaya period the stockade was inside the city wall, but this one was
built later and was used up until the Bangkok period. In the middle of the
stockade is a shrine where the elephant guardian is supposed to reside.
Posts made of whole timbers form the fence where elephants were tied up
during the training. An elephant round-up was demonstrated here in 1890,
during the reign of King Rama V, for the benefit of the Tsarevitch, who
later became Nicholas II of Russia, during his visit to Siam.
Japanese Village
This ancient site is located 1.5 kilometres south of the Wat Phananchoeng in
Tambon Ko Rein. There is an additional building of the Ayutthaya Historical
Study Centre, where the foreign affairs of the Ayutthaya Period are on
exhibition.
Khun Phan House
Khun Phan House is a Thai-style house that conforms to descriptions in a
popular Thai literary work. Khun Phan's house is near Wihan Phra Mongkhon
Bophit.Si Suriyothai Park, which has a total area of 5 rai, is located
within the area of the Ayutthaya liquor plant adjacent to Chedi Phra Si
Suriyothai. Within the area is a common building, a Somdet Phra Si
Suriyothai pavilion, a mound with marble Semas (boundary stones of a temple)
aged over 400 years where the fragmented parts of Buddha images taken from
Wat Phutthaisawan were buried, etc. The Liquor Distillery Organization, who
sponsored the construction of the park, wished to devote all good deeds in
transforming the former inner part of the royal compound to all of the late
kings who used to live here. King Rama IX graciously named the park Suan Si
Suriyothai on 25 May, 1989 and conferred the park to Her Majesty Queen
Sirikit on the eve of her 60th anniversary. The park is open daily to the
public from 9.00 a.m. until 5.00 p.m.
Phom Phet (The Diamond Fort)
This fort that remains almost intact while ruins of the other forts which
had been destroyed are visible around the city island. This fortress, also
known as Phom Phet Pairote, is situated on a site known as Bangkaja where
the Maenam Chao Phraya and the Maenam Pasak meet to form the south-west
corner of the city island. This large fortress is thought to have been built
during the reign of King Mahathammaracha following the loss of Ayutthaya to
the Burmese for the first time in 1549. The original earthen parapet was
strengthened with brick.
Portuguese Village
This village is located in Tambon Samphao Lom, on the west bank of the
Maenam Chao Phraya to the south of the city. The Portuguese were the first
Europeans to arrive at Ayutthaya in 1151. Antique objects, tobacco pipes,
coins and accessories for religious ceremonies have been found at the site.
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace of Ayutthaya, which is now known as the Old Palace, is
situated next to the northern section of the city wall. King Borom
Trailokanath turned the palace, which was built in 1350 by King U-Thong, the
first sovereign of the kingdom, into a monastery (Wat Phra Si Sanpet) in
1448 when he declared the three grand wooden prasats built by King U-Thong
as a phuttawat or religious zone. King Borom Trailokanath then extended the
palace grounds further north towards the Lopburi River, which was then used
as the city's moat. Several halls have been built since then. Places of
interest in the Royal Palace are as follows:-
Sanphet Prasat Hall
King Borom Trailokanath built this hall which was used as a reception hall
for foreign visitors as a sister to the Benjarat Maha Prasat Hall. This
prasat-style hall had long porticoes both at the front and the back, with
shorter ones on the sides and a small Mondop situated on a mini balcony on
the front portico. Tin sheets covered the roof and bralee or small spikes
decorated its ridges. In addition, there was a tall spire on top of the
roof. On both sides of this hall were stables that housed the white
elephants. When Ayutthaya fell to the Burmese the hall was burnt down and
only its brick and mortar foundations survives.
King Rama IV, desirous of honoring the Kings of Ayutthaya, sent a team of
officials from Bangkok to built a small prasat on the foundation of Sanphet
Prasat Hall and planned to install a plaque inscribed with the names of all
Ayutthaya's kings. However, he died before the construction was completed.
In 1907 King Rama V had the unfinished prasat pulled down and built a
ceremonial pavilion instead.
Chakawat Paichayon Hall
King Prasat Thong built this prasat-style hall in 1632 on the inside wall of
the palace towards the east. In this hall the king received an envoy sent by
the Burmese King to protest King Prasat Thong's proposal to reform the
calendar. During the Bangkok period, King Rama I built a pavilion on top of
the outer-wall of the palace in the same manner and it was used to view the
processions or the military exercises.
Trimuk Hall
This building, which is believed to be the garden house inside the inner
court, is located behind Sanphet Prasat Hall but its date of construction is
unknown. The name was first mentioned in the reign of King Borom Rachathirat
II in 1427 when it was destroyed by fire. It is believed that the original
hall was a wooden structure built on top of a plain foundation and the floor
was covered with terracotta slabs.
It was a long twin building similar to Sanphet Prasat Hall. The original
foundation is still visible.
When King Rama V celebrated the 40th anniversary of his coronation in 1907
he had wooden models of various Ayutthayan halls built on top of the
original sites and one of which was built on top of the foundation of Trimuk
Hall. In addition, when King Rama VI and King Rama VII ascended to the
throne they conducted religious rites in honor of the former Kings in Trimuk
Hall and in 1953, the Fine Arts Department renovated the Hall.
St. Joseph's Church
St. Joseph's Church was built during the reign of King Narai in 1666 as a
result of a request from the missionaries headed by Bishop Lambert de la
Motte a missionary who wished to build a church and a mission school. The
original wooden church was rebuilt in bricks and mortar in the European
style between 1685 and 1695. During the second Burmese attack, the Siamese
used the church as a shelter which led to its being destroyed on 23 March
1767. In 1831 Father Pallegoix came to Siam and took care of the restoration
work on the church. The restoration was completed in 1847. More additions in
the 12th century Romanesque style were made during the tenure of Father
Perros during the reign of King Rama V. The church is a place of continuous
Catholic worship in Thailand for over 300 years.
Suan Somdet
This is a public park situated on U-Thong Road to the southwest of the city.
The area, full of plants referred to in Thai literature, houses many
archaeological ruins.
Thai Boat Museum
The museum is located at the residence of its founder, Mr. Phaithun
Khaomala, a renowned Thai boat modeller and former boat builder. Inspired by
their beauty and relationship to the lives of Thai people, Mr. Phaithun
dedicated a part of his residence to preseving what he holds to be fine
examples of the country's treasured traditions.
On display are a wide range of models from his large and exquisite
collection, make in teak. Included in the collection are more than 100
models boats delicately made by hand. They range from Thai and Chinese junks
to other traditional Thai boats and ocean liners. Among the most impressive
items in the collection are models of Thailand's famous Royal Barges. As
some of them are rarely seen nowadays, the museum is considered a
must-visit. Open daily from 8.00 a.m.-5.00 p.m. Call 0 3524 1195 for more
information. The Thai Boat Museum is situated opposite Wat Mahathat, Bang
Iean Road.
Wat Chaiwatthanaram
Located on the bank of the Maenam Chao Phraya, to the west of the city
island is Wat Chaiwatthanaram. Built in 1630 by King Prasat Thong to honor
his mother, Wat Chai Wattanaram was conceived as a replica of the Angkor
temple. A Royal monastery, the temples unique feature is a huge prang which
is surrounded by smaller prangs. This symbolizes Mount Meru, the abode of
the heavenly gods. Now restored, the temple is also accessible by a
long-tailed boat trip from Chankasem Palace Pier. This 1-hour trip to the
temple costs approximately 300-400 bahts (round-trip). Entry fee to the
temple itself is 20 bahts.
Wat Kasattrathirat Worawihan
Located outside the city island, opposite Chedi Phra Si Suriyothai, on the
bank of the Chao Phraya River is another interesting temple worth visiting.
Formerly known as Kasattra or Kasattraram, the ancient temple is of the
Ayutthaya period with a main Prang (stupa) at its centre.
Wat Kudidao
Located to the east in front of the railway station, this old monastery was
beautifully constructed with better craftsmanship than many other temples as
can be seen from the remaining ruins which have been left deteriorate.
Wat Lokkayasutha
This monastery is over a kilometer behind Wat Suanluangsopsawan adjacent to
Wat Worachettharam. Accessible by the road inside the compound of the
Distillery Plant, or through the road behind the Phlapphla Trimuk
(three-gabled roof pavilion), the monastery is in the area of the Ancient
Palace. Proceed past Wat Woraphot and Wat Worachettharam until reaching the
open-air site of the large reclining Buddha, which is made of brick and
covered with plaster, is approximately 29 meters long. The ruins of large
hexagonal pillars near the image are believed to be the ruins of the Ubosot.
Wat Na Phra Men
Formerly known as Wat Phra Merurachikaram, the temple is located across the
river north of the palace. Although the date of construction is unknown, the
temple has been restored a number of times but still has a finely
proportioned ubosot and viharn. The latter contains a large Dvaravati stone
Buddha seated in European style, his hands on his knees, which some scholars
think originated in Nakhon Pathom.
The Ubosot design is very old in the typical Thai style. The most
interesting object is the principal Buddha image, which is fully decorated
in regal attire. The most interesting fact attributed to the image is that
it escaped destruction when the Burmese were burning everything down. It was
from the grounds of this temple that the Burmese King Chao Along Phaya
decided to fire a cannon at the Grand Palace.
Admission to the temple which is just over the bridge near Si Sanphet Road
is 10 bahts.
Wat Phanan Choeng
Overlooking the river on the opposite bank from the main city, Wat Phanan
Choeng was founded shortly before the establishment of Ayutthaya as the
Kingdoms capital. Its main building enshrines a huge, seated Buddha image,
that is 57 feet tall an object of particular devotion to Thais of Chinese
origin. This principal image called Phrachao Phananchoeng was built of
stucco in the attitude of subduing evil in 1325. The temple is a popular
stopover for riverboat cruises along the Maenam Chao Phraya. This temple can
be reached by boat from the fortress ruins.
Wat Phra Mahathat and Wat Ratburana
Wat Mahathat is located in front of the Grand Palace to the east, next to Pa
Than Bridge. The temple is believed to be one of Ayutthaya's oldest temples,
possibly built by King Boromaraja I (1370-88). Its central prang, of which
only the base remains, once rose to a height of 165 feet. Traces of the
original stucco decorations can still be seen on some of the surrounding
chedis.
Wat Ratburana
King Borom Rachathirat II (Chao Sam Phraya) built a temple on the site where
his two elder brothers were cremated. His two brothers died in a power
struggle to succeed their father, King Nakhon In who died in 1424. A series
of bell-shaped chedis surround the main prang and a large oblong-shaped
viharn is situated at the front. The architectural style evolved from the
Khmer prasat, but has been adapted by the addition of a higher multi-layered
base and an extended upper section. More corners were added to the main body
and the tower section was extended to become corn-shaped. The antefixes, on
the other hand, were attached to the body of the tower instead of leaving a
decent gap between them which was common in Khmer prasats.
These two temples are separated by Naresuan Road. The Admission fee for each
site is 20 bahts.
Wat Phra Ram
Though founded in 1369, the ruins of Wat Phra Ram date mostly from its
restoration in the 15th century. Its main feature is a well-proportioned
prang situated on a stepped terrace adorned with chedis. Some of the prang's
stucco decorations, including Buddha images in the walking and standing
poses, still remain
Wat Phra Si Sanphet
In 1491, Wat Phra Si Sanphet was located inside the compound of the Grand
Palace-the foundations of which are still visible-and served as the royal
chapel, as Wat Phra Kaeo does in Bangkok. This Wang Lung Palace (Royal
Palace) was built by King U-Thong upon the founding of the city. Used as a
residential palace, it became a monastery in the reign of King Ramathibodi
I. When King Borom Trai Lokanat commanded the construction of new living
quarters, this residential palace was transformed into a temple,and the
establishment of Wat Phra Si Sanphet. In Ayutthaya's heyday, this was the
largest temple in the city.
The three main chedis which have been restored contain the ashes of three
Ayutthaya kings. The temple is situated at the northern end of Si Sanphet
Road. The royal chapel does not have any monks and novice inhabitants.
Admission fee is 20bahts.
Wat Phu Khao Thong
The Phu Khao Thong chedi is situated about two kilometres northwest of the
city island. It was built by King Ramesuan in 1387. Burengnong, the Burmese
king, built three layers of the large superimposed base in the Burmese style
after he seized Ayutthaya in 1569 and named it Phu Khao Thong. The main body
of the Thai-style chedi was built later.
King Borom Kot carried out renovations during his reign in 1744 and changed
its appearance into a 12- cornered chedi. Only the lowest part retains its
original Mon style. According to the records, a canal was dug from Wat Phu
Khao Thong by a former monk of the temple to keep the Burmese army out when
Ayutthaya was under Burmese attack in 1548. The moat which connects a canal
with the main river is still in evidence and is called Mahanak canal in
honor of the former monk.
However, after Ayutthaya fell to the Burmese in 1767 the whole place was
burned down. The Thai Government, under Premier Pibulsongkram, renovated the
shrine again approximately 40 years ago.
Wat Phutthaisawan
This monastery is located to the south of the river bank opposite the city
island. Constructed in the area where King U-Thong and his subjects first
migrated in order to establish the new town, it was formerly known as "Wiang
Lek" named after the royal palace of King U-Thong. The most distinctive
feature of this temple is the great principal Buddha image cast in the early
Ayutthaya style.
Wat Samanakot
Located near Wat Kudidao, this temple was renovated by Chao Phraya Kosa
(Lek) and Phraya Kosa (Pan) during the reign of King Narai the Great. The
main attraction is a large and unusual prang believed to be an imitation of
the design of Chedi Chet Yot of Chiang Mai.
Wat Sensanaram
This ancient temple, which is located behind Chankasem Palace houses two
Buddha images that were transferred from Vientiane.
Wat Suan Luang Sopsawan
King Maha Chakkraphat commanded the construction of this monastery on the
west of the city which is the old military regiment area in the royal garden
compound adjacent to the original area of Wat Sopsawan after the royal
cremation of Queen Suriyothai. Her body was kept for the religious
ceremonies in the Royal Garden (Suan Luang) Hall and was cremated there on
the grounds.
Today, it is possible to visit a large pagoda called "Chedi Phra Si
Suriyothai" that was built on the location of the crematorium.
Wat Suwandararam Ratchaworawihan
The main attractions of this temple, which is located on U-Thong Road,
southeast of the city, are the paintings. The mural paintings in the Ubosot
depict the gathering deities and jataka stories, while the murals on the
front wall show a picture of the Lord Buddha subduing evil. Within the
Viharn, is a picture depicting the bravery of King Naresuan the Great, which
is a masterpiece with several copies found in many other places.
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
Located to the Southeast of the island, this temples lofty chedi is visible
from most of the town. The monastery was built in 1900 by King U-thong who
granted the temple with the name Wat Pa Kaew. The intention was to create a
center of Buddhist studies (Ceylonese Sect). As the temple used to be headed
by a patriarch, local people also called it Wat Chao Phraya Thai.
The present name was given granted to the temple by King Naresuan to
commemorate a battle fought against the Crown Prince of Burma in 1592. His
momentous victory a single-handed combat on the elephant back brought
independence to Ayutthaya after 15 years as a Burmese dependent. Within the
complex is a huge image of a reclining Buddha in brick and stucco. The chedi
is bell-shaped, about 60 meters high, constructed on a mound of raised
ground (15 X 32.4 X 32.4 m.) with steps going up to the Buddhist image
placed midway to the top. The chedi itself now has a distinct tilt, but
still can be entered via the stairs.
The Ubosot or ordination hall is windowless but ventilated by pierced holes
stretching down the roof on both walls. Also situated in the compound is
King Naresuans statue, which is highly revered by Thais.
Admission fee is 20 bahts.
Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit
This chapel is located to the south of Wat Phra Si Sanphet. A large bronze
seated Buddha image (Phra Mongkhon Bophit) was originally enshrined outside
the Grand Palace to the east. It could be dated to the 15th century and was
originally intended to stand in the open air. Later, King Songtham commanded
it to be transferred to the west, where it is currently enshrined and
covered with a Mondop. In the reign of Phra Chao Sua, the top of the Mondop
was burnt down by a fire due to a thunderbolt. The King then commanded that
a new building be built in the form of a big sanctuary (Maha Wihan) to cover
the image in lieu of the former Mondop. During the second fall of Ayutthaya,
the building and the image were badly destroyed by fire. The present Viharn
and Buddha image have been reconstructed and renovated. The open area
located east of the Viharn was formerly Sanam Luang, where royal cremation
ceremonies took place.
Festivals
Bang Sai Arts & Crafts Fair (Bang Sai Arts & Crafts Centre)
The annual fair shows products of H.M. the Queens SUPPORT programme.
Visitors will enjoy shopping, and viewing exhibitions and demonstrations of
local products from each district of Ayutthaya.
Folk entertainment performances enliven the fair.
Bang Sai Loi Krathong (Bang Sai Arts & Crafts Centre)
Celebrations include traditional float (Krathong) and beauty contests,
handicraft demonstrations and exhibitions, special events, and krathong
launching beneath the full moon.
Songkran Festival
In Front of Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit
The traditional Thai New Year is an occasion for merry making in Ayutthaya,
with religious ceremonies as well as public festivitis. Anyone who ventures
out on the streets is likely to get a thorugh soaking, but all in a spirit
of fun at the peak of the hot season.
Shopping
Krayasat
Candy rice is a very sweet Thai-style dessert used as an offering in a
ceremony carried out after the harvest season, which usually falls in late
September. It is made from ingredients such as peanuts, sesame, sugar,
coconut, and pounded unripe rice, etc. With its sweet taste and smell, it
has now become one of the most sought-after sweets in Ayutthaya. The most
recommended candy rice is the province's OTOP product labelled under the
"Thai Heritage Krayasat" brand. They come in tight-vacuumed sealed package
with the seal of approval from Thailand's FDA and are available at most
shops in the city. Call 0 3535 9997 for more details.
Roti Sai Mai
One of the all-time-favourite candies admired by both Thais and foreigners
alike, Roti Sai Mai is a dessert with Islamic influence, as they are the
first to have made Roti and have inherited the tradtional way of making it
from one generation to one generation. Sai Mai is Thai-style candy floss or
cotton candy, wrapped by Roti, a thin, pan-fried flour. To this day, Roti
Sai Mai has become one of Ayutthaya's most preferred sweets, as it is easy
to eat. The fun part comes when wrapping them. They are available at street
stalls or shops located on Uthong Road (in front of Phra Nakho Si Ayutthaya
Hospital) and behind Phra NakhonSi Ayutthay Rajabhat University.
Dining
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District
Ruen Thai Mai Suai
(Thai Food)
8/2 Mu 3 Tambon Khlong Suan Phu (200 metres beyond Wat Yai Chaimongkhon),
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Tel: 0 3524 5977-9
Sai Thong River
(Thai Food)
45 Mu 1 Uthong Road, Tambon Pratu Chai, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Tel: 0 3524 1449
Ban Watcharachai
(Thai Food)
9 Mu 7 Tambon Ban Pom (Near Wat Kasattrathirat), Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Tel: 0 3532 1333
Chai Nam
(Thai Food, Chinese Food)
Cho 36/2 Uthong Road, Tambon Ho Rattanachai, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Tel: 0 3525 2013
Ayothaya
(Thai, Chinese and European Food)
Ayothaya Riverside Hotel, 91/1 Mu 1 Tambon Kamang, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Tel: 0 3523 4873-7
Dine in Style
One of the best ways to appreciate the splendours of this World Heritage
Site set between three rivers is to take a cruise while relishing the distinctive flavours of the finest Thai cuisine.
Exploring the panoramic sight of Ayutthaya at dawn from a floating
restaurant is an extraordinary and unique experience. Cruising around the city isand is essential for anyone wishing to admire the sights of typical
Thai houses, churches mosques, temples and the folk fishery lifestyle of the people. along the riverbank, the atmosphere of the long established Kingdom
of Ayutthaya manifests itself through a simple and peaceful way of life.
To add even more charm to such a trip enjoy a leisurely dinner on board. You
can opt for the distinctive flavours of exquisitely prepared set menus or a la carte dishes (orders are taken in advance). The cost is usually Baht
350-550/person inclusive of the food and boat rental, representing truly remarkable value. Such services are offered by almost every restaurant
located by the river. Dinner cruises last approximately 1.5-2 hours, departing 5.00 p.m.-6.30p.m.
Among the favourite dishes for Thais and foreigners alike is Kung Mae Nam
Pao (grilled river king prawn) - a local specialty you can't afford to miss.
This dish has been satisfying the crowds for decades.
For more information contact Tourism Authority of Thailand Central Region
Office:
Region 6 Tel: 0 3524 6076-7 Fax: 00 3524 6078.
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