Ayutthaya Historical Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Ayutthaya Historical Park is a place of interest that one should not miss in Thailand's glorious past. It once served as the thriving capital of the Kingdom of Siam, Ayutthaya, from 1350 until it was razed to the ground by the Burmese in 1767. The park has majestic ruins of temples, palaces, and statues.

Ayutthaya Historical Park introduction (Source: Backpacker Boy)

This area has some iconic landmarks like Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Mahathat. These testify to the peculiar combination of architectural styles, driven by Thai, Khmer, Sri Lankan, and Persian traditions. The city of Ayutthaya is literally a trip down memory lane, offering modern-day travelers a city that once was a center for trade and culture, hence making it a destination of choice for history lovers and cultural enthusiasts who want to visit Thailand.

History of Ayutthaya Historical Park

Ayutthaya Historical Park shares a long history with the rise and fall of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, established in 1350 by King U-Thong. Ayutthaya was advantageously located at the mouth of the confluence of the three rivers, namely the Chao Phraya, Lopburi, and Pa Sak rivers, which easily positioned it to be one of the strong trading and cultural centers in Southeast Asia. Over the centuries, the kingdom rapidly grew into one of the largest cities in the world and an important center for international trade, drawing merchants from across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

History of Ayutthaya Historical Park (Source: Easy book)

The architecture of the city was to show great pomp, combining elements from Thailand, Khmer, Sri Lanka, and Persia. Temples, palaces, and other royal building structures were in place to provide evidence of the good life that the kingdom led, and included places like Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mahathat, and the Grand Palace. Ayutthaya also was an active center of culture and religion, with Buddhism holding a very important place within the identity of the kingdom.

However, in the year 1767, after a long and protracted siege, the Burmese destroyed the city and with that came the dissolution of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya. The ruin city was left abandoned for hundreds of years until the Thai government declared Ayutthaya Historical Park in 1969 for its protection and preservation. Today, the park is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is accessed by curious people worldwide who like to see the remains of this onetime great civilization.

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How to get to Ayutthaya Historical Park

From Bangkok, it is easy to get to the Ayutthaya Historical Park using one of the many transportation options. Getting there by train is not very expensive and is, hence, the most popular option. The trains depart from the Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok and take an estimated time of 1.5 to 2 hours. Buses are another convenient option from the Mo Chit Bus Terminal, with an approximate travel time of 1.5 hours. A private car or taxi is available for those wanting comfort and at their own convenience, which can take directly to the destination in 1 to 1.5 hours. Cruises down Chao Phraya River are also available for a more leisurely route, while guided day tours from Bangkok include transportation and a visit to the park. Whatever the means, Ayutthaya is quite easily accessible and thus forms an ideal day-trip destination or a short break from the bustle of city life.

What to see in Ayutthaya Historical Park

The Ayutthaya Historical Park in Thailand, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, represents a glimpse into the glory of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, 1350-1767. Following are the main highlights not to be missed:

Wat Mahathat

Wat Mahathat (Source: World Heritage Journeys)

This iconic temple is famous for the Buddha head that has grown within the roots of a banyan tree. It was once the spiritual center of Ayutthaya, and a hub for royal ceremonies.

Wat Ratchaburana

This temple is known for its intact prang and for having crypts beneath with ancient murals and relics that one can visit.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Wat Phra Si Sanphet (Source: Wikipedia)

This is the major temple in the precincts of the royal palace and is represented as the symbol of Ayutthaya with its three tall chedis.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Located on the river, this impressive temple represents Khmer architecture and provides a beautiful view at sunset.

Bang Pa-In Royal Palace

Not too far from the park, this summer palace is a mixture of Thai, Chinese, and European styles situated among beautiful gardens.

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon (Source: Ayutthaya Historical Research)

Probably most famous for its tall chedi and lines of Buddha statues that are all shrouded in saffron robes, this temple is truly a place for contemplation.

Wat Phanan Choeng

Located here is a giant seated Buddha image, and the temple itself dates back before the establishment of Ayutthaya and thus is deeply spiritually significant.

Ayutthaya Floating Market

Complement your visit with a stop to this vibrant market featuring traditional performances, boat rides, and local delicacies.

Get around the park by bike or by tuk-tuk for an unforgettable experience and take in the great history and culture of Thailand.

Conclusion

Ayutthaya Historical Park represents a treasure trove of ancient wonders, showcasing Thailand's glorious past, majestic temples, highly expressive architecture, and serene landscapes. From the iconic Buddha head at Wat Mahathat to the towering chedi of Wat Phra Si Sanphet, every corner of this UNESCO World Heritage Site tells a story of cultural and historical importance. Let Asia King Travel build an unforgettable trip with perfectly planned tours and customized services. Contact us now to plan the perfect journey to Ayutthaya and go right into the heart of Thailand's rich heritage!

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