I’ve been living in Tokyo for ages, always itching for a cultural escape. One day, I finally gave in and flew off to Thailand. At first, I spent a few chaotic days in Bangkok. Then the call of Ayutthaya’s ancient ruins became impossible to ignore. I was so excited that I even forgot to pack extra sunscreen! That’s how I found myself on a slightly rickety train, peering out at green fields as I made my way to this remarkable old capital. Let me show you my personal top 10 experiences in Ayutthaya, and I sincerely hope you try at least a few of them. Because trust me, even with all my sweaty shirts and dusty shoes, this trip left me in awe—and I can’t wait to share every detail with you! ✈️
1. Roam Around the Ayutthaya Historical Park
Stepping into the Ayutthaya Historical Park felt like time-travel. I remember the humid air clinging to my skin as I gazed at towering stupas that stood among crumbling red bricks. Once the royal city of Siam, Ayutthaya thrived for centuries before it fell in the 18th century. Now, the park stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s not just a random collection of temples and arches, but a space that truly breathes history. I tried to picture scenes of merchants trading silks and spices, elephants carrying royals, and dazzling festivities unfolding under these very arches. With an entrance fee of 50 THB (roughly US$1.50) at each key temple, it’s super budget-friendly. If you plan to see multiple spots, grab the combined ticket for 220 THB (around US$7), which covers five major sites. For more details, check the Tourism Authority of Thailand site at https://www.tourismthailand.org/Attraction/Ayutthaya-Historical-Park.
One thing I loved was how spread-out everything is, which was both a blessing and a challenge. The blessing was having a sense of peacefulness as I strolled around, not drowning in massive crowds at every turn. The challenge? The midday sun sapped my energy faster than I expected. On my second day, I rented a bicycle for about 60 THB (US$1.80) near the park entrance. That decision saved my legs a lot of pain. A tip: carry a refillable water bottle because the heat can be intense, especially around noon. The park opens early, typically around 8:00am, so you can wander during cooler hours. Exploring Ayutthaya Historical Park laid the foundation of my entire trip, giving me a vivid sense of the city’s past grandeur.
2. Observe the Famous Buddha Head at Wat Mahathat
I’d seen endless photos of the Buddha head snuggled among tree roots at Wat Mahathat. So I was beyond excited to finally see it in person. The temple itself, built in the 14th century, once housed significant religious relics. But much of it was destroyed during the Burmese siege in 1767. Despite that, the iconic Buddha head in the Bodhi tree remains almost miraculously intact. When I first spotted it, I actually had to pause for a second. There was a quiet reverence in the air, with visitors standing in near silence as they took turns snapping photos. There’s just something surreal about seeing a religious image that’s slowly been enveloped by nature.
To enter Wat Mahathat on its own, you’ll typically pay 50 THB (US$1.50). If you plan on visiting multiple temples, the combined ticket might be your best bet. For current prices or renovation updates, you can glance at the Fine Arts Department site at http://www.finearts.go.th. The path leading up to the tree was dusty, and I managed to kick up quite a cloud. At first, I felt a bit self-conscious, but everyone else was equally sweaty and dusty, so that was comforting! Honestly, the highlight was not just the famed tree, but also wandering through the complex’s remains. I love how the overgrown patches of grass and half-toppled walls somehow add to the temple’s enchantment. I felt an odd mixture of wonder and sadness: wonder at the resilience of these relics, sadness for the city’s destruction. If you visit, please remember to keep your head lower than the Buddha image when you get close, as it’s a sign of respect in Thai culture.
3. Climb the Prang at Wat Ratchaburana
Right across from Wat Mahathat is Wat Ratchaburana, another remarkable temple dating back to the 15th century. King Intharacharthirat II built it in memory of his two elder brothers, who fought to the death over the throne. A bit tragic, right? When I first stepped in, I could see the central prang towering high, its stucco details somewhat eroded yet still mesmerising. There’s a crypt beneath the main prang that you can descend into, where murals and artefacts were once discovered. This crypt is dimly lit, with a narrow stairway that’s slightly slippery, so watch your step. I almost slipped on my way down, gripping the rail like my life depended on it!
The temple’s outer structures also display patches of original stucco that depict mythical creatures and floral motifs. Each chipped detail felt like a window into the past. The entrance fee is about 50 THB (US$1.50) if you pay separately, though I definitely suggest the combined temple ticket if you want to see everything. This place is less crowded than Wat Mahathat, so it’s easier to take your time. I sat on a ledge for a while, letting the sun warm my shoulders as I admired the stately tower. Visiting official websites, like https://www.tourismthailand.org, can give you updated hours or mention if certain areas are closed for conservation. Climbing the prang was one of my favourite moments in Ayutthaya. It was as if each step brought me deeper into the city’s layered history.
4. Wonder at Wat Phra Si Sanphet’s Majestic Chedis
I’ll never forget the first time I saw Wat Phra Si Sanphet. It sits within the old Royal Palace grounds and was once the most sacred temple of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. You’ll see three massive chedis standing in a row, almost like sentinels watching over the land. These chedis enshrine the ashes of past kings. Although time and war damaged much of the temple, the grandeur is still palpable. I tried to imagine regal ceremonies taking place here, with elephants possibly parading around the courtyards.
The area around the chedis is perfect for photos, especially late in the day when the sun casts long shadows. Entry is 50 THB (US$1.50) if you opt for a single ticket. Some visitors (myself included) love climbing the base of the chedis to explore the nooks and crannies. Just be careful, as the steps can be steep and weathered. When I got to the top of one vantage point, I was rewarded with a sweeping view of surrounding ruins and towering trees. It was almost meditative. If you want official updates on hours or combined tickets, check out the Tourism Authority of Thailand listing at https://www.tourismthailand.org/Attraction/Wat-Phra-Si-Sanphet. I found myself lingering here far longer than planned, just trying to soak in that regal atmosphere.
5. Gaze at the Reclining Buddha at Wat Lokaya Sutharam
At Wat Lokaya Sutharam, you’ll find a colossal Reclining Buddha statue. Locally known as Phra Bhuddhasaiyart, it measures about 37 metres in length and 8 metres in height. I was stunned the moment I saw it, laid out peacefully with a faint smile on its face. One glance and I felt a wave of calm washing over me, despite the bustling crowd taking snaps. Legend suggests the statue has stood here for centuries, even though the rest of the temple isn’t in great shape. When I walked closer, I noticed cloth draped over parts of the statue, which locals often place as a gesture of respect.
The statue’s head rests on a lotus base, while the feet are carefully aligned, symbolising the Buddha’s final moments before entering Nirvana. There isn’t usually an entrance fee, though some visitors offer small donations, maybe 20 THB (US$0.60), to support maintenance. One sweet moment was seeing a family teaching their little child how to wai (a Thai gesture of respect) before the statue. My favourite vantage point was off to the right side, near a small shade tree. I remember the sound of a gentle breeze rustling leaves while I soaked up that tranquil energy. If you want specifics, you can often find up-to-date info on local tourism portals or the Tourism Thailand site. I was so taken by the Buddha’s calm expression that I almost forgot about the burning sun on my neck. But hey, that’s what hats are for! 🧢
6. Watch the Sunset at Wat Chaiwatthanaram
Wat Chaiwatthanaram might just be my favourite temple in Ayutthaya. Built in 1630, it stands proudly near the Chao Phraya River. The design was inspired by Khmer architecture, reminiscent of Angkor Wat in Cambodia. When I first saw the sprawling grounds, with a central towering prang surrounded by smaller chedis, I actually gasped. It was late afternoon, and a gentle orange light bathed the entire scene. As the sun inched closer to the horizon, the sky bloomed into shades of pink, orange, and purple. I found a spot on a low wall and just soaked up the view like it was some priceless painting.
Entry is 50 THB (US$1.50), or you can use the combined temple pass if you bought one. I’d recommend arriving at least an hour before sunset to wander the complex. By the time golden hour arrives, you’ll have plenty of potential photo angles already planned. The temple typically closes around 6 or 6:30pm, but check the official pages on https://www.tourismthailand.org for exact hours. I remember a small group of local students there on a field trip, giggling and taking selfies. They were kind enough to teach me a few Thai phrases when I asked, though I probably mispronounced half of them! Still, it was a delightful cultural exchange, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram provided the perfect atmosphere for such warm encounters.
7. Immerse Yourself in the Ayutthaya Floating Market
The Ayutthaya Floating Market is known locally as ‘Talad Nam Ayutthaya’, and it’s quite popular among tourists. I decided to go anyway because I’m a massive foodie, and floating markets are always fun to explore. The entire setup is a series of boardwalks circling a man-made pond, lined with shops and stalls selling everything from Thai desserts to handicrafts. Vendors also operate on small boats, dishing out bowls of noodles or grilled river prawns. It can feel a bit commercial compared to more traditional floating markets, but I still found it entertaining.
One of the highlights for me was sampling local snacks like coconut pancakes (about 20 THB or US$0.60) and juicy river prawns (around 150 THB or US$4.50). I also saw cultural shows featuring traditional Thai dances, including one performance that re-enacted an old legend about Ayutthaya’s founding. Although the show was staged, it was still great fun, with vibrant costumes and plenty of laughter in the crowd. The market’s walkways can get crowded during weekends, so try visiting on a weekday if you prefer a more laid-back vibe. There isn’t an official website for the market that’s always updated, but local tourism pages such as https://www.tourismthailand.org/Destinations/Provinces/Ayutthaya/417 might offer some info. If you love trying local dishes and are curious about Thai stage shows, this place is worth a stop. Just be ready for a bit of a tourist scene, and you’ll have a blast. Don’t forget small change because every stall is brimming with temptations!
8. Dive into the Exhibits at Chao Sam Phraya National Museum
When I crave a deeper understanding of a place, I head to a museum. So I just had to see the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum while in Ayutthaya. This museum is named after King Borommarachathirat II, also known as Chao Sam Phraya, and it houses an impressive collection of artefacts dug up from temple ruins. Inside, you’ll encounter stunning gold objects, jewelled ornaments, and Buddha images that once adorned crypts in temples like Wat Ratchaburana. I remember being mesmerised by the intricate details of a golden crown, marvelling at how artisans in the 15th century could craft something so delicate without modern technology.
One of the most noteworthy sections displays gold relics discovered in the crypt of Wat Ratchaburana. The level of skill evident in the filigree and gemstones took my breath away. Admission costs about 150 THB (US$4.50) for foreigners, which I considered decent for the wealth of knowledge inside. There are English-language plaques and captions for the exhibits, making it easy to appreciate the significance of each piece. You can plan your visit by checking out the Museum Thailand website at https://www.museumthailand.com/Chao-Sam-Phraya-National-Museum. Photography is allowed in certain areas, though not everywhere, so watch out for signs that say “No Photo.” If you’re someone who thrives on historical context, you’ll find that these artefacts bring Ayutthaya’s story to life in a way the ruins alone cannot. My tip is to visit the museum either in the early morning or afternoon, when the sun outside is scorching. You’ll get some cool air and a healthy dose of culture at the same time!
9. Take a Relaxing Boat Tour on the Chao Phraya River
After exploring dusty temples all day, a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River felt like the perfect change of pace. Local boats typically circle around Ayutthaya’s old island, giving you a chance to see iconic temples from the water. Some tours even stop at riverside spots like Wat Phutthai Sawsan or Wat Chaiwatthanaram, letting you hop off briefly. I joined a sunset cruise for about 250 THB (US$7.50), and it was every bit as dreamy as it sounds. The warm breeze on my face was a welcome relief after the scorching heat.
As the boat slowly chugged along, I glimpsed everyday life: families fishing off small docks, kids splashing around, and older folks chatting under stilted houses. It was a side of Ayutthaya I hadn’t seen yet, something more intimate than the tourist circuit. The boat driver pointed out notable landmarks and even offered me a slice of fresh pineapple, for free! If you’re interested, you can usually book these rides near the historical park or through local tour agencies. Prices range from 200–400 THB (US$6–12), depending on duration and the type of boat. Check online resources like https://www.tourismthailand.org for reputable boat operators. Watching the temples glow in the twilight was something I won’t forget. It felt like a gentle goodbye to a day full of amazement.
10. Feast on Ayutthaya’s Best Local Foods (Especially Boat Noodles!)
I’m a hardcore fan of Thai food. So I was thrilled to try as many local dishes as possible in Ayutthaya. Foremost on my list were boat noodles (kuay teow rua), a dish originally served from little wooden boats along canals. The noodle broth is intense, flavoured with spices and often thickened with pig’s blood. I know that can sound intimidating, but trust me, once you taste it, you might get addicted. Bowls are quite small, sold at about 15–25 THB (US$0.45–0.75), which means you can easily enjoy several bowls in one sitting. If you see a stall bustling with locals, that’s your cue to join the line.
Besides boat noodles, you have to sample the famous grilled river prawns, which are typically huge, fresh, and succulent. Prices vary, from 300–600 THB (US$9–18) per kilo, depending on size and season. I remember devouring a plate of them with spicy seafood sauce, the juices running down my fingers. Afterwards, I cooled off with roti sai mai, a candy floss treat wrapped in thin crepes, often sold for about 30–40 THB (US$0.90–1.20) per pack. Another favourite was coconut ice cream, served in a coconut shell with peanuts on top. If you’re a fruit lover, pick up a bag of fresh pineapples or guavas from street carts at about 10–20 THB (US$0.30–0.60). For more local eating tips, check out https://travel.lv99.gg for recommendations. My tastebuds danced during my entire Ayutthaya trip, and I was so stuffed at the end of each day, I practically rolled back to my guesthouse.
Bonus: How to Get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok
Reaching Ayutthaya is fairly easy from Bangkok. You can take a train from Hua Lamphong Station for as low as 20 THB (US$0.60) in third class, up to 345 THB (US$10) in an air-conditioned car. The trip takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. I chose the budget route, mainly because I enjoy old train vibes. And yes, it was a tad warm, but the open windows gave me views of green paddies and small villages along the way. If you prefer a more comfortable option, you can hop on a minivan from Mo Chit Bus Station for about 60 THB (US$1.80). The minivans stop near Ayutthaya’s centre. Alternatively, you could hire a private taxi or Grab for 1,000–1,500 THB (US$30–45), which is convenient but more expensive.
Once you arrive, you can rent bicycles (50–80 THB / US$1.50–2.40 a day), motorbikes (200–300 THB / US$6–9), or rely on tuk-tuks. Most tuk-tuk drivers quote a rate of around 200 THB (US$6) per hour, which can be negotiated. I took a mix of bicycles and tuk-tuks, which was both wallet-friendly and flexible. Just remember to bring a hat and sunscreen if you’re cycling, as the roads can be scorching around midday!
Best Time to Visit
Ayutthaya is hot most of the year, so be ready to sweat. But the cool season from November to February is a bit more comfortable. I visited in January, and temperatures still hovered around 30°C (86°F). The rainy season (June to October) sees fewer tourists, plus lush green surroundings, although sudden downpours are common. If you don’t mind carrying an umbrella, it’s a good time for quieter sights. Avoid midday temple-hopping if possible; start early or go late. I once tried exploring at noon and ended up feeling like I was in a sauna. Aim for mornings or late afternoons for a less sweaty experience.
Where to Stay
- Budget: Plenty of hostels or guesthouses near the train station or around the Historical Park, with dorm beds from 150–250 THB (US$4.50–7.50).
- Mid-range: Expect 800–1,500 THB (US$24–45) for a comfy room, air-con included.
- Upscale: Boutique hotels and riverside resorts can be 2,000 THB (about US$60) and above. You’ll often get a pool or a scenic river view.
I opted for a family-run guesthouse close to the Chao Phraya River. It was around 700 THB (US$21) a night, neat and cosy, plus the owner was unbelievably sweet. She kept offering me free fruit and even helped arrange a tuk-tuk for early morning temple visits. For reviews and booking links, check your favourite travel platform or see if Tourism Thailand lists anything special at https://www.tourismthailand.org. Staying near the main temple zone can save you a lot of commute time, so it’s worth looking at the map carefully before booking.
Final Thoughts & Reflections
Visiting Ayutthaya left me both speechless and inspired. I’d read about its heyday as the grand capital of Siam, but standing among those silent ruins was an entirely different experience. It made me appreciate how everything changes, even the mightiest of cities. Still, there’s hope and beauty in the remnants. I tried to imagine the bustling life here centuries ago: shimmering palaces, monks chanting, markets brimming with goods from around the world. It’s mind-blowing to think how time weaves its stories, leaving behind relics for us to piece together and cherish.
I left Ayutthaya with a phone bursting with photos and a heart full of gratitude. I also carried a light sunburn on my shoulders, a small souvenir from Thailand’s warm embrace ☀️. If you’re considering a trip, I can’t emphasise enough how worthwhile it is. From the awe-inspiring temples to the fantastic street food, Ayutthaya offers a unique blend of history and charm. Even after returning to Tokyo, my mind kept wandering back to the serene Buddha head in the tree roots and the majestic silhouettes of ancient spires at sunset. There’s something powerfully moving about this place, something you’ll only truly feel once you stand amid those ruins. Hopefully, my experiences give you a good head start in planning your own unforgettable adventure!
