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Ayutthaya

For over 400 years, Ayutthaya was a major political, economic, and cultural powerhouse of Southeast Asia. Home to the eponymous kingdom, which traded with, among others, merchants from China, Vietnam, India, Spain, France, and Holland, Ayutthaya was perhaps the first, true Thai realm, holding sway over much of what is now modern-day Thailand. In 1767, the kingdom was sacked and burned by a rival Burmese army, and reduced to rubble.

Today, the little that remains of Ayutthaya's former glory takes the form of crumbling temples, such as Wat Maha That, or partial reconstructions, such as Wat Phra Si Sanphet. Happily, restorations and renovations are underway, and most, if not all, of Ayutthaya is open to the general public.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the largest temple in the area, is a 15th-century temple whose iconic three chedis (another word for stupa, or Buddhist reliquary) were originally created to enshrine ashes of Ayutthayan kings, Buddha images and royal accoutrements. The temple was partially reconstructed in the 20th century, and many of the relics it originally contained are now housed in Thai museums.

Wat Maha That

At the north end of the Grand Palace is Wat Maha That, a weathered temple that was founded in the late 14th century. Visitors can see rows of headless Buddha statues, a testament to the arson wrought by the Burmese invasion in 1767. Similar to the ruins of Ta Prohm in Siem Reap, Cambodia, this iconic sight features a stone bust of Buddha peeking out of overgrown, entwined banyan tree roots, and is considered sacred by Thai Buddhists.

Wat Chai Watthanaram

On the opposite side of river that runs through Ayutthaya, Wat Chai Watthanaram was once used as a cremation site for members of the Thai royal family. The main prang, or tower, at this temple stands approximately 115 feet (or 35 meters) high and is surrounded by eight smaller towers prangs, all of which are adorned with stucco depictions of scenes from the Buddha’s life, and have been recently restored. Chaiwatthanaram is particularly splendid when illuminated by floodlights at night.

River Cruise

Enjoy a gourmet lunch on a private cruise around Ayutthaya. While it may not seem like one, Ayutthaya is technically an island, surrounded by the Chao Phraya, Lopburi, and Pasak rivers, and a cruise affords another perspective on the ancient capital’s ruins.

Thailand Regions

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Ayutthaya Itineraries

All Itineraries
Multi Country
An Exploration of Temples and Ancient Relics in Northern Thailand

An Exploration of Temples and Ancient Relics in Northern Thailand

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,000
See Itinerary
Ancient & Modern: Bangkok and Bhutan

Ancient & Modern: Bangkok and Bhutan

Duration
16 days / 15 nights
Price Per Person
From $19,500
See Itinerary
Bangkok and Beyond

Bangkok and Beyond

Duration
4 days / 3 nights
Price Per Person
Extension: Optional add-on to your itinerary.
See Itinerary
Temple Hopping And Elephant Excursions in Northern Thailand

Temple Hopping And Elephant Excursions in Northern Thailand

Duration
7 days / 6 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,000
See Itinerary
The Golden Triangle: Northern Thailand and Kengtung

The Golden Triangle: Northern Thailand and Kengtung

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
From $9,300
See Itinerary
Baan Pomphet

Baan Pomphet

Ayutthaya, Thailand

This boutique riverside hotel is an architectural gem with emphasis on chic interior design. Sense of place is ever-present, from the locally hand-crafted red bricks and ceramic wall tiles, and traditional bamboo fishing traps restyled into lamps, to rooms painted in shades of Thai herb green and jackfruit yellow. The property houses eight compact rooms, a restaurant, rooftop bar, riverfront terrace, swimming pool, and a large Bodhi tree.
Sala Ayutthaya

Sala Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya, Thailand


Visitors to historic Ayutthaya can relax in style and luxury at this exquisite boutique hotel. Ideally located in the heart of the ancient kingdom, on the banks of the mighty Chao Phraya River, facing the majestic Wat Phutthaisawan, Sala Ayutthaya is a sanctuary from which to explore. Surrounded by history and culture, guests are guaranteed comfort in the range of accommodation available at Sala Ayutthaya, from a duplex with a sweeping river view to an intimate suite with private plunge pool, guests’ every whim is catered to. What’s more, the property’s elegant restaurant, The River, so named for its unparalleled views, offers a wide range of expertly prepared traditional Thai dishes. Diners can enjoy world-class cuisine, paired with creatively crafted cocktails or superb wines, with a scenic back drop, al fresco or indoors. After a long day’s exploring and discovering Ayutthaya’s treasure, there’s no better way to unwind that with an indulgent massage at the hotel’s peaceful spa. 


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