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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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This nine-day itinerary will introduce you to the beauty and history of Northern Thailand. Visit authentic Lanna towns and traditional villages on the Sakae Krang River, explore a multitude of temples and ancient ruins, and spend a day interacting with elephants.
See the contrast of two cultures as they’re juxtaposed before your eyes on this 16-day luxury journey through Thailand’s Bangkok and Bhutan. You’ll compare the glimmering Grand Palace and Wat Arun to the ancient architecture of Bhutan’s monasteries, raft the Mo Chu river, and spend nights at the luxurious Amankora.
Spend 4 luxurious days getting acquainted with Thailand’s busy capital and surrounding quieter areas. Kanchanaburi is only a 2-hour trip from the bustling city but feels a world away. The well-preserved ancient ruins of Ayutthaya are a must-see in addition to Bangkok’s fantastic cultural and historical sites.
This seven-day itinerary will introduce you to the startling natural beauty and historic ruins that Northern Thailand has to offer. Journey from the vibrant bustle of Bangkok to sleepy villages on the Sakae Krang river and explore the myriad of Buddhist temples scattered around Chiang Mai.
Discover the differences between Thailand and Myanmar as the two countries are juxtaposed on this unique 11-day luxury voyage from Northern Thailand to Kengtung, Myanmar. You’ll go from petting tigers in Chiang Mai, to trekking through a Chiang Rai tea plantation, to meeting members of the Loi tribe in Kengtung.
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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