Top 10 Must Do’s
Historical and Majestic
Highlights
Serving as the Thai
capital for 417 years (1350 - 1767), Ayutthaya was once glorified as one of the
biggest cities in Southeast Asia. Visitors can explore and appreciate Thai
history in Ayutthaya. Marvel at the grandeur reflected through numerous magnificent
structures and ruins concentrated in and around the city island, and surrounded
by Chao Phraya, Pa Sak and Lopburi Rivers. Right in the very heart of the
Ayutthaya city is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya Historical
Park.
1. The ancient
splendor of Ayutthaya Historical Park
The Ayutthaya
Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, covers the ruins of the old
city of Ayutthaya, founded by King Ramathibodi in 1350. The old city was
Thailand’s capital until 1767. Historic temples are scattered throughout this
once magnificent city. Principle sights include the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Si
Sanphet - the Royal Chapel, and Wat Mahathat – the Temple of the Great Relic.
Renting a bicycle and chartering a long-tail boat allows you to absorb the
attractions up close.
2. Spend a day in
the Bang Pa-In Palace
A few miles down the
Chao Phraya River is the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace. The site was first used by
the royal court as a summer retreat in the 17th century. The structures
represent a variety of architectural styles, set in a large park around ponds
and waterways. Bang Pa-In Palace is usually included in a day trip excursion
from Bangkok to Ayutthaya.
3. Handmade works
of art at the Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Center
Farmers from Ayutthaya
and from all over the country undergo training in folk arts and crafts here. At
this center, you will have a glimpse of how farmers in the four regions live
and work, as well as how their art products are produced. Get yourself a few
pieces of weaving baskets, hand-woven silk and cotton, Thai dolls, and many
more.
4. Ride a boat and
explore 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. Its great beauty is reflected from the main stupa
and its satellite stupas along the gallery. A long-tailed boat trip is available
from Chankasem Palace Pier.
5. River cruise:
the best way to see the best of Ayutthaya
River cruises to
Ayutthaya not only reveal the beauty and lifestyle of the people along the Chao
Phraya River, but also reflect the life at the time of Ayutthaya Kingdom, when
the Chao Phraya River served as a channel for trade. Several companies operate luxury
cruises to Bang Pa-In, with side trips by bus to Ayutthaya. Longer two-day
trips are also available by converted rice barges with the more eco, agro and
cultural activities incorporated
6. Celebrate a
milestone at the Ayutthaya World Heritage Fair / Light & Sound
A celebration is held
annually in December to commemorate the declaration of the Ayutthaya Historical
Park as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1991. The fair features local ways
of life, handicrafts, Thai traditions and culture, as well as a light and sound
presentation on the Kingdom of Ayutthaya’s history.
7. Romp and walk
side by side with elephants
Enjoy elephant riding,
shows, and feeding during your Ayutthaya vacation. A trip fording the stream
and visiting ancient monuments, as well as a hands-on experience working,
playing, and taking care of retired elephants will enhance your experience of a
lifetime.
8. Discover Thai's
cultural roots at the Ayutthaya Historical Study Center, Ayutthaya Tourism
Center and the National Art Museum
If time is limited,
visit either Ayutthaya Historical Study Center, which is both a research
institute and a museum, or Ayutthaya Tourism Center (ATC), where visitors can
enjoy exhibitions and a video presentation on Ayutthaya’s history, tourism,
architecture and lifestyle. Explore more at the National Art Museum and the
Ayothaya Contemporary Art Gallery within the ATC.
9. Bring Ayutthaya
back home
Palm leaf fish mobiles,
bamboo fans, palm leaf hats, miniature crafts, and Aranyik knives are
Ayutthaya’s typical products. There are numerous shops selling all kinds of
local products at the grounds in front of Wihan Phara Mongkhon Bophit and Wat
Phananchoeng.
10. Dine with a
spectacular view in Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya is famed for
its boat noodle soup. This special authentic noodle soup is still served in
some eateries where the counters are shaped like boats. Riverside restaurants
are ideal places to enjoy local specialties, all with an amazing view of the river.
Some establishments even offer their own dining cruise service. For a great
snack, try Roti Sai Mai, which is known as the best sweet roti in Thailand.
"thank you"
source: http://www.tat-la.com/destinations/ayutthaya