Ayutthaya Historical Park encompasses the remains of the former city of Ayutthaya, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Region, Thailand. King Ramathibodi I established the city of Ayutthaya in 1351. The Burmese, in 1569, captured the city. As a result of the plunder, the city experienced the loss of numerous significant and artistic objects. Until the Burmese Army took control of the country in 1767, the city served as its proud capital.
About Ayutthaya Historical Park
In 1991, a portion of Ayutthaya Historical Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site under criterion III as a remarkable testament to the era of development of an authentic national Thai art. The historical area covered only 289 ha of the central and southwestern parts of Ayutthaya Island; therefore, only specific groups of historical sites are under UNESCO protection. The sites include Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, Wat Phra Slam, and Wiharn Phra Mongkhon Bopit. The sites that are not part of World Heritage sites are the sites beyond Ayutthaya Island, for example, Wat Yai Chai Mongkon, Wat Phanan Choeng, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, and Wat Phu Khao Thong.
Required Reading: New Year Celebration In Thailand: What’s Your Choice In 2022?
Optimal Time To Visit Ayutthaya Historical Park
The period from November to February is the ideal time to visit Ayutthaya. The months of March to May are the hottest, and due to extensive dress restrictions, it is not advisable to plan a trip here. June to September is very rainy, and sightseeing becomes dull. From November to February, there is no rain, and the weather is pleasant for tourists to venture out and explore the city.
Accommodation Options at Ayutthaya Historical Park
At Ayothaya Riverside Inn Ayutthaya you’ll be 0.7 km (0.5 mi) from Ayutthaya Genuine Stop and 3.5 km (2.2 mi) from Wat Ratchaburana. Highlights at this accommodation involve a restaurant and free self-parking.
At Ayutthaya Waterway View Inn you’ll be 2.4 km (1.5 mi) from Wat Ratchaburana and 2.4 km (1.5 mi) from Ayutthaya Historical Stop. Highlights at this inn include an open-air swimming pool and in-room Complimentary wireless internet.
At Ayutthaya Place, you’ll be 1.7 km (1.1 mi) from Wat Ratchaburana and 2 km (1.2 mi) from Ayutthaya Authentic Stop. Highlights at this guest house include free continental breakfast and free self-parking.
Activities To Do In Ayutthaya Historical Park
1. Explore Bang Pa-In Summer Palace
Constructed during the reign of King Prasat Thong (1629-1656), this riverside palace complex (20km south of Ayutthaya) is set in a stunning landscaped lake garden that was once an island itself. The royal chronicle recorded only one building – Aisawan Thiphaya-art Royal Residence – during King Prasat Thong’s time.
2. Chao Sam Phraya National Museum
This double-decker gallery houses the majority of the discovered artifacts from Wat Ratchaburana and other temples across Ayutthaya. The primary floor showcases Buddha images in various poses and styles, as well as ceramic goods and small currency of the era. The second floor displays a collection of gold ornaments, coffins containing the Buddha’s relics, carved wooden door panels, and similar treasures. Apart from the main building, the second exhibition hall presents religious artifacts and art pieces from earlier periods such as Dvaravadhi, Sukhothai, Lopburi, Sriwichai, and Chiang Saen, for the purpose of comparative studies. The third exhibition area features traditional Thai houses from the local region and a collection of ordinary artifacts from the Rattanakosin Period.
3. Chan Kasem Palace
This enclosed palace complex at the junction of the Dad Sak and Lopburi Rivers was the royal residence of King Naresuan the Great in 1577 and several subsequent crown princes. However, the buildings you see are a reconstruction of the old palace, as it was accidentally burnt down during King Boromakot’s reign (1733-1758). Today, the palace is a museum with permanent exhibits on the history of the Ayutthaya Kingdom and personal artifacts of King Rama IV, who commissioned the construction of the new palace structures.
Planning your vacation in Thailand but confused about what to do? These Thailand travel stories help you find your perfect trip ever!
Authentic travel stories. Authentic accommodations. Useful tips to help you make the right choice.
