Hotel & Tours Group

Former capital of the Kingdom of Siam, Ayutthaya surrendered its status a few centuries ago. It has gone on to become one of Thailand's leading historical sites, with an incredible collection of ruins in the city center. Many visitors arrive from Bangkok by bus or train and find accommodation in Ayutthaya along the popular Naresuan Road (see Map Ayutthaya).

Ayutthaya was founded here on a bend of the Chao Phraya River in the mid-14th century. The Burmese laid siege in the 1767, and it took more than a year for the city to fall. While much of Ayutthaya's grandeur was lost, the ruins that remain are timeless, and yet hint at the kingdom's former power.

The main tourist attractions in Ayutthaya are on the 'island' formed by a bend in the river. The historical park here was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its rambling temples and majestic Buddha images. Tourists can explore the park on foot or by bicycle, pausing in quiet corners to reflect. The spires (called prangs) standing over the park are reminiscent of ancient Cambodia, and some even liken Ayutthaya to a scaled-down version of Angkor Wat.

Tourists can enjoy a range of activities in Ayutthaya. Most hotels on the riverside rent out bicycles, and there are many routes following the river and exploring the park. Elephant riding around the ruins is also popular and for lovers of pachyderms, the Ayutthaya Elephant Camp is a must on the itinerary.

Most tourists arrive in Ayutthaya by train from Bangkok, a trip of around 90 minutes. Ayutthaya train station is east of the city center, and getting from here to the hotels in Ayutthaya requires a short walk and a ferry ride across the river (see Map Ayutthaya).