Bang Pa Palace |
Ayutthaya introduction |
Wat Mahatat |
Opening Hours: Temples – 8am to 6pm, 365 days a year Admission: Temples – 50 Thai Baht per person ($1.7) Description: Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once the capital of Thailand, and one of the world’s largest cities, it has been left in ruins since being destroyed in a war with the Burmese and abandoned in 1767. The city was partially restored during the 1800s. What to see: There is a large designated archaeological park in the centre of Ayutthaya with several ruined temples and palaces. There are also museums and a well restored palace 20km to the south of the city called Bang Pa. Wat Phra Sri San Phet: The largest temple in the city built in the 14th Century. Best known for its distinctive row of chedis. Wat Yai Chai Mongkon: Built in 1357. This ruined temple features a large reclining Buddha, and a large chedi built to celebrate the victory of Prince Naresuan over the Burmese Crown Prince in a duel on elephants. Wat Mahatat: Best known for rows of headless Buddha statutes and a Buddha head in the roots of a fig tree. Chantharakasem National Museum: Museum in the former residence of King Naresuran The Great housing artefacts found in the ruined city. Bang Pa: Bang Pa is a Summer Palace 20km south of Ayutthaya, on the train line from Bangkok. Abandoned in 1767, but restored in the 1800s with a large garden added and interesting European style buildings added. Getting There: Address: Ayutthaya, 76km north of Bangkok By Train: Regular departures from Hua Lamphong train station. The journey takes 2 to 2.5 hours. By Bus: From Mo Chit bus station, Bangkok. Departures every 20 minutes up to 6pm. The journey takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Tour: Starts at 6.30am with a pick up from your hotel. You will be returned at 3pm to your hotel. The tour includes a Thai lunch, all admission fees, and the services of an English speaking guide. Click below to book. |
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