Quick Summary
The Ayutthaya ruins and temples in Thailand are fascinating, and they’re pretty easy to visit on a day trip from Bangkok!
This abandoned city from medieval Siam is home to the famous Ayutthaya Buddha tree, where you can see the head of an old Buddha statue mysteriously trapped in Banyan tree roots.
The Ayutthaya Historical Park also contains two museums, several Thai royal palaces, and numerous remarkable temples dating back to the 14th century.
This travel guide will explain how to reach Ayutthaya, Thailand from Bangkok by train (or tour), what to see in one day, and everything else you need to know before you visit!
Best Ayutthaya Tour Packages
Here are some recommended tour packages for visiting Ayutthaya from Bangkok:
- From Bangkok: Ayutthaya Day Tour With Small Group
- Ancient Ayutthaya Ruins Day Trip With Private Driver From Bangkok
- Ayutthaya & Lopburi Monkey Temple Private Day Trip
If you prefer to explore Ayutthaya independently, read on for details on how to navigate your visit without a tour!
History Of Ayutthaya
The historic city of Ayutthaya was established in 1350 as the second capital of Siam (now known as Thailand).
From the 14th to 18th centuries, the Ayutthaya kingdom emerged as a center of trade and culture, boasting a population of over 1 million, making it one of the largest cities globally at that time.
Unfortunately, the city was destroyed by the Burmese in 1767, and the ruins remained abandoned for many years thereafter.
Today, Ayutthaya is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most sought-after destinations to visit from Bangkok!
Visiting The Ayutthaya Historical Park
The Ayutthaya Historical Park features numerous ancient temples and palaces, as well as two museums.
You can conveniently explore the park by walking, as most of the attractions are within close proximity. Alternatively, consider renting a bicycle or tuk tuk for a fun way to get around.
Most visitors are particularly interested in the historic statues and captivating ruins, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past!
What To See In Ayutthaya In One Day
Here’s a concise list of some of the must-see temples and sights in Ayutthaya, ensuring a fulfilling one-day experience:
- Wat Mahathat: Home of the iconic Ayutthaya Buddha Tree, featuring a stone head ensnared in a banyan root.
- Wat Chaiwatthanaram: A premier Ayutthaya temple exhibiting four large ‘prang’ towers that date back to 1630.
- Wat Phanan Choeng: Home to a majestic golden Buddha statue crafted before the establishment of Ayutthaya.
- Wat Lokaya Sutha: Famous for its massive reclining Buddha statue made of stone, situated near the Royal Palace.
- Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon: Noteworthy Buddhist pagodas established in 1357, located outside the central island area.
Ayutthaya Buddha Tree
One of the park’s prime attractions is the famous stone Buddha face entangled in the roots of a Banyan tree.
This unique site, known as the ‘Ayutthaya Buddha Tree,’ is one of the most intriguing and photogenic locations in Thailand.
The origin of how it became lodged there remains a mystery; it’s possible the head naturally fell or was dislodged during the fall of Ayutthaya in the 18th century.
Regardless, it is now almost completely embraced by a magnificent Banyan tree that has flourished over the years since the kingdom’s decline.
Visitors are permitted to take photographs; however, it’s advised to crouch or kneel while doing so in order to show respect.
The Ayutthaya Buddha Tree is located at Wat Mahathat, and it’s essential to visit this site before departing!
Ayutthaya Dress Code
Ayutthaya enforces a modest dress code; visitors are encouraged to wear clothes covering the shoulders and knees. Unlike many other temples in Thailand, this isn’t strictly enforced.
Given that these are ruins rather than active temples, the regulations tend to be more relaxed at Ayutthaya; nonetheless, bringing a sarong for covering when necessary is advisable.
Moreover, the sun is intensely hot year-round at Ayutthaya, so it’s wise to protect your skin from sun exposure.
Ayutthaya Opening Hours
As of 2024, the following are the current opening hours for Ayutthaya:
- Open: Daily
- Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
While it’s uncertain how rigorously these hours are observed (given its popularity), early arrival could potentially allow entry before formal opening times, though this isn’t guaranteed.
Bear in mind that some temples located outside the park may operate on extended hours or even 24/7. For breathtaking sunrise or sunset photos, consider visiting temples outside the historical park.
Ayutthaya Entrance Fee
Entry to Ayutthaya Historical Park is generally free; however, most significant temples charge an entrance fee of 50 Baht (approximately $2 USD) each.
An advantageous option for visitors is to purchase a park pass covering all six main temples for 220 Baht ($7). This package is particularly useful for those touring without a guide and looking to explore multiple locations.
How Much Time To Spend In Ayutthaya Ruins
For the majority of travelers, a single day is sufficient to appreciate the highlights of Ayutthaya. However, if you wish to extend your visit, an abundance of quality accommodation in Ayutthaya is available.
If planning to linger longer, consider activities such as a river cruise, visiting the museum and elephant park, or exploring night markets.
History enthusiasts could easily spend an additional day or two uncovering the multitude of temples, as a single-day tour may feel rushed.
How To Get To Ayutthaya Ruins
The Ayutthaya Historical Park is situated on a small island encircled by rivers, approximately 80 kilometers north of Bangkok, Thailand.
Traveling to Ayutthaya can be accomplished by various means: train, bus, car, or riverboat.
• By Train
Traveling by train is one of the most cost-effective and engaging ways to reach Ayutthaya from Bangkok, although it may present some complexities.
The rapid train journey takes just under 2 hours, with fares ranging from 20, 65, to 125 Baht based on your selected class. For more information and ticket bookings, consult the State Railway of Thailand website.
Trains operate from the Hua Lamphong station in Bangkok to the Ayutthaya train station, conveniently located just east of the island.
Once you arrive, a small ferry fee allows you quick passage over to the Ayutthaya Historical Park.
• By Car/Bus
Shared bus or van transportation to Ayutthaya is simple to organize from Bangkok, with the journey via road taking about 1.5 hours.
Vans frequently depart for Ayutthaya from the Khao San area at 250 Baht ($7.50 USD), or you can catch a ride every 30 minutes from the van station at the new Bangkok Bus Terminal for 60-90 Baht (around $2-3). Note that these prices are for one-way trips.
If you prefer private transport, hiring a car and driver from Bangkok costs at least 1,600 Baht ($50 USD) for a one-way transfer to Ayutthaya. You can easily arrange this private transfer at the Bangkok airport.
• By River Boat
Finally, several companies in Bangkok offer Ayutthaya boat tours along the scenic Chao Phraya river.
You can book a river cruise with one of the local hotels or street vendors in Bangkok, or consider exploring options online.
Where We Stayed
During our trip, we stayed at Nina Guesthouse in Bangkok, where we paid $27 USD for a comfortable double room equipped with cold A/C, hot shower, and reliable WiFi.
Though it wasn’t the least expensive option during our travels in Thailand, the location was ideal. The vibrant Khao San Road was a mere 3-minute walk away, alongside numerous excellent restaurants and shops.
Additionally, all prominent temples we wished to visit were conveniently reachable by foot or a brief Grab ride. Prices may vary occasionally, so it’s advisable to keep an eye out for good deals.
