Ayutthaya is a historical city located in central Thailand, known for its ancient ruins and rich cultural heritage. It was once the capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, which ruled much of present-day Thailand and parts of Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia between 1351 and 1767. Here are ten things to do in Ayutthaya and five interesting facts about each:
- Wat Mahathat: This temple is one of the most famous and important in Ayutthaya, and it is also known as “The Temple of the Great Relic.”
- Fact 1: Wat Mahathat was built in the 14th century and was once the residence of the Supreme Patriarch.
- Fact 2: The temple is known for its iconic image of a Buddha head entwined in the roots of a tree.
- Fact 3: Wat Mahathat was one of the most important temples in Ayutthaya and was a major center for Buddhist studies.
- Fact 4: The temple was destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767 but has since been partially restored.
- Fact 5: Wat Mahathat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Wat Ratchaburana: This temple is located near Wat Mahathat and was built in the 15th century.
- Fact 1: Wat Ratchaburana was built on the site of a royal palace and was dedicated to the memory of King Borommaracha II.
- Fact 2: The temple is known for its large central chedi (stupa) and several smaller chedis.
- Fact 3: Wat Ratchaburana was once a major center for Buddhism and was known for its impressive library.
- Fact 4: The temple was also destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767, but has since been partially restored.
- Fact 5: Wat Ratchaburana is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Wat Chaiwatthanaram: This temple is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River and was built in the 17th century.
- Fact 1: Wat Chaiwatthanaram was built by King Prasat Thong as a memorial to his mother.
- Fact 2: The temple is known for its large central chedi, which is surrounded by smaller chedis and prangs (spired towers).
- Fact 3: Wat Chaiwatthanaram was once a major center for Buddhism and was known for its impressive library.
- Fact 4: The temple was also destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767, but has since been partially restored.
- Fact 5: Wat Chaiwatthanaram is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Ayutthaya Historical Park: This park covers the ruins of the ancient city of Ayutthaya and includes many important temples and palaces.
- Fact 1: The park is located on an island in the Chao Phraya River and is surrounded by a moat.
- Fact 2: The park is home to over 50 ruined temples and palaces, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Fact 3: The park is a popular destination for history buffs, archaeologists, and Buddhist pilgrims.
- Fact 4: The park can be explored by bicycle, boat, or on foot.
- Fact 5: The park is also home to a museum that displays artifacts from the Ayutthaya period.
- Ayutthaya Boat Tour: This tour takes visitors on a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River and through the canals of the ancient city.
- Fact 1: The boat tour offers a unique perspective of the ruins and temples of Ayutthaya, as well as a glimpse into the traditional way of life along the river.
- Fact 2: Many of the boat tours include stops at important temples and palaces, such as Wat Mahathat and Wat Ratchaburana.
- Fact 3: The boat tour also passes by traditional Thai houses, floating markets, and other local sights.
- Fact 4: The boat tour can be a great way to escape the heat and see the city from a different perspective.
- Fact 5: Some of the boat tours also include sunset cruises, offering a beautiful view of the temples and ruins as the sun sets.
- Elephant Village: This elephant park offers visitors the opportunity to interact with elephants, learn about their care and conservation, and even ride on their back.
- Fact 1: The Elephant Village is located on the outskirts of Ayutthaya and is home to a herd of elephants.
- Fact 2: Visitors can feed and bathe the elephants, and take an elephant ride through the jungle.
- Fact 3: The Elephant Village is known for its ethical treatment of the elephants and for supporting conservation efforts.
- Fact 4: Visitors can also learn about the history and culture of elephants in Thailand.
- Fact 5: The park also offers traditional Thai shows and performances featuring elephants.
- Wat Phra Sri Sanphet: This temple was once the holiest temple in Ayutthaya and was located within the Royal Palace grounds.
- Fact 1: Wat Phra Sri Sanphet was built in the 14th century and was known for its three large chedis.
- Fact 2: The temple was used as a model for Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok.
- Fact 3: The temple was also destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767, but has since been partially restored.
- Fact 4: Wat Phra Sri Sanphet was the most important temple in Ayutthaya, and the kings of Ayutthaya were crowned here.
- Fact 5: Wat Phra Sri Sanphet is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Wat Lokayasutha: This temple is located on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River and was built in the 14th century.
- Fact 1: Wat Lokayasutha is known for its large reclining Buddha image, which is one of the largest in Thailand.
- Fact 2: The temple was also destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767, but has since been partially restored.
- Fact 3: Wat Lokayasutha was an important center for Buddhism and was known for its impressive library.
- Fact 4: The temple is located in a peaceful area of the city and offers a nice contrast to the more crowded temples.
- Fact 5: Wat Lokayasutha is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Cycling Tour: Ayutthaya can be explored by bicycle, offering a great way to see the city and its ruins while getting some exercise.
- Fact 1: Many of the cycling tour companies also offer guided tours, which include stops at important temples and palaces.
- Fact 2: Cycling is a great way to explore the city at your own pace and take in the sights and sounds of Ayutthaya.
- Fact 3: You can rent a bicycle or e-bike in the city.
- Fact 4: Many of the cycling tours also include stops at local markets and traditional Thai houses.
- Fact 5: cycling is eco-friendly way to explore the city and its surroundings.
- Traditional Thai Massage: Ayutthaya is home to several traditional Thai massage centers, where visitors can relax and rejuvenate.
- Fact 1: Thai massage is a unique combination of acupressure, yoga-like stretches, and reflexology.
- Fact 2: Thai massage is said to promote healing, balance, and well-being.
- Fact 3: Many of the massage centers in Ayutthaya offer traditional Thai herbal treatments and scrubs.
- Fact 4: Thai massage is often performed on a mat on the floor, rather than on a massage table.
- Fact 5: Many of the massage centers in Ayutthaya offer both traditional Thai massage and oil massage.
In conclusion, Ayutthaya is a city that offers a rich cultural heritage, ancient ruins and a lot of opportunities to explore and learn about the history of Thailand. From visiting the famous temples like Wat Mahathat and Wat Ratchaburana to taking a boat tour on the Chao Phraya River, from elephant trekking to traditional Thai massage, Ayutthaya has something for everyone. It’s a perfect place to experience the history and culture of Thailand.