4 km
from city center 1 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Ayutthaya Historical Park is located on the ruins of the ancient capital of Ayutthaya. Though it was destroyed partially by a Burmese invasion, it still hold many wonders and has examples of pristine architechture. The history and culture of 35 kings who ruled from here can be felt by those who visit the historical park.

3 km
from city center 2 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Wat Mahathat, also known as the temple of the great relics, is the place where Buddha relics were enshrined. The Supreme Patriarch, or the Holy Father sat here and commanded his disciples. The temple is said to have nearly identical structures to those in the Ankgor temple complex in Cambodia.

3 km
from city center 3 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Wat Phra Si Sanphet is a significant historical temple. Considered to be the most important temple for the ancient royal family, Wat Phra Si Sanphet boasts of sculptures brought back from the famed Ankgor Wat in Cambodia.

6 km
from city center 4 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Wat Chaiwatthanaram, located in Ayutthaya, Thailand is a renowned Buddhist Temple constructed according to the Khmer style. It was predominately a royal temple where the king, along with the rest of the royal family, worshipped in private. The holy shrine is situated opposite the South Western end of the highly popular Ayutthaya Historical Park. Tourists enjoying a boat trip on the Chao Phraya river can view the impressive Wat Chaiwatthanaram from afar as well.

15 km
from city center 5 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The former residence of Thai Kings, Bang Pa-In Palace was built way back in 1632. Also known as the Summer Palace, it was properly restored and constructed by King Chulalongkorn Rama V in the 1880s. The building is made in a very European style. Nowadays, the palace is only used for a few royal ceremonies and is otherwise open for visitors. It is a beautiful piece of architecture and a good way to escape from the summer heat.

2 km
from city center 6 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

A retirement home for elephants, the Elephant Stay engages everyone there in ensuring the old elephants get the best possible care and comfort. It is operated under an NGO which is trying to get a safe and happy home for the non-working ageing population of Thailand's elephants. One has the opportunity to ride, feed, bathe and water their own elephants. All the income collected here goes towards the welfare of the big guys.

2 km
from city center 7 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Wat Ratchaburana is one of the most important monasteries in Ayutthaya. Known as the “temple of royal restoration,” the beautiful architecture of the 14th-century sanctuary lay in ruins until the Department of Fine Arts, Thailand undertook the extensive restoration of the site. Situated in the proximity of Wat Mahathat as well as the Royal Palace, this temple is thought to be the most ancient monastery in the province of Ayutthaya.

4 km
from city center 8 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The Krungsri Market is one of the most popular weekend night markets in Thailand. People often come here to enjoy a cheerful ambience, lounging by long bamboo tables next to a little L-shaped pond called Bueng Phraram and sampling the local cuisine. They also enjoy shopping for little souvegnirs and watching some local shows, including martial arts.

3 km
from city center 9 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon also referred to as the Mongkhon, is one of the primary temples found within the Ayutthaya Island. This particular temple is found to be located to the Southeast of the island and has been restored many times since its construction during the 14th century. Evidence of a vast moat surrounding the temple indicates it as one of the chief places of worship in the region. Although found to be ruined partially, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is functioning to date with several monks being housed within the building. It is possible to view the Thai style quarters of the monks within its premises today as well. The local populace also makes sure to worship at the temple regularly making it extremely crowded on weekends. The numerous chedis or monuments bear witness to its historical origins.

3 km
from city center 10 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The Chao Sam Phraya National Museum exhibits various artefacts and historic Buddha images that were discovered in ancient times. The museum features an impressive array of valuables, with two rooms even dedicated to gold artefacts.

3 km
from city center 11 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Built in the early phase of the Ayutthaya period, Wat Na Phra Men is also famously called the Monastery In Front Of the Funeral Pyre. A stunning place for worship with an extremely important history attached to it, it has one of the few unique images and statues of Buddha, which is a huge crowd puller. The temple is still active and conducts ceremonies as and when required. The architecture of this cultural heritage is no less an aspect of wonder, one that reflects the period it was built in. Wat Na Phra Men was registered as a National Historic Site in 1935.

4 km
from city center 12 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The Portuguese Settlement, also called Campos Portugues, in Ayutthaya was once home to thousands of Portuguese natives. Located just a few hours outside Bangkok, it is now fairly isolated but well-maintained by the government. You’ll get a glimpse of the Portuguese role in Ayutthaya’s weaponry, skills, and trading history through displays and pictures. There’s also a church that still stands. As there isn’t much else to do here, the Portuguese settlement will primarily appeal to history buffs eager to learn more or travellers with Portuguese roots.

1 km
from city center 13 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The Ayutthaya Floating Market is one of the few destinations that is not centred around tourism. In fact, a lot of Thai locals themselves frequent the place, and not just for shopping. The activities and vibrancy of the market are what makes it unique, feeling more like a fair than your typical floating market. Covering a sprawling stretch of 70 acres, the Ayutthaya Floating market is a lot beyond being a mere source of entertainment and shopping. There are around 50 boats and 200 shops in the market. It preserves the scenic beauty, culture and heritage of the place, serving as a fun yet extremely informative place. One can feed the fish with a bottle, water buffaloes with some grass and genuinely lose themselves in the hubbub of daily life.

3 km
from city center 14 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

A versatile and unique temple complex, the Wat Thammikarat in Ayutthaya is certainly a maze runner waiting to be discovered and explored. It is an active monastery, so one can also experience the working of the traditional monastic order and Thai rituals and traditions. The reclining Buddha image at the temple has been revered and worshipped by generations of Thai people. The holy bathwater is believed to have previously cured several people of illnesses and ill luck.

3 km
from city center 15 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Wat Phanan Choeng is one of the spectacular Buddhist temples found within the Historical Park of Ayutthaya. It differs from the other temples in the vicinity by being a living monastery that still follows the doctrine of Buddhist faith with people worshipping the statue of the sitting Buddha. Believed to have been constructed in the latter half of the 14th century, the ruins reveal an opulence and deep spirituality. Wat Phanan Choeng is most known for an enormous gilded statue of Lord Buddha in the traditional Mara or sitting posture. Legend has it that the statue shed tears during the rampage by the Burmese army in 1767 just before the temple was ransacked and looted of its possessions. The most scenic view of the temple is apparent from a riverboat on the Pa Sak River flowing along the region. The ancient temple also includes a pier for boats making it convenient to reach it by water.

4 km
from city center 16 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The Million Toy Museum, located on Uthong Road near Wat Banomyong in the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya district, is a unique museum housing a collection of toys, both modern and antique, in a two-storey colourful building. This beautiful place of amusement has been designed into sections like the past and the present. Few best of exhibits at this museum are life-size statues of Ultraman, Superman, Atom-Boy, And Yoda from Star Wars. The Million Toy Museum has a souvenir shop inside for tourists to buy mementoes of the museum from. There is also a coffee shop which is very cosy and a lovely restaurant right outside the museum along with a beautiful garden around it.

4 km
from city center 17 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Located near the old Royal Palace and Wat Phra Si Sanphet in Ayutthaya, Wat Lokayasutharam is the site of the largest reclining Buddha statue in Ayutthaya. It is 8 metres tall, 37 metres across and built entirely out of brick giving the temple the epithet of the "Temple of the Reclining Buddha". The statue is placed among several ruins which gives it a touch of extra beauty as the only complete structure in the whole area.

2 km
from city center 18 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Chedi Wat Sam Pluem is the bell shaped chedi that welcomes you into the old city of Ayutthaya. The rest of the adjoining monastery has been cleared away for the construction of roads, but back in the day it was part of an important canal system from where locals could go directly to a lot of other temple complexes.

4 km
from city center 19 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Part of a Japanese compound in the past, the Japanese Village or “Baan Yippon” is an exhibition of videos and artefacts, displaying the lifestyle and history of Japanese emigrants in Ayutthaya. The village is a lens into the dynamic and rich history of Ayutthaya's migrants. It is a haven for history buffs and photographers alike. Now, an everlasting symbol of the 130 (and more) years of diplomatic friendship between the nations of Japan and Thailand, the Japanese Village is a must inclusion in every Ayutthaya travel itinerary.

3 km
from city center 20 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The Ayutthaya Ferry Boat connects the old city to the main railway station. It runs every few minutes and the boatmen always slow down for you whenever a passenger raises their camera. It's a great way to experience life on the Chao Praya river. The ferry boat in Ayutthaya covers the distance between the railway station and the chaw-prom market.

5 km
from city center 21 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Amidst a sprawling garden along the banks of Chao Phraya, lies the grand and bright yellow building of Saint Joseph Catholic Church. There is a Catholic school right next to the church, which is why it's always bustling with noise and energy. The St Joseph Church is considered to be one of the oldest churches in Thailand. It was built on request by the Vietnamese missionaries who were headed by French bishop Lambert De La Motte. Since the church is within the premises of a school, it mostly remains closed. However, the main building opens for the mass on Saturdays and Sundays, during particular timings.

3 km
from city center 22 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Wat Suwandararam, the 'Temple of the Golden Star', is one of the surviving ancient temples in the UNESCO recognized World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya. Famed for its exquisite mural paintings, magnificent architecture and grandeur, the temple has served as an important symbol of legitimacy for the rulers of the Chakri dynasty. It continues to be revered by generations of Thai nationals, civilians and royals alike.

5 km
from city center 23 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

A one-of-a-kind temple, the Wat Phu Khao Thong or 'Monastery of the Golden Mount' located in Ayutthaya is unique for the diversity it offers to its viewers! Take the stairs to the top, and bask in the environs of the temple, with views of surrounding mosques, paddy fields, kampongs and the dynamic diasporic diversity that Ayutthaya has to offer. The temple is attached to a small monastery. Therefore, one can partake in and see the monks going about their daily business.

3 km
from city center 24 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Located along the Chao Phraya river close to the Tambon Suan Phlu shipyard in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province in Thailand, Baan Hollanda or the Dutch Quarters is a significant site among the great ruins of the ancient capital of Ayutthaya. Renamed as the Baan Hollanda Museum in 2013, the Dutch compound is a museum that showcases antiques and small information boards reciting the history when the Dutch made a former trade relationship with the Siam society in the 18th and 17th century.

4 km
from city center 25 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Nestled in the historical park of Ayutthaya close to the Grand Palace, Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit is a temple compound that magnetizes hordes of visitors with a compelling historical statue. It is famous for encompassing one of the biggest Buddha statues in Thailand and the oldest Buddha statue in Ayutthaya city - a 17-metre tall bronze gilded statue, said to be carved by the King Chairachathirat himself, after the death of his son. Legend has it that once the statue was moved from its original location to its current place, a bolt of lightning struck it and its head once fell off.

5 km
from city center 26 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Wat Phutthaisawan is one of the most magnificent temples in Ayutthaya, located on the west bank of Chao Phraya River, opposite Koh Mueang. It was a monastery built to commemorate the founding of the first capital city of Ayutthaya and was sanctioned by the first king of the Ayutthaya kingdom, King Somdet Phra Ramathibodhi I. As per his orders, it was built on the location where his ministers and he used to stay before the city was established.

2 km
from city center 27 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The Thai Boat Musuem is a private establishment owned by a Mr. Ajarn Paitoon Khawmala. Mr Khawmala felt a spiritual bond with Thai-styled boats and as a teacher in the Shipbuilding Technical School, decided to share his love for boatbuilding with the world.

1 km
from city center 28 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The Chantharakasem National Museum is housed within the former royal palace of King Naresuan the Great, the most renowned of the Ayutthaya kings. It features the personal effects of King Mongkut, who rebuilt the palace after a Burmese invasion had destroyed parts of it. The pavilion is made up of the King's private chambers and the Throne Hall.

1 km
from city center 29 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Wat Maheyong is a Buddhist monastery located just outside and on the Eastern end of the ancient city of Ayutthaya. The monastery lies in ruins although it had been restored several times in history. Believed to have been constructed as a meditation center in the 15th century, the red brick walls remain visible from afar. It has been declared as a national historical site by the “Fine Arts Department” of Thailand with the Buddhist monks being encouraged to preside over religious ceremonies held at the ordination hall (ubosot) during auspicious periods.

0 km
from city center 30 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The bell shaped Chedi Phra Sri Suriyothai is said to contain the ashes of the late Queen Suriyothai. Though the public is not allowed access inside, one can admire the gold gilded spire from outside. It was built on the mouth of an old canal which has since been filled and converted to a road. Queen Suriyothai, to this day remains an icon of Thai culture for her famed bravery in battle.

3 km
from city center 31 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Wat Phra Ram is a ruin located close to the former grand palace, over a swamp. It is built at the same place that King Rathibodi I was cremated in 1369. The construction was sanctioned by his son, and is said to be the first temple constructed after his death. Though the treasuries of the monastery have long been looted, they once held large amounts of the King's own belongings and treasures.

5 km
from city center 32 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The biggest shopping complex in northern Thailand, Ayutthaya City Park is a sprawling modern complex in the city of Ayutthaya. Its contemporary design sets it apart, and it stands in sharp contrast to the quaint old charm of the rest of the town. It’s a beautiful place to get away from the heat in the afternoons and spend a few hours shopping and relaxing. Its minimal modern design, open spaces and fountains give it a calm, beautiful vibe.

3 km
from city center 33 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

If you are planning to explore Ayutthaya, this should be the first place to visit as you will find all the relevant details about the places in and around this town. The tourist information centre is on the ground floor where you can find free maps and staff who will help you plan your vacation. Upstairs there’s a museum displaying the history and recommended tourist attractions of Ayutthaya. A video showing the entire history will be displayed at the end of the hall. Outside this building are six statues of brave kings and the queen of the Ayutthaya kingdom.

5 km
from city center 34 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Situated towards nothern Ayutthaya, The King Naresuan Monument was constructed after being sanctioned by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit in memory of the bravery of King Naresuan. One of the most revered monarchs in Thai history of Thailand, King Naresuan, also known as 'Naresuan the Great' or 'Sanphet II' is said to have freed the Ayutthaya kingdom from Burmese control. Surrounded by lush green parks and a reservoir, the monument houses the King Naresuan museum as well.

1 km
from city center 35 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Wat Kudi Dao, also known as “Wat Kudee Dao” or “Wat Kudidao”, is a restored ruin of a Buddhist monastery in Ayutthaya district. Dubbed the Monastery of the Star Dormitory, restoration work began in 1711 and was completed in 1715. The temple was the residence of an important priest called Phra Then Muni who advised Prince Borommkot, the leader who had overlooked the restoration work.

5 km
from city center 36 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The ancient temple of Wat Tha Ka Rong is located on the banks of Chao Phraya River near the city of Ayutthaya. This quaint little temple was built in the middle Ayutthaya period by merging two existing temples named Wat Tha and Wat Ka Rong which were both built around 1549.

4 km
from city center 37 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The semi-ruined temple is mainly famous for its biggest chedi, surrounded by a ring of elephant statues. That is why Wat Chang translates to "A Temple Surrounded by Elephants". It is said that a king had once discovered Buddha relics buried in the ground here, so he dug them up, paid homage to them, and buried them back right in. He then ordered the construction of a chedi over it which is the Wat Chang you see today.

3 km
from city center 38 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Every king and prince of the Ayutthayan period has lived in the Old Royal Palace. The palace is divided into three main circular compounds each a subset of the other. The governement offices and royal courts were located in the premises of the central compound. It now houses the temple of Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and several marvellous examples of old Ayutthayan style architechture.

7 km
from city center 39 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The Queen Suriyothai Monument is a dedication to the royal consort of King Maha Chakkraphat. According to the stories, she gave up her life to protect her husband. It features a large elephant with the Queen on it, surrounded by his guards. Situated in the middle of a lake approximately six kilometers north of Ayutthaya, this is a rather popular recreational site for locals.

3 km
from city center 40 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Set up in collaboration with the Japanese, the Ayuthaya Historical Study Centre was created to celebrate the 100 years of bilateral relations between Japan and Thailand, as well as their connection to each other through history. The study centre, focused on research, features museums which bring to life the old cultures and traditions of the Ayutthayan times, using modern techniques to present them in an easy and understandable way.

4 km
from city center 41 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The Ayutthaya National Art Museum has a small but lively art and historical exhibit, with students from the nearby university acting as local English guides. The artwork is not just set in the historical context but has a significant touch of modern art as well resulting in a culmination of the old and new right under one roof. One can take away some exquisite free postcards given away there.

3 km
from city center 42 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Pom Phet Fortress is one of the only two remaining fortresses (out of 16) along the city walls. This fortress was never breached in war time, serving the important purpose of inspecting all foreign trade ships entering the kingdom. It now serves as a public park.

2 km
from city center 43 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Located on the banks of the Pa Sak River Wat Pichai Songkram is a beautiful Buddhist monastery that dates back to the 14th century. Several monks reside here even today. The current name ‘Wat Pichai Songkram’ meaning ‘Temple of War Victory’ was bestowed on this monastery in honour of King Taskin and his troops, who won over the Burmese invaders.

1 km
from city center 44 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Situated in eastern Ayutthaya, Wat Samana Kottharam is an active monastery featuring the giant statue of Buddha in a ‘Halting evil’ pose. There is a now defunct major canal system that passed along the front of the temple.

5 km
from city center 45 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Wat Kasatrathirat Worawihan is an active monastery used by the Buddhist clergy. While most of the buildings of the complex are relatively modern, it has a history that dating back all the way to the 15th century. Destroyed by attacks, it has been restored multiple times.

3 km
from city center 46 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

King U-Thong Monument was built by a governor of the province, who wanted to ward off misfortune by paying homage to the founder of the entire Ayutthayan kingdom. All residents of Ayutthaya gather at the statue every year on April 3rd and celebrate the first king of the Kingdom. Garbed in royal attire this sword-bearing structure faces the location where his mortal remains were buried.

2 km
from city center 47 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

The Pridi Banomyong Memorial is a dedication to its namesake Pridi Banomyong, one of Thailand's most politicians who was born in Ayutthaya. The memorial consists of two very traditional Thai houses on the banks of the Khlong Muang in the old city of Ayutthaya.

0 km
from city center 48 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Wat Yanasen or Wat Yanusen is a Buddhist temple located on U-Thong Road towards the North of the city island called Koh Muang. It is a short walk from the famous Buddhist temple Wat Phra Mahathat in Ayutthaya. The exact date of the temple's construction is unknown, but some manuscripts mention that a Royal Treasury during the reign of the Ayutthaya Empire

4 km
from city center 49 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Wat Phanom Yong officially translates to "The Temple of the Wet Nurse Yong". The still-active monastery initially built on a garden owned by a King's wet nurse was eventually built by the latter in her honour. Although abandoned after the fall of the Ayutthayan empire, it was maintained by the Yong family.

0 km
from city center 50 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Wat Borom Phuttharam also called Wat Borom Buddharam is a Buddhist temple on the southeast side of the city of Ayutthaya. King Phet Racha was built on the Rajabhat University grounds in 1689, that underwent some major renovations during the reign of King Borommakot.

6 km
from city center 51 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Translating to the "Temple of the Magnificent Buddha Images", the construction of the Wat Phra Ngam is said to have unearthed many Pre-Ayutthayan sculptures of crouching deer, bronze Buddha and earthen Buddha. Since the King was most pleased with the earthen Buddha sculptures, the Wat came to be dedicated to Buddha images. The National Museum houses some of the artefacts from here as well.

4 km
from city center 52 out of 57
Things To Do in Ayutthaya

Wat Worachettharam is a dilapidated Buddhist temple located to the west of the Royal Palace in Ayutthaya. Thought to have been built to guard the ashes of King Naresuan, the bell-shaped stupa and a seated Buddha at its base define the whole place. A large sermon hall is the only structure more or less still intact.