Points of Interest in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

An Overview of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya is the old capital of Thailand, the Kingdom of Siam.  It is the largest, densest temple district in the entire nation, with dozens of ruins, preserved buildings and vital historic sites. The ancient capital can be visited by driving an hour north of Bangkok, making it an enormously popular day trip activity. There are many compelling points of interest in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.

Points of Interest in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

The Royal Palace of Ayutthaya

These are the immense and well-preserved imperial grounds for the old Thai royalty.  The opulent district is well-maintained and beautiful, with dozens of structures, plaza spaces, holy sites, decorated walls and rooms still recognizable or intact.

Ayutthaya Historical Park

Many of the old capital ruins of the nation are clustered here.  The area contains a vast network of stone and jungle. which are spread across the land at this dedicated UNESCO site.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

This is a wonderful temple facing the inner-city ruins while set across the river.  It’s one of the greatest examples of intact Khmer architecture in the known world.  The central ring of temples signifies the center of the rotating universe.

Ayothaya Floating Market

This is a popular commercial and local attraction which floats upon the local river. There are many food stalls showcasing culinary art from all across Thailand.

Wat Yai Chai Mongkol

This enormous temple is an example of prime Buddhist art.  There is a large and famous Buddha statue located here, overseeing the temple grounds designed to house the city’s monks.

Wat Muang Monastery

Located to the north of the city, this is the largest golden Buddha statue in all of Thailand.  It is also the ninth tallest in the world.

Wat Mahathat

Wat Mahathat contains the enormous ruins of another well-preserved Buddhist Temple in Central Thailand. The site is possibly one of Ayutthaya’s oldest temples, perhaps built by King King Boromaraja.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Once the holiest site in the Old Royal Palace, this grand temple was destroyed by the Burmese in 1767.  The new temple is a recreation modeled after archeologist reconstructions.

Wat Ratchaburana

This is a huge Buddhist temple with a large central tower.  Within the temple grounds are the semi-crushed remains of enormous Buddhist-head carvings.

Wat Phra Ram

Wat Phra Ram contains a network of large, sprawling 13th-century temple complexes. Many are in a state of disrepair.

Wat Phanan Choeng

This is a famed riverside temple with an enormous golden Buddha on a floral and gilded jar alter.

Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit

In sharp contrast to the various ruins of the region, Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit is a beautiful modern temple with a sweeping red and gold roof and stately white walls.

Bang Pa-In Palace

This was once the summer palace for Thai royalty but now exists as a preserved complex with large reflecting pools and quiet corners of gardens for contemplation.

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