Ayutthaya

Authentische, lokale Erlebnisse

Information about Ayutthaya

Sightseeing in Ayutthaya

The city of Ayutthaya is located about 80 kilometers north of Bangkok on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. In the past, Ayutthaya was the capital of the Kingdom of Siam and flourished as a center for global diplomacy and trade. However, the city fell victim to the Burmese army and was burned to the ground. Nowadays, the ruins of Ayutthaya have been restored and form the Ayutthaya Historical Park, an archaeological site of palaces, Buddhist temples, and monasteries. The city has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991.

Particularly worth seeing are the royal temple Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, with its steep steps and three magnificent towers which were once gold-plated; and the Buddhist monastery Wat Maha That, once the spiritual center of the old kingdom.

The best time to travel to Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya can be visited all year round. The best travel time is between November and February when temperatures are below 30 ° C. In March and April, it gets relatively hot. From May to October, you can expect regular rain showers.

Eating in Ayutthaya

Sweet or sour, Ayutthaya has a lot to offer in terms of taste. The city is famous for its giant river prawns. These are about 30cm long, cut in half, grilled and served with a spicy seafood sauce. A delicacy!

Also typical are the so-called boat noodles, noodle soup with fish or meatballs. Where does the name come from? The soup was originally served from small canoes by the river and on the canals.

And if you are in the mood for something sweet, you should try Roti Sai Mai, a Thai dessert made from sweet roti and cotton candy, which has its origins in the ancient city. Our tip: Watching the street vendors prepare the Roti Sai Mai is an experience in itself! One of the most photographed places in Ayutthaya is Wat Phra Mahathat, a large stone Buddha head grown into a deeply rooted tree. How exactly the head ended up there remains a mystery to this day.

The best time to visit Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya can be visited all year round. The best travel time is between November and February, when temperatures are below 30 ° C. In March and April it gets relatively hot and from May to October you can expect regular rain showers.

Interesting facts about Ayutthaya

ancient capital of the kingdom of Siam

around 400 temples and 3 palaces have were built here

was burned down by the Burmese in 1767, almost all Buddha statues beheaded to brake the Thais spirit

part of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage

Pictures of Ayutthaya

Highlights in Ayutthaya

Giant River Prawns

Savoring the Taste of Ayutthaya: Where the Giant River Prawns, a Culinary Jewel of the River, Offer a Delectable Escape into the Rich Flavors and Time-Honored Traditions of Thai Cuisine, Celebrating the Bounty of Waters that Nourish this Historic Land.

Thai State Sleeper Train NO.9 overnight chiangmai

Overnight Train to Chiang Mai

The overnight sleeper train number 9 from Bangkok to Chiang Mai was introduced in 2016 and offers first and second class cabins to ensure a comfortable ride. The train is powered electrically, making the journey pleasantly quiet. It is equipped with on board Wi-Fi and air conditioning. Every bunk bed has its own flat screen television, power plugs and a curtain for privacy.

Moreover, the train boosts a restaurant cart where passengers can mingle and sample freshly cooked Thai food. It is a pleasant journey through rolling plains and the rice fields of central Thailand. Asiaventura recommends waking up early to enjoy the sunrise on board, a unique experience and great photo opportunities.

Thailand's railway system connects almost the whole country. Local trains, especially the third class seats, are very affordable. Thais use them to travel to their home provinces or to commute to work. Sellers of fruits and snacks frequent the carriage, ensuring that passengers never go hungry. Construction of Bangkok's new main train station was completed in early 2021, it is the largest in South East Asia, called Bang Sue Grand.

Wat Mahathat

Wat Mahathat in Ayutthaya, once a spiritual center of the powerful Ayutthaya Kingdom, stands as a hauntingly beautiful reminder of impermanence, with its prang (reliquary tower) and head of a Buddha statue entwined in the roots of a banyan tree symbolizing the enduring nature of faith amidst the ruins of time.