Ayutthaya,Thailand

• Ayutthaya Historical Park
• Wat Mahathat (Buddha head in tree roots)
• Wat Phra Si Sanphet
• Wat Ratchaburana
• Wat Chaiwatthanaram
• Bang Pa-In Royal Palace (Summer Palace)
• Chao Sam Phraya National Museum
• Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
• Ayutthaya Floating Market
• Ayutthaya Elephant and Historical Study Centre

• Distinctive Khmer-style prang towers and large chedis
• Temple ruins framed by the Chao Phraya and Pa Sak rivers
• The famous Buddha head lodged in banyan roots at Wat Mahathat
• Riverside scenery and sunset viewpoints at Wat Chaiwatthanaram
• Mix of local Thai, Chinese, Persian and European influences in ruins and artifacts

• Temple- and ruin-hopping by bicycle, tuk-tuk or motorbike
• Boat tours on the rivers for a different perspective of the ruins
• Sunset photography at Wat Chaiwatthanaram or riverside sites
• Visiting museums (Chao Sam Phraya) to see recovered artifacts
• Sampling local food markets and the floating market
• Day trips from Bangkok or multi-day stays to explore surrounding provincial attractions

• Ayutthaya World Heritage Fair (typically November)
• Loi Krathong (November) — beautiful river lanterns and krathong floating ceremonies
• Songkran (Thai New Year, mid-April) — traditional celebrations and water festivities
• Local temple fairs and market events throughout the year

Best time: November to February (cool, dry season). Shoulder months March and October can work but may be hot or rainy. Rainy season: May to October (monsoon).

Tropical climate — hot year-round with a distinct rainy season (May–Oct) and cooler, more comfortable months (Nov–Feb). Daytime temperatures often 28–35°C (82–95°F) in hot months; cooler mornings/evenings in winter months.

Ayutthaya is about 80 km north of Bangkok — around 1–1.5 hours by car, 1.5–2.5 hours by train depending on service, or via organized minivan/bus tours. Nearest major airports are Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK). Within Ayutthaya, common local transport includes bicycles, tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis and river boats; many sites are spread out so plan transport accordingly.

A recommended stay is 1–2 days to see the main highlights; 2–3 days allows a more relaxed pace and side excursions (Bang Pa-In, local markets, bicycle tours).

Dress respectfully for temple visits: shoulders and knees covered (bring a shawl or sarong). Comfortable walking shoes or sandals, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), refillable water bottle, light rain jacket in wet season, insect repellent.

Local foods to try: boat noodles (kuay tiew ruea), grilled river prawns, roti sai mai (Ayutthaya cotton-candy sweet wrapped in a thin crepe), local curries and street snacks. Souvenirs: handcrafted ceramics, textiles, locally made sweets, Buddha amulets (remember cultural sensitivity and export rules).