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Ayuthaya, 86 km north of Bangkok, was the capital of old Siam from 1350 to 1767. It was almost totally destroyed by Burmese invaders in 1767 after two years of fighting. The Siamese then moved the capital to Thonburi, now a suburb of Bangkok. In its heyday the city was reportedly bigger and more magnificent than London and other European cities.
Ayuthaya today has a population of around 60,000 people. The ruins of old Ayuthaya are totally surrounded by three rivers - the Chao Phraya, Pa Sak and Old Lopburi Rivers. You can reach Ayuthaya by bus or boat from Bangkok - many tour groups visit the ruined city by boat and return by road. You can also reach Ayuthaya by train from Bangkok.
Once there you can charter a local Songthaew to explore the ruins of the old city - unless you have several days to spare old Ayuthaya is too large to explore on foot comfortably.
The highlight of the old city ruins is the old Grand Palace which remains eerily impressive even in its blackened, crumbling state. Also recommended for a visit is Wat Yai Chai Mongkol which retains an air of tranquility and peace even to this day.
As Ayuthaya is surrounded by water you can charter a long tail boat in the newer northern section or direct from the train station. There are a number of temples accessible from the River and you will get a better sense of the size and scale of the ruined city.
Because Ayuthaya is so close to Bangkok few people bother to stay in town, most opting for one day tours covering the major attractions with lunch thrown in. Consequently there is not a huge selection of hotels in town but there is a fair variety ranging from cheap guest houses to moderately comfortable Thai hotels.
There are several good markets and plenty of restaurants in town. The big floating restaurants cater to tour groups and are overpriced. Watch the prices double and triple when the tour buses pull in to town for lunch !
If you plan to stay overnight in Ayuthaya, Hotelz Asia can assist you with a range of accommodation options to suit every budget.
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