Ayutthaya walking tour & city guide

The historical park

The old city stands on an island surrounded by three rivers. Its ruined temples, prangs and chedis are scattered across a large historical park. At Wat Mahathat, the most famous image in Ayutthaya can be found: a stone Buddha head entwined in the roots of a fig tree.

Nearby, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, once the royal temple, is known for its three tall bell-shaped chedis in a row, and Wat Lokayasutharam has a huge reclining Buddha in the open air.

Along the river

On the western bank of the Chao Phraya, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, built in Khmer style, is especially beautiful at sunset and when lit at night. A boat trip around the island is a lovely way to see riverside temples, and many visitors rent bicycles to ride between the ruins.

Some ruins are still active temples, so dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered, and never climb on Buddha images.

Visiting tips

Ayutthaya can be reached from Bangkok by train, minivan or even by river cruise. Arrive early to avoid the midday heat. In April, Songkran water festivities fill the streets, and the evening night markets are full of street food.