Ancient Capital & Timeless Ruins
Explore Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya or Ayuddhaya or Krung Sri Ayutthaya was the capital of the Kingdom of Siam for more than 400 years before it fell in 1767. Today, the ancient city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where centuries-old temples and palace ruins tell the story of one of Thailand’s greatest kingdoms.
One of the things that always amazes me about Ayutthaya is the sheer size of the old capital. Walking from one temple to another, it’s hard to imagine that this was once a thriving city long before roads and cars existed. People travelled mainly by canals, rivers, elephants, horses, and on foot. Even though much of the city now lies in ruins, you can still sense how magnificent it must have been.
Every visit reminds me of the generations who built, lived in, and defended this land. These ancient temples are more than historical monuments—they are part of Thailand’s identity. They leave me feeling grateful that so much has been preserved, allowing future generations to appreciate our heritage and feel proud of our history.
What to Do
Spend a day exploring the Ayutthaya Historical Park at a relaxed pace. Walk or bike through the ancient temple grounds, learn about the history of the former capital, or stop by local cafés and riverside restaurants. While many visitors join a day trip from Bangkok, staying overnight offers a quieter experience after the crowds have gone.
Where to Visit
My regular stops include Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the former royal temple, Wat Mahathat, famous for the Buddha head embraced by tree roots, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon with its impressive chedi, and Wat Phanan Choeng, home to one of Thailand’s most revered seated Buddha images.
Beyond these famous landmarks are many lesser-known temples that deserve more attention. Wat Maheyong is one that remains on my own list to explore, and there are countless smaller ruins scattered across Ayutthaya that receive far fewer visitors. That’s one reason I enjoy returning—there is always another corner of the old capital waiting to be discovered.
Check out my photography in Ayutthaya Visual Stories
for more inspiration and places I have explored
Here are Ayutthaya’s
Most Instagrammable Spots:
1 Wat Mahathat The iconic Buddha head embraced by banyan tree roots.
2 Wat Chaiwatthanaram Ayutthaya’s most photogenic temple, especially at sunrise and sunset.
3 Wat Phra Si Sanphet Three restored chedis create the classic Ayutthaya skyline.
4 Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon Giant chedi, rows of yellow-robed Buddhas and panoramic viewpoints.
5 Wat Phanan Choeng (Wat Sampokong Massive seated Buddha inside an impressive prayer hall.
6 Wat Ratchaburana Beautiful Khmer-style prang with intricate brickwork.
7 Wat Lokayasutharam Huge reclining Buddha in the open air.
8 Wat Phu Khao Thong White chedi rising above the surrounding countryside.
9 Wat Maheyong Peaceful ruins with very few visitors and wonderful morning light.
10 Wat Na Phra Men One of the few temples that survived the fall of Ayutthaya largely intact.
11 Ayutthaya Historical Park Ancient brick ruins, tree-lined walkways and cycling routes.
12 Pom Phet Fortress & Riverside Historic fort with sunset views over the Chao Phraya River.
13 St. Joseph’s Church European architecture contrasting with the ancient capital.
14 Ayutthaya Night Market Local food, colourful lights and lively evening atmosphere.
15 Canal & River Boat Cruise Unique perspective of temples from the water, especially at golden hour.
