In all of Thailand, Ayutthaya may be one of the cities with the richest history and most modern culture. In 1350, Ayutthaya served as the second Siamese capital in the kingdom. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a wide collection of antiquated pagodas and temples.
Much like the rest of the country, Ayutthaya, Thailand also has three seasons: the cool season, the rainy season, and the off-season.
It is important to note that, even during the rainy season, the temperatures during the day can still remain high. As Thailand is a tropical country, the temperatures all year round remain warm.
The cool season begins in November and lasts until January. During these months, Ayutthaya sees lesser rainfall. The weather is also ideal for a wide variety of activities.
The average temperature from November to January is around 86 degrees. If you are looking to book a day tour during the cool season, it is still advisable to drink plenty of fluids to stay well hydrated.
From June to September, travellers visiting Ayutthaya may be met with stormy days, making sightseeing tedious. The average temperatures during these days reach 85 degrees in the mornings and drop to 77 degrees at night.
Note: August is the rainiest month. At least 27 days in the whole month will be rainy.
Late-March to April is generally the months considered to be the “transition period.” During this time, the average temperature can reach up to a scorching 113 degrees. The hottest time to visit Ayutthaya is in April when the average temperature is 100 degrees.
November to February is considered the peak months in Ayutthaya. This means you are more likely to see crowded attractions and fully booked hotels during this time. As it is the peak season, the prices for activities and accommodations are likely at their highest.
Key events:
Loy Krathong Festival, also known as the Festival of Light
World Heritage and Red Cross Fair, features the Buddha’s relic merit-making ceremony as well as cultural shows
Bang Sai Arts & Crafts Centre Fair, features art displays and crafts contests
During the rainy season, Ayutthaya does not see plenty of crowds. While this season may not be the ideal time for you to go sightseeing, it is the best time to visit Ayutthaya if you are on a budget. As this is also considered the off-season, the price of activities and hotels are at their lowest.
Key events:
Aquatic Phansa Festival, where Buddhists take part in processions
Ayutthaya Maha Mongkohn, where Thai people go to temples, offer alms to the monks, and practise meditation
Ayutthaya Long Boat Race Festival is an event where traditional boat races are held over two days
Located just 80 kilometers north of Bangkok, the royal city of Ayutthaya makes for a perfect day trip. There are no direct flights to Ayutthaya. However, there are many ways you can travel from Bangkok to Ayutthaya.
The fastest way to travel from Bangkok to the ancient city of Ayutthaya is by train. It is also a great choice if you enjoy watching the scenery and taking in the sights as you travel to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Trains departing from Don Mueang, Hua Lampong, and Bang Sue Station will take 30 minutes to 1.5 hours to reach Ayutthaya.
Ticket prices range from 50 to 375 Thai Baht (THB), which equates to roughly $1 to $10. The price would depend on the type of train and seat.
Train times start from 5:45 a.m. local time, with the last train departing around 7:20 a.m.
Note:
The train stations in Ayutthaya are not near the temples. You’ll have to take a ferry or a tuk-tuk to the city’s historic sites. You can also either walk to the complex or rent a bike.
By Minivan
Taking a minivan from Bangkok to Ayutthaya is a popular option. Companies like 12go and Win 91 offer daily minivan trips from Bangkok to Ayutthaya, each lasting approximately 2 hours.
At least eight minivans travel to and from Ayutthaya per day. The first minivan travels at 7:30 a.m. and the last bus travels at 4 p.m.
The minivans often stop at the Naresuan Alley in Ayutthaya. From there, you can walk to Wat Mahathat and the Chao Phrom market.
Tour
A private Ayutthaya tour from Bangkok could be your best bet if you’re looking for more privacy and a chance to experience Thai history and culture more in-depth. A private tour will give you a round-trip experience lasting 8 to 10 hours. You’re also more likely to be in an air-conditioned van that would bring you to the city’s many temples as well as markets offering authentic Thai delicacies.
Tour prices vary depending on what agency you booked your tour with and the locations included in the tour’s itinerary.
By Cruise
A cruise trip from Bangkok to Ayutthaya would take you through the beautiful bang Pa-In Royal Palace and other attractions in the city. Getting on a cruise ship will also allow you to see the lifestyle of the Thai people as well as take in the panoramic views along the river.
As with tours, the price for cruise ships varies.
By CarRental cars are convenient options for people who have an international driving license. Apart from being able to control your itinerary, it’s also a great option for those who plan on making stops along the way.
As of 2020, the average cost of renting a car in Bangkok started at 2,000 THB ($58). Travel times are approximately an hour and 15 minutes.
There are many modes of travel available in Ayutthaya. However, the tuk-tuk remains the best option. These small yellow or red trucks can be seen anywhere and are incredibly cheap, with trips costing about 200 THB per hour (although you’d likely need to haggle to get the price down to 200 THB.)
With that being said, there are plenty of transportation options available at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
BicycleThere are plenty of bicycle rental shops in Ayutthaya. But while renting bicycles is cheap, they are often poorly maintained and quite small.
Before you take the bike out for a spin, be sure to check the brakes. It would also be better if you could find a decent lock before you agree to rent one.
Metered TaxiAirconditioned taxis are available throughout the city. Generally, it would cost around 1,000 to 1,500 THB ($33 to $50) if you plan to book a taxi for an Ayutthaya day trip. The day trip would commonly last several hours and include the city’s best temples, such as the Grand Palace, Reclining Buddha, Wat Phra Ram, and Wat Mahathat.
CruisesThere are a few places across the city that offers lunchtime or evening cruises with a meal. These places include Baan Mai Rim Naam restaurant, Krung Sri Hotel, Sai Thong restaurant, and Ayutthaya Boat & Travel.
There used to be a larger party boat operating around Ayutthaya island. However, the boat has stopped operating.
MotorbikeMuch like bicycle shops, there are a lot of stalls offering motorbike rentals in Ayutthaya. With that being said, riding a motorbike in Thailand without a license is illegal. Motorbike rental shops also do not generally offer insurance coverage, which means you would need to pay out of pocket in case of accidents.
Boat TourHopping on a boat tour is an incredible way to see a number of temples dotting the city of Ayutthaya, such as the famous buddha head in Wat Mahathat. Chartering a boat may cost around 500 THB to 600 THB. However, the rate can increase for longer trips, which would allow you to get off the boat and visit the temple.
Motorbike TaxiA motorbike taxi operates the same way as a motorcycle. The only difference is instead of driving the motorcycles, travellers will instead be passengers. This type of transportation option is very convenient and accessible for solo travellers who do not have a driving license.
Ayutthaya Historical Park was once the realm of kings and nobles past. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its stunning beauty and towering temples considered to be some of the most enchanting throughout Thailand.
There are a few places to stay in Ayutthaya. Here are some of the best locations.
Jump to location
Located just a 10-minute drive from the Ayutthaya Historical Park, the TM Land Hotel offers guests access to affordable air-conditioned rooms with a balcony and free wi-fi. Guests can also indulge in the hotel’s massage services or relax by its outdoor pool.
Each room in the TM Land Hotel features a flat-screen cable TC, a refrigerator, and a safety deposit box.
Located in the heart of Ayutthaya, Sala Ayutthaya is a boutique hotel offering an outdoor pool and stylish rooms with air conditioning. The hotel is located just 1 mile away from the Ayutthaya Historical Park and the Wat Chaiwatthanaram temple.
Each room in this hotel features a private bathroom that comes with bathrobes and slippers, laundry facilities, luggage storage, and room service.
The Krungsri River Hotel, located within walking distance of the Pa Sak River, is a four-star hotel offering spacious rooms with stunning views of the river or the city of Ayutthaya.
Hotel guests can lounge near the pool, or enjoy a fun karaoke session with friends. Guests can also indulge themselves in a wide range of Chinese, Italian, and Thai dishes at the hotel restaurant.
The Krungsri River Hotel also provides a shuttle service to the airport upon request.
The Baan Baimai Boutique Hotel provides guests with air-conditioned rooms featuring a seating area, a TV with satellite channels, a safety deposit box, a private bathroom, and a desk. The rooms also come with a balcony with views of the hotel’s beautiful garden.
Apart from its hotel room features, Baan Baimai Boutique Hotel also has a tour desk where guests can book trips around Ayutthaya.
The hotel is in close proximity to the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum and the Ayutthaya Historical Park.
Over the last few decades, many travellers have visited Ayutthaya Island to get a chance to experience the stunning views of towering temples in the Historical City. The area, which once served as the home of Thai kings and queens, has since been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There are many things to see and do in this ancient city. Travellers would be taken on an adventure covering the expansive Thai history and Thai culture. Guests would also be toured at Wat Phra Si Sanphet, which served as the former royal palace of the Thai monarchy.
If you’re looking to plan an itinerary for Ayutthaya kingdom, here are some activities you should definitely consider putting on your list.
Ayutthaya, which was earlier called Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, is a magnificent city featuring a rich history and distinctive architecture. The city’s temples are famous worldwide.
The temples of the city were damaged or destroyed during the Burmese attack but were later restored. If you’re planning to go temple hopping, here are some of the locations you should absolutely visit.
Thailand has a beautiful history. While Ayutthaya is known for its towering temples, the city is also dotted with museums and historic villages that feature the country’s expansive history:
Unlike other places in Thailand, Ayutthaya gives off a more relaxed and chilled-out vibe. However, what the city lacks in activity it makes up for with its wide range of Thai dishes that will truly leave you wanting more.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet Royal Temple – Wat Phra Ngam – Wat Pho, The Temple of the Golden Reclining Buddha – Wat Suwan Dararam – Wat Ratchaburana – Wat Maha That
Million Toy Museum – Chao Sam Phraya National Museum – Ayutthaya Floating Market
Baan Thai House – Pludhaya Resort – Baan Tye Wang Guesthouse
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