Ayutthaya Historical Park is a vast archaeological site that preserves the remains of a former royal capital which once served as a major political, economic, and trading center in Southeast Asia for more than 417 years, from 1350 CE to the second fall of Ayutthaya in 1767 CE. The park covers extensive areas both inside and outside the island city and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991, recognizing its outstanding value as evidence of Thai civilization.

The heart of the park lies in the area of the Ancient Royal Palace and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, which once served as the royal temple within the palace complex. Unlike other temples, it housed no resident monks and was reserved exclusively for important royal ceremonies. The architectural design of Wat Phra Si Sanphet, especially its three chedis enshrining the royal ashes of Ayutthaya kings, became a direct prototype for Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha) in the Rattanakosin period.

The artistic significance of the park is clearly reflected in its major temples, such as Wat Mahathat, famous for the iconic image of a Buddha head entwined within tree roots, symbolizing the passage of time and impermanence, and Wat Ratchaburana, renowned for its hidden crypt treasures beneath the main prang. Most structures were built of red brick and stucco, and although partially ruined, they still convey the former grandeur of one of the most powerful capitals in Southeast Asia.

The atmosphere throughout the historical park is majestic, mystical, and deeply evocative of the past. Ancient temple ruins are harmoniously interwoven with well-maintained green spaces, creating a serene environment for visitors. Exploring the park in the early morning or late afternoon offers a peaceful and memorable experience, enhanced by the play of light and shadow on ancient stupas and brick walls. Today, cultural activities such as wearing traditional Thai costumes while exploring the ruins have become increasingly popular, adding a lively connection between history and contemporary life.

This area serves as an open-air museum and a natural studio for photographers, as well as an invaluable educational resource for historians, students, and families seeking to learn about the nation’s roots. Surrounded by captivating scenery and profound historical narratives, Ayutthaya Historical Park continues to attract travelers from around the world.

Visitors are warmly invited to journey through time and experience the pride of Siam at Ayutthaya Historical Park, where every brick tells a story and every step leads to the enduring wonder of a living World Heritage site.

Train:

• Get off at Ayutthaya Station, take a ferry across the river to the city island, and then rent a bicycle or hire a tuk-tuk.

Private Car:

• Enter Ayutthaya city island via Rojana Road. The park is centrally located with parking available at various temples.

Public Van:

• Take a van from Mo Chit 2 or Rangsit to Chao Phrom Market, then take a local songthaew around the city.

Best Time to Visit:

• December to January offers the best weather. For the "Ayutthaya Night Lights," visit after 18:00 to see the ruins illuminated.

Dress Code and Gear:

• Bring a hat and sunglasses as the area is vast with limited shade. Wear comfortable walking shoes or sneakers.

Photography:

• Early morning at Wat Phra Si Sanphet provides perfect lighting on the triple pagodas. At night, the spotlights on the ruins create a spectacular atmosphere.

Local Culture:

• Don't miss out on trying "Roti Sai Mai" (Thai cotton candy wrap), Ayutthaya's signature snack sold around the park.

Planning:

• Purchasing a "Multi-temple Pass" for 6 major temples is more cost-effective than buying individual tickets.

Admission Fee

• Thai Visitors: 10 THB (or 40 THB for a 6-temple pass)

• Foreign Visitors: 50 THB (or 220 THB for a 6-temple pass)

Opening Hours

• Open daily from 08:00 – 18:00 (Night lights illumination continues until approx. 21:00)