Ayutthaya
Thailand
- Safety rating
- 8/10
- Best time to visit
- November to February offers cooler, drier weather ideal for exploring the ruins.
- Population
- 0.1M
Overview
Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Siamese kingdom, is a UNESCO-listed city of majestic temple ruins and crumbling pagodas on an island between rivers. Its most iconic image is a Buddha head entwined in tree roots. A short trip from Bangkok, it offers a powerful window into Thailand's golden age.
Top attractions
See Wat Mahathat's Buddha head in tree roots, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and the reclining Buddha at Wat Lokayasutharam.
Getting around
Bicycles, tuk-tuks, and rented scooters are the best ways to explore the historical park.