Ayutthaya Historical Park UNESCO + Wat Phanancheng + Ayuthaya Floating Market

Begin your journey into the past at Wat Yai Chaimongkon, renowned for its towering stupas and serene Buddha statues. This site offers a glimpse into the Buddhist influence on the ancient kingdom.

Continue to visit Wat Phanancherng, contains the oldest large cast bronze Buddha image in Ayutthaya.

Transfer you to within Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The ancient capital was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong and it was from here that the Siamese ruled their Kingdom for 417 years.

Next, visit Wat Mahathat, famous for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots. This iconic image symbolizes Ayutthaya’s spiritual heritage and resilience, making it a must-visit for an authentic feel of the ancient city’s ambiance.

Then continue to visit Wat Ratchaburana sits right next to Wat Mahathat, in the symbolic center of the old city. Established in 1424 by King Boromaraja II, the temple was built to hold the ashes of his elder brothers, who killed each other in battle – on elephant back – fighting over the throne.

Visit Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit, a sanctuary containing a large bronze cast Buddha image that was originally enshrined in the open area outside the Grand Palace and later covered by a building during the reign of King Songtham. The building was badly damaged by fire during the fall of Ayutthaya, and the one currently seen was reconstructed but does not have the same level of craftsmanship as the previous one.

Visit Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the most important temple within the Royal Palace compound and the original from which the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok was copied. Three outstanding Ceylonese style pagodas were built in the 15th century to enshrine the ashes of three Ayutthayan kings.

Ayothaya Floating Market covers a vast area of approximately 70 acres and is regarded as the largest tourist attraction in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, in the aspect of cultural heritage conservation. These include traditional costume, stunning architecture, unique culture and tradition, authentic amusement, folk performance, and the simple lifestyle of Thai people. Ayothaya Floating Market serves as a tourism hub for both domestic and international tourists to enjoy the pleasant environment and gorgeous scenery in a Thai style. While exploring the market, tourists can savor some tasty and delicious food or shop for souvenirs at various stores, scattering around the market.