About Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, usually shortened to Ayutthaya, surrounds the former Siamese capital that ruled much of mainland Southeast Asia from 1351 until its sack by Burmese forces in 1767. The old city sits on an island formed by the Chao Phraya, Pa Sak, and Lopburi rivers, and its temple ruins, royal palaces, and crumbling brick prangs make up the UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya Historical Park. The famous Buddha head wrapped in the roots of a bodhi tree at Wat Mahathat is one of Thailand's most recognisable images.
Top Highlights
UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya Historical Park with temple ruins and royal palaces
Wat Mahathat and the iconic Buddha head entwined in bodhi-tree roots
Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, a blend of Thai, Chinese, and European architecture
Easy day-trip distance from Bangkok via train, river boat, or road
Getting There
Ayutthaya is about 80 km north of Bangkok and reachable in 90 minutes by car, train from Krung Thep Aphiwat or Hua Lamphong, minivan, or scenic Chao Phraya River cruise.
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Senior Travel Writer · Bangkok · 12+ years in Thailand
James has lived in Bangkok since 2014 and has visited all 77 Thai provinces. He specialises in destination guides, itinerary planning, and transport logistics. Before moving to Thailand, he worked as a travel journalist in Hong Kong and Singapore. He speaks conversational Thai and is a certified PADI divemaster.
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