Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam, boasts a rich historical legacy that’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Ayutthaya Full Day Tour offers visitors an immersive experience, allowing them to explore iconic landmarks like the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace and revered temples such as Wat Ratchaburana and Wat Phra Sri Sanphet. With comfortable transportation and a professional guide, this tour ensures a seamless journey through Thailand’s glorious past. But what lies beyond the picturesque ruins and intricately carved architecture that have captivated travelers for centuries? The answer awaits those who embark on this enlightening adventure.
This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Bangkok.
Key Points
- The tour provides an opportunity to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ayutthaya at one’s own pace, with visits to iconic landmarks like Bang Pa-In Palace and renowned temples.
- The 8-hour tour includes comfortable transportation, a professional guide, admission fees, and an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.
- Ayutthaya served as the capital of the Kingdom of Siam from 1350 to 1767, and its well-preserved historical sites offer a glimpse into Thailand’s glorious past.
- The Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, a former summer retreat of Thai kings, showcases a blend of Thai and European architectural styles and beautifully landscaped grounds.
- The tour allows visitors to wander through the well-preserved ruins of Wat Ratchaburana, a captivating 15th-century temple with striking Khmer-style architecture and intricate carvings.
Tour Overview
The Ayutthaya Full-day private tour provides visitors the opportunity to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site at their own pace, escaping the crowds. This tour lasts 8 hours and includes pickup from Bangkok hotels.
Guests will visit iconic landmarks like the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, and the famous Wat Maha That, where they can see the statue of the Buddha’s head in a tree. The tour includes comfortable transportation, a professional guide, admission fees, and an air-conditioned vehicle. However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues, and certain clothing restrictions apply.
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Itinerary Highlights
This full-day tour of Ayutthaya features a visit to several iconic landmarks within the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests will have the chance to explore the grand Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, the striking Wat Ratchaburana, the impressive Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, and the renowned Wat Maha That, where they can see the famous Buddha head statue nestled in the roots of a tree.
Landmark | Duration |
---|---|
Bang Pa-In Palace | 1 hour |
Wat Ratchaburana | 1 hour |
Wat Phra Sri Sanphet | 1 hour |
Wat Maha That | 1 hour |
The tour provides comfortable transportation and a professional guide to ensure a seamless and enriching experience exploring Ayutthaya’s captivating history and architecture.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Ayutthaya was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991 due to its remarkable historical and cultural significance. The ancient city, which served as the capital of the Kingdom of Siam from 1350 to 1767, boasts a stunning array of temples, palaces, and monuments that reflect the kingdom’s rich architectural and artistic heritage.
Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed ruins, including the iconic Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Ratchaburana, and the iconic Buddha head nestled in the roots of a tree at Wat Mahathat. The well-preserved historical site offers a glimpse into Thailand’s glorious past and is a must-visit destination for those interested in the country’s cultural legacy.
Bang Pa-In Royal Palace
One of the highlights of the Ayutthaya Full Day Tour is the visit to the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace. This former summer retreat of the Thai kings is a stunning example of Thai architecture and design. Visitors can explore the various pavilions and buildings, each with its own unique characteristics. The palace grounds are beautifully landscaped, with lush gardens and intricate water features.
Some key highlights include:
- The Aisawan Thiphya-Art, a pavilion set on an island in a pond.
- The Phra Thinang Wehart Chamrun, a royal villa with exquisite wood carvings.
- The Phra Thinang Aphon Phimok Prasat, a palace with Chinese and European influences.
- The Phra Thinang Jesadabodindra, a pavilion featuring a mix of Thai and European styles.
Wat Ratchaburana Exploration
After visiting the magnificent Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, the Ayutthaya Full Day Tour takes visitors to explore the captivating Wat Ratchaburana. This grand temple, dating back to the 15th century, is known for its striking Khmer-style prang and intricate architectural details. Visitors can wander through the site, marveling at the well-preserved ruins and imagining the temple’s former grandeur.
The tour guide provides insightful commentary, shedding light on the site’s rich history and cultural significance. Guests have the opportunity to admire the intricate carvings and murals that adorn the temple’s interior, offering a glimpse into the region’s artistic heritage. With an hour allocated for this stop, travelers can enjoy the beauty and wonder of Wat Ratchaburana.
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Wat Phra Sri Sanphet Visit
Leaving the impressive Wat Ratchaburana behind, the tour now takes visitors to the magnificent Wat Phra Sri Sanphet.
This temple, once part of the royal palace complex, boasts three impressive chedis (pagodas) that were built to enshrine the ashes of three Ayutthayan kings.
Visitors will have the opportunity to:
- Marvel at the impressive scale and architecture of the site.
- Explore the ruins and imagine the grandeur of the former royal palace.
- Learn about the historical significance of Wat Phra Sri Sanphet as the spiritual heart of the Ayutthayan kingdom.
- Capture stunning photographs of the iconic pagodas and the ancient temple grounds.
Wat Maha That Significance
The final stop on the Ayutthaya tour is the legendary Wat Maha That, a temple renowned for its iconic Buddha head encased in tree roots. This captivating image has become a symbol of the resilience and enduring spirit of the ancient kingdom. Visitors can explore the extensive ruins of the temple, which once housed a grand palace and served as the spiritual heart of Ayutthaya. The significance of Wat Maha That lies in its role as a testament to the city’s rich history and the enduring legacy of Buddhist culture in Thailand.
Fascinating Facts About Wat Maha That | ||
---|---|---|
The Buddha head in the tree roots was created in the 14th century | ||
The temple was once the site of the royal palace and the seat of power | ||
Wat Maha That is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical and cultural significance |
Transportation and Inclusions
The tour package includes private round-trip transportation from Bangkok to Ayutthaya. This convenient transportation allows visitors to explore the historical UNESCO site at their own pace, without the hassle of navigating public transit.
The tour also includes:
- Admission fees to all the key attractions, ensuring a seamless experience.
- A professional guide who’ll provide valuable insights and historical context throughout the tour.
- An air-conditioned vehicle for a comfortable journey, shielding guests from the Thai heat.
- A well-organized itinerary that maximizes time spent at each site, ensuring visitors make the most of their day.
These inclusions make the Ayutthaya Full Day Tour a comprehensive and stress-free way to discover the rich cultural heritage of this ancient capital.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour does not provide meals, so you’re free to bring any snacks or beverages you’d like to enjoy during the day.
Is Photography Allowed at the Historical Sites?
Photography is generally allowed at the historical sites in Ayutthaya, but visitors should be respectful and avoid using flash or disruptive equipment. The tour guide can provide guidance on appropriate photography practices during the visit.
What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Temples?
The tour has a dress code to visit the temples – no sandals/flip-flops, short skirts, sleeveless shirts, open-toed shoes, or see-through clothing are allowed. Modest, respectful attire is required for entry to the historical sites.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to suit your preferences. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility in adjusting the plan to accommodate your interests and schedule.
Are There Any Age or Health Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour has restrictions for those with mobility impairments. Guests should wear appropriate clothing and footwear. There are no age restrictions, but the tour may not be suitable for very young children or elderly travelers with limited mobility.
Recap
The Ayutthaya Full Day Tour provides an incredible opportunity to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can enjoy the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural heritage. With comfortable transportation, a professional guide, and included admission fees, this tour ensures a seamless and enriching experience, allowing participants to fully appreciate the glorious past of the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam.
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