Ayutthaya Must-Visit: Summer Palace, Temples Full Day Tour

Ayutthaya, the once-thriving capital of Thailand, beckons visitors to enjoy its captivating history and cultural heritage. This comprehensive full-day tour promises to unveil the region’s architectural wonders and spiritual significance. From the opulent Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, a former summer residence of Thai kings, to the renowned Ayutthaya temples – including the iconic Buddha head at Wat Maha That – this journey offers a multifaceted exploration of the past. As you explore the historic sites of Central Ayutthaya and Wat Lokayasutharam, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich legacy. Prepare to be captivated by the stories that these ancient walls hold.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Full-Day Tours In Ayutthaya.

Key Points

• Explore the opulent Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, the former summer residence of Thai kings, featuring a harmonious blend of Thai, Chinese, and European architectural styles.

• Marvel at the well-preserved Khmer-style prang (tower) and intricate bas-reliefs of Wat Chaiwatthanaram, an important historical and religious site in Ayutthaya.

• Discover the famous Buddha head entwined in tree roots at Wat Maha That, the religious and ceremonial center of the ancient city.

• Tour the largest and most important temple, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, with its impressive Khmer-style prang and colossal reclining Buddha statue.

• Immerse in Thailand’s rich history and cultural heritage by visiting the well-preserved ruins and architectural marvels of Central Ayutthaya, including Wat Lokayasutharam’s massive reclining Buddha.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Highlights

Exploring the opulent Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, visitors discover the former summer residence of Thai kings. They marvel at the well-preserved prang (tower) and bas-reliefs of the iconic Wat Chaiwatthanaram.

At Wat Maha That, the famous Buddha head entwined in tree roots captivates visitors. Touring the largest and most important temple in Ayutthaya, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, they’re impressed by its Khmer-style architecture.

Throughout the day, travelers enjoy Thailand’s rich history and cultural heritage, visiting Central Ayutthaya and Wat Lokayasutharam. The guided tour offers a comprehensive experience, ensuring visitors make the most of their time in this ancient capital.

Ayutthaya History and Culture

Once the thriving capital of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, this historic city was a prominent economic and cultural hub in Southeast Asia for over 400 years. Ayutthaya’s rich history is evident in its well-preserved ruins, ornate temples, and the iconic Summer Palace. The city’s architecture reflects its diverse cultural influences, from Khmer to Siamese styles. To better understand Ayutthaya’s significance, consider these key facts:

Period	Description
1350-1767	Capital of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya
1767	Destroyed by the Burmese invasion
1969	Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Exploring Ayutthaya’s historic sites offers a captivating glimpse into Thailand’s past, showcasing the nation’s remarkable resilience and cultural heritage.

Bang Pa-In Royal Palace

Nestled along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace serves as a captivating summer retreat for Thai royalty. This opulent complex boasts a harmonious blend of Thai, Chinese, and European architectural styles, creating a visually stunning experience.

Visitors can explore the ornate throne halls, pavilions, and gardens, each meticulously designed to showcase Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. The palace’s highlights include:

• The Phra Thinang Uthayan Phumisathian, a magnificent palace with intricate carvings and colorful tiles.
• The Phra Thinang Wehart Chamrun, a stunning Chinese-influenced pavilion.
• The extensive, well-manicured gardens that provide a serene escape from the bustling city.

Central Ayutthaya Attractions

After exploring the opulent Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, the next stop on the Ayutthaya tour takes visitors to the heart of the historical city. At Central Ayutthaya, travelers can marvel at the well-preserved prang (tower) and bas-reliefs of Wat Chaiwatthanaram, as well as the impressive Khmer-style architecture of Wat Maha That, home to the famous Buddha head entwined in tree roots. Nearby, Wat Lokayasutharam impresses with its colossal reclining Buddha statue. The following table highlights the key attractions and their highlights in Central Ayutthaya:

Attraction	Highlights
Wat Chaiwatthanaram	Well-preserved prang and bas-reliefs
Wat Maha That	Famous Buddha head in tree roots
Wat Lokayasutharam	Colossal reclining Buddha statue

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon

As visitors continue their journey through Central Ayutthaya, they’ll come across Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, one of the most important and well-preserved temples in the region. This 14th-century monastery boasts an impressive Khmer-style prang (tower) and intricate bas-reliefs that showcase the site’s rich history and architectural prowess.

Key highlights of Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon include:

• The massive reclining Buddha statue, which is one of the largest in Ayutthaya
• The well-preserved bell-shaped chedis (stupas) that dot the temple grounds
• The tranquil atmosphere, allowing visitors to enjoy the site’s spiritual essence

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Continuing the tour, visitors arrive at Wat Chaiwatthanaram, one of Ayutthaya’s most impressive temple complexes. This Khmer-style temple features a central prang (tower) surrounded by smaller prangs and decorated with intricate bas-reliefs. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and learn about the temple’s history and architectural significance.

Feature	Description
Architecture	Khmer-style with central prang and smaller prangs
Decor	Intricate bas-reliefs adorning the structures
History	Formerly a royal temple and important religious site
Condition	Well-preserved ruins offering a glimpse into the past

Wat Chaiwatthanaram is a must-visit destination for those interested in Ayutthaya’s rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels.

Wat Maha That

The tour’s next stop is Wat Maha That, one of the most significant and iconic temples in Ayutthaya. This impressive temple is renowned for its Khmer-style architecture and the famous Buddha head entwined in the roots of a tree. Visitors will be captivated by the temple’s well-preserved prang (tower) and intricate bas-reliefs.

Wat Maha That’s considered the heart of the ancient city, serving as the religious and ceremonial center. Key features include:

• The iconic Buddha head sculpture
• Impressive Khmer-style prang and architecture
• Intricate bas-reliefs and carvings

Wat Lokayasutharam

After exploring the impressive Wat Maha That, the tour proceeds to the serene Wat Lokayasutharam. This temple is known for its imposing reclining Buddha statue, measuring an impressive 37 meters long. The statue’s tranquil expression and the temple’s well-preserved Khmer-style architecture create a serene atmosphere, inviting visitors to reflect on the Buddhist teachings.

Feature	Description
Reclining Buddha	Massive 37-meter long statue in a serene pose
Architectural Style	Exquisite Khmer-influenced design
Historical Significance	Important religious site in Ayutthaya
Atmosphere	Peaceful and contemplative
Highlights	Impressive scale of the reclining Buddha statue

Exploring Wat Lokayasutharam provides a profound and calming experience, allowing visitors to connect with Thailand’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed at the Temples?

Photography is generally allowed at the temples visited on this tour, but visitors should avoid disturbing religious activities or obstructing the views of others. Some temples may have specific rules or restricted areas where photography is prohibited.

What Is the Duration of the Tour?

The duration of the tour is a full day. According to the tour description, the itinerary spans approximately 9 hours, with each site visit lasting around 1.5 hours.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on this tour. The tour package includes bottled water, and there are opportunities to purchase food and drinks at various stops along the way.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has no strict age restrictions, but children under 2 years old can join for free without a separate seat. Otherwise, the tour is suitable for all ages to enjoy the historical sights.

Can I Extend My Stay in Ayutthaya After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Ayutthaya after the tour. The tour itinerary is flexible, and you can explore the city further on your own or arrange additional activities through the tour provider.

Recap

This comprehensive full-day tour immerses visitors in Ayutthaya’s captivating history and cultural heritage. Exploring the opulent Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, renowned temples, and historic sites, it offers a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich legacy. From the harmonious blend of architectural styles to the iconic Buddha head, this tour provides an immersive experience that truly showcases Ayutthaya’s enduring significance as a former capital of Thailand.

You can check if your dates are available here: