Ayutthaya aka: Ayuthaya, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Hire a long boat to go around the island, stopping at temples or riverside restaurants of your choosing. Not the cheapest way to tour Ayutthaya, but not extravagant either. Ideal for a small group, say about four to six people, who could share the expense. We paid the asking price (so we overpaid) and it worked out to less than $10 US an hour per head.

Stop for a delicious lunch or dinner at Baan Wacharachai. Prices are a few baht more than other modest restaurants, but worth every penny.

…It was hot! Now, I’m not complaining, but I wanted to make that clear to those that are considering going to Ayutthaya because the opportunities to get out of the sun and cool down a bit are limited. Be warned!

If you’re anything like me, when you go to a place you want to see everything humanly possible. I think my “zeal” is a good thing, for the most part, but it also makes for some sweaty site-seeing when in humid environs.

What Ayutthaya has to offer, being the long-time capital of Siam, is history, LOTS of history. If you’re keen on ancient ruins then take the 60 minute train ride North from Bangkok and see centuries of history layed out before your eyes – I’m glad I did!

a nice breather from bangkok, and i liked the train ride! perhaps i should’ve rented a bicycle too…

i really didn’t spend enough time here, perhaps another day…

i have just been to ayutthaya 2 times this year. the site is wearing out faster than i could believe. it must be something to do with preservation. tourists may touch, sit, climb on these ruins. or they can even pick up anything there. no security, officials or volunteers to reinforce noraml rituals you find in these heritage ruin. something should be done…

Interesting, not overly amazing but definately worth a visit. It’s pretty cool to see old temples that are so old the foundations are causing them to topple. And to see trees growing over it, it’s pretty cool.