10 Top Things To Do In Ayutthaya For Witnessing The Lesser Known Side Of Thailand

There is another, less explored side of Thailand, that a lot of people aren’t aware of. Ayutthaya, also known as Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, a city located not far from Bangkok, which around 300 years ago, was the largest city in the world! Ayutthaya explores the history of Thailand, with its ancient ruins, forts, monasteries and temples. So the next time you plan to take a vacation to Thailand, why not include this beautiful city in your itinerary? And with so many things to do in Ayutthaya, you wouldn’t want to miss a chance on visiting this city. We have compiled a list of the top 10 things to do in Ayutthaya.

10 Must-Have Experiences In Ayutthaya

Of all the things to do in city of Ayutthaya, here’s a list of 10 best experiences that you ought to tick off your itinerary on your next Thailand trip! 1. Royal Palace: Take A Look At How The Kings Lived 2. Ayutthaya Historical Park: Travel Back In Time 3. Million Toy Museum: Bring Out The Child In You 4. Ayutthaya Island: Take A Boat Trip 5. Chao Phrom Market: Shop Like A Local 6. Wat Chaiwatthanaram: Get Closer To Your Spiritual Side 7. Ayothaya Floating Market: Spend A Fun Afternoon 8. Elephant Stay: Explore The World Of Elephants 9. Chao Sam Phraya National Museum: Learn Ayutthaya’s History 10. Wat Yai Chai Mongkol: Transport To A Different Era

1. Royal Palace: Take A Look At How The Kings Lived

Image Source Visiting the Royal Palace of Ayutthaya is one of the top things to do in Ayutthaya, and the palace is located at the site of the Wat Phra Si Sanphet. This palace was constructed by the king who founded Ayutthaya in 1350 – King Ramathibodi. At the time, there were 8 forts that surrounded the palace, and twenty two gates big enough to provide entrance to elephants. Today, however, there are very few buildings that still remain intact, but the charm and the royal feel of the palace still remain. Location: Tambon Ban Len, Amphoe Bang Pa-in, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13160, Thailand Timing: 8AM-4PM

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2. Ayutthaya Historical Park: Travel Back In Time

Image Source This Historical Park is a must-visitor attraction in Ayutthaya, and those who love learning about history and archaeology. Being a UNESCO Heritage site, this massive park comprises of around 67 beautiful temples, and ruins. The premises of this park include the previous Siamese capital town, and there are Buddha statues, that looks striking against the background of the blue skies and the greenery o the park. Visiting this park is definitely one of the top things to do in Ayutthaya, and something you shouldn’t miss out on! Location: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand Timing: 8AM – 6PM

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3. Million Toy Museum: Bring Out The Child In You

This famous toy museum is every child’s (and adults) dream come true, and one of the best things to do in Ayutthaya. It was founded by Krirk Yoonpun, an associate professor of children’s literature from Srinakharinwirot University. The two storey museum houses various local and imported toys, from both the past and present periods. The ground floor exhibits local toys from Ayutthaya, Rattanakosin and Sukhothai, and the higher floor showcases toys from all over the world. An absolute delight, you cannot miss out on visiting this museum! Location: 2 Uthong Rd, Tambon Tha Wa Su Kri, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand Timing: 9AM-4PM Entry Fee: INR 107 for adults, INR 45 for children

4. Ayutthaya Island: Take A Boat Trip

Image Source Looking for a romantic activity with your loved one? Take them for a boat trip or a dinner cruise around Ayutthaya Island. This is one of the most entertaining things to do in Ayutthaya at night, instead of just hitting a nightclub like most people would, and admire the way the temples are lit up at night, which is a sight to see. If you’re travelling during the day, the boat stops at some of the most popular tourist attractions in the city like Wat Phanan Choeng and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, few of the most famous temples in Ayutthaya. Location: 45/2 Mu 1 Rochana Road Pratuchai, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand Timing: 11AM – 11PM

5. Chao Phrom Market: Shop Like A Local

Image Source If you’re looking for something different and exciting, visiting the Chao Phrom Market is one of the most fun things to do in Ayutthaya. Exploring local flavors, and taking your mouth on a whirlwind explosion of different tastes, from the Muslim sweets, to the hot Thai curries, all found at the street stalls. Small souvenirs and trinkets to take back as souvenirs for family and friends can also be purchased from this market. Location: 3/9 Uthong Rd, Tambon Ho Rattanachai, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand Timing: 12PM – 1 AM Prices: INR 500 – INR 2000

6. Wat Chaiwatthanaram: Get Closer To Your Spiritual Side

Image Source A visit to this historically significant temple is one of the top things to do in Ayutthaya, Thailand. Facing the inner city and set across the river, the temple showcases brilliant Khmer architecture. The principle prang, in the centre of the temple, signifies the centre of the universe, and the surrounding chedis all symbolise the four continents and the outside universe. There are four sets of stairs in this temple which lead to the centre prang, and they are quite steep, so make sure to be cautious of your step. Location: Ban Pom, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand

7. Ayothaya Floating Market: Spend A Fun Afternoon

Image Source The perfect blend of commercial and local attraction, visiting this floating market is one of the best things to do in Ayutthaya. The market is mostly popular for its many food stalls, where you can get a complete culinary tour of Thailand, better than any five-star hotel could give you. There are also a few small stalls which sell souvenirs. Location: Phai Ling, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand Timing: 9AM-6PM Prices: INR 500 – INR 2500

8. Elephant Stay: Explore The World Of Elephants

Image Source Get a first hand experience on how elephants are trained for war at this elephant stay. The place houses around 180 elephants. This is non-profit set up that mainly focuses on the well being of the elephants, and if you’re travelling with children, do pay a visit to this place to expose your kids to the culture of well treatment of wild animals at this Elephant Stay. Location: Royal Elephant Kraal and Village, 74/1 Moo 3, Tumbol Suanpik, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Thailand

9. Chao Sam Phraya National Museum: Learn Ayutthaya’s History

Image Source If you’re wondering what to do in Ayutthaya, one of the top choices would be to visit the largest museum in Ayutthaya city. The museum was built in the year 1970 and contains some of the most historically important artefacts and scriptures from important points in history, dating as far as 500 years back in time. Location: 108, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand Timing: 9AM – 4PM

10. Wat Yai Chai Mongkol: Transport To A Different Era

Image Source As you step foot into this temple, you will immediately be amazed by the large Buddha statue situated there. Constructed by King U-Thong, this Buddhist temple was built to house the monks. The later construction of the temple by King Naresuan was also noted for its brilliant architecture, and the way the chedis of the temple were designed. Location: 3477 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District

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With so many amazing things to do in Ayutthaya, think no further than this city for your next Thailand holiday with TravelTriangle! Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions about Things to Do in Ayutthaya

How many days are enough in Ayutthaya?

A trip of 3-4 days would be enough to witness the best of Ayutthaya. To enjoy your vacation, you can go sightseeing and indulge in outdoor activities.

Is there a dress code in Ayutthaya?

Since most of the attractions in Ayutthaya are either temple or other cultural sites, it’s recommended to cover your shoulders and wear clothes till your knees.

Can I visit Ayutthaya during the current Covid situation?

Yes, you can plan a visit to Ayutthaya during the current Covid situation. However, make sure that you are completely vaccinated and always carry your vaccination certificate. Besides this, you need to follow government protocols that include wearing a mask when in public, sanitizing hands at certain intervals, and maintaining social distance.

Can you wear sandals to temples in Thailand?

Most of the temples in Thailands allow visitors to wear sandals. However, a few temples strictly prohibit visitors wearing any kind of footwear. So, before heading to a temple, ask locals about the same.

Which are the best things to do in Ayutthaya?

Here are some of the best experiences you can enjoy in Ayutthaya: Visit Chao Sam Phraya National Museum 2. Treat your soul at Wat Chaiwatthanaram 3. Shop like a local at Chao Phrom Market 4. Take a boat trip to Ayutthaya Island 5. Enjoy a tour of Royal Palace