Whichever it is spelt it is one of the must see places for the serious visitor to Thailand. Whilst there are many beautiful beaches, national parks and temples to visit, there is also a deep cultural heritage about which the Thais are justifiably very proud.
The city is about 80 kms north of Bangkok and was once the capital of the Thai kingdom, and an important trading centre. Most of the once gleaming temples and palaces are now brooding ruins, but in places there is a sense of atmosphere and the excellent museums provide the bigger picture.
Ayutthaya (Pronounced Ah-yut-hi-ya) is an island with UNESCO World Heritage status and sits at the confluence of the rivers Pasak, Lopburi and Chao Phraya.
The quick history:
1351 Founded and based on trade with India and China
By 1550 it had flourished at the expense of the declining Khmer empire
1685 population 1 million
1600's forty nationalities set up trading posts
1767 the Burmese army captured the city
Left in ruins and a new capital city was created on Ratanakosin Island in Bangkok.
Neither Khamma nor I had any idea how much time we might need to explore the city. We thought a day would be enough, but two is probably better. There are many temples and they are well spaced out, so walking is ambitious, especially in the searing heat. Bicycles, motor bikes, or cars are more practical.
We visited Wat Phra Maharat, Wat Ratburana, Wat Na Phra Mane, the visitor centre and the museum. We missed out on the Royal Palace and several other temples.
We enjoyed a street meal at the night market - eat all you can for 100 bhat! See picture below.
The city is about 80 kms north of Bangkok and was once the capital of the Thai kingdom, and an important trading centre. Most of the once gleaming temples and palaces are now brooding ruins, but in places there is a sense of atmosphere and the excellent museums provide the bigger picture.
Ayutthaya (Pronounced Ah-yut-hi-ya) is an island with UNESCO World Heritage status and sits at the confluence of the rivers Pasak, Lopburi and Chao Phraya.
The quick history:
1351 Founded and based on trade with India and China
By 1550 it had flourished at the expense of the declining Khmer empire
1685 population 1 million
1600's forty nationalities set up trading posts
1767 the Burmese army captured the city
Left in ruins and a new capital city was created on Ratanakosin Island in Bangkok.
Neither Khamma nor I had any idea how much time we might need to explore the city. We thought a day would be enough, but two is probably better. There are many temples and they are well spaced out, so walking is ambitious, especially in the searing heat. Bicycles, motor bikes, or cars are more practical.
We visited Wat Phra Maharat, Wat Ratburana, Wat Na Phra Mane, the visitor centre and the museum. We missed out on the Royal Palace and several other temples.
We enjoyed a street meal at the night market - eat all you can for 100 bhat! See picture below.
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| Buddha's head entwined in the roots of bodhi tree - Wat Phre Maharat |
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| Many buddha heads missing |
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| Wat Ratburana |
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| Wat Na Phra Mane |
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| Buddha in National museum |
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| The biggest mobile rotating BBQ |
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