How to Take a Day Trip to Ayutthaya Historical Park from Bangkok

Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular day trips from Bangkok. With its stunning temples, historic ruins, and rich cultural heritage, Ayutthaya offers a fascinating glimpse into Thailand's past. The city is just a short distance away from Bangkok, making it an easy and rewarding day trip. Here’s how you can make the most of your visit to Ayutthaya Historical Park.

1. How to Get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok

There are several options for getting to Ayutthaya, ranging from budget-friendly choices to more comfortable options. Each method has its advantages, depending on your time and preferences.

By Train

• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.

• Cost: 20–300 THB (depending on class).

• How to Go:

  • The State Railway of Thailand operates trains from Hua Lamphong Station (Bangkok's central station) to Ayutthaya.

  • Trains depart regularly throughout the day, with departures roughly every hour in the morning. You can choose from third-class (cheapest), second-class (air-conditioned), or first-class (private cabin).

  • Tip: The third-class train can get crowded, but it’s a great option if you're on a tight budget.

By Bus

• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.

• Cost: Around 60–100 THB.

• How to Go:

  • Buses leave from Mo Chit Bus Terminal (the northern bus station) in Bangkok to Ayutthaya. They are frequent and relatively inexpensive.

  • Buses are a good option if you're looking for a direct route with fewer transfers.

By Minivan

• Duration: 1.5 hours.

• Cost: Around 80–150 THB.

• How to Go:

  • Minivans leave from the Victory Monument area in Bangkok. They are faster than buses but can be more cramped.

  • Minivans are a popular option for people who want a quick and inexpensive trip to Ayutthaya.

By Private Car or Taxi

• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.

• Cost: Around 1,500–2,500 THB (depending on the vehicle).

• How to Go:

  • If you prefer convenience and comfort, hiring a private car or taxi is a great choice.

  • This allows you to travel at your own pace and potentially stop for photos along the way. You can book a car through local tour agencies or apps like Grab.

By River Cruise

• Duration: 3 hours each way.

• Cost: Around 1,000–1,500 THB (one way).

• How to Go:

  • For a scenic and relaxing journey, consider taking a river cruise from Bangkok to Ayutthaya. Some tour companies operate cruises along the Chao Phraya River, offering a unique perspective of the countryside and temples.

  • This is a great option if you want to enjoy the natural beauty of the area while traveling in comfort.

2. What to See and Do in Ayutthaya Historical Park

Ayutthaya Historical Park is home to numerous stunning ruins, temples, and statues that date back to the city’s golden age. Here's a list of must-see sites:

Wat Mahathat

• Famous for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots, this is one of the most iconic images of Ayutthaya.

• The temple was once the heart of the city’s religious and political life.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

• Once the grandest temple in Ayutthaya, this temple was part of the royal palace complex. It features three large chedis (stupas) that are a key symbol of Ayutthaya.

Wat Ratchaburana

• This temple is known for its impressive prang (spire) and beautiful murals inside the crypt. It’s less crowded than other sites, making it perfect for a quiet visit.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

• A stunning riverside temple, it’s an architectural masterpiece with beautiful Khmer-style prangs and serene surroundings. Perfect for photography, especially during sunset.

Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre

• If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Ayutthaya, visit this museum. It provides informative displays about the city's founding, growth, and fall.

Chao Sam Phraya National Museum

• This museum houses an impressive collection of ancient artifacts, including golden treasures, statues, and ancient Buddhist relics.

Boat Ride Around the Island

• To see Ayutthaya from a different perspective, take a boat tour around the island. This will give you a view of several temples from the river, making it a peaceful and enjoyable experience.

3. How to Explore Ayutthaya

Rent a Bicycle or Electric Scooter

• Bicycles are one of the best ways to explore Ayutthaya, as the city is quite spread out and many of the historical sites are close to each other. Renting a bike allows you to cover more ground and explore at your own pace.

  • Rental Cost: Around 50–100 THB for a day.

• Electric Scooters are also available for rent and are a good option if you want to cover more distance without getting too tired.

  • Rental Cost: Around 150–300 THB for a day.

Hire a Tuk-Tuk or Songthaew

• If you prefer not to walk or cycle, you can hire a tuk-tuk or songthaew (shared taxi) to take you around to the major temples. It's a more comfortable option, especially if you're short on time.

Guided Tours

• For a deeper understanding of the history and culture of Ayutthaya, consider hiring a local guide. They can take you to the main historical sites and provide insightful commentary.

  • Guided tours are available through hotels or local tour companies, and some tours also include lunch or a river cruise.

4. What to Eat in Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya offers some delicious local dishes that are perfect for a quick lunch or snack while you're touring the temples.

Boat Noodles (Kuay Teow Reua)

• A must-try dish in Ayutthaya. These noodles are served in a small bowl with rich broth, pork or beef, and a variety of herbs and spices. It’s often served with a side of crispy pork rinds.

Roti Sai Mai

• A local dessert made from a thin, fluffy pancake filled with sweet, colorful strands of sugar floss. It’s a popular treat that you’ll find being sold in the streets.

Ayutthaya River Fish

• Many restaurants along the river serve fresh fish caught from the Chao Phraya River. You can try dishes like grilled fish or fish curry.

5. Tips for a Great Day Trip to Ayutthaya

• Start Early: Ayutthaya can get hot during the day, so it’s a good idea to start your trip early to beat the heat and crowds.

• Wear Comfortable Clothes and Shoes: You’ll be walking around a lot, so comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are essential.

• Bring Sunscreen and Water: The sun can be intense, so don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a bottle of water.

• Respect the Temples: Ayutthaya is a sacred place, so dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) and behave respectfully inside the temples.

• Allow Enough Time: To see the major sites of Ayutthaya, you’ll need at least 5–6 hours. If you’re taking a guided tour, it may take less time.

6. When to Visit Ayutthaya

The best time to visit Ayutthaya is during the cooler months, from November to February, when the weather is more comfortable. Avoid the hot season (March to May), as it can get extremely hot.

• Festivals: If you’re lucky enough to visit during Songkran (Thai New Year) in April or the Ayutthaya World Heritage Fair in December, you’ll experience the city’s festive atmosphere and special events.

7. Returning to Bangkok

After a full day of exploring, it’s time to head back to Bangkok. The last buses, trains, and minivans typically leave Ayutthaya in the late afternoon or early evening. Be sure to check the schedules in advance and allow some buffer time, as traffic can sometimes delay the return journey.

Conclusion

A day trip to Ayutthaya offers a wonderful opportunity to explore Thailand’s ancient history and architectural beauty. Whether you’re traveling by train, bus, or car, the journey is relatively easy, and the city’s historical parks and temples will leave you in awe. By following these tips, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and culturally respectful visit to Ayutthaya.