Ayutthaya in a Day:
Top 8 Temples & Tips
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Ayutthaya is the ancient capital of Thailand. Its majestic temples, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stand out among the historic ruins. It is the perfect destination that combines the present and the past.
The easiest and cheapest way to get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok is to take the train from Bangkok Central Station (Bangkok Railway Station – Metro or Ferry Station “Hua Lamphong”).
The journey takes about 2 hours. The ticket costs 15 THB (price August 2023) and can be bought directly at the train station. There are websites that offer online tickets, but the price is much higher. You can buy your ticket 24 hours in advance or on same the day. To enjoy the day in Ayutthaya, I recommend taking the first train in the morning. However, there are not many train timetables.
For more information, go directly to the station. The information you find on the Internet is not always correct/up to date.
The historic park is about 4km from Ayutthaya railway station. Luggage lockers and toilets with showers are available. If Ayutthaya is a one-day stopover between two cities, you can leave your luggage at the station for the day without having to carry your suitcases/backpacks.
Right in front of the train station, there is a street with several bicycle (50 THB per day) and scooter (150 THB) rental stands. You will also find many tuktuks that offer their services by the hour or by the day. The price of the service varies and can be negotiated. If you decide to rent a bike, don’t worry about where to leave it as there are bike racks at the entrance of each temple. Don’t forget sun cream, mosquito repellent and a bottle of water, especially during the hot months.
The city of Ayutthaya and the historic park have many ruins and temples. Admission to most temples is 50 THB per person, but some lesser known or less touristy temples charge 20 THB or are even free to visit. A pass which includes 6 temples (see list below) is available at the entrance to each of the 6 temples and costs 220 THB. Visiting hours to the temples are from 8.00 to 18.00.
Coming up is my list of the 8 temples you must see during your day in Ayutthaya. I’ve also included a handy map that points out all the locations of the temples highlighted in this post.
Feel free to use this map and let us know if we missed anything in the comments section below.
This temple is included in the 6 temple pass (220 THB). Without the pass, the entrance fee is 50 THB.
Wat Phra Sanpetch, the historic royal temple, houses three imposing stupas, a symbol of Ayutthaya’s greatness. Known as the largest temple in the north-western region of Ayutthaya, Wat Phra Sanpetch is distinguished by its three majestic stupas (or chedis). According to legend, these venerable structures were used as the final resting place for the ashes of the first three monarchs of the city. This historic shrine embodies the rich heritage of Ayutthaya.
Entrance costs 20 THB.
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, one of the best conserved temples in Ayutthaya, it is an essential visit. Overlooked by a monumental stupa over 62 metres high, it offers stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
Built in 1357 by King U-Thong, the imposing chedi required nearly 30,000 tonnes of bricks to construct! The chedi is visible from several points in the city. But the real jewel of this temple is the sculpture of a reclining Buddha, complemented by dozens of Buddhas dressed in yellow robes, giving this place a magical and unforgettable appearance.
This temple is included in the 6 temple pass (220 THB). Without the pass, the entrance fee is 50 THB.
Famous for the Buddha’s head rooted in the roots of a tree, this iconic site exudes a mystical aura. Undoubtedly the most famous and photographed temple in Ayutthaya, it is an experience not to be missed during your day in this historic park. As you explore the temple, you will notice that many of the statues have been decapitated, a testament to the Burmese invasion. This temple is a true treasure of Thai history.
This temple is included in the 6 temple pass (220 THB). Without the pass, the entrance fee is 50 THB.
This temple, with its central tower and captivating murals, reveals the artistic opulence of the period. Close to Wat Maha That, Wat Ratchaburana is another must-see in Ayutthaya and exemplifies the influence of Khmer culture in the Kingdom of Siam. Two of the original four towers, which symbolised the universe, remain as a testament to this rich cultural heritage.
Entrance is free of charge.
Almost two kilometres from the centre of Ayutthaya, it is one of the most impressive temples thanks to its imposing height of almost 80 metres. Built by King Ramesuan in 1395, it is well worth taking the time to explore; both the temple and the views are truly amazing.
It’s worth noting that due to its distance from the city centre, not many tourists come to visit this Temple, which means that you’ll really get to enjoy it.
This temple is included in the 6 temple pass (220 THB). Without the pass, the entrance fee is 50 THB.
Built in 1630 by King Prasat Thong, this temple, like Wat Racha Burana, reflects the Khmer style with four prangs, making it one of the most popular temples in Ayutthaya.
It features an impressive 35-metre prang, visible from various points in the city, and 8 towers adorned with 120 Buddha statues, offering a perfect vision of Buddhism.. Considered by many to be the most beautiful temple in Ayutthaya,it is also one of the best preserved.
This temple is included in the 6 temple pass (220 THB). But in fact, the visit to this temple is free of charge.
In a modest state of preservation, this tranquil place exudes spirituality with the largest reclining Buddha in Ayutthaya, 42 metres long and 8 metres high. This temple is especially revered by the locals and is one of the highlights of Ayutthaya.
This temple is included in the 6 temple pass (220 THB). But in fact, the visit to this temple is free of charge.
Surrounded by ponds, this temple offers an enchanting blend of history and beauty, making it a magical place to explore. Although perhaps less spectacular than others, a visit to this temple in the heart of the Historical Park is a must. Its historical importance as the cremation site chosen by the first king gives it a key value for the city.
You may have read articles recommending at least two days in Ayutthaya to visit all the temples. This really depends on you, your pace and the amount of time you have to spend in the country.
In my opinion, a full day in Ayutthaya is more than enough to see all the temples. You can take an early morning train from Bangkok, spend the day sightseeing, and then take an afternoon or evening train or bus to another city. For example, after a day in Ayutthaya, you can go on to Sukhothai (although I wouldn’t recommend doing both cities in one trip as they are all historic parks and temples and it can be repetitive) or take the overnight train straight to Chiang Mai.
Here is a link to my articles where I detail my stay in Sukhothai and Chiang Mai:
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