Things To Do
in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya is a historical city in Thailand located just north of Bangkok. It was once the capital of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya, which was one of the most powerful and prosperous empires in Southeast Asia. The city is known for its stunning ancient ruins, including temples, palaces, and statues that reflect its rich cultural heritage.
Today, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya is a popular destination for tourists seeking to explore Thailand's history and immerse themselves in its traditional architecture and art.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the largest temple in Ayutthaya. Its impressive chedis offer great photo opportunities.
After lunch, explore Wat Mahathat, famous for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots. The serene atmosphere of this site makes it a must-see.
Cap off your day with a sunset boat ride along the Chao Phraya River. Enjoy the views of the ancient city as the sun sets.
Visit the Ayutthaya Historical Park to learn about the city's rich history. Exploring the park on foot will give you a chance to appreciate the architecture.
Head to a local cooking school for a hands-on class. Learn how to prepare traditional Thai dishes using local ingredients.
Enjoy the meal you prepared and share it with fellow participants. This interactive experience is both fun and fulfilling.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance with many ancient temples and ruins
- UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting tourists and historians
- Beautiful landscapes along the Chao Phraya River
- Vibrant local culture and traditional Thai cuisine
- Accessibility from Bangkok, making it a popular day-trip destination
- Overcrowding during peak tourist seasons
- Some historical sites may be poorly preserved
- Limited modern amenities compared to larger cities
- Potential language barrier for non-Thai speakers
- Hot and humid climate can be challenging for outdoor exploration
Best Activities in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the Ayutthaya Historical Park to see the ruins of ancient temples and palaces, including Wat Phra Mahathat and Wat Chaiwatthanaram.
Rent a bicycle to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace, including the scenic riverside paths and rural areas.
Take a boat tour to explore Ayutthaya from a different perspective and enjoy views of the city's historical sites from the water.
Explore the beautiful architecture and gardens of the historic Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, located a short distance from Ayutthaya.
Tours
Uncover the best of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Visit one of these nice places.
This temple offers a beautiful view of Ayutthaya from its prang (Khmer-style tower) and is a great spot for capturing the city's skyline.
Known for the iconic Buddha head entwined in the roots of a tree, this temple also provides stunning photo opportunities with its ancient ruins and peaceful atmosphere.
Situated on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, this temple is known for its picturesque setting and is a perfect place to capture sunset views over the river.
Food in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy and tangy noodle soup featuring fragrant herbs, succulent shrimp, and a rich broth. Visit Roti Chin Ma in Ayutthaya for an authentic taste of this local favorite.
Must-Try!
A fragrant and creamy coconut-based curry with tender chicken, eggplant, and sweet basil. Try this classic Thai dish at Chao Phrom Market for an unforgettable experience.
Stir-fried chicken with crunchy cashew nuts, crisp veggies, and a savory sauce. Head to Ban U Thong for a delightful rendition of this popular dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering an array of local delicacies like grilled seafood, spicy salads, and authentic curries. Don't miss the opportunity to sample traditional snacks and refreshing beverages while exploring the vibrant street food stalls.
Indulge in a sensory feast as you wander through this lively night market. Delight in grilled skewers, fresh fruit shakes, and a spectrum of regional specialties, all served in a convivial atmosphere that epitomizes the region's street food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, it is important to show respect to the monarchy. This includes standing when the royal anthem is played and refraining from speaking disrespectfully about the royal family.
It is a cultural norm in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya to remove shoes before entering a temple or someone's home as a sign of respect.
Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, so it is important to be mindful of this cultural norm and behave respectfully in public spaces.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Thailand is not widely practiced. In most situations, tipping is not expected, especially at local restaurants, street food vendors, and small shops. However, in tourist areas and upscale establishments, a service charge may be included in the bill, and additional tipping is discretionary.
In Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Thailand, cash is predominantly used for daily transactions, especially in smaller businesses and local markets. Credit and debit card acceptance may be limited outside of major hotels, restaurants, and retail chains, so it's advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya as the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for exploring the historical sites and temples. Expect clear skies and lower humidity during this period.
During this period, expect hot and dry weather with temperatures reaching their peak. It can be challenging to explore outdoor attractions during the hottest months, so it's important to stay hydrated and seek shade when visiting Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.
This season brings heavy rainfall and higher humidity to Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. While the countryside becomes lush and green, outdoor activities may be impacted by the rain. It's important to be prepared for occasional showers if visiting during this time.
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya at Night
Hiking in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic mountain offering various trails with stunning views of the surrounding area. It is suitable for hiking and nature photography.
Although a bit further away, this national park is renowned for its lush landscape and diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts.
While primarily a historical site, this park offers walking paths and scenic views that can be enjoyed as a leisurely hike.
Known for its high plateau and breathtaking views, this park provides various hiking trails suitable for both beginner and experienced hikers.
Famous for its unique landscapes and waterfalls, this park has several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore its natural beauty.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya by plane.
The primary international airport serving Bangkok, located approximately 50 kilometers southeast of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.
Another major airport in Bangkok, primarily serving low-cost carriers and located about 60 kilometers from Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.
An international airport located to the southeast of Bangkok, approximately 150 kilometers from Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.
An international airport serving Chiang Mai in northern Thailand, about 700 kilometers from Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.
The main airport serving Phuket, located approximately 840 kilometers from Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, primarily speaking Thai and practicing Theravada Buddhism.
A significant ethnic Chinese community engaged in commerce and trade, contributing to the local economy.
An ethnic group with a historical presence in the region, known for their unique cultural traditions and language.
An ethnic minority with roots in Cambodia, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Various smaller indigenous groups that contribute to the cultural mosaic of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.
The Soul of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Discover the essence of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Thailand, including Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, with many local teams and passionate fans supporting both professional and amateur leagues.
Known as the 'Art of Eight Limbs', Muay Thai is a traditional martial art and sport that has a significant following in Ayutthaya, with many gyms and training camps for practitioners.
Volleyball is popular in schools and communities, often played casually in local parks and organized competitions.
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth, with many courts available in neighborhoods and schools for recreational play.
A traditional game native to Southeast Asia, sepak takraw is played widely in Thailand, including in Ayutthaya, combining elements of soccer and volleyball.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and vegan travelers will find an array of meat-free dishes at local eateries, with many places willing to customize dishes to accommodate dietary preferences. Look out for establishments that prominently advertise vegetarian and vegan offerings on their menus.
While navigating gluten-free options may require more diligence, several restaurants are attentive to dietary needs and can often modify dishes to be gluten-free. Communicate your requirements clearly to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya with these cultural adventures.
