Bangkok to Ayutthaya

In my final research to the ultimate historical site and temple site for a great outdoor walking or cycling adventure, I came across one name Ayutthaya in Thailand. But there are few questions which disturbed as I was researching, how do you get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok?

There are several means to use and get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok. They include taxi, cars, trains, buses, tuk-tuk, and minivan. If you have the time and your budget is okay by boat is quite full of fun.

When I was planning my next tour, I wanted to travel to Thailand. I have heard and research so much about Thailand I really wanted to get there and see for myself.

Ayutthaya UNESCO World Heritage site caughts my attention more than any other part of Thailand.

I believe you also love to know if you are curious to see this wonderful ancient capital of the Kingdom.

Don’t worry because you have come to the right place. I have done research and found affordable ways to get from Bangkok to Ayutthaya.

In this article, I will also tell you the top places to not miss while you reach Ayutthaya. First, let me get you to know Ayutthaya.

Ayutthaya, the ancient capital

Ayutthaya is an island in Thailand at the confluence of three rivers; the Lopburi, the Chao Phraya River, and the Pa Sak River. It was the second capita; city in ancient times before its destruction.

Today is the modern city in the Central plains of Thailand. It is located 85 km from Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand. Ayutthaya is the capital city of the province names after it.

After teeming with gilded temples along with treasure-laden palaces, then it had been the capital of Siam from 1350 until 1767, once the town had been savagely sacked by the Burmese.

Only ruins remain from this age of flourishing commerce and art, however, heaps of temples that are crumbling blossom Ayuthaya’s past grandeur. Reputation among towering stupas, it’s easy to imagine the way they looked into their prime.

History of the Ayutthaya province in Thailand

Ayutthaya does have a rich history dating back to the 1350s. It was founded in 1350 and was the second capital of then Siam (later became Thailand. During those ancient times, it was an ideal location for several countries such as India, China, and Malay to trade.

Due to this that time, Ayutthaya was regarded as the trading capital of Asia and even the world.

In 1700, Ayutthaya was the largest city all over the globe, with a total of 1 million inhabitants.

It was an attraction by international merchants who sailed from diverse regions such as China, the Arab World, Japan, and India, among other countries.

Merchants from Europe acknowledged Ayutthaya as the best and finest city they have encountered. From Dutch and French maps, they show the city grandeur with gold-laden palaces, huge float of trading vessels, and large ceremonies.

It indicates the city was flourishing quite well during those ancient times.

The city was, however, destroyed in 1767 when the Burmese invaded.

The destruction of the city got to an extent almost everything was burnt down to the ashes.

Ayutthaya UNESCO World Heritage site

Currently, few you can locate a few of the city remains. However, temples and palaces still exist as they were during those ancient times.

Due to that, they were built of stone at that time of destruction; hence, they never burnt down. In 1991, Ayutthaya was officially recognized by UNESCO and became the UNESCO World Heritage site.

When I read this history, I was really determined and made up my mind I must get to Ayutthaya. Only one issue detracted me; I am sure it may have, too, how you get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok.

There are no flights direct to Ayutthaya as of now. What will happen? Let me tell you what I found after research.

Ayutthaya temples

Bangkok to Ayutthaya. The Ayutthaya Buddhist temple drops into one of two broad groups: the stupa-style strong temple as well as also the prang-style (Thai: ปรางค์).

The prangs may likewise be found in a variety of types in Sukhothai, Lopburi, Bangkok (Wat Arun).

In the meanwhile, other temples were built with the influx of Khmer style.

Sizes may vary, but the prangs step 40 and between 15 meters in elevation, and also resemble a more corn-cob that is towering such as construction.

• Wat Chai Watthanaram
• Wat Sanam Chai
• Wat Lokayasutharam
• The ruins for the former capital
• Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit
• Wat Phra Si Sanphet
• Wat Phra Ram
• Wat Maha That
• Wat Ratchaburana
• Wat Thammikarat
• Wat Suwandarum
• Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan
• Wat Choeng Tha
• Wat Na Phra Meru
• Wat Monthop
• Wat Prasat
• Wat Yai Chaimongkol

How to easily get from Bangkok to Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is located 100 km from Bangkok. It will be a long journey if you don’t plan it well, but if you do, it is no problem at all.

Train from Bangkok to Ayutthaya

It is the cheapest but the most scenic means of reaching Ayutthaya. There is comfort as compared to using buses. Usually, the train leaves from Hualamphong Station in Bangkok city center after every hour.

The station is situated at a subway stop on the MRT line. It is a direct journey to Ayutthaya, at it takes around 2 hours.

There is no online book by train. Thus will require you to reach on at the station and purchase your ticket. Check which class you wish to enter into as there are three classes; first, second, and third class. The prices differ according to class, as well as the inclusions.

The first-class costs 330 baht ($10) but if you cannot afford there is the third class costa 20 baht ($0.50)

The prices changes according to train services there are some which are even cheaper. It is important to note that the railway station is not on the island but across the river. It is a short ferry ride away.

There are ferry boats available they run every few minutes and charges around 5 baht. Either way, there are tuk-tuks eagerly waiting to take you into the town for around 60 baht.

Bus from Bangkok to Ayutthaya

A bus is another means you can use to get to Ayutthaya.

The buses leave the station after every 30 minutes the first class buses charge around 56 baht while the third class allowed 7 baht.

The bus station is situated on the Northern bus Terminal.

To reach there go to Mo Chit BTS Station, as you exit the gate, cross the bridge on the right to go to the bus stop then take bus service 3 or 77. It will take you around 10-15 minutes keep in mind the Northern Bus Terminal is the last stop for the bus services.

But the buses don’t stop in the Northern Bus Terminal, rather across the street. Hence cross the bridge to get to the bus terminal.

The bus does make several stops of the way but remain still; you shall reach Ayutthaya.

Private car or taxi from Bangkok to Ayutthaya

If you are looking for a quicker meant to get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok the hiring a taxi or having your car is the best option.

It will take you around 1 hour to get there. You can rent a car from the city or from one of Bangkok’s two airports.

Either way, you can rent a car from the locals.

Prices differ according to the service provided. If you are staying in a hotel, ask the hotel to organize for you a taxi and agree on the price.

Minivan from Bangkok to Ayutthaya

Minivans are located at Mo Chit Bus station in Bangkok, and their time of leaving the station is determined when the minivan is full. It means you have to wait until the van is full for so as to leave to Ayutthaya.

There are several stops on the way but finally will reach Ayutthaya.

Remember you are visiting an Island. Therefore once you arrive at Ayutthaya, you need to figure out which best means to use and get around.

There are two main options either you take ferry charges 4 baht ($0.10), or tuk-tuk price differs according to the service provided.

Ayutthaya is a key tourist destination, and there are many places to explore. However, I am going to tell you key areas so as you don’t miss visiting them.

Key places don’t miss in Ayutthaya

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is one of the places you should not miss. It is one of the Ayutthaya top things to do. It is located at the site of the Wat Phra Si Sanphet.

The Palace was constructed by the king, who founded Ayutthaya in 1350 king Ramathibodi. You will get to see the eight forts which surround the place as well as twenty-two gates.

The gates are big enough such that they can allow an elephant to enter. It is one of the few buildings that remained intact even after attacks.

Location: Tambon Ban Len, Amphoe Bang Pa-in, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13160, Thailand
Time: 8 AM-4 PM

Historical pack

It is another must-visit place the Historical Park rich with history and archeology. It is a place recognized by the UNESCO and termed as UNESCO World Heritage. It is a massive park and n around 67 beautiful temples and ruins.

There is also previous Siamese Capital town, the remains after destruction, Buddha statues which look as if they are striking against the background of the blue skies and the greenery of the park. It is very important to visit these historical sites.

Don’t miss it.

Location: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
Time: 8 AM – 6 PM

Million Toy Museum

Its famous toy museum is every child’s (and adults) a dream come true, and one not to miss in Ayutthaya. The museum was founded by Kirk Yoonpun.

He was an associate professor of children’s literature from Srinakharinwirot University. It is a two-story museum house with 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
Time: 9 AM-4 PM
Entry Fee: 50 baht for adults, 20 baht for children.

Boat trip

It is another must not miss activity. You will take a boat trip or a dinner cruise around Ayutthaya Island.

It is one of the most entertaining things to do in Ayutthaya at night.

Don’t spend your time just hitting a nightclub-like most people would rather get out admire the way the temples are lit up at night.

You will have the chance of the magnificent lights produced by different temples.

When you chose to travel during the day, the boat stops at some of the most popular tourist attractions in the city such as the Wat Phanan Choeng and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, among the most famous temples in Ayutthaya.

Location: 45/2 Mu 1 Rochana Road Pratuchai, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
Time: 11AM – 11PM

The Ayutthaya Elephant stay

Great moments to bond with Elephants

Ideal it must-visit place to get a first-hand experience on how elephants are trained for war. The place houses around 180 elephants.

It is a non-profit set up that mainly focuses on the well-being of the elephants. In case you are traveling with children; this place will provide them with exposure to the culture of good treatment of wild animals.

Get to ride on an elephant, which is not usual. These are trained elephants to offer you a lifetime experience.

Location: Royal Elephant Kraal and Village, 74/1 Moo 3, Tumbol Suanpik, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Thailand

Chao Sam Phraya National Museum

It is the largest museum in Ayutthaya city. Thus a must-visit place in Ayutthaya.

The museum was built in the year 1970 and contained some of the most historically significant artifacts and scriptures from important points in history, dating as far as 500 years back in time.

You will get to learn the history of Ayutthaya in detail here. Remember history defines us, get here to have the first-hand information about Ayutthaya.

There so many statues to explore, and you learn their importance for people of Thailand in general.

Location: 108, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
Timing: 9 AM – 4 PM

Ayothaya Floating Market

It is the perfect blend of a commercial and local attraction; visiting this floating market is one of the must-do things in Ayutthaya.

The market is famous for its many food stalls, where it is possible to a complete culinary tour of Thailand, better than any five-star hotel could give you.

There are also a few small stalls that sell souvenirs.

Location: Phai Ling, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
Time: 9 AM-6 PM

Get to Ayutthaya; here you shall have an experience which you will live to tell.

Ayutthaya stands as a center of attraction, and up to date is crowded with tourists from all over the world as they explore this ancient city.

Ayutthaya tours from Bangkok

• Ayutthaya tours by Road from Bangkok

• Ayutthaya tours Cruise from Bangkok

Enigmatic temple ruins are strewn across Ayuthaya (อยุธยา), due to the own glory days as royal funding.

To keep in mind!

The Ayutthaya Experience takes you throughout the marvels of the ancient capital of Thailand. Ayutthaya is dotted with ruins and expansive temples, encompassed by the Chao Phraya, Pa Sak, and Lop Buri Rivers, also full of the air of mystique and grandeur which truly reflects historical Thailand.

Quit by a 17th-century summer palace, also a combination of Italian, Chinese, Thai and Chinese structure. A large reclining Buddha, See Wat Lokayasutharam.

Then drop by Wat Mahathat on to look for the renowned Buddha head entwined in shrub branches, until having lunch in Ayutthaya Floating Marketplace.

Head to Wat Phra Si Sanphet, in which the ash of 3 Ayutthayan kings is enshrined in its pagodas. As the night draws in, have a leisurely boat journey and then get the views of this glorious temple ruins, wrap your journey up to olden Thailand.