Ayutthaya Temples Tour & River Cruise from Bangkok with Lunch

Visiting Bangkok is a unique experience, and being able to explore nearby ancient ruins only adds to the charm. Tourists often ask about the best way to see the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Ayutthaya, which was once the capital of Siam. Fortunately, there is an excellent day trip from Bangkok that includes a visit to the Ayutthaya temples and a riverboat trip on the Chao Phraya River. This blog post will provide you with all the must-know information about the Ayutthaya Temples Tour & River Cruise from Bangkok with Lunch.

What makes the Ayutthaya Temples Tour & River Cruise from Bangkok special?

The full-day tour of Ayutthaya includes a boat ride on the Chao Phraya River, which makes it unique from other tours of the ancient city. The riverboat trip adds an extra element to the day, allowing visitors to see the city from a different perspective, and witness the bustling river life along the way. The tour is an excellent opportunity to learn about both the ancient and modern history of Thailand.

What can you expect from the tour?

The tour starts early in the morning, with pickup from your hotel in Bangkok. The drive to Ayutthaya takes about 1.5 hours, and on the way, your tour guide will provide an overview of what you can expect during the day. Once you arrive in Ayutthaya, you will board the riverboat and begin your journey. The boat ride provides a different experience, allowing visitors to witness the city from a unique perspective.

The first stop on the tour is the Bang Pa-In Palace, a stunning summer palace that was once the residence of the Kings of Ayutthaya. The palace grounds have a beautiful landscape, and the structures are an excellent mix of Thai, Chinese, and European architectural styles.

Next, the tour stops at Wat Maha That, one of the most iconic temples in Ayutthaya. As you explore the temple, your guide will explain the history and significance of the complex. You’ll see the famous Buddha head entwined in the roots of a tree, one of the most famous and photographed sites in Ayutthaya.

The tour continues with a visit to Wat Phra Si Sanphet, another temple where the Kings of Ayutthaya once worshipped. The temple was built in the 15th century and was later destroyed by the Burmese army, leaving behind the ruins that visitors can see today.

After exploring the ruins, you will head back to the boat and continue down the river, enjoying a delicious Thai lunch on board. As you cruise along the river, you’ll get beautiful views of the city’s skyline, including the Temple of Dawn and the Grand Palace.

The final stop of the tour is Wat Chaiwatthanaram. This temple is one of the most beautiful temples in Ayutthaya, built in Khmer style. It is said that the temple was built by a king to pay homage to his mother, and the stunning architectural details of the temple reflect the love and devotion the king had for her.

The tour ends with a return boat ride to Bangkok, which is an excellent way to end the day.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?

The tour is suitable for travelers of all ages, and the amount of walking involved is minimal. However, visitors should be aware that Ayutthaya can be hot and humid, so it’s essential to be prepared with appropriate clothing and sunscreen.

How much does the tour cost?

The cost of the Ayutthaya Temples Tour & River Cruise from Bangkok with Lunch varies depending on the options you choose, but it typically costs around $100 per person.

How do I book the tour?

The best way to book the tour is through a reputable tour company. Viator offers the Ayutthaya Temples Tour & River Cruise from Bangkok with Lunch, which you can book online by clicking here. The tour includes pickup and drop off from your hotel, transportation, a guide, lunch, and all entry fees.

Conclusion

The Ayutthaya Temples Tour & River Cruise from Bangkok with Lunch is an excellent opportunity to explore the rich history of Thailand. The tour provides a unique experience by allowing visitors to explore Ayutthaya from the river, adding an extra element to the trip. As a visitor to Bangkok, this tour is a must-do, and it provides a great break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

An Insider’s Guide to Ayutthaya: Uncovering Hidden Gems and Local Experiences

Ayutthaya, located just an hour’s drive away from Bangkok, is a historical city filled with ancient ruins and traditional charm. Beyond the standard tourist attractions, this city offers a plethora of hidden treasures that only locals know about. To make the most of your visit to Ayutthaya, here is an insider’s guide to uncovering the city’s hidden gems and cultural experiences.

Local Attractions

While the famous Ayutthaya Historical Park is a must-visit, there are plenty of other attractions worth exploring. Start by visiting the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum, which houses impressive artefacts from the city’s rich history. Another unique spot is the elephant kraal, where elephants were once trained and prepared to work in the logging industry. You can also take a leisurely bike ride along the tranquil Pa Sak River and explore the charming local neighbourhoods.

Dining Spots

Ayutthaya is known for its delicious local cuisine, which has a distinctive taste and style compared to Bangkok. Don’t miss trying ‘kai pa lo’, a slow-cooked pork belly dish that has been passed down through generations. You can also indulge in ‘khao soi’, a northern-style coconut curry noodle soup, at the local night market. For those with a sweet tooth, ‘roti sai mai’, a candy-filled crispy pancake, is a must-try. Not only does Ayutthaya offer delicious food, but it is also the birthplace of the famed Thai iced tea.

Cultural Experiences

Ayutthaya’s cultural experiences go beyond the ruins and temples. Visit Wat Phra Sri Sanphet to witness the traditional daily alms-giving ceremony, where locals donate food to the monks. You can also learn about the city’s historical and religious significance at Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, which has a towering statue of Buddha. If you’re interested in traditional Thai music, check out the Thai Boat Museum, which has an impressive collection of traditional musical instruments and displays.

Local History

Ayutthaya has a rich and fascinating history beyond the ruins. One intriguing story is that of Queen Suriyothai, who famously sacrificed herself while riding an elephant to save her husband from being killed in a battle against the Burmese army. You can also learn about the city’s role as the former capital of Thailand and how it fell to the Burmese in 1767.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to step off the standard tourist path, try the unique experience of making your own traditional Thai dessert with a local family. You can also take a boat tour on the Khlong Sa Bua canal, where you can see traditional stilt houses and the local way of life. Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is to take a tuk-tuk ride around the city in the evening, where you can marvel at the illuminated ruins and feel Ayutthaya’s peaceful ambiance.

In conclusion, Ayutthaya is a fascinating city with a wealth of attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and history to discover. Venture off the tourist path and explore the city’s hidden gems to have a truly memorable experience.