Ayutthaya is situated 85 kilometres north of Thailand within the Central Plains. The unique location is the site of an ancient city as well as a modernised capital. The most popular aspect of this area is the ancient site itself, located on an island in the centre of the city. Ayutthaya is surrounded by three rivers, respectively the Chao Phraya River, the Lopburi River, and the Pa Sak River and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The remains of the ancient city include impressive ruins of temples and palaces. One of the most famous attractions is the Phra Mongkhon Bophit, encompassing a Buddha statue often populated with worshippers. Wat Na Phra Meru is the original building of the city and exhibits the remains of still discernible wall paintings and beautiful pointed columns. Although there is not much remaining of the Royal Palace Ruins, the piles of infrastructure emit a certain historic energy.
There are many transportation options to Ayutthaya, including a train from the Hualamphong Station in downtown Bangkok or a bus from the Mo Chit stop. Getting on to the island within the city requires a 4minute ferry ride or local tuk-tuk transport. Biking or walking is an option in optimal weather conditions.
Ayutthaya was built in 1350 as a trading capital city due to its proximity to China and India. In 1700, it was recorded to be the largest city in the world boasting over one million people. The remnants were named a World Heritage site in 1991.