Ayutthaya Historical Park
Ayutthaya Historical Park · Ayutthaya Historical Park, Ayutthaya, Thailand
Last updated 2026-10-29
By Global Travel Guide Editorial Team
Introduction
The city was a major trading capital for four centuries; the Burmese sacked it in 1767, leaving the brick and stone temples. Wat Mahathat is known for the Buddha head wrapped in tree roots; Wat Phra Si Sanphet has three large chedis. The site is large and exposed; rent a bicycle or take a tuk-tuk between clusters. It is about 80 km north of Bangkok, often visited as a day trip. Go early to avoid heat.
Ticket Price
The park grounds are free to walk; individual temples charge about THB 20-50 (≈ USD 0.59–1.5) for foreigners. A six-site combo pass costs about THB 220.
Opening Hours
Grounds open 24 hours; ticketed temples generally 8:00-18:00 (last entry around 17:00).
Transportation
Trains from Bangkok take about 1.5 hours (roughly THB 60-100); buses from Mochit take 1.5-2 hours. A bicycle or tuk-tuk is the best way around the ruins.
Best Season
In Thailand, the dry, cooler months (roughly Nov-Feb) are most comfortable; Apr-May is very hot and Jun-Oct brings heavy but short rains. Mild, dry periods are the most comfortable windows to visit.
Pro Tip: Rent a bike at the park entrance
Local Tips You'd Only Learn After Visiting
The details official guides skip — save time, avoid crowds, and get better photos.
1
Rent a bike at the park entrance The ruins are spread across a large area and a bike is the most practical way to link them. Use the marked paths and carry water; shade is limited.
Member-Only Tips
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Frequently Asked Questions3 questions
The sandstone head at Wat Mahathat was left when the city was sacked in 1767 and later became entwined by bodhi tree roots. Visitors should not touch it or sit beside it for photos, as it is a sacred object.
Yes. The historical island is flat and bicycles rent for about THB 40-60 per day; most main ruins are within a short ride. Early morning and late afternoon are the most comfortable.
Shoulders and knees must be covered at the temples; sleeveless tops and shorts are not allowed. Sarongs can be rented at the entrance of the main sites.