More inspiring places

Ayutthaya, Thailand

Ayutthaya - Thailand
For over 300 hundred years the ancient city of Ayutthaya was one of the world’s greatest and most populous cities, a centre of trade, religion and power. Once the heart of the Siamese Kingdom, the cultural and political significance of the city cannot be underestimated. Its strategic location on an island between three rivers, as well as its geographical position between major powers China and India, made it well placed to become Asia’s trading capital. Built around 1350, the city was a plethora of glittering temples and palaces before it was savagely burnt to the ground by Burmese invaders. What remain now are largely the stone buildings which survived the flames, but the site is still nonetheless a breath-taking attraction given that these were the grandest and largest buildings of all. The Ayutthaya historical park at the centre of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its vast array of iconic stupa temples, coiled pillars which puncture the skyline, as well as a number of impressive gold and stone Buddha statues. The impressive temples and statues ensure the city remains a terrific tribute to the ancient people who built it.

Where is it?
Ayutthaya is located in the south of Thailand, in the valley of the Chao Phraya River. It is only an hour’s drive from Bangkok, making it an easy day trip from the capital of the country.

What is it?
Ayutthaya was the second capital of the ancient Siam kingdom. The city was hugely important to the kingdom given its strategic position, and historical records suggest the population at its peak reached around one million, making it one of the world's largest cities at that time.

Best time to visit?
Thailand is generally very hot and humid, so visiting in the relatively cooler period in November, December and January is advisable.

Must See?
The incredible Wat Phra Mahathat temple ruins are home to a famous Buddha head, part of an ancient statue which has been engulfed by a Banyan tree. The head just peaks through the entwining roots, creating a truly unforgettable vision.

Speak to an expert

Need more advice before deciding which tour might suit you best and with whom to travel?
Our Phonethrough feature allows you to talk directly to an expert holiday advisor from each of the leading specialist operators who organise tours to the destinations featured.

Benefit from their in-depth knowledge and free advice, with no strings attached to give you the re-assurance that you are booking the right holiday for you.
Call the Freephone numbers or the 03 Phonethrough number. Calls to 03 numbers cost the same as to other standard fixed line numbers (starting 01 or 02) and calls made will come out of any inclusive minutes you have with your Service Provider. Ofcom rules dictate that 03 calls do not generate any money for the call recipient
Prefer to send an email in the first instance? Click on the email icon and submit your general enquiry or for a specific tour with a request to respond by email or to phone you back.
This will help you decide if they have the tour that best matches your requirements.

Our aim is to introduce and match holiday planning consumers with specialist escorted tour holiday operators & organisers. Please note that any booking you make is made directly with the tour operator, travel organiser or provider as Somewhere Special.travel does not act in any agent or booking capacity.

Call 0808 274 5111
or Email