Mentioned to Ayutthaya or formally Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, many would think of numerous temples for making the merit trip. However, the place is recognized among tourists worldwide with magnificent historic parks, museums, traditional style markets, learning centers, or even delicious restaurants and snack shops. Those things lure lots of travelers to go to Ayutthaya, plus it is not too far from Bangkok with convenient transport, as well.
Ayutthaya “The Rich of tourism Resources”
Ayutthaya, actually rich in tourism resources, both natural and historical attractions. Some places are remarkable landmark attract ones to explore one of the most fascinating and alluring corners. In particular, if you think about somewhere related to the history of Thailand, definitely, Ayutthaya Historical Park must be top of the lists as one of the most glorious kingdoms of Thailand and Southeast Asia. Significantly, tradition, culture, and belief in the Ayutthaya Kingdom have influenced a lot in the present life of Thais. Literally, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya accepted the historical city globally with its exotic and unique architecture and landscape, fenced by waterways. UNESCO, in 1991, then proclaimed the location as the world’s heritage site since then. Even though the glorious beauty of the Ayutthaya Kingdom deserted by the invasion of Burma and time, the place is precious and beautiful still in terms of history and civilization.
For over 417 years as the capital of Thailand, the Ayutthaya Kingdom had created many historical treasures that serve as alluring tourist attractions. Taking a trip in Pha Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, certainly can’t skip visiting those ancient remains, especially the numbers of old temples which are the must-visit locations for all visitors. For example, Wat Yai Chaiyamangala, Wat Phanan Choeng, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mae Nang Pluem, Wat Thanmikkarat. As well as, Wat Na Phra Maru, Wat Chai Wattanaram, Wat Tha Ga Rong, Wat Kasattrathirat Woravihara, and Wat Phutthaisawan. Those of the Buddhist monasteries are so-called vital proof of the glory of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, where the place collected one of the most intriguing collections of fabulous architectures, archeological finds, and mural paintings that created by significant artists in the old days for one whom interesting to learn. For this reason, many both local and international come to Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya set up itinerary with temples tour.
Despite, if you would like to fulfill the historical tour in this province, you should add Bang Pa-In Palace into your schedule. The royal court established in the reign of King Prasat Thong of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Although the additional construction to this ancient site in the age of King Rama IV and King Rama V of the Rattanakosin, the marvelous architecture of art here still reflects the meticulous and creative craftsmanship of the artists in the Ayutthaya Era, excellently.
Additionally, many more of the museum in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya that would be thrilled for the tourists, especially the history fans. Sam Phraya National Museum, Ayutthaya Studied Institute, Ayutthaya Historical Study Center, Local Museum at Ban Praek district, Classic Thai House Museum, and Million Toys Museum, for instance.
On the other hand, for one who prefers to see the local way of life, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya features a remarkable community with a traditional lifestyle with deep native wisdom inherited from generation to generation. For example, the manufacturing base of “Aranyik Knife” at Nakhon Luang district. Folk Doll Center in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya district, and Bang Sai Arts and Craft Center at Bang Sai district. Or the making of artificial flower from Sesbania javanica, the weaving of fish-shaped hanging mobile (Pla Tapian San) made from palm leaves, and Khon Mask making of M.L. Phansawas Sukhasawasdi. These are a good way to know the Ayutthaya culture intensively.
Also, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya features many tourist sightseeing, especially the Floating Market, that offers for the tourists to entertain. For example, the Floating Market at Wat Tha Ga Rong, Ayothaya Floating Market, Hua Ro Market, Klong Sa Bua Floating Market in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya district. Also, Gong Khong Market in Bang Pa-In district, and Lad Cha-Do Market in Pak Hai district. Another interesting activity in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya is Riding on the Elephant City Tour. Not only wander around the ancient remains but also experience the life of Thai elephants that are available in many locations.
“Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya” is a unique and exotic city in Thailand that is worthwhile to celebrate as “the world’s heritage site” and “tourist destination,” indeed.
