Renowned for its temple ruins and historical sites, Thai's former capital of 417 years – Ayutthaya - is must-see. On this full-day tour from Bangkok, you'll tick off all its iconic sites at the city's Historical Park, including Wat Mahathat, Bang Pa In Royal Palace, Wat Chaiwatthanaram and Wat Yai Chai Mongkol.
First up is Ayutthaya Kingdom's holiest temple, Wat Phra Si Sanphet. The grand monastery was once used as a presidential palace by the royals. Admire its three bell shaped stupas which contain each of the king's ashes. You'll then discover one of the oldest temples, Wat Mahathat, and its main attraction – a stone Buddha entwined in the roots of a giant tree.
As you continue wandering around the holy compound's pristine walkways, you'll be struck by how well-preserved its temples and Buddhist deities remain to this day. Pay a visit to the working monastery of Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, before ending the day at Bang-Pa-In - a four-century old summer retreat for Thai kings. Admire the eclectic mix of Thai, Khmer, Chinese and 19th century European-style influences present in its palaces and temples, which sit on islets and around the edges of an artificial lake.
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