Ayutthaya: 5 Essential Sights
A private day in Thailand’s former royal capital, a UNESCO World Heritage site: five essential temples, explained by your own licensed guide, with time for photos and a relaxed lunch.
Tour overview
Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam for over four centuries, until 1767. On this private day trip from Bangkok you visit the five sites that tell its story best: the great chedi of Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, the Buddha head held by tree roots at Wat Mahathat, the royal temple Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the bronze Buddha of Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit and the riverside towers of Wat Chaiwatthanaram. Lunch is a free stop at a local restaurant; it is not included in the standard tour price.
Scheduled stops
- •Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
- •Wat Mahathat – Buddha head in the tree roots
- •Wat Phra Si Sanphet
- •Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit
- •Lunch at a local restaurant
- •Wat Chaiwatthanaram
Ayutthaya itinerary
Times are approximate and may vary depending on traffic, queues, temple access and local conditions. The order of visits may be adjusted when necessary to provide the smoothest experience.
Hotel pickup in Bangkok
Your guide and driver meet you at your hotel; about 1.5 hours to Ayutthaya.
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
The great chedi and the row of saffron-robed Buddhas, best in the soft morning light.
Wat Mahathat
The famous Buddha head held by tree roots and the ruins of the royal monastery.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit
The three chedis of the former royal palace temple and the large bronze Buddha next to it.
Lunch at a local restaurant
Free time for lunch. The meal is not included in the standard tour price and is available on request.
Wat Chaiwatthanaram
The riverside temple inspired by Angkor, the most photogenic site of the day.
Return to Bangkok
Drive back with a short comfort stop if needed.
Estimated arrival at your hotel
Around 17:30, depending on traffic.
Photo gallery
Frequently asked questions
How long is the tour?
About ten hours: pickup at 07:30 in Bangkok and arrival back at your hotel around 17:30, depending on traffic.
Is the tour private?
Yes. The vehicle, the driver and the guide are only for your group (1–8 people). Larger groups on request.
Are admission fees and lunch included?
Admission to Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Chaiwatthanaram is included; Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit is free. Lunch is not included and is available on request.
Can we start from Pattaya?
This tour starts in Bangkok. From Pattaya the drive is about three hours each way; ask us for a custom plan.
What is included
- Licensed local English-speaking guide.
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with driver, fuel, tolls and parking.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in central Bangkok.
- Basic travel insurance for every customer, the guide and the driver.
Tour price inclusions and exclusions
- Admission to Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Chaiwatthanaram is included.
- Lunch is not included in the standard tour price; it is available on request.
- Price for the whole private group, VAT included.
Practical tips
- Dress modestly for temples: shoulders covered, trousers or skirt at least knee-length.
- Wear comfortable shoes; the sites are spread out and mostly in the sun.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen and a reusable water bottle.