Ayuttahaya Ruins & Zoo

Our driver will pick you up from your hotel and proceed to Ayutthaya

Visit the Temples

Wat Mahathat, Ayutthaya – The Temple of the Buddha Head in Tree Roots 🏯🌳

Wat Mahathat is one of the most famous and sacred temples in Ayutthaya Historical Park, known for its iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots. It was once a major royal monastery and played a significant role in Thailand’s ancient capital, Ayutthaya. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting history lovers and photographers from around the world.

🏛️ History & Significance

• Built in the 14th century (around 1374) during the reign of King Borommarachathirat I.
• It was the spiritual center of Ayutthaya, housing relics of Buddha.
• The temple was destroyed in 1767 when the Burmese army invaded Ayutthaya, leaving only ruins.
• The site remains an important cultural and religious landmark, offering a glimpse into Thailand’s glorious past.

🌟 Highlights of Wat Mahathat

🌳 Buddha Head in Tree Roots

• The most famous attraction in the temple.
• A Buddha head is mysteriously entwined within the roots of a Bodhi tree.
• Theories suggest it was left there after the Burmese invasion, and the tree grew around it over time.
• Visitors must kneel when taking photos as a sign of respect.

🏛️ Ruins of the Grand Pagoda (Prang)

• The central prang (Khmer-style tower) was once 46 meters tall but collapsed over time.
• Surrounded by smaller chedis (stupas) and Buddha statues, showcasing Ayutthaya’s architectural style.

🏯 Decapitated Buddha Statues

• Many Buddha statues in the temple were damaged or beheaded during the Burmese invasion.
• Despite this, the ruins hold a hauntingly beautiful and spiritual atmosphere.

📸 Scenic & Instagrammable Views

• The temple’s mix of ancient ruins, red brick walls, and tree-covered structures makes it a stunning photography spot.

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Wat Ratchaburana, Ayutthaya – The Temple of Royal Restoration 🏯✨

Wat Ratchaburana is one of the most well-preserved and historically significant temples in Ayutthaya Historical Park. Known for its grand Khmer-style prang (tower) and hidden underground crypt, this temple offers a glimpse into Ayutthaya’s royal past and breathtaking ancient architecture.

🏛️ History & Significance

• Built in 1424 by King Borommarachathirat II to honor his two brothers, who fought to the death in a battle for the throne.
• The temple’s central prang (Khmer-style tower) is one of the best-preserved in Ayutthaya.
• The crypt beneath the prang once contained gold artifacts, murals, and relics, now displayed at the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum.

🌟 Highlights of Wat Ratchaburana

🏯 The Grand Central Prang

• One of the most intact and detailed prangs in Ayutthaya.
• Features intricate carvings of mythical creatures, floral designs, and stucco reliefs.
• Visitors can climb the steps to see stunning views of the temple grounds.

🔥 The Underground Crypt

• Inside the prang, a hidden crypt was discovered in the 1950s, containing gold treasures, Buddha images, and ancient murals.
• Though the gold artifacts were looted, the remaining murals still showcase Ayutthaya’s artistic style.

🏛️ Surrounding Ruins & Buddha Statues

• The temple complex includes smaller chedis, assembly halls, and decayed Buddha images.
• A peaceful spot to walk around and take in the history of Ayutthaya.

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Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon – The Temple of Victory in Ayutthaya 🏯✨

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is one of the most famous and well-preserved temples in Ayutthaya, known for its massive reclining Buddha, towering chedi (stupa), and rows of Buddha statues draped in saffron robes. It is a must-visit for history lovers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful yet majestic temple experience.

🏛️ History & Significance

• Originally built in 1357 by King Uthong (Ramathibodi I) as a monastery for monks returning from Ceylon (Sri Lanka).
• In 1592, King Naresuan the Great ordered the construction of the giant chedi (stupa) to commemorate his victory over the Burmese army.
• Today, it remains an active temple where monks live, study, and meditate.

🌟 Highlights of Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon

🏯 The Giant Chedi (Stupa of Victory)

• The main chedi is one of the tallest in Ayutthaya, standing atop a large platform with steep steps.
• Climb to the top for panoramic views of the temple grounds and Ayutthaya.

🌿 The Reclining Buddha

• A huge reclining Buddha draped in saffron cloth, symbolizing Buddha’s passing into Nirvana.
• A popular spot for prayers and offerings, where visitors place gold leaf on the statue.

🛕 The Courtyard of Buddha Statues

• Surrounding the chedi are rows of seated Buddha statues, creating a majestic and serene atmosphere.
• Each statue is beautifully draped in golden robes, adding to the temple’s peaceful charm.

🏛️ The Meditation & Monk Quarters

• As an active monastery, visitors can see monks practicing meditation and daily rituals.
• There is also a sacred Bodhi tree (believed to be from the original tree in India where Buddha attained enlightenment).

Proceed to Sri Ayutthaya Lion Park.

for Lunch - you can have lunch inside the Zoo at your own expense.

Sri Ayutthaya Lion Park is a newly established wildlife park located in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Bangkok. The park offers visitors close encounters with a diverse range of animals, including lions, tigers, ligers, liligers, giraffes, and capybaras. Unique experiences, such as jeep rides for photos with giraffes and opportunities to walk with tigers, are among the park's highlights. 

Key Attractions:

• Diverse Wildlife: Home to lions, tigers, ligers, liligers, giraffes, capybaras, and more.
• Interactive Experiences: Opportunities to feed and interact with various animals, including lion cubs and capybaras.
• Photo Opportunities: Jeep rides for photos with giraffes and walking sessions with tigers.
• Animal Shows: Regular performances featuring elephants, monkeys, and other animals.

Visitor Information:

• Operating Hours: Daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Additional fees apply for special activities like photo with giraffes or tiger walks.
• Location: 91, Nong Khanak, Tha Ruea District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13130, Thailand.

Visitor Reviews: Some visitors have noted that certain enclosures may be small and unsuitable for the species housed. It's advisable to consider these aspects when planning your visit