05/01/2025 – Day 13: Exploring Ayutthaya’s Historical Treasures
Morning Journey to Ayutthaya
Our day began with a trip to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Siam and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city is renowned for its rich history, architectural marvels, and spiritual significance. Over the course of the day, we visited five remarkable temples, each offering a unique glimpse into Ayutthaya’s glorious past.
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon: A Symbol of Victory
Our first stop was Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, a stunning temple known for its large reclining Buddha and its towering chedi, which symbolizes King Naresuan’s victory over the Burmese in the 16th century. Visitors climbed to the top of the chedi to drop coins into a Buddha footprint below, a ritual believed to bring good fortune. The temple’s serene courtyards were adorned with rows of golden-robed Buddha statues, reflecting the grandeur of Ayutthaya’s spiritual legacy.
Wat Mahathat: The Buddha in the Tree
Next, we visited Wat Mahathat, a temple steeped in history and tragedy. Built in the 14th century, it was destroyed during the Burmese invasion of 1767. The temple is famous for the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots, a striking image that symbolizes resilience and nature reclaiming its space. Wat Mahathat is also believed to have housed a relic of the Buddha—his breastbone—adding to its spiritual significance.
Nearby is a temple dedicated to a king’s two brothers who perished fighting for the throne, but we didn’t visit it. The story of fraternal conflict and the eventual rise of the third brother to kingship adds a layer of intrigue to Ayutthaya’s complex history.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet: The Royal Temple
Our third stop was Wat Phra Si Sanphet, once the holiest temple on the grounds of the royal palace. Known for its three iconic chedis, it originally housed a golden Buddha statue weighing over 150 kilograms. The statue was later looted and melted down by the Burmese, with its head now preserved in a museum. The temple’s majestic layout reflects the grandeur of Ayutthaya as a royal capital.
A Simple Thai Lunch
We paused for lunch after visiting Wat Phra Si Sanphet. Although we were looking forward to authentic Thai cuisine, the meal was a simple and anglicized version of sweet-and-sour chicken. It was a bit disappointing, especially given the richness of Thai culinary traditions.
Wat Lokaya Sutha: The Reclining Buddha and Legends
Post-lunch, we visited Wat Lokaya Sutha, another temple featuring a reclining Buddha. Recently renovated, this massive statue is wrapped in golden fabric, symbolizing the Buddha’s serene attainment of Nirvana. The temple is also associated with myths about the elixir of immortality, believed to have been hidden in its sacred grounds. The legend adds a mystical dimension to the temple’s historical allure.
Wat Phu Khao Thong: The Golden Mount
Our final stop was Wat Phu Khao Thong, also known as the Golden Mount. This impressive structure features a steep flight of steps leading to a platform offering panoramic views of Ayutthaya’s countryside. Built in the 14th century, the temple’s whitewashed chedi and golden spire stand as a testament to the city’s enduring beauty.
The Summer Palace: A Blend of Cultures
After the temples, we visited the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, a summer retreat for Thai kings. The palace grounds are a blend of Thai, Chinese, and European architectural styles, featuring manicured gardens, serene water channels, and elegant pavilions. While only one building was open to visitors, it housed a fascinating collection of royal artifacts. The lack of crowds made this visit particularly enjoyable, allowing us to fully appreciate the palace’s tranquility.
Returning to Bangkok
Exhausted from the day’s adventures, we returned to Bangkok in the evening. Dinner was a quiet affair at the hotel, and we retired early, preparing for our last day in the city. With a late-night flight to Kolkata the next evening, we planned to make the most of the remaining time by revisiting Bangkok’s iconic Grand Palace and nearby temples.
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – The Chaos, The Charm, and The Old Quarter | Day 2: Immersing in Hanoi’s History, Culture, and Culinary Delights | Day 3: A Journey Through Ancient Vietnam and Cultural Wonders | Day 4: Cruising Through the Wonders of Ha Long Bay | Day 5: From Ha Long Bay to Da Nang – Adventures Above and Below | Day 6: A Day of Misty Hills and Evening Elegance in Da Nang | Day 7: A Day of Serenity and Lanterns in Hoi An | Day 8: Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels and Welcoming 2025 | Day 9: A Journey Through the Mekong Delta | Day 10: From the Horrors of War to the Charm of Cambodia | Day 11: The Majestic Temples of Angkor | Day 12: Bangkok’s Revered Temples and Evening Splendor | Day 13: Exploring Ayutthaya’s Historical Treasures | Day 14: The Final Day in Bangkok
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