Ayutthaya, seat of power for an ancient kingdom and the old capital of Thailand, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a spectacular sight to behold. Ayutthaya covers 2,556 square kilometers, featuring three palaces, countless artworks and over 400 temples located on an island threaded by canals and rivers. Founded in 1350 by King U-Thong, the city of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya was one of the biggest of its kind in Southeast Asia, serving as The Thai capital for 417 years. During this period, 33 monarchs of different dynasties reigned over the kingdom until it was finally sacked by the Burmese in 1767.
The nearby Chao Phraya River is Thailand’s most significant waterway. Taking a cruise downstream from Ayutthaya along the Chao Phraya River gives you another perspective on Bangkok as you pass by the awe-inspiring cultural landmarks such as Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn), The Grand Palace and the Temple of The Emerald Buddha. You will also get a unique glimpse into daily lives of locals whose villages are dotted along the banks of the river.
Day 1
Depart Bangkok to Ayutthaya
(B/L/-)
Morning pick up at 07.30 AM from your hotel in Bangkok. Venture away by local train no. 7 depart at 08.30 AM from the bustle of Bangkok to the rural outskirts, one and half hour’s drive away to Ayutthaya Historical Park, that was formerly the capital of the Thai Kingdom for over 417 years and is today a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy lunch with delicious Pad Thai and many other local choices of Thai food at Krua Pakwarn Restaurant. Explore the fusion of Eastern and Western architecture at the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, which boasts beautiful gardens. Next, hop on a Tuk-Tuk that takes you to the ruins of what was once the royal temple; Wat Phra Sri Sanpetch. Stroll around the ruins and unearth the mysteries of Wat Mahathat, where the roots of a tree surround the head of Buddha.
Overnight at your choice of hotel
Day 2
Cruise from Ayutthaya to Bangkok
(B/L/-)
Wake up this morning in the comfort of your room. Breakfast is served at the hotel’s restaurant starting from 06:00 AM. After breakfast and check out, you will be driven by private air-conditioned vehicle to Wat Chong Lom Pier. Board the Grand Pearl Cruise Liner from Wat Chong Lom in Nonthaburi back to Bangkok. Enjoy a sumptuous buffet lunch with a variety of oriental and western cuisines served. Lay back and relax on board as you enjoy the fascinating scenery along the River of Kings. The cruiser will then head towards Nonthaburi, past Koh Kred, before reaching Bangkok city.
Coffee will be served while you enjoy the enchanting sights along the riverbanks, such as the colourful Royal Barges House, Thammasart University, Siriraj Hospital, the Royal Grand Palace and the graceful Temple of Dawn, with its magnificent 79-metre spire. Arrive and disembark at the River City Shopping Complex pier in Bangkok, from where you will be transferred back to your hotel in Bangkok by our private vehicle.
Choice of accommodation
Iudia is a tasteful, comfortable and well equipped serviced accommodation located among the ancient ruins of the great Siamese kingdom of Ayudhya. Ayudhya served as the Siamese royal capital from 1350 – 1767. The city was sacked by the Burmese in 1767 and put to the torch.
In comfortable proximity to Ayutthaya’s industrial estates and tourist attractions, Classic Kameo provides an attractive collection of fully-equipped deluxe rooms, studio and one bedroom suites, ideal for both short and long stays. It also houses Kasemkij Hotels' famous Chinese restaurant Tapestry, a business centre, executive lounge and state-of-the-art conference facilities – offering the best value-for-money for top quality living.
