The Iconic Buddha Head in the Tree Roots

 If you only visit one temple in Ayutthaya, make it this one. Wat Mahathat is the headquarters of the Ayutthaya Historical Park and home to one of the most famous images in Thailand: a sandstone Buddha head entwined in the roots of a Bodhi tree. Beyond this iconic spot, the temple grounds are vast, featuring rows of truncated Buddha statues and crumbling prangs that paint a vivid picture of the city's past destruction and resilience.

Opening Time: Daily, 08:30 – 18:30.

Location: Naresuan Road, Tha Wasuk, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.

How to get there:

- From Ayutthaya Railway Station: Take a Tuk-Tuk (approx. 10 mins / 60-100 THB). It is centrally located and easy to find.

The Majestic Riverside Sunset

Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Chaiwatthanaram is arguably the most photogenic temple in Ayutthaya. Built in the Khmer style (similar to Angkor Wat), it features a massive central prang surrounded by smaller towers. It has become incredibly popular recently due to the Thai drama Love Destiny. The best time to visit is late afternoon to catch the golden sunset reflecting off the river and the ancient bricks.

Opening Time: Daily, 08:00 – 18:30.

Location: Ban Pom, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya (Off the main island).

How to get there:

- From Ayutthaya Historical Park: It is a bit far to walk. Hire a Tuk-Tuk for a round trip (approx. 15-20 mins ride) or rent a bicycle if you are feeling adventurous.

The Royal Temple of the Three Chedis

This was the holiest temple in the Royal Palace of Ayutthaya, used exclusively by the King. Wat Phra Si Sanphet is famous for its three bell-shaped chedis (stupas) that stand in a perfect line. These iconic structures have been restored to show some of their original white plaster glory. It is a masterpiece of Ayutthaya architecture and serves as the model for the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) in Bangkok.

Opening Time: Daily, 08:00 – 18:30.

Location: Pratu Chai, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.

How to get there:

- From Wat Mahathat: It is a short 10-minute walk or a quick bike ride west. It is located right next to the Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit.

The Temple of Auspicious Victory

Unlike many other ruins, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is an active temple with monks residing there. The highlight is the massive bell-shaped chedi that you can climb for a view of the surrounding area. The temple grounds are beautifully maintained, featuring a large Reclining Buddha draped in yellow cloth and hundreds of Buddha statues lining the walls. It feels more alive and spiritual than the deserted ruins in the city center.

Opening Time: Daily, 08:00 – 17:00.

Location: Khlong Suan Phlu, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya (East of the island).

How to get there:

- From Ayutthaya Railway Station: It is located southeast of the station. A Tuk-Tuk ride takes about 5-10 minutes (approx. 60-80 THB).

The Crypt of Hidden Treasures

Located right next to Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana offers one of the most impressive prangs (towers) in the city. What makes this temple special is that you can actually climb down into the crypt inside the main prang. This is where a massive hoard of gold artifacts was discovered (now in the Chao Sam Phraya Museum). Even today, you can see faint traces of ancient murals on the crypt walls.

Opening Time: Daily, 08:00 – 18:30.

Location: Naresuan Road, Tha Wasuk (Opposite Wat Mahathat).

How to get there:

- From Wat Mahathat: Just cross the road! It is literally next door, making it the easiest double-header visit in the park.