Ayutthaya’s Historic Temples: A Glimpse into Siam’s Soul

via Bangkok Post, 29 February 2024: A visit to Ayutthaya offers a serene escape from city life, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in Thailand’s rich history within a short drive from Bangkok. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ayutthaya, with its ancient temples like Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon and Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan, showcases over 1,400 years of history, from the Dvaravati to the early Rattanakosin period.

Amid nostalgic surroundings, visitors can easily spend one or two days touring the Unesco World Heritage Site indulging in an enticing traditional feast prepared with fresh river prawns and local fish, all within a one-hour drive of Bangkok.

Like many others, we decided to schedule a short weekday break to find inner peace. Arriving in the old capital of Siam late in the morning, we began our sightseeing tour at Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon where we prayed for blessings to celebrate the Year of the Dragon.

Situated on the banks of the Pa Sak River, this historical temple was originally erected by King U Thong in 1357 to serve as the royal cremation site for Chao Kaew and ChaoThai, who passed away from cholera. Known as Wat Phra Kaew, it was also used to accommodate Buddhist monks who had undergone ordination in Sri Lanka.

Source: Bangkok Post – A place of history