I took a day trip to Ayutthaya, the capital of the Siam Empire (now Thailand) from the 1300s-1700s. over 414 years, and is now a medium-sized city (population 80,000) about 2 hours north of Bangkok and accessible by train.

Ayutthaya, also known as Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, is an ancient city located in central Thailand. It served as the capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, which existed from the 14th to the 18th century. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most significant historical and cultural landmarks in Thailand.

Ayutthaya was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong, who unified various small kingdoms in the region and established his capital in the city. Over the centuries, Ayutthaya grew into a prosperous and cosmopolitan city, with a population estimated to have been between 300,000 to 1,000,000 at its peak.

The city’s strategic location at the confluence of three rivers made it a hub for trade and commerce, with ships from as far away as China, Japan, and Europe docking at its bustling ports. Ayutthaya also became a center for art, culture, and religion, with a diverse population of Thai, Chinese, Indian, Persian, and European merchants, scholars, and religious leaders.

The city’s wealth and cultural diversity are reflected in its magnificent temples, palaces, and monuments, many of which still stand today despite the city’s tumultuous history. Some of the most famous sites in Ayutthaya include Wat Mahathat, which is home to the iconic image of Buddha’s head entwined in tree roots, and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, which was the royal temple of the Ayutthaya Kingdom and housed a large golden Buddha statue.

Ayutthaya’s prosperity and power, however, attracted the attention of neighboring kingdoms and empires, and the city was repeatedly invaded and sacked by foreign armies. The Burmese army, for example, captured Ayutthaya in 1569 and again in 1767, destroying much of the city and looting its treasures.

Despite these setbacks, Ayutthaya remained an important cultural and religious center, and the city’s enduring legacy can be seen in the Thai language, culture, and traditions that have been passed down through the centuries.

Today, Ayutthaya is a popular tourist destination, with visitors from all over the world coming to explore its ancient temples and learn about its rich history. The city’s well-preserved ruins and impressive monuments offer a glimpse into a bygone era, and its vibrant cultural scene and delicious cuisine continue to enchant visitors.

In conclusion, Ayutthaya is a fascinating city that has played a significant role in Thailand’s history and culture. Its impressive temples, palaces, and monuments are testaments to its prosperity and power, while its turbulent history is a reminder of the challenges and resilience of the Thai people.

If you’re in Bangkok and can get to a train station, I highly recommend the two hour trip north to Ayutthaya. Take the train to Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, which is one station before the final stop, then hop on one of the red trucks (10 baht) to take you around the town. Motorcycles are also available for rent if you have a little experience with Asian roadways. When you visit, be sure to eat like a local at one of the many street stalls or family-run restaurants. The food is delicious and two large meals will cost about as much as one combo meal at KFC back home.

It’s now a medium-size town with many historic sites, about two hours north of Bangkok by train. I rented a motorcycle for the day, since there’s far less traffic than in Bangkok. While riding up a back road to one of the temples I stopped for food and met a nice family for a fantastic lunch. The gentleman told me about his time in the Thai Navy during the Vietnam war. He met many of our U.S. servicemen who worked closely with the Thai allies.

The ruins of the old town were musty and moss-covered, but well worth the trek to get away from the crowds in Bangkok