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Named after the city of Ayodhya in India, the largest city in the world during the 16th century is a historical park nowadays, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Ayutthaya is where three rivers meet (Chao Phraya, Lopburi and Pa Sak) and where two major cities link (Chiang Mai and Bangkok). There are eight Thai temple complexes in Ayutthaya. It must not be confused with the kingdom that ruled from 1350 to 1767, which allowed foreign traders such as the Chinese, Vietnamese, Indians, Japanese Persians, Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch and French, to set up villages outside Ayutthaya. Wat Chaiwatthanaram Nearby the Chao Phraya River is an imposing monastery built by King Prasat Thong to commemorate his victory. Wat Chaiwatthanaram has a 35-meter tall tower, small prangs (tower), and a gallery showcasing some 100 Buddha images. The temple is spacious and peaceful--ideal for history-lovers and culture-fanatics. Tuk-tuks (auto rickshaw) will charge Bt30 ($0.99) from the Ayutthaya Town Center. Long-tail boats cost Bt350 ($11.53), and would get travellers to Wat Chaiwatthanaram in an hour. The temple is open from 8 o' clock in the morning to 6 o' clock in the evening at Bt20 ($0.66). Wat Phra Sri San Phet The biggest temple in Ayutthaya, Wat Phra Sri San Phet was built during the reign of King Boromtrilokanath. His son, King Ramathibodi II, ordered the construction of two chedi, one of which kept the ashes of his father. When King Boromrachanophuttangkun succeeded him, he did the same for him. The design of Wat Phra Sri San Phet inspired the design of the Emerald Buddha Chapel in Bangkok. The chedis holding the ashes of three Ayutthayan kings have come to symbolize the essential qualities of Ayutthayan-period architecture. The complex Wat Phra Sri San Phet is in has come to be known as the 'Ancient Palace,' housing Chantharakasem (Front Palace), Phlapphla Chaturamuk, Phiman Rattaya Hall, and Wanglang (Rear Palace). Easily accessed by a tuk-tuk for Bt30 ($0.99) from the town center, admission to the temple cost the same price. Just get there between 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Wat Yai Chai Mongkol (Phra Chedi Chaiyamongkhon) A short distance from the walls of Ayutthaya stood Wat Yai Chai Mongkol. It is famed for its large statue of the Reclining Buddha, and its large chedi that dominates the skyline. The chedi was built to celebrate King Naresuan's single-handed victory in an elephant's back in 1592. It was built by Ayutthaya's first ruler, King U Thong, in 1357. Also known as "Chao Phaya Thai Temple," Wat Yai Chai Mongkol is in the southeastern part of the town, which can be accessed by a tuk-tuk for Bt30 ($0.99). Visit it between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Bt20 ($0.66).
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