Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Wat Mahathat Contents

HOW TO GET THERE 6 ATTRACTIONS 8 Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 8 Amphoe Bang Pa Han 25 Amphoe Bang Pa-In 25 Amphoe Nakhon Luang 30 Amphoe Wang Noi 31 Amphoe Bang Sai 32 INTERESTING ACTIVITIES 36 Homestay 36 Bicycling 37 Elephant Back Activities 38 Boat Trip 40 EVENTS AND FESTIVALS 40 LOCAL PRODUCTS AND SOUVENIR SHOPS 45 EXAMPLE OF TOUR PROGRAMME 47 TIPS FOR VISITING A TEMPLE/ MUSEUM/ ANCIENT MONUMENT 48 FACILITIES 49 Accommodation 49 Restaurants 53 USEFUL CALL 58 Ayutthaya Historical Park Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

4 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Thai Term Glossary Ayutthaya is 76 kilometres north of Bangkok and boasts numerous magnificent ruins. Amphoe : District Such ruins indicate that Ayutthaya was one Ban : Village of Indo-China’s most prosperous cities. Maenam : River Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park, Mueang : Town or City a vast stretch of historical site in the heart Prang : Corn-shaped tower or sanctuary of Ayutthaya city, has been included in UNESCO’s list of world heritage since 13 Tambon : Tambon December, 1991. Ubosot or Bot : Ordination hall in a temple There were three palaces in Ayutthaya : Wihan : Image hall in a temple Grand Palace, Chantharakasem Palace or Wat : Temple the Front Palace, and Wang Lang or the Rear Note : English spelling here given tries to Palace. In addition, there were many other approximate Thai pronunciation. Posted palaces and buildings for royal visits located signs may be spelled differently. When outside the city area of Phra Nakhon Si seeking help from a Thai for direction, Ayutthaya, such as Bang Pa-In Palace at point to the Thai spellings given after each Amphoe Bang Pa-in and Nakhon Luang Building place name. at Amphoe Nakhon Luang. Ayutthaya covers 2,556.6 Square Kilometres, The ancient city of Ayutthaya or Phra Nakhon and is administratively divided into 16 districts Si Ayutthaya the Thai capital for 417 years, (Amphoes). It is conveniently accessible due is one of Thailand’s major Attractions. to good roads and a short distance from Many ancient ruins and art works can be Bangkok. seen in a city that was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong when the Thais were forced Distances from Ayutthaya city to its districts : southwards by northern neighbours. During Amphoe Bang Ban 10 Kilometres the period of Ayutthaya being the Thai capital, Amphoe Bang Pa Han 13 Kilometres 33 Kings of different dynasties ruled the Amphoe U - Thai 15 Kilometres kingdom until it was sacked by the Burmese in 1767. Amphoe Bang Pa-in 17 Kilometres Amphoe Nakhon Luang 20 Kilometres

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 5 Amphoe Sena 20 Kilometres HOW TO GET THERE Amphoe Wang Noi 20 Kilometres By Car From Bangkok, one can get to Phra Amphoe Maha Rat 25 Kilometres Nakhon Si Ayutthaya by various routes: Amphoe Phachi 25 Kilometres 1. Take Highway No. 1 (Phahon Yothin) via Amphoe Phak Hai 29 Kilometres Pratu Nam Phra In and turn into Highway No. Amphoe Bang Sai (บางซาย) 34 Kilometres 32, then turn left to Highway No. 309 to Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. Amphoe Bang Sai (บางไทร) 45 Kilometres 2. Take Highway No. 304 (Chaeng Watthana) Amphoe Ban Phraek 53 Kilometres or Highway No. 302 (Ngam Wong Wan), turn Amphoe Tha Ruea 60 Kilometres right into Highway No. 306 (Tiwanon), cross Amphoe Lat Bua Luang 65 Kilometres Nonthaburi or Nuanchawi Bridge to Pathum Thani, continue on Highway No. 3111 Distances from Ayutthaya city nearby provinces : (Pathum Thani-Sam Khok-Sena) and turn right Ang Thong 10 Kilometres at Amphoe Sena into Highway No. 3263 to Suphanburi 13 Kilometres Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. Saraburi 15 Kilometres 3. Take Highway No. 306 (Bangkok– Sing Buri 17 Kilometres Nonthaburi–Pathum Thani), at Pathum Thani Bridge Intersection, turn into Highway No. 347 Bangkok 20 Kilometres and 3309 via Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre, Amphoe Bang Pa-in, to Phra BOUNDARY Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. North Connects to Lop Buri, Ang Thong 4. Take Expressway No.9 (Si Rat Expressway) and Saraburi. via Nonthaburi-Pathum Thani and down to South Connects to Pathum Thani and Highway No. 1 via Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts Nonthaburi. and Crafts Centre, turn left into Highway East Connects to Saraburi. No. 3469 towards Bang Pahan and turn right West Connects to Suphan Buri. at Worachet Intersection to Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. By Bus There are Standard 1 air-conditioned buses and Standard 2 air-conditioned buses leaving the Bangkok Northern Bus Terminal

6 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya (Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road) for Phra Nakhon By Boat Travelling by boat to Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya from 05.30 a.m.–07.00 p.m. Si Ayutthaya is popular among foreigners For more details, please call 1490, 0 2936 since it does not only reveal the beauty 2852 www.transport.co.th, Ayutthaya Bus as well as lifestyle of the people on both sides Terminal, Tel. 1490, 0 3533 5413. of the Chao Phraya River, but also reflects By Train Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya is the life in history at the time of the accessible by both northbound and northeast Ayutthaya Kingdom when the Chao Phraya River bound trains. Leaving Bangkok Railway Station served as a channel of How To Get There in (Hua Lamphong) daily, the trains pass by the trading with foreign countries. province’s Amphoe Bang Pa-in, Amphoe Phra Cruise to Ayutthaya The luxurious cruise from Nakhon Si Ayutthaya and Amphoe Phachi, Bangkok to the former capital of Ayutthaya where at Ban Phachi Junction the railway is operated by Anantara Tel. 0 2476 0021-2, lines separate to the North and Northeast. Chao Phraya Princess Cruise Tel. 0 2860 Then, mini-buses can be taken from the 3700, River Sun Cruise Tel. 0 2266 9316, railway station into the city. 0 2266 9125-6. A Bangkok-Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya train Transportation in Ayutthaya : pulled by a steam locomotive is usually From Ayutthya, mini-buses can be taken provided by the State Railway of Thailand from the railway station into the city. Hiring a on 3 special occasions every year. The mini-bus within Ayutthaya costs between first one is on 26 March which marks the 400-500 Baht/day. For travelling between establishment of the State Railway of Ayutthaya and Bang Pa-in, mini-buses Thailand and the inauguration day of regularly leave Chao Prom Market, Chao Prom Thailand’s first railway line between Bangkok- Road starting from 06.00 a.m. The fare is Nakhon Ratchasima in 1890. The second, about 30 Baht. The trip takes 50 minutes. 23 october-the memorial day of King Rama V, founder of the Thai railways. And the third, 5 December-the birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. For more information, please contact the State Railway of Thailand at Tel. 0 2220 4334, 1690 www.railway.co.th, and Ayutthaya Railway Station at Tel. 0 3524 1521.

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 7 ATTRACTIONS technological system such as the Computer Touch Screen/Ghost Box. There are 5 sections Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya of the exhibition. Section 1 presents the Ayutthaya Tourism Centre (ศูนยทองเที่ยว glorious past of the civilisation. Section 2 อยุธยา–ATC) The centre is located at the showcases attractions within the province. province’s old city hall established by Section 3 is on its architecture constructed the Fine Arts Department and developed on the basis of religious beliefs about the to be a tourist information centre by the Three Worlds and cosmology. Section 4 Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The high introduces the lifestyle of the people of reliefs of 6 great kings and queens from the Ayutthaya. Section 5 concludes the exhibition Ayutthaya Kingdom; namely, King U Thong, through a video presentation on “Life in the King Borommatrailokanat, Queen Suriyothai, Historical City of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya”. King Naresuan the Great, King Narai the Great Open daily except for Wednesday during and King Taksin the Great on the facade of 09.00 a.m.–04.00 p.m. Tel. 0 3532 4177. the building remain in their original positions. Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre 1st Floor The right wing in the front serves (ศูนยศึกษาประวัติศาสตรอยุธยา) Located on as TAT’s Tourist Information Centre. Open Rotchana Road, this centre is a national daily during 08.30 a.m. - 04.30 p.m. For more research institute devoted to the study details, please call Tel. 0 3532 2730–1. of Ayutthaya, especially during the period nd 2 Floor Exhibition on Phra Nakhon Si when Ayutthaya was the capital of Thailand. Ayutthaya’s tourism presented through a high The Centre is responsible for the museum

Ayutthaya Tourism Centre 8 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya of the history of Ayutthaya, which exhibits also permitted to sail their junks to trade reconstructions from the past. The Centre with foreigners. A number of them came to also supports an information service and a Ayutthaya and were granted royal permission library containing historical materials about by the Thai King at that time to settle around Ayutthaya. the city island of the Ayutthaya Kingdom The Centre is open Tuesday-Sunday from like the traders of other nationalities. There 09.00 a.m.-04.30 p.m., official holidays from were more and more Japanese coming to 09.00 a.m.-05.00 p.m. For more details Ayutthaya ever since. A Japanese headman please contact Tel. 0 3524 5123, 08 1853 5123. at that time was Nagamaza Yamada. He Admission fee is 100 Baht. was a favourite of King Song Tham and was appointed Okya Senaphimuk before being Institute of Ayutthaya Studies (สถาบัน promoted to be the Ruler of Nakhon Si อยุธยาศึกษา) situated in Phra Nakhon Si Thammarat where he lived till the end of Ayutthaya Rajabhat University, is a complex his life. A statue of Mr. Nagamaza and an of buildings in a typical Thai style which was inscription on the historical background of the constructed for the purpose of studying, village in the Ayutthaya period were erected conducting research, and collecting by the Thai-Japanese Association, with a knowledge on Ayutthaya in the areas of building exhibiting the relations between the history, culture, way of life and local intellect. Kingdom of Ayutthaya and foreign countries. There are exhibitions in 5 buildings, including Open during 08.00 a.m.-05.00 p.m. Admission the Ayutthaya Studies Hall, Local Intellect fee is 50 Baht. Hall, Cultural Heritage Hall, Rotating Exhibition Hall, and Ceremony Hall. In addition, there To get there : turn left at the Chedi Wat are displays, demonstrations and distribution Sam Pluem Roundabout for approximately of OTOP products. The institute opens 2.5 kilometres via Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon daily, except on public holidays, at 09.30 towards Amphoe Bang Pa-in. For more a.m.–03.30 p.m. For further details, please information, please call Tel. 0 3524 4340. contact the Ruean Thai Building, Institute of Wat Borom Phuttharam (วัดบรมพุทธาราม) Ayutthaya Studies, at Tel. 0 3524 1407. Situated inside Rajabhat University Phra Japanese Village (หมูบานญี่ปุน) Tambon Ko Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, the north-facing temple Rian. In the late 16th Century A.D., there were was built some time during 1688-1703 more foreign commercial traders coming to during the reign of King Phetracha on his Ayutthaya. Japanese merchandisers were former residence area near the main gate of

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 9 Marble Temple), and the third was turned into cabinets and is now exhibited at the Bangkok National Museum. Chao Sam Phraya National Museum (พิพิธภณฑสถานแหั งชาต เจิ าสามพระยา ) Located at Tambon Pratu Chai, on Rotchana Road opposite Rajabhat University Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. The construction of this museum was funded by the proceeds from the sale of votive tablets discovered in the underground crypts of the principal Prang tower of Wat Ratchaburana. Since the temple was built by King Borommarachathirat II (Chao Sam Chao Sam Phraya National Museum Phraya), the museum was named after him. The opening ceremony of this museum was the southern city wall. Its location and area held in 1961 and was presided over by Their plan was confined to be in the north-south Majesties the King and the Queen. It was the direction by ancient communication routes; first museum in the country to present a new namely, Khlong Cha Krai Noi in the east form of exhibition, displaying not too many and a royal pathway known as Thanon objects in an interesting presentation. There Maha Ratthaya or Thanon Pa Tong in the are 3 exhibition buildings as follows: west. Unlike other temples, the king had all buildings roofed with yellow glazed tiles Building I Downstairs exhibits artefacts and the temple became known as “Wat unearthed from the archaeological excavations Krabueang Khlueap” or the “glazed tile as well as restoration of ancient monuments temple”. The construction took 2 years and in the province during 1956-1957, including the temple underwent a major renovation Buddha images of the Dvaravati, Lop Buri in the reign of King Borommakot, who had and Ayutthaya periods. The ones put on 3 pairs of door panels decorated with fine exhibition include an alabaster Buddha image mother-of-pearl inlays. One pair of them is seated in the European style of the Dvaravati currently at Ho Phra Monthian Tham inside period once enshrined in a niche of an old the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the stupa at Wat Phra Men in Nakhon Pathom second is at Wat Benchamabophit (The province. The images was originally broken in fragments which were taken to different 10 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya places but eventually retrieved and enshrined. The balcony exhibits votive tablets reconstructed by the Fine Arts Department. and plaques made of terra-cotta and pewter This is a priceless Buddha image, as there are (an alloy of tin and lead; lined with copper) only 6 of its kind in the world; 5 in Thailand of the Sukhothai, Lop Buri and Ayutthaya and 1 in Indonesia. In Thailand, 2 of them are periods, discovered in the crypts of the Prang now at Wat Phra Pathom Chedi in Nakhon towers of Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Mahathat Pathom, 1 at the Bangkok National Museum and Wat Phra Ram. in Bangkok, 1 at the Chao Sam Phraya Building II exhibits artefacts and objets d’art National Museum and 1 at Wat Na Phra of different periods from the 6th-19th century; Men in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. There is namely, Dvaravati, Sri Vijaya, Lop Buri, also an immense bronze head from a Buddha Chiang Saen, Sukhothai, U Thong, Ayutthaya image of the U Thong period discovered at and Rattanakosin for comparative study Wat Thammikarat. This head of the Buddha purposes. Important items include Buddha image indicates how old the temple is as images in various gestures, Bodhisattva well as how fine the ancient craftsmanship Avalokitesvara, Ganesha, etc. is in casting huge objects. Intricate wood carvings of the Ayutthaya school are exhibited Building III is a complex of traditional Thai here, as well. houses of Central Thailand built in the middle of a moat exhibiting household equipment Upstairs Two rooms are allocated for golden and utensils in the ancient daily life of the items. Room I exhibits golden miniature Thai people such as pottery, coconut graters regalia and ornaments discovered in the and various basketworks. These folk items crypts of the principal Prang tower of Wat reflect the glorious past of the Ayutthaya Ratchaburana in 1957, with a highlight being Kingdom. the golden sword known as Phra Saeng Khan Chai Si. The blade of the iron sword has The museum is open daily during 09.00 2 cutting edges cased in a golden sheath a.m.–04.00 p.m. Admission fee is 150 Baht. decorated with traditional Thai designs For more information, please contact Tel. inlaid with precious gemstones, and a handle 0 3524 1587, 0 3524 4570. made from quartz crystal. Room II houses an To get there : from Bangkok, enter the city of exhibition of golden offerings discovered in Ayutthaya, cross the King Naresuan the Great situ in the crypt of the principal Prang tower Bridge and go straight ahead for 2 junctions, of Wat Mahathat where a golden reliquary the museum will be on the right. containing the Lord Buddha’s relic was

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 11 to the east. King Songtham commanded it to be transferred to the west, where it is currently enshrined and covered with a Mondop. Later in the reign of Phra Chao Suea, the top of the Mondop was burnt down by a fire due to a thunderbolt. Then, the King commanded a new building be built in the form of a big sanctuary (Maha Wihan) to cover Khun Phaen House the image in lieu of the former Mondop. During the second fall of Ayutthaya, the Khun Phaen House (คุมขุนแผน) Khun building and the image were badly Phaen’s Thai-style house conforms to destroyed by fire, the one currently seen was descriptions in a popular Thai literary work. renovated but does not have as beautiful Khun Phaen’s house is near Wihan Phra craftsmanship as the previous ones. The open Mongkhon Bophit. area east of the Sanctuary (Wihan) was formerly Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit (วิหาร Sanam Luang, where the royal cremation พระมงคลบพิตร) Phra Mongkhon Bophit, ceremony took place (This practice is now a large bronze cast Buddha image, was held at Sanam Luang, the Phramen Ground originally enshrined outside the Grand Palace of Bangkok).

Wihan Phramongkhon Bophit 12 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Wat Phra Si Sanphet (วัดพระศรีสรรเพชญ) palace of every king was located close to This important and most outstanding the city wall of Ayutthaya. A road passes by monastery is located in the Grand Palace from Chantharakasem Palace, which is two compound like Wat Phra Si Rattanasatsa Kilometres away to the north. Important daram (Wat Phra Kaeo) of Bangkok. Used as buildings inside the Grand Palace compound a residential palace, it became a monastery are : in the reign of King Ramathibodi I. When King Wihan Somdet Hall (พระที่นั่งวิหารสมเด็จ) Borom Trai Lokanat commanded new living The top of this hall has been decorated quarters built, this residential palace was in a unique style of architecture called given to be a temple area, thus originating Prang. It has longer space in front and rear Wat Phra Si Sanphet : The royal chapel does gabled rooms, and shorter space in the side not have any monks and novice inhabitants. gabled rooms. It was surrounded with a three- It is open everyday from 8.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m. sided cloister and utilized for various royal For more details, please contact Tel. 0 3524 ceremonies such as coronations. This was the 2284, 0 3524 2286. Admission fee is 50 Baht. first building over constructed in Ayutthaya Grand Palace (พระราชวังหลวง) Currently to be affixed with gold leaf. called “Ancient Palace”. The residential

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13 Sanphet Prasat Hall (พระที่นั่งสรรเพชญปราสาท ) kings. Open daily during 06.00 a.m.-06.00 p.m. This is the middle building construted in Admission is 50 Baht. A package ticket the same design as Wihan Somdet Hall. is also available at 200 Baht, covering Kings used it to welcome foreign envoys admission to temples and museums within and visitors. the province and valid for 30 days, including Suriyat Amarin Hall (พระที่นั่งสุริยาสนอมรินทร) Wat Phra Si Sanphet and the Ancient Palace A four-gabled roof building constructed Complex, Wat Mahathat, Wat Maheyong, of sandstone and brick; it is close to the Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Chai riverside city wall. It was used as a place to Wattanaram and Wat Mahe-yong. For more witness the royal barge processions. details, please call Tel. 0 3524 2286. Chakkrawat Phaichayon Hall (พระที่นั่งจกรวรรดั ิ์ Wat Phraram (วัดพระราม) This monastery ไพชยนต) With a three-gabled roof, it is on the was situated outside the grand palace inner eastern city wall in front of the Grand compound to the east. King Ramesuan Palace. It was used to view processions and commanded it built on ground, where the military practice. royal cremation ceremony for his father, King U-Thong, took place. A big lagoon is in Trimuk Hall (พระที่นั่งตรีมุข) This is located front of this monastery. Its original name was behind the Sanphet Prasat Hall. It is believed “Nong Sano”, it was changed to be “Bueng to have been the residential area of the Phraram” or currently Phraram Public Park. It consort members and is also the royal is open everyday from 08.00 a.m.-06.00 p.m. relaxing place in the garden. Admission fee is 50 Baht. Banyong Rattanat Hall (พระที่นั่งบรรยงครัตนาสน) King U-Thong Monument (พระบรม Formerly known by the name of “Phra ราชานุสาวรียพระเจาอูทอง) Erected between Thinang Thaisa”, it is located in the back Bueng Phra Ram and Wat Phra Si Sanphet. compound of the Grand Palace on an The life-size and a half statue cast from Island in a pond. It has a four-gabled roof bronze and fumigated with green chemical architecture. is standing with a sword in his right hand. He Remains of the throne halls that are left is clad, crowned and bejeweled in a royal to be seen at present were constructed in costume of the early Ayutthaya period. The the reign of King Borommatrailokkanat and monument was opened by His Majesty King used to serve as royal residences for all later Bhumibol on June 24, 1970.

14 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Wat Ratchaburana

Wat Mahathat (วัดมหาธาตุ) Located in front it to be monastery. It is open everyday from of the Grand Palace to the east near Pa Than 08.00 a.m.-06.00 p.m. Admission fee is 50 Baht. Bridge (สะพานปาถาน), it was constructed Chantharakasem National Museum or in the reign of King Borom Rachathirat I. Chantharakasem Palace or Front Palace It houses the holy relics of Lord Buddha. Wat (พระราชวงจั นทรเกษมั หรอวื งหนั า) On the bank Mahathat is open everyday from 08.00 a.m.- of Pasak River, this palace was built during 06.00 p.m. Admission fee is 50 Baht. the reign of King Maha Thammaraja, the 17th Wat Ratchaburana (วัดราชบูรณะ) This Ayutthaya monarch, for his son’s residence monastery was located near Pa Than (King Naresuan, the Great). Like other ruins, Bridge opposite Wat Mahathat. King Borom the palace was destroyed by the Burmese Rachathirat II (Chao Sam Phraya) commanded and left unrepaired for a long time. King two pagodas built on the ground where Mongkut of the present Chakri dynasty Chao Ai and Chao Yi engaged in single ordered reconstructoin of this palace for hand combat on elephant’s back, and both use as a residence during his occasional were killed. Later, he established a Wihan visits to Ayutthaya. Some of the more combined with the pagodas and upgraded interesting sites are :

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 15 Palace Wall and Gate (กําแพงและประตูวัง) The palace is now used as a national museum. They were newly constructed by the It has been decorated for demonstration of command of King Rama IV. The original antiques such as Chinaware, ancient weapons, foundation of the palace wall has since been King Rama IV’s personal things for daily found through excavation, thus revealing that life, Buddha images, sculptures and votive the original area was much more spacious tablets of different times. The museum is than what is currently seen. open everyday except Mondays, Tuesdays, Phlapphla Chatulamuk (พลับพลาจตุรมุข) and national holidays from 09.00 a.m.- This wooden four-gabled roof pavilion is 04.00 p.m. For more information Tel. 0 3525 near the east gate of the palace. Originally, 1586, 0 3525 2795. Admission fee is 100 Baht. a residential place of King Mongkut during Wat Senasanaram (วัดเสนาสนาราม) This his visit to Ayutthaya, it later became the ancient monastery named “Wat Suea” is “Chantharakasem National Museum,” behind Chantharakasem National Museum or under the responsibility of the Fine Arts Chantharakasem Palace. The main attractions Department. It is open everyday except are two Buddha images: Phra Samphuttha Mondays, Tuesdays and national holidays Muni, the principal image enshrined in the from 09.00 a.m.-04.00 p.m. Admission free Ubosot, and Phra In Plaeng enshrined in the is 100 Baht Wihan; both were transferred from Vientiane. Phiman Rattaya Hall (พระที่นั่งพิมานรัตยา) Wat Suwan Dararam Ratchaworawihan A group of buildings located amidst the (วัดสวรรณดารารามราชวรวุ หาริ ) The temple is compound of the palace, which once served located inside the city wall to the southeast as government offices and the Provincial of the town island near Pom Phet. It was Administrative Building for several years. formerly known as “Wat Thong” and was Phisai Sanyalak Hall (พระที่นั่งพิสัยศัลยลักษณ) constructed by King Rama I’s father since This is a four-storey tower located close the Ayutthaya period. When King Rama I was to the western side of the Palace. It was crowned as the first king of the Rattanakosin originally constructed during the reign of King period, he had the temple re-established and Narai the Great, but was destroyed during the renamed it “Wat Suwan Dararam” to suggest 2nd fall of Ayutthaya. It was reconstructed his parents’ names. according to the original foundation in the The temple’s Phra Ubosot-Ordination Hall fourth reign of the present dynasty. King is of the late Ayutthaya style, being situated Rama IV used the tower to observe the stars.

16 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya on a boat-like concave foundation. Its gable Thaen Phra Si Maha Pho A platform with depicts the God Vishnu on his mount lotus petals decoration supporting the Garuda. Inside, there are murals of angels sacred Bodhi tree, the shoot of which was on the upper parts and scenes from the brought from India by King Rama IV. There is Jataka stories on the lower parts of the side a brick belfry of a western style nearby. The walls. The front wall to which the principal 2-tiered square structure with a pointed arch Buddha image is facing depicts the scene door downstairs and a bell tower upstairs is of the Buddha Subduing Mara from the life believed to have been built in the reign of of the Lord Buddha, with the Mother Earth King Rama IV during the major renovation. Goddess in the centre. Unlike the Phra To get there : use the same route as Ubosot, Phra Wihan-Lecture Hall-does not Chanthara Kasem National Museum, turn right have a concave foundation and has pillars at the T-junction for another 1 kilometre. with a cap of elongated lotus petals. It was built in the reign of King Rama II. Inside, there City Wall and Fortresses (ปอมปราการ are fine murals depicting the story of King รอบกรุง) The city wall originally built by Naresuan the Great painted in the reign of King U Thong was merely a moat-and-mound King Rama VII, which are the prototype of enclosure with a wall of wooden poles on Don Chedi Monument in Suphan Buri. top. A brick one was built later in the reign

Wat Suwan Dararam Ratchaworawihan Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 17 of King Maha Chakraphat. According to a city wall of Ayutthaya (in the vicinity of the Royal Chronicle, a number of fortresses were present location of the distillery plant of constructed such as Pom Maha Chai, Pom the Excise Department). It was originally Sat Kop, Pom Phet, Pom Ho Ratchakhrue the royal garden where the king made a and Pom Champa Phon. Large fortresses visit from time to time. There was only one were built on the meeting points of rivers. residential building in the entire area. King Pom Phet on the meeting point of the Chao Maha Thammaracha commanded more Phraya and Pa Sak Rivers is now a public buildings to be built in the area to mark it a park while Pom Maha Chai at the corner of palace which would be the residence of King Chanthara Kasem Palace near Hua Ro Market Ekathosarot. Later on, this rear palace was was dismantled in the reign of King Rama I only the residence of royal family members, who had the bricks taken to be used in the so now no one can see the important items. construction of a new capital in Bangkok. Chedi Phra Si Suriyothai (เจดียพระศรีสุริโยทัย) Somdet Phra Si Nakharin Park (สวนสมเด็จ the memorial for the first heroine in Thai พระศรีนครินทร) Located on U-Thong Road history, is located in Ko Mueang to the west. in the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Among various places of interest within the Park area, to the southwest of Ko Mueang, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park, the Park covers a vast stretch of land with this ancient place is of much importance as plants in Thai literature, a Thai pavilion and a proof of honour that ancient Thai society remains of ancient monuments. Part of the gave to Thai women. area is being developed into a herb garden. Phra Si Suriyothai was the royal consort The Park also houses a monument of Her of Phra Mahachakkraphat. In 1548, only Royal Highness the Princess Mother. 7 months after being crowned as king, he To get there : from Bangkok, upon crossing was challenged by a Burmese attack under Naresuan Bridge to enter the city of the supervision of Phrachao Tabeng Chaweti Ayutthaya, turn left at the T-junction near and his warlord, Burengnong. The Burmese Rajabhat University Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthya, army intruded into the kingdom through the turn right via the provincial hospital and the Three Pagoda Pass in Kanchanaburi and came Park will be on the right. to set up military camps around the royal Wang Lang or the Rear Palace (พระราชวงหลั ัง) compound. During the fighting on elephant This palace is located close to the western back, Phra Mahachakkaraphat faced danger.

18 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Phra Si Suriyothai, clad in a warrior’s suit, of Wat Sopsawan was identified with a large interrupted the fighting with the intention indented stupa which was renamed by King to provide assistance for her husband. She Rama VI as Chedi Phra Si Suriyothai. rode her elephant in the way of Phrachao In 1990, the government assigned the Fine Prae, a Burmese commander, and was cut to Arts Department and the National Security death by his sword. After the end of the war, Command to restore the chedi, which had Phra Mahachakkraphat arranged a funeral deteriorated over time. Fortunately, on May 20 and established the cremation site to be a 1990, some antique objects were found such temple named “Wat Sopsawan”. as a white rock crystal Buddha image in the In the reign of King Rama V, there was a posture of subduing Mara, a chedi replica, quest for the historical sites as mentioned and a golden reliquary. These ancient objects in the Royal Chronical. The exact location were brought to be under the care of the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum. Si Suriyothai Park (สวนศรีสุริโยทัย) is located within the area of the Ayutthaya liquor plant adjacent to Chedi Phra Si Suriyothai. There is a common building, a Somdet Phra Si Suriyothai pavilion, a mound with marble Semas (boundary stones of a temple) aged over 400 years where the fragmented parts of Buddha images taken from Wat Phutthaisawan were buried, etc. The Liquor Distillery Organisation, who sponsored the construction of the park, wished to devoted all good deeds in transforming the former inner part of the royal compound to all of the late kings who used to live here before. King Rama IX graciously named the park “Suan Si Suriyothai” on May 25, 1989. Then, the park was conferred to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit on the eve of Her 60th birthday anniversary. The park opens daily for the public from Chedi Phra Si Suriyothai 09.00 a.m.-05.00 p.m. Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 19 Wat Lokkayasutha (วัดโลกยสุธา) This Wat Chaiwatthanaram (วัดไชยวัฒนาราม) monastery is over a kilometre behind the Grand Another monastery that is located on the Palace adjacent to Wat Worachettharam. bank of Chao Phraya River, on the west of the Accessible by the road behind the Ancient city island. King Prasat Thong commanded it Palace, passing Wat Worapho and Wat built. The great beauty has been reflected Worachettharam. It has a large reclining from the main stupa and its satellite stupas Buddha, made of brick and covered with along the gallery, an architecture influenced plaster, approximately 42 metres long. Many by Khmer. Travelling can be made by river large hexagonal pillar ruins near the image form Chantharakasem National Museum. are believed to be the ruins of the Ubosot. A long-tailed boat service is available at Wat Kasattrathirat Worawihan (วัดกษตราธั ราชิ 300-400 Baht for a round trip, consuming วรวิหาร) is the monastery located outside about one hour. Ko Mueang, opposite Chedi Phra Si Suriyothai, Wat Phutthaisawan (วัดพุทไธสวรรย) is on the bank of the Chao Phraya River. Its the monastery situated on the river bank former name was Kasattra or Kasattraram. It is opposite Ko Mueang to the south. Travel by an ancient temple of the Ayutthaya period car along the route Ayutthaya-Sena to the with a main Prang (stupa) as its centre. west of Ko Mueang. After passing the bridge

Wat Lokkayasutha 20 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Wat Chaiwatthanaram in front of Wat Kasattrathirat, turn left to Wat Mai, approximately 3-4 kilometres to the Chaiwatthanaram. Follow the direction signs, northeast of the city island of Phra Nakhon you will find a left turn to Wat Phutthaisawan. Si Ayutthaya. There is a life-size and a half This monastery was built in the area where bronze statue of Queen Suriyothai on the King U-Thong moved to establish his city. The neck of her war elephant as well as another area was first known as Wiang Lek, named 49 associated sculptures, models of historical after the royal palace of King U-Thong. The events, a huge reservoir and a public park. most interesting part of Wat Phutthaisawan This plain was once a battlefield for several is the great principal Buddha image; its style Thai–Burmese wars in the past. One of the is of the early Ayutthaya Period. heroic deeds that took place here was Queen Wat Phukhao Thong (วัดภูเขาทอง) Located Suriyothai’s fight to save her husband, King 2 kilometres northwest of the Grand Maha Chakraphat. She was killed on her Palace, this monastery was constructed in the elephant’s neck by the King of Burma. year 1387 during the reign of King Ramesuan. As a historical battlefield of such great Somdet Phra Suriyothai Monument significance, a monument of Somdet Phra (พระราชานุสาวรียสมเด็จพระศรีสุริโยทัย- Suriyothai was constructed under Her ทุงมะขามหยอง) Located on a plain known Majesty Queen Sirikit’s suggestion. Funding as Thung Makham Yong on the east bank was provided jointly by the government and of the Chao Phraya River at Tambon Ban Thai people. The monument was constructed Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 21 in honour of Her Majesty the Queen to mark person and enjoy the village’s elephant her sixtieth birthday anniversary in 1992. shows, Theatrical history : the show has Elephant Kraal Pavilion (พระที่นั่งเพนียด) 3 times on Monday-Friday and 4 times on The pavilion, utilized as the royal seat to Saturday–Sunday, Open everyday during witness the elephant round up, is located 10.00 a.m.-09.00 p.m. For more information in Tambon Suan Phrik, 4 kilometres from Tel. 0 3588 1733-4. the city along Highway No. 309. The outlook Wat Na Phramen (วัดหนาพระเมร )ุ The former is a big cage surrounded with logs having, name of this monastery was Wat Phra from the front centre, fencing lines of 45 Merurachikaram. Located on the bank of degrees spread out to both sides far away Khlong Sabua opposite the Grand Palace, into the jungle area. Around the kraal itself, the date of construction is unknown. The is an earthen wall with bricks to the height Ubosot design is of very old typical Thai style. of the pillars’top. Behind the kraal and The most interesting objects are the principal opposite the front fencing line is the pavilion Buddha image, fully decorated in regal housing the royal seat. The Kraal currently attire, and another ancient buddha image seen was renovated in the year 1988 by the made of black stone in the small Wihan. It is government. open everyday from 08.00 a.m.-06.00 p.m. Ayutthaya’s Floating Market (ตลาดนาอโยธยาํ้ ) Admission fee is 20 Baht. Located at Mu 7, Rojana Road, Tambon Phai Wat Kudidao (วัดกุฎีดาว) Located in front Ling. Ayothaya Floating Market has over of the railway station to the east, this old 200 shops offering goods and food where monastery has beautiful work with better divided area into 16 zones due to districts in craftsmanship than many other temples, but Ayutthaya following : Phra Nakhon Sri it has deteriorated to a high degree. Ayutthaya, Tha Ruea, Nakhon Luang, Bang Wat Samanakottharam (วัดสมณโกศฐาราม) sai, Bang Ban, Bang Pa-in, Bang Pahan, Phak Located near Wat Kudidao, it was renovated hai, Phachi, Lat Bua Luang, Sena, Wang noi, by Chao Phraya Kosa (Lek) and Chao Phraya Bangsai, Uthai, Maha Rat, Ban Phreak. There Kosa (Pan) during the reign of King Narai the is also has the tourism activities such as : - Great. The main attraction is a large Prang a boat trip around the premises at 20 Baht having an unusual outlook different from the per person, a 20-minute elephant ride around others. It is believed to imitate the design of ancient Wat Mahaeyong at 100 Baht per Chedi Chet Yot of Chiang Mai.

22 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Wat Yai Chaimongkhon or Wat Chao Phraya Thai (วัดใหญชัยมงคล หรือ วัดเจาพระยาไท ) This monastery constructed in the reign of King U-Thong is located outside the city to the southeast in the same direction as the railway station; one can see its large pagoda from far away. King Naresuan the Great commanded that the pagoda be built to celebrate the victory of his single-handed combat on the elephant back. He also intended a huge construction to match the large pagoda of Wat Phukhao Thong, and named it “Phra Chedi Chaiyamongkhon”. It is open everyday Wat Yai Chaimongkhon from 08.00 a.m.-06.00 p.m. Admission fee is 20 Baht. who travelled to trade with the Ayutthaya Kingdom. In 1511, Al Fonco de Al Buquerq, Wat Phananchoeng (วัดพนัญเชิงวรวิหาร) the Portuguese governor to Asia, dispatched This monastery located south of Phra Nakhon a diplomatic troupe led by Ambassador Si Ayutthaya has no record as to its date Mr. Du Arte Fernandes to Ayutthaya during of construction or the person causing its the reign of King Ramathibodi II. After that, construction. It existed before Ayutthaya was some Portuguese came to the kingdom for founded as the capital. The principal image in different purposes : trade, military volunteers the Wihan called “Phrachao Phananchoeng” in the Ayutthaya army, or on a religious was built in A.D. 1325 ; it is made of stucco mission. They built a church as the centre in the attitude of subduing evil; considered of their community and to serve religious beautiful, it is most revered by the inhabitants purposes. of Ayutthaya. It is open everyday from 08.30 a.m.-05.00 p.m. Admission fee is 20 Baht. Presently, some traces of former construction have been found at the village site. At the Mu Ban Protuket (หมูบานโปรตุเกส) is the ancient remains of San Petro, a Dominican Portuguese village located in Tambon church, some antique objects were excavated Samphao Lom, on the west bank of the together with human skeletons such as Chao Phraya River and to the south of the tobacco pipes, coins, and accessories for a city. The Portuguese were the first Europeans religious ceremony.

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 23 Wat Tum (วัดตูม) Located in Tambon Wat King Sainamphueng had Wat Phananchoeng Tum on the bank of Khlong Wat Tum on the constructed before the establishment of the Ayutthaya–Ang Thong Road, 6-7 kilometres Kingdom of Ayutthaya, King Thammikarat-his from Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. There is no son, had this temple constructed in an old evidence as to when it was constructed and town called Sangkhaburi. The temple had by whom. It is believed to have existed since successively been restored by later kings. In the Ayothaya period before the establishment the reign of King Songtham (1610 A.D.), the of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya and must have temple was renovated and a Wihan Luang once been abandoned after the fall of the constructed for sermon hearing. The Wihan Kingdom in 1767, before being renovated in Luang once enshrined an enormous bronze the reign of King Rama I and has resumed head of the Buddha of the U Thong period, a status as a monastic temple ever since. now exhibited at the Chao Sam Phraya Wat Tum has also served as a temple for National Museum. The temple also houses a war strategy ceremony for at least 1,000 a Reclining Buddha hall called Wihan Phra years presumably since the foundation of Phutthasaiyat built by his queen consort Ayutthaya. The temple houses a special following her wish made for her daughter’s Buddha image of which the top part above recovery from an ailment. The Wihan is the forehead can be lifted and the head finial located to the north of Phra Chedi with a known as Ketumala can be removed. There is base of 52 surrounding Singha or lions, and a hollow inside the head deep down nearly houses a north-facing reclining Buddha image to the throat containing drops of seeping measuring 12 metres in length, with both feet drinkable clean water that never runs dry. It gilded and inlaid with glass mosaic. is a bronze crowned and bejeweled image of Thai Boat Museum (พิพิธภัณฑเรือไทย) A the Buddha seated in the gesture of subduing private boat museum located opposite Mara, measuring 87 centimetres in width and to Wat Mahathat, Bang Ian Road, within 150 centimetres in height. Originally named the same area as the residence of Master “Luangpho Thongsuksamrit”, the image is Phaithun Khaomala, who has had an currently called “Luangpho Suk” and is of an affectionate bond with boats and water since unknown origin. The head of the image will his childhood and wishes to preserve this be opened on the first day of each month. field of folk wisdom for younger generations. Wat Thammikarat (วัดธรรมิกราช) A temple The museum building is a large Thai-style in the Mahanikaya Sect, Wat Thammikarat teak house with accordion folding partitions, was formerly known as Wat Mukkharat. When

24 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya fact that a large number of chicken died of an epidemic here. The temple also provides home for a large herd of wild macaques that are not fierce but no one knows as to when they came to take sanctuary here. Wat Tan En (วัดตาลเอน) A temple amid a shady and serene natural surrounding, it Thai Boat Museum provides home for a flock of flying foxes and various species of waterfowls such as exhibiting models and miniatures of various cormorant, grebe, egret, etc. There is an boats as well as royal barges built with irrigation canal behind the temple where the same techniques as the original ones. shoals of various freshwater fish came to Hundreds of them ranging from large ocean take sanctuary. liners to small rowing boats are on display, as well as various types of traditional Thai To get there : take Highway No. 32, the Asia boats that are now rare to be seen on the Highway, to Bang Pahan Intersection, turn waterway. Open daily during 08.00 a.m.- right into Highway No. 347 and the entrance 05.00 p.m. For more information, Tel. 0 3524 to the temple is on the right. Continue for 1195. another 2 kilometres to the temple, a total distance of approximately 20 kilometres. Amphoe Bang Pa Han Amphoe Bang Pa-In Wat Kai (วัดไก) Located at Tambon Han Sang, 25 kilometres from Ayutthaya on Highway Bang Pa-In Palace (พระราชวังบางปะอิน) No. 32, the entrance to the temple is 600 This palace is located in Tambon Bang Len, metres away to the right and marked by a Amphoe Bang Pa-in, 18 kilometres south monkey symbol. It dates from the Ayutthaya of Ayutthaya. It lies 58 kilometres north of period and was once abandoned after the fall Bangkok by rail, 61 kilometres by road. To of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Around 1992, it access to Bang Pa-in from Ayutthaya, one was renovated and established as a ‘Samnak can go by Phahonyothin Road and make a Song’-a monastic residence-before having right turn at Km.35 for another distance of been granted consecrated boundaries in 7 kilometres to Bang Pa-In Palace. 1997 for establishing a temple and named Originally, Bang Pa-In was a riverine island. “Wat Kai,” or ‘Chicken Temple,’ after the When King Prasat Thong became the

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 25 Bang Pa-In Palace

Ayutthaya king (1630-1655), he had the to be used and was left unoccupied for 80 Chumphon Nikayaram Temple built on his years. It was only during King Mongkut’s reign family estate. Later, he had a palace built (1851-1868) that Bang Pa-In was again visited on a lake in the middle of the island where by Kings. King Mongkut stayed there and had he could periodically reside. a house built in the old palace compound. The palace, surrounded by a lake 400 metres His son, King Chulalongkorn (1868-1910) long and 40 metres wide, and the Chumphon liked the place, stayed there every year and Nikayaram Temple, are all that remain of constructed the royal palace as it is now seen King Prasat Thong’s construction work at today. Important buildings inside the palace Bang Pa-In. compound are : Bang Pa-In was used as a country residence Ho Hemmonthian Thewarat (หอเหมมณเฑียร by every Ayutthaya monarch after King เทวราช) is the stone Prang under a banyan Prasat Thong. But when the new capital was tree near the pond within the outer part of established in Bangkok, Bang Pa-In ceased the royal compound, where an image of a deity is housed. 26 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya King Rama V ordered its construction in 1879 Phra Thinang Utthayan Phumisathian (พระที่นั่ง to replace an old shrine built by villagers อุทยานภูมิเสถียร) is a two-storey building as an offering to King Prasatthong of the located to the east and opposite the pond. Ayutthaya period. It is a piece of elaborate work seen tinted Aisawanthipphaya-At Pavilion (พระที่นั่ง alternately with dark and light greens. Its ไอศวรรยทิพยอาสน) A Thai design pavilion balcony is similar in design to a Swiss chalet. in the middle of the pond was built in the Before being destroyed by fire during the reign of King Rama V. Originally built of wood restoration in 1938, the whole building was throughout, King Rama VI commanded to built from wood and decorated inside with change the floor and pillars to be reinforced mahogany furniture ordered directly from concrete. Europe. Other decorative items were precious offering rarely to be found, but forwarded to Warophatphiman Hall (พระที่นั่งวโรภาษพิมาน) the capital from satellite towns. A beautiful It is north of the“Saphan Sadet” the royal flower garden surrounded the building. Now, path to and from the river landing. Formerly a concrete structure of the same model has the two-storey wooden villa was used as been built to replace the one that was burnt. both the royal living quarters and Throne Hall. Later during his reign, King Rama V Theatre (โรงละคร) This theatre was constructed commanded the original one to be demolished by the royal command of King Rama VI in and replaced with a European design building the compound of his consort’s living quarters to be used as the Throne Hall to receive his near the pond in the garden west of Utthayan subjects for royal ceremonies. In this hall are Phumisathian Hall. paintings of the royal historic records, Inao Wehat Chamrun Hall (พระที่นั่งเวหาศนจํารูญ) literature, Phra Aphai Mani literature and the This hall located in the north of the palace, Ramayana epic. was constructed in the Chinese Emperor Saphakhan Ratchaprayun (สภาคารราชประยูร) style as the royal offering by Phraya Choduk This two-storey building on the river bank Ratchasetthi (Fak). King Chulachomklao outside the palace wall was constructed by usually made a royal visit during the cool the royal command of King Rama V. It is in season. front of Warophat Phiman Hall in the south Keng Buppha Praphat (เกงบุปผาประพาส) and was used as the living quarter of the is the Chinese-style pavilion nearby the non-consort members. garden’s pond within the inner part of the

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 27 royal compound. It was built in 1881 during Bang Pa-in Palace is open daily between the reign of King Rama V. 08.00 a.m.–05.00 p.m. (Tickets are available Ho Witthunthassana (หอวิฑูรทัศนา) This hall, during 08.00 a.m.–03.00 p.m.) Admission fee constructed in the form of a tower between is 100 Baht. For more details, contact the Utthayan Phumisathian and Wehat Chamrun, Bang Pa-in Palace Bureau at Tel. 0 3526 1044. is a three-storey building having a spiral How to Get to Bang Pa-in staircase leading to the top floor hall. When From Bangkok, take Phahon Yothin Road residing in Bang Pa-In Palace, King Rama V until Pratu Nam Phra In. Cross the outer ring used this hall as the place to get the bird’s bridge and turn left around Km. 35 for eye view of the surrounding area. approximately 7 kilometres to Bang Pa-In palace, or pass to Ayutthaya and turn left Monument of Queen Sunantha (อนุสาวรีย at Chedi Wat Sam Pluem Circle via Wat Yai จาสุนันทากุมารีรัตน) This is a สมเด็จพระนางเ Chai Mongkhon, Wat Phananchoeng, Amphoe 3 metre high hexagonal marble building, Bang Pa-in to Bang Pa-in Railway Station, situated on the east side of the royal palace. turn right to Bang Pa-In Palace. It was constructed to keep the ashed of the affectionate consort of King Rama V (Somdet By Car 1. Take Highway No. 1 (Phahonyothin Phranangchao Sunantha Kumarirat). Road) then take Highway No.32 to Ayutthaya. Monument of Phra-Akkharachayathoe 2. Take Highway No. 304 (Chaeng-Watthana Phra-Ong Chao Saowaphaknarirat and Three Road) or take Highway No. 302 (Ngamwongwan Royal Children, or Anusawarirachanuson Road) ; turn righ to Highway No. 306 (Tiwanon (อนุสาวรียพระอัครชายาเธอพระองคเจาเสาวภาค Road), then take Highway No. 3111 (Pathum นารีรัตนและเจาฟาสามพระองค หรืออนุสาวรีย Thani-Samkhok-Sena) and turn right at ราชานุสรณ) It is the marble relief memorial Amphoe Sena to Highway No. 3263 that King Rama V, with his deep sorrow, 3. Take Highway No. 306 (Bangkok- ordered to be constructed in 1888 Nonthaburi-Pathum Thani Road) then take to commemorate his beloved consort Highway No. 347 (Phra-Akkharachayathoe Phra-Ongchao Saowaphak Narirat) and three royal children By Bus From Bangkok Northern Bus erminal, on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, there who passed away at different times of the T are buses to Bang Pa-in daily every 20 same year, 1887. These portraits stand nearby minutes from 05.00 a.m.-08.00 p.m. For more the memorial of Somdet Phranangchao details, please call Tel. 1490, 0 2936 2852 Sunantha Kumarirat. www.transport.co.th. 28 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Wat Niwet Thamprawat

By Train There are trains running from Hua Wat Niwet Thamprawat (วัดนเิ วศธรรมประวัติ) Lamphong (Bangkok Railway Station) to Bang is the monastery located to the south of Pa-in Railway Station daily every hour from an island in the Chao Phraya River, on the 06.40 a.m.-10.00 p.m. Then, connect a Song riverbank opposite the royal palace. In 1878, Thaeo, motor tricycle or motorcycle taxi to King Rama V ordered its construction to have Bang Pa-In Palace. Bangkok Railway Station, the same architectural style of a Western Tel. 1690, 0 2220 4334 www.railway.co.th. cathedral. The building and its decorations By Boat Please contact are of Gothic style and beautified with colourful stained glass. The base; where the - Anantara Tel. 0 2476 0021-2 principal image of Buddha and his followers - Chao Phraya Princess Tel. 0 2860 3700 were placed, was designed to resemble the one for the Cross in a Christian church, not a - River Sun Cruise Tel. 0 2266 9125-6, 0 2266 traditional Chukkachi base as seen in general. 9316.

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 29 The window blocks were especially made Amphoe Nakhon Luang for curved windows. On the Ubosot wall in Prasat Nakhon Luang (ปราสาทนครหลวง) front of the principal Buddha image, there is Situated on the east bank of Pa Sak River, a picture of King Rama V created with stained Tambon Nakhon Luang, it was used as the glass. Situated to the right of the Ubosot is royal accommodation during trips to the Ho Phra Khanthararat, a shrine where Phra Buddha’s Footprint Shrine and Lopburi. It is Khanthararat-a Buddha image in the posture assumed to have been constructed during of requesting rain, is put for worship. Opposite the reign of King Songtham, but was improved Ho Phra Khanthararat is another shrine, to be a brick and plaster accommodation which is the house of a seated stone Buddha during the reign of King Prasat Thong. image protected by a seven-headed naga. It is an ancient Buddha image aged a thousand Handicrafted Aranyik Knife Villages (หมูบาน years, built in the Lopburi period by a Khmer หัตถกรรมมีดอรัญญิก) Background Ban Ton craftsman. This venerated Buddha image is Pho and Ban Phai Nong are two densely very close to the big banyan tree that spreads populated villages in Tambon Tha Chang, its branches to shade the area in front of the Amphoe Nakhon Luang, Phra Nakhon Si Ubosot. Not far from the Ubosot, there is a Ayutthaya. Both have been widely recognised cluster of stones naturally found in Thailand, for nearly 200 years as a major source of the which contains the relics of Chaochommanda country’s hand-made knife products. Chum, a consort of King Rama IV and mother The ancestors of Ban Ton Pho and Ban Phai of Prince (Somdet Kromphraya) Damrong Nong villagers came from Vientiane in Lao Rajanubhab and the members of the ‘Diskul’ PDR around the early Rattanakosin era. Most family. From Bang Pa-In Palace, visitors can of them were artisans earning their living as access the monastery through a cable car goldsmiths and blacksmiths. Around 1822 that carries 6-8 passengers at a time. The fare A.D., the goldsmith occupation was wound depends on the passengers’ contributions. up and only the blacksmith remained and Wat Chumphon Nikayaram (วัดชุมพล has been their single occupation ever since. นิกายาราม) is the monastery located in the That these immigrants from Vientiane used front area of Ko Mueang, opposite to the to be goldsmiths is evident from the fact train station. It was founded in 1632, by King that if the soil from these villages is taken to Prasatthong’s command and restored during be panned, there will be remains and filed the reign of King Rama IV. powder of gold.

30 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya To Get There : Both villages are now on Phaholyothin Road (heading to Saraburi) at accessible by bus from Chao Phrom Market Km. 78. Tung Bua Chom Floating Market in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. Take the bus offers a wide range of products from the with a sign “Ayutthaya–Tha Ruea”, which four regions of Thailand, including souvenirs, runs along the Asia Highway (Highway No. 32) farm produce and local delicacies. The idea towards Nakhon Sawan, pass beyond of combining old-fashioned retro concept Somdet Phra Sangkharat Hospital for about contemporary where there are a waxworks 100 metres, turn left under the bridge across of revered Buddhist monks, Giant robots from the Pa Sak River towards Amphoe Nakhon the Transformers flim, a puppet fabricated Luang. steel from scrap metal, The old classic cars and motorcycles. Tung Bua Chom Floating Amphoe Wang Noi Market is open everyday from 10.00 a.m.- Tung Bua Chom Floating Market (ตลาดนํ้า 08.00 p.m. For more information Tel. 0 3572 ทุงบัวชม) Loacated at Tambon Sanap Thuep, 3127, 08 2021 7999, 08 2021 8999.

Aranyik Knife Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 31 Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Centre

Amphoe Bang Sai (อําเภอบางไทร) (SUPPORT) which was established under Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Centre (ศูนยศิลปาชีพ Royal Patronage on July 21, 1976. บางไทร) Located on the left bank of the Chao Products and activities which can be seen Phraya River in Tambon Bueng Yai, Amphoe here are Fern Vien Basketry, Weaving Basketry, Bang Sai. Farmers from Ayutthaya as well as Artificial Flowers, Hand-Woven Silk and from other provinces undergo training in folk Cotton, Silk Dyeing, Wood Carving, Miniature arts and crafts here. At this centre, you will Hand- Modelled Thai Dolls, Furniture Making, have a glimpes of how farmers in the four Cloth-Made Products, etc. All the products regions live and work; how their products are sold at the Centre and in every branch of arts and crafts are produced. The centre of Chitralada Store. The Centre covers is under the Promotion of Supplementary a total area of approximately 16 Square Occupations and Related Techniques Kilometres and houses several places of interest including:

32 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Sala Phra Ming Khwan (ศาลาพระมิ่งขวัญ) the groom’s presents for the bride or Khan is a 4-storey applied Thai building with 4 Mak, a lustral water pouring ceremony, venue porches, towering in the heart of the Bang decorations, music as well as food and Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre. The first beverage for guests and relatives. For more floor houses arts and crafts demonstration details, contact the Arts and Crafts Village and shops displaying as well as selling at Tel. 0 3536 6666-7, 08 9132 0303 (Khun products from the Centre and other arts and Atchara). crafts centres throughout the country. The Arts and Crafts Training Buildings (อาคาร second and third floors exhibit the Centre’s ฝกอบรมศิลปาชีพ) They are situated in the masterpieces of the arts and crafts products, heart of the Centre and comprise various and the fourth floor accommodates meetings divisions of arts and crafts. The Centre and seminars. Open daily during 09.00 a.m.- currently provides 29 divisions of arts and 05.00 p.m. on weekdays and 09.00 a.m.- crafts training for farmers from all regions 06.00 p.m. on holidays. Admission is free. of the country to be their supplementary Arts and Crafts Village (หมูบานศิลปาชีพ) The occupations out of the farming season. establishment of this village was supported Visitors can have a look at all stages of the by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) elaborate arts and crafts production. Open in order to showcase different aspects of daily between 09.00 a.m.-04.00 p.m. during architecture of the Thai houses in various training periods. regions of the country as well as their ways One Thousand-armed Kwan Yin Bodhisattva of living and culture. (พระโพธิสัตวกวนอิมพันพระหัตถ) The 6-metre Lifestyle and handicraft demonstrations high image of the one thousand-armed Kwan are provided daily between 08.30 a.m.– Yin Bodhisattva was carved out of yellow 05.00 p.m. on weekdays and 09.00 a.m.– sandalwood and presented to His Majesty 07.00 p.m. on weekends. Thai classical King Bhumibol Adulyadej on the auspicious dances and folk entertainment of the 4 occasion of his 6th cycle birthday anniversary regions are performed during 04.30 p.m.– by Mr. Tu Zhia on behalf of the Chinese 05.30 p.m. on weekends and national people. His Majesty had the image enshrined holidays. in a temporary shrine at the elephant The village also offers a traditional Thai pavilion-Sala Rong Chang-within the Centre wedding ceremony of the Central Region which for the public to pay respect daily during is to include a religious rite, a procession of 09.00 a.m.–05.00 p.m.

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 33 Phra Tamnak (พระตาหนํ ัก) is a Royal residence Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Centre is open during for Their Majesties the King and the Queen 08.30 a.m.–05.00 p.m. on weekdays and and their royal children built into a traditional 08.30 a.m.–06.00 p.m. on weekends and Thai house of Central Thailand with an open national holidays. Admission fee is 100 Baht basement, using construction materials for adults and 50 Baht for children. Visit the available locally and surrounded by a beautiful Arts and Crafts Village, “Wang Pla”-Thailand’s garden and miniature waterfall. largest freshwater fish aquarium, arts and Wang Pla (วังปลา) is an aquarium displaying crafts training buildings, “Sala Phra Ming freshwater fish constructed and administered Khwan”-a modern Thai building where the by the Department of Fisheries. The main Centre’sproducts are on sale, pay respect building contains two large aquariums; one is to the one thousand-armed Kwan Yin of a bean shape with a capacity of 1,400 tons, Bodhisattva at the elephant pavilion and take the other of a round shape with a capacity a mini-train free of charge around the Centre. of 600 tons, both accommodating various For more information, Tel. 0 3528 3246-9, species of freshwater fish native to Thailand. 0 3536 6252-4 www.bangsaiarts.com. Open during 10.00 a.m.-04.00 p.m. and closed How to Get to Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Centre on Mondays and Tuesdays. By Car : Suan Nok (สวนนก) is a bird park operated by 1. Route 1 Highway No. 9 (Western Ring Road), the Wildlife Fund Thailand under the Royal from Highway No. 345 intersection (Amphoe Patronage of H.M. the Queen. There are two Bang Bua Thong), which is also accessible large aviaries providing nests for more than from Suphan Buri-Taling Chan, or Pathum 30 species of rare birds within natural-like Thani via Sam Khok elevated intersection- environments including an artificial stream across the Chao Phraya River-turn left at Bo and waterfall as well as forest. There is Sa Intersection-straight on to the Centre. a suspension bridge for visitors to have a 2. Route 2 Highway No. 306 (Tiwanon Road) look and take photos of the birds from on from Pak Kret Intersection-Suan Somdet top of the aviaries. Other wild animals are Intersection-Pak Khlong Rangsit Intersection- also to be seen nearby. Open daily during Bang Phun Intersection-turn right into 09.00 a.m.-07.00 p.m. Admission fee is 20 Highway No. 347 (Pathum Thani-Bang Pahan) Baht for adults and 10 Baht for children. at Pathum Thani Technological College Intersection via Chiang Rak Noi Intersection- turn left at Chiang Rak Noi elevated

34 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya intersection and straight pass Bo Sa By Train : Take a train running from Hua Intersection-U turn under the bridge across Lamphong (Bangkok Railway Station) to Bang the Chao Phraya River-turn left at Bo Sa Pa-in Railway Station daily every hour starting Intersection-straight on to the Centre. from 05.30 a.m.-10.00 p.m. Then, connect 3. Route 3 Pak Kret-Bang Pa-in Expressway- a Song Thaeo or mini-bus to Bang Sai Arts out of the expressway and straight pass Bo and Crafts Centre. Bangkok Railway Station, Sa Intersection-U turn under the bridge across Tel. 1690, 0 2220 4334 www.railway.co.th. the Chao Phraya River-turn left at Bo Sa By Bus : Take a Public Buse no. 838 (Rangsit- Intersection-straight on to the Centre. Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Centre) leaving from 4. Route 4 Highway No. 1 (Phahon Yothin Bangkok from the Future Park Rangsit Bus Road) from Rangsit, or the North or Northeast- Stop on Phahonyothin Road to Bang Sai via Bang Pa-in elevated intersection into starting 06.00 a.m.-09.00 p.m. Ayutthaya Bus Highway No. 9 (Western Ring Road)-straight Terminal, Tel. 0 3533 5304 pass Chiang Rak Noi elevated intersection- By Boat : Cruise to Ayutthaya, The luxurious pass Bo Sa Intersection-U turn under the cruise from Bangkok to the former capital bridge across the Chao Phraya River-turn left of Ayutthaya is operated by Anantara Tel. at Bo Sa Intersection-straight on to the Centre. 0 2476 0021-2, Chao Phraya Princess Cruise 5. Route 5 Asia Highway from Bang Pahan- Tel. 0 2860 3700 and River Sun Cruise Tel. Ayutthaya along Highway No. 347 (Pathum 0 2266 9125-6, 0 2266 9316. Thani-Bang Pahan)-across the Chao Phraya The Support Arts and Crafts International River-turn right at Chiang Rak Noi elevated Centre of Thailand (ศูนยสงเสริมศิลปาชีพ intersection–straight pass Bo Sa Intersection- ระหวางประเทศ (องคการมหาชน) is located on U turn under the bridge across the Chao the left bank of the Chao Phraya River, at Phraya River-turn left at Bo Sa Intersection- Chang Yai sub-distract. There are two mains straight on to the Centre. buildingat the centre, namely Phra Ming 6. Route 6 Highway No. 3309 (Bang Pa-in– Monkhon Pavillion and the Marketingplace Chiang Rak Noi), from Asia Highway, or Building. Ayutthaya, via Bang Pa-in Paper Manufacture- Phra Ming Monkhon Pavillion (ศาลาพระมิ่ง under the bridge of the Chao Phraya River- มงคล) This is a large three-story building with turn left at Bang Sai Pier-straight on to the the area of 34,340 Square Metres used for Centre. product display and exhibitions of handicrafts

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 35 for export. The first floor area is divided into INTERESTING ACTIVITIES 4 sections. Section 1 is the area for displaying Homestay products for living, dressing, giving and dining. Section 2 is the exhibition area for products Experience the Thai lifestyle and overnight at : from the Bang Sai Arts and Crafts centre. In Khlong Rang Chorakhe (คลองรางจระเข) addition, there are shops selling arts and A canalside community on Khlong Rang crafts items made by trainees from both the Chorakhe in Amphoe Sena. Pay respect to Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Training Centre and the 400-year-old Luangpho To image at from other support arts and crafts centres. Wat Rang Chorakhe, which was built in the Section 3 is the area for shops selling Thai Ayutthaya period, visit the fish sanctuary handicrafts comprising OTOP products and in front of the temple, have a look at a items from various regions of Thailand. diamond-eyed cat at Panya Sophit Meditation Section 4 is allocated for demonstration Centre, take a boat trip to enjoy canalside of exceptional and rare pieces of Thai scenery and Thai houses in a peaceful handicrafts. The second and third floor atmosphere. The fare is 700 Baht inclusive are the auditorium and the meeting rooms of 2 meals. For more details, contact Police for trade negotiations to promote the Sergeant Major Roengchai Roekbuppha, expansion of arts and crafts products Tel. 08 1251 8058, 08 9881 1042. in international markets. Facilities to Bang Sai (บางไทร) A community on the Noi accommodate E-commerce are also provieded. River in Amphoe Bang Sai. There are 5 houses Market Place (อาคารตลาด) This building is for homestay which can accommodate 25 built to facilitate sales of handicrafts and visitors at a time. A boat trip to enjoy a OTOP products from the 77 provinces of the riverside way of life such as fishing and country. It is open everyday (Monday-Friday prawning in the Noi River and hand-made from 10.00 a.m.-5.00 p.m., Saturday-Sunday glass crafting is available. During farming and national holidays from 09.00 a.m.- season, visitors can also join activities in the 06.00 p.m.) For more information, Tel. 0 3536 paddy fields. 7054-9, Fax. 0 3536 7051 wwwsacict.net

36 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Bicycling turn right into Si Sanphet Road, via TAT and There are various bicycling routes in Phra Wat Ket, straight on toWihan Phra Mongkhon Nakhon Si Ayutthaya : Bophit and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, on the left. Visitors should spend at least one hour here. Route 1 TAT Ayutthaya Office – Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre A total distance of Route 3 Wat Phra Si Sanphet–Wat approximately 1 kilometre. From opposite Mahathat–Wat Ratchaburana A total TAT, turn left into Rotchana Road, via the distance of approximately 1 kilometre. From Chao Sam Phraya National Museum and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, go straight ahead on Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre on the Naresuan Road in between Wat Mahathat opposite side. Visitors should spend an hour and Wat Ratchaburana. Visitors should spend and a half here. at least one hour at the two temples and may stop at the near by Thai Boat Museum. Route 2 Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre–Wat Phra Si Sanphet A total distance Route 4 Thai Boat Museum–Wat Na of approximately 2 kilometres. From the Phra Men A total distance of approximately Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre, turn left 1 kilometre. From the Thai Boat Museum, into Rotchana Road, via the old city hall, follow the old Chikun Road, turn left into

Bicycling Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 37 Naresuan Road, turn right at the intersection Watthanaram, continue on the asphalt road and go straight ahead, turn left again into the via old traditional Thai houses, turn left at around town or Rop Ko Mueang Road, follow the T-junction via Wat Phutthaisawan, the the Lop Buri River to Wat Na Phra Men. Portuguese Village is at the end of this road. Visitors should spend at least one hour here Route 8 Portuguese Village– to admire the beauty of the Phra Ubosot and Wat Phutthaisawan A total distance of its principal bejewelled Buddha image of the approximately 2 kilometres. From the Ayutthaya period. Portuguese Village, return on the same Route 5 Wat Na Phra Men–Wat Lokaya route to Wat Phutthaisawan. Visitors sutharam A total distance of approximately should spend about half an hour here. 1 kilometre. From Wat Na Phra Men, turn right Route 9 Wat Phutthaisawan–TAT to follow the Lop Buri River, via the remains Ayutthaya Office A total distance of of the old Grand Palace of the Ayutthaya approximately 1 kilometre. From Wat Kingdom on the left, go straight ahead and Phutthaisawan, pedal via Wat Phutthaisawan down the bridge, turn left to the canalside School, turn left to the ferry pier, cross the road, straight on and turn right into Wat river on board the ferry, turn left to return Lokayasutharam. Visitors shouldspend about to the TAT Ayutthaya Office. 15 or 30 minutes here. There are still many other bicycling routes Route 6 Wat Lokayasutharam–Wat such as to the Japanese Village, Wat Yai Chai Chai Watthanaram A total distance of Mongkhon and Wat Phananchoeng. For more approximately 2 kilometres. From Wat information, contact the TAT Ayutthaya Office Lokayasutharam, return on the same route at Tel. 0 3524 6076-7. Bicycles for rent are to the entrance of the canalside road, turn available at Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Tourist right via Suan Somdet Phra Si Nakharin, go Police Office, in front of Ayutthaya Railway straight ahead to the T-junction and turn left Station, Chao Phrom Market. across the Wat Kasattrathirat Bridge, turn left again and continue along the route to Wat Elephant Back Activities Chai Watthanaram. Visitors should spend at Ayutthaya Elephant Camp (วังชางอยุธยา least half an hour or more here. แลเพนียด) Located opposite to Khum Khun Route 7 Wat Chai Watthanaram– Phaen within the area of the Ayutthaya Portuguese Village A total distance of Historical Park. It provides elephant riding, approximately 4 kilometres. From Wat Chai shows and feeding everyday during 09.00

38 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya a.m.-05.00 p.m. The fee is between 100-500 It provides elephant trips fording the stream, Baht depending on the required duration: 15 for bird-watching in the forest, visiting ancient or 30 minutes. For more details, Tel. 0 3521 monuments and to Wat Maheyong. A ride on 1001, 0 3532 1982, 08 1821 7065, 08 1852 an ox-drawn cart to visit ancient momuments 4527 or www.ayutthayaelephantcamp.com, as well as snake shows are also available wwwsaveelephant.com. daily during 08.00 a.m.-05.00 p.m. For more Ayothaya Elephant Camp (บานชางอโยธยา information, Tel. 0 3524 5245 Fax. 0 3524 และโชวงู) Located at 65/12 Mu 7, Tambon 5245. Phai Ling, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.

Elephant Riding Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 39 Boat Trips EVENTS AND FESTIVALS Boat trips to enjoy the beautiful scenery and Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Centre Fair Thai lifestyle along the Chao Phraya River, (งานประจําปศูนยศิลปาชีพบางไทร) At the end the Pa Sak River and around the town island of January Held annually toward the end of of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya are available. January at Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Centre, the A long-tailed boat can be chartered at the pier Fair features displays and contests of the arts in front of Chantharakasem National Museum, and crafts products, sales of local products Pom Phet Pier, and Wat Phananchoeng Pier. and cultural performances. The fare depends on the route and duration. Songkran Festival (งานเทศกาลสงกรานต) April 13 Held annually in front of Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, it features a traditional

Boat Trips 40 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya procession, Thoet Thoeng drums procession, The ceremony is usually held on an early Song Nam Phra ceremony of the miniature Thursday morning which may be the 7th, 9th, of Phra Mongkhon Bophit image, and Nang etc. day of the waxing moon of the 5th lunar Songkran beauty contest. month (around April-May) in order to express Wai Khru Bucha Tao Ceremony (พิธีไหวครู gratitude to their masters, sweep away บูชาเตา) Around April – May A ceremony held possible accidents during their works as by blacksmiths and knife-makers of Aranyik well as for their own auspiciousness and knives at Ban Ton Pho, Ban Phai Nong and prosperity. After chanting for a congregration Ban Salai, Tambon Tha Chang, Amphoe of angels and saluting the Triple Gem, the Nakhon Luang to pay salute to their masters master of the ceremony will chant for a and forge spirits. congregration of gods which include Siva, Vishnu, Brahma, Vishnukarma, Matuli, Vaya,

Songkran Festival Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 41 Gangga, 8 ascetics, etc. as well as Thai, Activities include Nang Nopphamat beauty Lao, Mon, and Chinese masters who have contest, contests of processions, Krathongs, imparted them with the ironwork skills, for and hanging lanterns, folk entertainment, them to receive their offerings and bless all traditional and international long boat races, participants. All tools and equipment will be and sales of the Centre’s products. gilded and lustral water made to sprinkle on Ayutthaya World Heritage Fair (งานแสดง the tools and participants. แสงเสียงอยุธยามรดกโลก) in December Bang Sai Loi Krathong and Traditional To commemorate the occasion of the Long Boat Races (งานลอยกระทงตามประทีป Ayutthaya Historical Park being declared และแขงเรือยาวประเพณีศูนยศิลปาชีพบางไทร) a World Heritage Site by UNESCO on in November It is an annual festival held December 13, 1991, a celebration is held toward the end of November at the Bang annually for 1 week during the same period Sai Arts and Crafts Centre, Amphoe Bang Sai. of the year. The Fair features local ways of

Bang Sai Loi Krathong 42 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya life, handicrafts, Thai traditions and culture a chanting ceremony are obtainable at the as well as the light and sound presentation Ayutthaya Tourism Centre (Old City Hall) or on the history of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya. Information Counter at the Ayutthaya Park Ayutthaya Maha Mongkhon (อยุธยา Shopping Centre, and hotels/restaurants with มหามงคล – ไหวพระเกาวัด) Buddhist Lent a programme sign within the province. After Festival Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial that, visit the temples, pay respect to sacred Administration in collaboration with the images and have your booklet stamped by Tourism Business Association and TAT Central following the map provided. Once having Region Office: Region 6, organise the visited all the nine temples, participants Ayutthaya Maha Mongkhon programme for will be presented with an Ayutthaya Maha participants to visit 9 temples in the province Mongkhon memorial coin and a chance to during the Buddhist Lent Festival. Booklets for win a prize. For more information, contact this annual programme that have undergone the Ayutthaya Tourism Business Association at Tel. 0 3521 3828–9 ext. 101.

Ayutthaya World Heritage Fair Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 43 LOCAL PRODUCTS who sailed their houseboats along the Chao Bamboo Fan (พัดสานไมไผ) Bamboo fan Phraya River in the olden days were the first weaving in Amphoe Ban Phraek, Phra Nakhon to have woven fish mobiles from palm leaf, Si Ayutthaya, has been inherited from the out of inspiration from their affectionate olden days. Formerly, the fans were woven bond with water and their surroundings, with a quite simple technique into a rough referring to a Thai barb with which they design. The border was usually trimmed were familiar and using leaves from various and sewn by hand with plain white cloth. species of palm grown locally. Originally, each Later, its form changed to imitate that of a woven fish mobile was not as colourful nor Bodhi leaf or a heart shape. The border is numerously composed as in the present, trimmed with gold cloth while the weaving using only a mixture of natural pigment and techniques and designs have become more varnish for the final touch. The fish mobile, complicated. Required materials are easily mostly in red, is usually hung above a baby’s available including strips of golden bamboo, a cradle so that Thai children are familiar with splitting knife to make bamboo strips, golden it since their babyhood. trimming cloth, white cloth, dyes for bamboo There are some beliefs relating to the strips, a cutting block, bamboo handle, etc. fish mobile. Thai people in ancient times Palm Leaf Fish Mobile (ปลาตะเพียนสาน regarded Thai barb as an auspicious fish that เครื่องแขวน) Weavers of the palm leaf fish would help to attract wealth, so a palm leaf mobile, and other palm leaf products, in fish mobile would be hung in the corridor this province are Thai Muslims. The skills in front of the house. Some believed have been inherited for over 100 years. It that by hanging the fish mobile that was is assumed that Thai Muslim spice traders numerously composed would help to enhance the growth as well as number of their children so that they would have plentiful supply of labour. It was also believed that, in hanging a fish mobile above the cradle, it should be hung at the right position easily visible for the baby, not toward the head nor the feet or else the baby would be disturbed by the guardian spirit. In fact, that would cause defective eyes.

Palm Leaf Fish Mobile 44 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Palm Leaf Hat (งอบใบลาน) A handicraft Farmer’s Central Market (ตลาดกลาง that has been inherited since ancient times. เพื่อการเกษตร) Located on the Asia Highway Weaving a palm leaf hat requires no less in Tambon Hantra. On the return trip upon craftsmanship than any other kinds of crossing Naresuan Bridge to leave Ayutthaya, basketwork. The weavers have to be skilled go straight ahead and turn left toward the and patient as the crafts will have to undergo Asia Highway (Highway No. 32). There will be a number of weaving steps. The palm leaf a right turn not too far away into the Market hat is now an OTOP product of Tambon Bang which is on the left. This market offers almost Nang Ra, Amphoe Bang Pahan, Phra Nakhon every kind of the province’s local products Si Ayutthaya. It has gained popularity among such as Aranyik knife from Amphoe Nakhon Thais and foreigners and is available in Luang, bamboo fan from Amphoe Ban various provinces around the country. Phraek, carved wood from Amphoe Phra Rotiต Sai Mai (โร ีสายไหม) A snack composing Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, ready-to-wear garments of candyfloss (Sai Mai) wrapped with flat from Amphoe Bang Pa-in, preserved and dried bread(Roti), initiated by Thai Muslim vendors. fish, preserved fruits, as well as various other It is available near the Ayutthaya provincial souvenirs from all districts. There are food hospital on U Thong Road and in shops. shops offering delicious dishes of fresh prawn and fish, as well. LOCAL PRODUCTS AND SOUVENIR Fish Mobile (ปลาตะเพียน) 13 Mu 1, Tambon SHOPS Phukhao Thong, Tel. 08 1506 3160. Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Khon Mask Making (การทําหัวโขน) M.L. Ayutthaya Park Shopping Centre (ศูนยการค า Phongsawat Suksawat, ด.5 U Thong Road, อยุธยาพารค) A large shopping centre on Tambon Tha Wasukri Asia Highway on Tambon Klong Suan Phlu. ตRoti Sai Mai (โร ีสายไหม) 52 Mu 3, Tambon Enjoy lifestyle, trade and atmosphere of an Pratu Chai, Tel. 0 3532 1896, 08 1996 2564 . indoor floating market. In addition to various The Grounds in front of Wihan Phra products and delicious food, this shopping Mongkhon Bophit and Wat Phananchoeng centre also provides Thai cultural performances (บริเวณวิหารวัดพระมงคลบพิตรและบริเวณ on weekends and national holidays. วัดพนญเชั งวรวิ หาริ ) There are numerous shops For more information, Tel. 0 3522 9234-41 selling all kinds of local products ranging from www.ayutthayapark.com. palm leaf fish mobile, basketwork, rattan products, Aranyik knife, preserved fruits to sweets.

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 45 Traditional Thai Painting (การเขียนภาพ Amphoe Wang Noi จิตรกรรมไทยลงรักปดทอง) Khun Suphachai Silk (ผาไหม) 41/3 Mu 1, Tambon Phayom, Tel. Naiphongsi, Mu 3, Tambon Khlong Sa Bua. 0 3574 4882, 08 1286 1470, 08 1946 0948. Amphoe Bang Pahan Amphoe Phachi Herbal Cosmetic (เครื่องสําอางสมุนไพร) Khon Mask Miniature (หัวโขนจําลอง) Khon 44/105-106 Mu 5, Tambon Khwan Mueang, Mask Miniature Group, 54/3 Mu 4, Tambon Tel. 0 3530 1488, 08 8585 1003. Don Ya Nang, Tel. 08 6130 0920. Palm Leaf Hat (งอบ) 57/1 Mu 5 Tambon Bang Nang Ra, Tel. 0 3530 1170, 08 6762 3504 Amphoe Bang Sai (อําเภอบางไทร) Crafted Glass (แกวประดิษฐ) 2nd Lieutenant Amphoe Sena Chaiyaphon Chamnan, 39 Mu 3, Tambon Bang Patchwork Leather Bag (กระเปาหนังตอ) Sai, Tel. 08 1807 4628. Patchwork Leather Bag Production Group, 61/2 Mu 7, Tambon Rang Chorakhe, Tel. 0 3527 5885, 08 9609 0081, 08 9668 8703.

Wat Suwan Dararam Ratchaworawihan 46 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya EXAMPLE OF TOUR PROGRAMME Trip No. 1 One day trip 07.15 a.m. Leave Bangkok by train from Bangkok Station (Hua Lam Phong) Rama IV Road. 09.00 a.m. Arrive Ayutthaya and visit - Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre (ศูนยศึกษาประวัติศาสตรอยุธยา) - Chao Sam Phraya National Museum (พิพิธภณฑสถานแหั งชาต ิ เจาสามพระยา) - Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit (วิหารพระมงคลบพิตร) - Ancient Palace (พระราชวงโบราณั ) - Wat Na Phramen (วัดหนาพระเมร )ุ - Wat Mahathat (วัดมหาธาตุ) - Wat Ratchaburana (วัดราชบรณะู ) 12.00 p.m. Lunch at Hua-Ro Maket (ตลาดหวรอั ) 12.30 p.m. Visit Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon (วัดใหญชัยมงคล) 01.15 p.m. Visit Wat Phananchoeng (วัดพนญเชั ิง) 02.00 p.m. Leave for Bang Pa-In by mini-bus from Chao Phrom Maket (ตลาด Wat Phananchoeng เจาพรหม ) 02.50 p.m. Arrive Bang Pa-In and visit Please Note - Bang Pa-In Summer Palace - Chao Sam Phraya National Museum opens (พระราชวังบางปะอิน) everyday from 09.00 a.m.-04.00 p.m. - Wat Niwet Thamprawat (วดนัศ เวิ - The ticket office of Bang Pa-In Palace opens ธรรมประวัติ) everyday from 08.00 a.m.-03.00 p.m. 05.30 p.m. Leave for Bangkok by bus.

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 47 Trip No. 2 Two days and one night 02.30 p.m. Leave for Chantharakasem National Museum (พิพิธภณฑสถานั 1st day แหงชาติ วังจันทรเกษม) 07.00 a.m. Leave Bangkok by bus from the 04.00 p.m. Leave for Bangkok Northern Bus Terminal. 05.30 p.m. Arrive Bangkok 08.00 a.m. Arrive Bang Pa-In - Wat Niwet Thamprawat (วัดนเวศิ Please Note ธรรมประวัติ) - Tourists who have more time and want - Bang Pa-In Summer Palace to continue their journey to the north and (พระราชวังบางปะอิน) the northeast can take the train direcly from 10.30 a.m. Leave for Amphoe Phra Nakhon Ayutthaya. Si Ayutthaya. - TAT itself does not operate tours. - This itinerary may be adjusted as appropriate. 12.00 p.m. Visit Wat Phananchoeng 01.00 p.m. Leave for Ayutthaya Historical TIPS FOR VISITING A TEMPLE / Study Centre (ศูนยศึกษา ประวัติศาสตรอยุธยา) and Chao MUSEUM / ANCIENT MONUMENT - Study information about the place to be Sam Phraya National Museum visited. (พิพิธภณฑสถานแหั งชาต ิเจาสามพระยา ) - Dress politely and be composed. 03.30 p.m. Leave for Wat Chaiwatthanaram - Take off your shoes before entering a (วัดไชยวัฒนาราม) religious building or area. 2nd day - Contact a local speaker such as a monk or 08.00 a.m. - Visit the Ancient Palace (พระราชวัง officer who can give you information. โบราณ) - Avoid touching an artefact or ancient - Wat Mahathat (วัดมหาธาตุ) monument, especially the reliefs or paintings - Wat Ratchaburana (วัดราชบรณะู ) to maintain their original condition. - Wat Na Phramen (วัดหนาพระเมร )ุ - Avoid trespassing in a prohibited area or on - Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit an ancient monument and taking any parts (วิหารพระมงคลบพิตร) of the artefacts or architecture. - Khun Phaen House (คุมขุนแผน) - Seek permission before taking photos. - Avoid using a flash in photo-taking which 12.00 p.m. Lunch in the area ; may cause damage to the artefacts or relax at Phra Ram Park architecture.

48 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya FACILITIES Krung Sri River (กรุงศรีริเวอร) 27/2 Mu 11, Rochana Road, Tel. 0 3524 4333, Fax 0 3524 Accommodation 3777, www.krungsririver.com, 206 rooms: (Note : The room rates mentioned in this 1,700-5,738 Baht (River cruise) brochure may be changed without notice. Please ask for current information from the River View Place (ริเวอรวิว เพลส) ก 35/5 hotel before making reservation.) Mu 1, U-Thong Road, Tambon Horattanachai, Tel. 0 3524 1444, 0 3524 1729–30), 83 rooms: Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 1,500–5,000 Baht (River Cruise) Hotels and Guesthouses on the Riversides Woraburi Ayothaya Convention Resort Ayothaya Riverside (อโยธยา ริเวอรไซด) (วรบุรี อโยธยา คอนเวนชั่น รีสอรท) 89 Mu 11, Mu10, Wat Pakho Road, Tambon Gamung, Tel. Tambon Kamang, Tel. 0 3524 9600-49, 0 3523 4873-7, 100 rooms: 1,000-2,500 Baht Fax: 0 3524 9626 Bangkok Office Tel. 0 Ayothaya Riverside House (อโยธยา ริเวอรไซด  2256 0890-2 ext. 303-7, Fax: 0 2256 0741, เฮาส) 17/2 Mu 7, Tambon Banpom, Tel. 08 www.woraburi.com, 172 rooms: 1,750–6,000 Baht 1644 5328, 08 1932 6162 Bangkok Office Hotels and Guesthouses in town Tel. 0 2585 6001, 0 2910 8797, 7 rooms: 300-1,200 Baht At Ayutthaya Hotel (แอท อยุธยาโฮเต็ล) 69 Mu 7, Tambon Klong Suan Plu, Tel. 0 3534 Ban Kun Pra (บานคุณพระ) 48 Mu 3, Pa Thon 6747), 64 rooms: 1,200-1,400 Baht Road, Tambon Horattanachai, Tel. 08 1442 2742, E-mail: [email protected], Ayothaya Hotel (อโยธยา โฮเต็ล) 12 Mu 4 (near 10 rooms: 250-1,000 Baht Talad Chao Phrom) Thetsaban Sai 2 Road, Tambon Ho Rattanachai, Tel. 0 3523 2855-8, Ban Suwanthara Resort and Spa (บาน 0 3525 2249-50, 83 rooms: 590–2,200 Baht สุวรรณธารารีสอรท แอนด สปา) 43/9 U-Thong Road, Tambon Horattanachai, Tel. 0 3532 Ayutthaya Hostel (อยุธยา โฮสเทล) 7 Mu 2, 4270, 08 1928 2887, 10 rooms: 500-1,000 Baht Rochana Road, Tambon Horattanachai, Tel. 0 3521 0941, 12 rooms: 400-650 Baht I Udia on the River Side (ไอ ยูเดีย ออน เดอะ ริเวอร) 11-12 M 4 U-thong Road, Tambon Ayutthaya House (บานอยุธยา) 48/3 Soi Pratuchai, Tel. 0 3532 3208, 08 6080 1888, Phailing 3, Rochana Road, Tambon Phailing, www.iudia.com, 13 rooms: 1,600–4,700 Baht Tel. 0 3524 5905, 08 1362 3534, 4 rooms: 500–1,500 Baht

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 49 Ayutthaya Thani (อยุธยาธานี) 4/89 Mu 8 Classic Kameo Ayutthaya Hotel (โรงแรม Tambon Hua Ro, Tel. 0 3523 2776 Fax: 0 3523 คลาสสิค คามิโอ อยุธยา(อูทองอินน เดิม)) 2817, 70 rooms: 350-950 Baht 210-211, 148 Mu 5, Rochana Road, Tambon Ban Chanthana (บานจันทนะ) ง .12/22 Pailing, Tel. 0 3521 2535 Fax. 0 3521 2536 Bangkok office Tel. 0 2253 3791 12 rooms: Naresuan Road Sai 1, Tambon Ho Rattanachai, 1,600-4,000 Baht Tel. 0 3532 3200, 08 9885 0257, 12 rooms: 350–500 Baht Grand Parent Home (แกรนด พาเรนท โฮม) 22/6 Mu 1, Soi Manthana, Naresuan Road, Ban Chitwilai (บานจิตตวิไล) 9/23 Mu 3, Tambon Pratuchai, Tel. 08 6383 4791, Fax. Tambon Thawasukri, Tel. 0 3532 1259-60, 0 3523 1480, 10 rooms: 600 Baht 08 1991 2166, 30 rooms: 450-500 Baht Kantary Hotel Ayutthaya (แคนทารี โฮเทล Ban Lotus (บานโลตัส) ง.20 Pa Ma Phrao อยุธยา) 168 Mu 1, Rochana Road, Tambon (Sai 1) Road, Tambon Ho Rattanachai, Tel. Khlong Suan Plu, Tel. 0 3522 9955, 0 3533 0 3525 1988, 0 3532 8272, 20 rooms: 200- 7177, 193 rooms: 2,400-3,800 Baht 600 Baht Old B.J. Guesthouse (โอลด บี เจ เกสตเฮาส) Ban Luang Chumni (บานหลวงชํานิ) 16/7 Naresuan Road, Tambon Pratuchai, 2/4 Rochana Road, Tambon Pratuchai, Tel. 0 3525 1526, 10 rooms: 160-350 Baht Tel. 0 3532 2990, 08 7804 8041, www.luangchumnivillage.com, 6 rooms: P.U. Guesthouse (พี ยู เกสตเฮาส) ง.20/1 600-1,500 Baht Naresuan Road, Tambon Horattanachai, Tel. 0 3525 1213, 18 rooms: 300-600Baht Ban Mai Resort (บานไมรีสอรท) 38/19 Mu 8, Tambon Banpom, Tel. 08 1450 2884, 08 1994 Phlu Thaya Resort and Spa (พลูธยา รีสอรท 3863, 9 bungalows: 400-500 Baht แอนด สปา) 12/3 Mu 7, Tambon Khlong Suan Phlu, Tel. 0 3570 7565-6, Fax. 03570 7566, Ban Suan Guesthouse (บานสวน เกสตเฮาส) www.pludhaya.com, 9 houses: 2,700-5,400 23/1 Chakkaphat Road,Tambon Pratuchai, Baht Tel. 0 3524 2394, 13 rooms: 300-600 Baht Promsook Place (พรอมสุข เพลส) 11/44-45 Chitwilai Place (จิตตวิไล เพลส) 38/7 U-Thong Pridiphanomyong Road, Tambon Road, Tambon Ho Rattanachai, Tel. 0 3532 Horattanachai, Tel. 0 3532 3999, 08 5210 8177, 08 1991 2166, 35 rooms: 450-500 Baht 7888, 75 rooms: 600-800Baht Si Ayutthayathani (โรงแรมศรีอยุธยาธานี) 59 Mu 2, U-Thong Road, Tambon Thawasukri,

50 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Tel. 0 3523 3041-2, Fax. 0 3523 2990, Tony Place (โทน ี่ เพลส) 12/18 Naresuan Road, 40 rooms: 850–1,400 Baht Tambon Horattanachai, Tel. 0 3525 2578, 20 Suan Luang (ศูนยฝกปฏิบัติการวิชาชีพ rooms: 200-1,500 Baht ในธรกุ จสวนหลวงิ ) (in Rajabhat University Phra Toto Guesthouse (โตโต เกสตเฮาส) 16/2 Soi Nakhon Si Ayutthaya) 96 Mu 2, Rochana Road, 12, Naresuan Road, Tambon Horattanachai, Tambon Pratuchai, Tel. 0 3524 5537, 0 3532 Tel. 0 3523 1283, 08 1823 1283, 12 rooms: 4475, 27 rooms: 500-900 Baht 150–500 Baht Sunrise Place (ซันไรซ เพลส) 6/3 Naresuan Wiang Fa (เวียงฟา) 1/8 Rochana Road, Tel. Road, Tambon Pratuchai, Tel. 0 3524 4325, 0 3524 1353, 0 3524 3252, E-mail: wiangfa@ 08 1686 9549, 08 1991 7487, 13 rooms: hotmail.com, 18 rooms: 400-600 Baht 350-600 Baht Homestay The Bank River House (เดอะ แบงค ริเวอร เฮาส) 197 Mu 4, Tambon Phakhai, Tel. Ayutthaya Homestay (อยุธยา โฮมสเตย 0 3539 1688, www.thebankriverhouse.com, เกาะลอย) 15/26 Mu 2, Ko Loi, Tambon Hua el. 08 1290 6630, 08 1434 1858, 6 rooms: 6 rooms: 3,000-4,500 Baht Ro, T 650-1,300 Baht The Cavalli Casa Resort (เดอะ คาวาลิ คาซา Bai Fern Homestay (ใบเฟรน โฮมสเตย) 172/9 รีสอรท) 139/1-2 Mu 2, Tambon Ban Kho, Mu 4, Tambon Pratuchai, Tel. 0 3524 2051, Tel. 0 3588 1222, 08 3086 9779, 08 8277 2466, www.cavallicasaresort.com, 59 rooms: 08 1759 9347), 18 rooms: 800-1,700 Baht 1,200-1,400 Baht Amphoe Uthai The Lima Place Hotel (โรงแรมเดอะ ลิมา Ayutthaya Grand Hotel (อยุธยา แกรนด เพลส) 139 Mu 2 Tambon Ban Kao, Tel. 0 3580 โฮเต็ล) 55/29 Mu 1, Rochana Road, Tambon 1808-10, www.limaplace.com, 75 rooms: Thanu, Tel. 0 3533 5483-91, Fax. 0 3533 5492, 450-1,200 Baht 197 rooms: 1,000–3,300 Baht The Old Place Guesthouse (ดิ โอลด เพลส Ayutthaya Homestay (อยธยาุ โฮมสเตย) 15/26 เกสตเฮาส) ค.102 U-Thong Road, Tambon Mu 2, Ko Loi, Tambon Hua Ro Tel. 08 1434 Horattanachai, Tel. 0 3521 1161, 08 9614 1858, 6 rooms: 350-650 Baht 3010, 8 rooms: 250–500 Baht Grand Garden Resort (แกรนด การเดน Thong Chai Guesthouse (ธงชัย เกสตเฮาส) รีสอรท) 20/2 Mu 1, Yaek Wat Gasung Road, 9/6 Mu 13, Tambon Pratuchai, Tel. 0 3524 Tambon Thanu, Tel. 0 3521 3688-9, 20 rooms: 5210, 08 9043 1155, 16 rooms: 300–500 Baht 240-540 Baht Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 51 Krathom Chaophraya (กระทอมเจาพระยา) Homestay Khlong Rang Chorakhae 45/1 Mu 8, Tambon Banmai, Tel. 0 3539 (โฮมสเตยคลองรางจระเข) (located by the 8200-1, 10 rooms: 900 Baht and 5 bungalows: Rang Chorakhaecanal side) 26 Mu 10, Tambon 1,200–2,500 Baht (on the Riverside) Ban Pho,Tel. 08 1251 8058, 08 9881 1042, Plaina Resort (ปลายนา รีสอรท) 25/99 Mu 10, 700 Baht/person/night (included 2 meals) Tambon Khaomao, Tel. 0 3521 3538-43, Amphoe Wang Noi Fax. 0 3521 3537, 83 rooms: 250–400 Baht Thailand Petrolium Authority Training Ocean Gold Card Resort (โอเชี่ยน โกลดการด Center (ศูนยพัฒนาบุคลากร ปตท.) 71 Mu 2, รีสอรท) 64/6 Mu 1, Rochana Road, Tambon Phahonyothin Road km.78, Tel. 0 2537 3000, Thanu, Tel. 0 3533 5885-8, Fax. 0 3533 5887, 60 rooms: 600-780 Baht 65 rooms: 450-550 Baht TM Land Serviced Hotel (โรงแรมทีเอ็ม แลนด Amphoe Bang Sai (อําเภอบางไทร) เซอรวิส) 99/8 Mu 4, Rochana Road, Tambon Bang Sai Hospi-House Resort and Spa Kanham,Tel. 0 3521 2338-40, 0 3574 5555, (บางไทรฮอสปเฮาส รีสอรท แอนด สปา) 1 Mu 4, 08 3274 4429, 158 rooms: 850-2,500 Baht Tambon Chang Lek, Tel. 0 3524 9500, Fax. 0 3524 9501 Amphoe Bang Pa-in Homestay Bang Sai (โฮมสเตยบางไทร) 47 Ban Ruea Island Resort (บานเรือไอรแลนด Mu 3, Tambon Bang Phli, Tel. 08 1684 3186, รีสอรท) Tel. 0 3522 0220, 8 bungalows: 1,500 0 3537 1732, 750 Baht/person/night (included Baht and 8 Boats: 1,500 Baht 3 meals and Canal cruise) Ban Kaew Nai Suan Homestay (โฮมสเตย Peeyawan Resort (ปยวรรณรีสอรท บานสวน บานแกวในสวน) 13/5 Mu 5 Tambon Ko Kerd, สี่ภาค) 2/1 Mu 1, Tambon Chiangraknoi, Tel. Tel. 08 1851 6632, 10 bungalows: 490 Baht 0 3537 2689, 08 9536 5860, 08 9536 8650 Bangkok Office Tel. 0 2619 5658-9, 0 2619 Amphoe Nakhon Luang 7997, 19 rooms: 700–3,000 Baht Ban Sarai Homestay (บานสาไรโฮมสเตย) 11/2 Mu 5 Tambon Tha Chang, Tel. 08 6800 2657 Amphoe Tha Ruea Amphoe Sena Tha Ruea (ทาเรือ) 77/10 Tha Ruea–Thalan Chao Chet Homestay (เจาเจ็ดโฮมสเตย) 58 Road, Tambon Tha Ruea, Tel. 0 3522 3388, Mu 7, Tambon Chao Chet Tel. 0 3520 1876, 18 rooms: 200-400 Baht 08 9041 3706, 800 Baht (included 3 meals)

52 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Restaurants Krathom Chao Praya (กระทอมเจาพระยา) 45/1 Mu 8, Tambon Banmai, Tel. 0 3539 Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 8200–1 The Restaurants by the Riverside Ku-Choeng Chinese Restaurant (กูเฉิง Ban Kunpra (บานคุณพระ) 48 Mu 3, U-thong ภัตตาคาร) Krung Sri River Hotel, 27/2 Road, Tel. 0 3524 1978, 08 1442 2742 Rochana Road, Tambon Kamung, Tel. 0 3524 Ban Mai Rim Nam (บานไมริมนํ้า) 43/1 Mu 2, 4333 ext. 31 (Chinese Food) U-Thong Road, Tambon Pratuchai, Tel. Phae Ahan Ayothaya Riverside (แพอาหาร 0 3521 1516, 0 3521 1526 (Thai Food) อโยธยาริเวอรไซด) Ayothaya Riverside Hotel, Ban Watcharachai (บานวัชราชัย) 9 Mu 7, 91/1 Mu 1, Tambon Kamung, Tel. 0 3523 Tambon Banpom, Tel. 0 3532 1333, 0 3525 4873-7 (Thai, Chinese, European Food) 5280, 0 3580 1333 (Thai Food) Phae Ahan Thewarat (แพอาหารเทวราช) 74/7 Chainum (ชายนํ้า) 36/2 U-Thong Road, Mu 1, Tambon Kamung, Tel. 0 3524 3138, Tambon Hua Ro, Tel. 0 3525 2013, 08 1696 0 3524 4224, 08 9819 2910, Open 10.00 a.m.- 2439 (Thai, Chinese Food) 10.00 p.m. (Thai, Chinese Food) Chao Phraya Maruai (เจาพระยามารวย) 9/5, Phae Krung Kao (แพกรุงเกา) ข4 Mu 2, Tambon Horattanachai, Tel. 0 3521 1692, 08 U-Thong Road, Tambon Horattanachai, Tel. 1948 3585, 08 6393 0093 (Chinese, Thai Food) 0 3524 1410, 0 3524 1555, 0 3524 3455 (Thai Irasschaimase (อิระชัยมาเสะ) 210 Mu 5, Food) Rotchana Road, Tambon Phai Ling, Tel. Phae Si Thong (แพศรีทอง) (Near Wat 0 3524 2236 (Japanese Food) Suwandaram) ข8/1 Mu 2, Tambon Kan Kitti(กานตกิตติ) 7 Mu 2, U-Thong Road, Horattanachai, Tel. 0 3524 6010 (Thai Food) Tambon Pratuchai, Tel. 0 3524 1971 (Thai Rim Khlong (ริมคลอง) (near Wat Na Phra Food) Meru) ท.66 Mu 4,Tambon Thawasukri, Khrua Pom Phet (ครัวปอมเพชร) 13/5 Tel. 0 3523 3003, 08 1752 2151, 08 6644 U-Thong Road, Tambon Horattanachai, Tel. 3814 (Thai Food) 0 3524 3354, 08 1425 9166 (Thai Food) Ruea Ahan Kankitti (เรืออาหารกานตกิตติ) Khum Krung Si (คุมกรงศรุ )ี 15/1 Mu 6,Tambon 7 Mu 2, U-Thong Road, Tambon Pratuchai, Pratuchai, Tel. 0 3521 0211, 0 3521 1676, Tel. 0 3524 1971 (Thai Food) (Thai Food)

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 53 Ruea Maithai (เรอไมื ไทย ) 6/43 Mu 6, Tambon ซBonsai) (บอนไ 19/23 Mu 3 Tambon Khlong Pratuchai, Tel. 0 3521 1177 (Thai Food) Suan Phlu, Tel. 0 3524 3667 (Korean Food) Ruean Kanya (เรอนกื ญญาั ) (Opposite Somdet Chainum (ชายนํ้า) จ.36/2 U-Thong Road, Phra Sinakharin Park) U-Thong Road, Tambon Tel. 0 3525 2013, 08 1696 2439 Pratuchai, Tel. 08 1902 2872 (Thai Food) Charoen Rung Rueang (เจริญรุงเรือง) 8/3 (River Cruise) Mu 4, Pa Ma Phrao Road, Tambon Ho Ruean Phae (เรือนแพ) (Opposite Krung Sri Rattanachai, Tel. 0 3525 1461 River Hotel) ข36/1 U-Thong Road, Tambon Duang Phon (ดวงพร) (Talad Chao Phrom) Horattanachai, Tel. 0 3524 1964 (Thai Food) 9/49 Naresuan Road, Tambon Ho Rattanachai, Ruean Rap Rong (เรือนรับรอง) 13/1-2 Mu 2, Tel. 0 3521 0566 (Chinese Food) U-Thong Road, Tambon Pratuchai, Tel. 0 3521 Gold Card (โกลด คารด) 64/6 Mu 1 Rochana, 1036, 0 3524 3090, 08 1994 1565, 08 9104 Tambon Thanu, Tel. 0 3533 5885 (Pub & 6755 (Thai Food) Karaoke) Sai Thong River (ไทรทอง ริเวอร) 45 Mu 1, Kai Yang Mae Phong Si (ไกยางแมผองสี) U-Thong Road, Tambon Pratuchai, Tel. 0 3524 ง.10/28-29 Mu 4, Tambon Ho Rattanachai, 1449, 0 3524 4575 (Thai Food) Tel. 0 3525 1554, 08 4136 2366 Sombat Chao Phraya (สมบัติเจาพระยา) Khao Tom Kamlang Phai Nai (ขาวตม 19 Mu 3, U-Thong Road, Tambon Pratuchai, กําลังภายใน) 17/17 Naresuan Road, Tambon Tel. 0 3451 1221, 08 1947 5016, 08 1996 Pratuchai, Tel. 0 3524 1934 (Chinese Food) 7510, Open 10.00 a.m.-10.00 p.m. (Thai Food) Khrua Khun Su (ครัวคุณสุ) 48/1 Mu 2, The Restaurants in Town (Opposite Somdet Phra Suriyothai Park) Aew (แอว) 17 Mu 3, Tambon Khlong Sabua, Tambon Ban Mai, Tel. 0 3571 3549 (Thai Food) Tel. 0 3525 1199 Khrua Suanluang (ครวสวนหลวงั ) (In Rajabhat Amnuai Bueng Phra Ram (อํานวยบงพระรามึ ) University) Rochana Road, Tambon Pratuchai, Pa Thon Road, Tambon Pratuchai,Tel. 0 3524 Tel. 0 3524 5697, 0 3524 5537 (Thai Food) 4585 (Papaya salad, Thai Food) Khrua Taen (ครัวแตน) 7/7 Mu 2, U-Thong Ban U-Thong (บานอูทอง) 39 Mu 1, U-Thong Road, Tambon Ho Rattanachai, Tel. 0 3524 Road, Tambon Pratuchai, Tel. 0 3521 1293 1375 (Thai Food) (Vietnamese and Thai Food)

54 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Khrua Tom Tun (ครัวตม-ตุน) (Opposite Kuai Tiao Watyai (กวยเตี๋ยววัดใหญ) 40/2 Somdet Phra Sinakharin Park) 18/5 Mu 5, Mu 3, Opposite Wat Yaichaimongkhon, U-Thong Road, Tambon Pratuchai, Tel. Tambon Khlong Suanphlu (Pork Noodle) 0 3521 1187 (Thai Food) Kung Luang Farm (ฟารมกุงหลวง) 98/4 Khrua Tonnam (ครัวตนนํ้า) 26/2, U-Thong Mu 3, Asia Highway, Tambon Hantra, Tel. Road, Tel. 0 3525 2514 (Thai Food) 0 3524 3588 (Thai Food) Khrua Ya Bua (ครัวยาบัว) 46 Mu 12, Tambon Luk Sit Theng (ลูกศิษยเทง) 19/14 Mu 2, Soi Kamung, Tel. 0 3524 2725 (Thai Food, Sea U-Thong 34, Tambon Tha Wasukri, Tel. 0 3524 Food) 1246, 08 9107 4296 (Chinese Food) Khun Ad (คุณแอด (ยีเลาะหเจาเกา) 61/1 Mu 3, Lung Ad Pla Phao Bueng Phra Ram (ลุงแอด Tambon Pratuchai, Tel. 0 3524 2105, 0 3532 ปลาเผาบึงพระราม) Pathon Road, Tambon 1917 (Muslim Food) Pratuchai, Tel. 0 3532 2692 King Kaeo-Kan Thong (กิ่งแกว-กานทอง) 5/17 Malakor (มะละกอ) 9/36 Chikun Road, Tambon Naresuan Road, Tambon Ho Rattanachai, Pratuchai, Tel. 08 1712 5779 (Thai Food) Tel. 0 3524 1793 Maream (มาเรียม) 69/6 Mu 3, Bang-ian Road, Kuai Tiao Nai Yong (กวยเตี๋ยวนายยง) Behind Tambon Horattanachai, Tel. 0 3521 0110 Ayothaya Temple, Tambon Huntra, Tel. Mungsawirat (มังสวิรัติ) 49/1 Khlong 08 1399 5227 Makhamriang Road, Tambon Pratuchai, Kuai Tiao Pa Porn (กวยเตี๋ยวปาพร) Pa Ma Tel. 0 3524 3423 praw Road, Tambon Hua Ro, Tel. 0 3525 1676 Naihuad Khao Khamhu (นายฮวดขาวขาหมู) Kuai Tiao Pak Wan (กวยเตี๋ยวผักหวาน) 48/3 At the foot of Pridi Bridge, 2/4 Rochana Road, Mu 1, Soi U-Thong 4, U-Thong Road, Tambon Tambon Horattanachai, Tel. 0 3524 3408 Ho Rattanachai, Tel. 0 3524 2085, 08 1936 Nang Kwak Bueng Phraram (นางกวักบึง 1075, 08 9539 9427, open 08.00 a.m.- 06.00 พระราม) Pathon Road, Tambon Pratuchai, p.m. (Thai Food) Tel. 0 3524 5628 Kuai Tiao Ruea Wat Chine or Wat Nimitdee (นิมิตดี) 20/2 Mu 2, U-Thong Road, Rattanachai (กวยเตยวเี๋ รอวื ดจั นหรี อวื ดรั ตนชั ัย) Tambon Thawasukri, Tel. 0 3525 1033 In Wat Chine, near Pom Phet, Tambon Ho Rattanachai (Pork, Meat, Chicken Noodle)

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 55 Pa Sak Coffee Shop (ปาสักคอฟฟช็อป) Krung 29 Steak (29 สเตก) 8/14-15 Pa Maprao (Sai 1) Sri River Hotel, 27/2 Mu 11, Rotchana Road, Road, Tambon Horattanachai Tel. 0 3525 Tambon Kamang, Tel. 0 3524 4333 1755, 08 9138 0071 (Steak, Thai Food) Sagaewan (สะแกวัลย) 19 Wat Pakho Road, Amphoe Bang Ban Near the Railway Station, Tel. 0 3524 5569 Khrua Nong (ครัวนอง) 54 Mu 2, Ayutthaya- Seafood Park T & J (ซีฟูดพารคที แอนด เจ) Suphan Buri Road, Tambon Nam Tao, Tel. 999 Mu 1, Tambon Thanu, Tel. 0 3533 5255-6, 0 3528 9288-9 (Thai Food) Open 11.30 a.m.-10.00 p.m. (Seafood, Japanese food) Amphoe Bang Pahan Sea Sea Inter Food (ซี ซี อินเตอรฟูด) 7/33 Khrua Ban Sang (ครวบั านสร าง ) Asia Highway, Chakkraphat Road, Tambon Pratuchai, Tel. km. 85-86 0 3524 1434, 0 3524 4330 (Thai and Seafood) U-dom Pla Phao (อุดมปลาเผา) In front of Siam (สยาม) 11/3 Mu 1, Maharat Road, Wat Phra Ngam, Asia Highway km. 80 Tambon Pratuchai, Tel. 0 3521 1070 Amphoe Uthai Somtam Bueng Praram (สมตําบึงพระราม) In Gung Puenpraew (กุงเพื่อนแพรว) 98/8 Asia the area of Bueng Phraram Park, Pathon Road, Highway, Tambon Han Tra, Tel. 0 3534 5490 Tambon Pratuchai (Papaya Salad) (Thai Food) Suan Arhan Khum Krungsri (สวนอาหาร Jachai 2 (จาชัย 2) 32/5 Mu 10, Asia Highway, คุมกรุงศรี) 15/1 Mu 6, Tambon Pratuchai, Tel. Tambon Khao Mao, Tel. 0 3521 3896 (Thai 0 3521 0211, 0 3521 1676, 08 1946 1288 Food) Tamnakkaew (ตําหนักแกว) 166 Mu 2, Suan Ahan Rimnum (สวนอาหารรมนิ ํ้า) 98/36 Chaimongkhon 5 Road, Tambon Phailing, Asia Highway, Tel. 0 3534 5494 Tel. 0 3524 5150-1 (Thai, Chinese Food) Taphianthong (ตะเพยนทองี ) Ayutthaya Grand Amphoe Bang Pa–in Hotel, 55/5 Mu 1, Rotchana Road, Tambon Baetekseng (เบเต็กเส็ง) 73/6 Pratunam Prain, Thanu, Tel. 0 3533 5483-8 (Thai, Chinese and Tel. 0 3536 1150 (Thai, Chinese and Sea Food) Japanese Food) Hudgi Ko (ฮัจยีโกะ) Near Masjid Roa Thai House Restaurant (เรือนไทยไมสวย) Maneeya, Phanonyothin Road km. 51 8/2 Mu 3, Tambon Khlong Suan Phlu, Tel. (Muslim Food) 0 3524 5977-9

56 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Khrua Den (ครัวเดน) (Near Wat Prot Sat) 27 Amphoe Nakhon Luang Mu 2, Tambon Khanon Luang, Tel. 0 3572 Khu Lao Kai Ruan (คูเหลาไกรวน) Near Wat 8324 (Thai Food) Ban Sung School, Nakhon Luang-Phachi Road, Khun Soada (คุณเซาดะห) In the Area of Tel. 0 3576 0019, 08 6067 4056 Talad Kao (Muslim Food) Sum Pa Sak (สวนอาหารซุมปาสัก) 116 Mu 2, Khun Mubin (คุณมูบีน) Near Masjid Roa Tambon Bo Phong, Tel. 0 3572 4520 Maneeya, Phanonyothin Road (Muslim Food) (River Cruise) Khrua Pha (ครวฟั า) 212/8-9 Tambon Banglen, Amphoe Sena Tel. 0 3522 0930 (Noodle) Chung Service 2 (จุงบริการ 2) Rimnam Road, Phutawan (ภูตะวัน) 58 Mu 5, Tambon Khlong Tel. 0 3520 1185 Chik, Tel. 08 1986 0085 (Thai, Chinese Food) Kuai Tiao Ruea Chaochet (กวยเตี๋ยวเรือไกฉีก Ploy (พลอย) Tambon Banlen, Tel. 0 3526 เจาเจ็ดปาปุ ปาแปะ) Near Wat Chaochet, 1280 Tel. 0 3578 6182, 08 1652 7935, 08 9740 2677 Prasatthong (ปราสาททอง) Pratunamprain, O Photchana (โอ โภชนา) Sena Riverside Tambon Chieng Rak Noi, Tel. 0 3536 1011 Market 252/21 Tambon Sena, Tel. 08 1946 Queenrose 1 (ควนโี รส 1) Bus station (Muslim 7737, 08 1948 3653 Food) Amphoe Wang Noi Queenrose 2 (ควีนโรส 2) Talad Aek Center Bua Chom (บัวชม) 184 Mu 3, Tambon 80/121 Tambon Ban Len, Tel. 0 3526 2198 Lamtasao (Thai Food) (Muslim Food) Lungnuai (ลุงนวย) 72 Mu 1, Tambon Roh Mat (เราะฮมัด) Near Bang Pa-in Hospital Lamsai, Tel. 0 3574 4869, 0 3574 4873, 08 (Muslim Food) 1902 2728, 08 4875 5700, Fax. 0 3574 4871, Tonnam RiverView (ตนนํ้า ริเวอรวิว) 26 Mu 6, www.lungnuay.com Tambon Banlen, Tel. 0 3526 1006 Wanggung–Wangpla (วังกุง-วังปลา) 50 Mu 3, Yangdiao (ยางเดี่ยว) 5/1 Mu 4, Tambon Ban Tambon Lumsai, Tel. 0 3521 4234, 0 3527 Len, Tel. 0 3526 1135 (Thai Food) 1216, 08 1845 3384

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 57 Amphoe Maha Rat Ruenthai (เรือนไทย) 1/2 Mu 4, Tambon Chao Pluk 1 (เจาปลุก 1) 23/4 Mu 5, Tambon Ratchakhram, Tel. 0 3536 6002, 0 3536 7063 Chao Pluk, Tel. 08 5506 9838 Golf Course Chao Pluk 2 (เจาปลุก 2) 39/1 Mu 5, Tambon Chao Pluk, Tel. 0 3571 2217, 0 3571 2231 Bang Sai Country Club (บางไทรคันทรีคลับ) 77/7 Mu 3, Tambon Bang Phli, Amphoe Bang Amphoe Bang Sai Sai, Tel. 0 3537 1491, 08 1643 9121 Em Ot (เอมโอษฐ) In the Royal Folk Arts and Mueang Ake Wang Noi Golf Course (เมองเอกื Crafts Centre at Bang Sai, Tambon Chang Yai, วังนอย) 85 Mu 4, Phaholyothin, Tambon Lam Tel. 0 3536 6901-2, 08 1550 7037, Open daily Sai, Amphoe Wang Noi, Tel. 0 3521 4825–9 08.00 a.m.-05.00 p.m. (Thai Food) Northern Rangsit Golf Club (นอรธเท ิรน รังสิต Rimnam (ริมนํ้า) 16/3 Mu 5, Bang Sai กอลฟ คลับ) 19/2 Mu 7, Phaholyothin Road Intersection, Tambon Ratchakhram, Tel. Km.58, Tambon Wang Noi, Amphoe Wang Noi, 0 3536 6050 Tel. 0 3521 5412-3, 0 3527 1755-6

USEFUL CALLS Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Hall Tel : 0 3533 6647 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Public Hall Tel : 0 3533 6550 Police Station Tel : 0 3524 2225 Tourist Police Tel : 1155, 0 3524 1446, 0 3582 4041 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Hospital Tel : 1669, 0 3532 2555 Ratcha Thani Hospital Tel : 0 3533 5555-61 Highway Police Tel : 1193

58 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya TOURIST INFORMATION TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND Head Offi ce 1600 Phetchaburi Road, Makkasan Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400 Tel: 0 2250 5500 Fax: 0 2250 5511 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.tourismthailand.org

MINISTRY OF TOURISM AND SPORTS 4 Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue, Bangkok 10100 8.30 a.m.-4.30 p.m. everyday

TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND, PHRA NAKHON SI AYUTTHAYA OFFICE 108/22 Mu 4, Tambon Phratuchai, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, 13000 Tel : 0 3524 6076-7 Fax : 0 3524 6078 E-mail: [email protected] Area of Responsibility : Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Update March 2015

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 59

Wat Phutthaisawan

Everyday E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.tourismthailand.org

Produced in Thailand by : Tourist Information Division (Tel: 0 2250 5500 ext.2141-5) Marketing Services Department. The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice. 2015 Copyright. No commercial reprinting of this material allowed. March 2015 Free Copy