Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, also known simply as Ayutthaya, is a historic city in central Thailand. It was the capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom from 1351 to 1767 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Here are some popular things to see and do in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya:
- Visit the Ayutthaya Historical Park: This park is home to many of the city’s most important historical sites, including the ruins of the Royal Palace, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Ratchaburana. It’s a great place to start your visit and get a sense of the city’s history.
- Visit Wat Phra Sri Sanphet: This temple was once the most important in the Ayutthaya Kingdom and is now one of the best-preserved historical sites in the city.
- Visit Wat Chaiwatthanaram: This temple is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River and is known for its large stupa, which is decorated with intricate carvings.
- Take a boat tour of the city: A boat tour is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and learn about its history and culture.
- Take a bike tour: Biking is a great way to get around the city and explore all the temples and historical sites.
- Visit the Ayutthaya Night Market: This is a great place to find local snacks and souvenirs.
- Take a day trip to Bang Pa-In Palace: Located nearby, the palace was the summer palace of the kings of Ayutthaya, and it is a great place to learn more about the kingdom’s history.
- Visit Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon: This temple is located on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River and is known for its large stupa and beautiful architecture.
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya is a must-see destination for history and culture enthusiasts. The city’s well-preserved temples and ruins offer a glimpse into Thailand’s past and its culture and heritage richness.
Best time to visit Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya?
The best time to visit Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya is from November to February. During these months, the weather is cool and dry, making it perfect for exploring historical sites and temples. The temperature during this time of the year is around 25 – 30 degree Celsius. Additionally, the air is less humid, making walking around more comfortable.
Also, it’s the peak tourist season, so accommodations and activities will be more readily available. However, booking your accommodation early is good as it might be busy with tourists.
The months from March to May are also suitable for visiting, but it tends to be hot and humid during this time, making walking around and visiting temples uncomfortable.
It’s best to avoid the rainy season from June to October, as the heavy rain can make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities. The rain can also damage the historical sites and make it difficult to walk around the area.
How many days in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya is enough?
How many days you spend in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya will depend on your interests and how much you want to see and do. However, two days would be enough to explore the main historical sites and temples.
Two days would be enough to visit the Ayutthaya Historical Park, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, and take a boat or bike tour of the city. You would also have enough time to visit the Ayutthaya Night Market and take a day trip to Bang Pa-In Palace.
Suppose you’re interested in history, culture, and architecture. In that case, consider staying longer, say 3-4 days, as you will have more time to explore the temples and historical sites in-depth and better understand the Ayutthaya Kingdom.
Overall, a 2-day stay in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya would be enough to see and do most of the main historical sites and temples and get a good sense of the city’s history and culture.
What is the hottest month in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya?
The hottest month in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, in April. This month, the average temperature is around 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit), and the humidity is high.
This is the time of the year when the heat is most intense, making it difficult for outdoor activities. If you’re planning to visit this month, it’s best to plan your activities during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day.
It’s also important to stay hydrated, wear light and breathable clothing and use sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
It’s worth noting that the temperature can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) during the hottest days, so it’s essential to consider your tolerance for heat if you’re planning to visit in April.
Does it rain a lot in Prachuap Khiri Khan?
Prachuap Khiri Khan is located in the Gulf of Thailand and generally has a tropical monsoon climate. The rainy season in Prachuap Khiri Khan typically falls from June to October.
During this time, the province receives most of its annual rainfall, and storms can be expected. However, the amount of rainfall can vary and is not constant throughout the day. Usually, it rains for a short period, and the sun returns.
The heaviest rainfall typically occurs in September and October, and it could be expected to rain for several days in a row. The precipitation can affect outdoor activities and make it challenging to move around the province.
The rest of the year is relatively dry, with only occasional showers. November to February are the driest and the best time to visit in terms of weather.
It’s important to note that the weather in Thailand can be unpredictable, and it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before planning your trip and be prepared for some rain.
What to wear in Prachuap Khiri Khan?
When visiting Prachuap Khiri Khan, it’s essential to dress appropriately for the weather and the activities you plan to do. Here are some general guidelines for what to wear:
- Light, breathable clothing: The weather in Prachuap Khiri Khan can be pretty hot and humid, so it’s essential to wear light, breathable clothing that will keep you cool. Cotton, linen, and other natural fibres are good choices.
- Sun protection: The sun in Prachuap Khiri Khan can be intense, so it’s essential to protect yourself with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Swimwear: Bring a swimsuit if you plan to visit the beaches or go swimming.
- Comfortable shoes: Comfortable shoes are necessary for walking around the town and the national park.
- Rain gear: As Prachuap Khiri Khan is located in the monsoon region, it’s a good idea to bring a rain jacket or umbrella in case of rain.
- Modest clothing: It’s essential to dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites in Thailand. This means covering your shoulders and knees.
It’s also worth noting that the dress code might change depending on the location and the activity you are doing, so it’s always good to check beforehand.
