A must-visit for Thai backpackers: Pilgrimage to the "Buddha in the Tree" at the century-old ancient dynasty ruins of Ayutthaya

▲ It takes only about an hour and a half by minivan from Bangkok, and you can also go by train.

Reported and photographed by Chen Hanyin / Thailand

Besides experiencing Bangkok’s nightlife and sampling street food, you can visit “Ayutthaya,” located north of Bangkok, to experience the century-old glory and decline of an ancient kingdom. Just a one-and-a-half-hour drive away from the bustling city, the scenery outside the window becomes spectacular ruins, with the sunlight making the stone piles shine brilliantly, adding to their solemn grandeur.

▲ You don’t have to go far from Bangkok’s city center to visit the mysterious ruins of an ancient kingdom.

▲ Biking or riding a scooter is the best way to explore Ayutthaya.

The Ayutthaya Kingdom was one of the cradles of ancient Thai civilization, dating back to 1350–1767 AD. During its peak in the 17th century, the royal family built numerous palaces and temples. However, with the massive invasion by the Burmese army, over 300 palaces and temples now remain only as ruins. The brick and tile rubble, resembling a wasteland and radiating a mysterious aura, bears some resemblance to Cambodia’s Angkor Wat. Covering an area of 2,557 square kilometers, it’s recommended that visitors rent a bicycle or scooter locally to stop and explore the ancient capital’s sights at their own pace.

▲ The Buddha in the Tree is a very unique natural and historical sight.

One attraction in Ayutthaya that you absolutely cannot miss is Wat Maha That. Although the grand palace is now just a pile of rubble, you can still faintly make out its former glory. When the Burmese army invaded, they beheaded many Buddha statues, and headless Buddhas are one of the most distinctive sights here. Among them, one Buddha head rolled into the roots of a banyan tree, took root there, and became a unique historical landmark. Locals believe this is a miracle of the Buddha, so when taking photos with the Buddha head, remember not to let your body be higher than it.

▲ When taking a photo with the Buddha head, crouch down to show respect.

Ayutthaya Historical Park
Opening hours: 8:00–18:30
Bicycle rental fee: about 20–50 Thai baht

Wat Maha That
Address: 3 Thanon Maharat, Na Luk, Bangkok 10200
Ticket: 5 Thai baht per person