Once upon a time, the Kingdom of Thailand was called Siam, whose first capital was Sukhothai in the north. Its second capital, a splendid site of prang (towers) and gigantic monasteries, was located not far from Bangkok. Ayutthaya was its name, and it flourished from the 14th to the 18th centuries deep in the country’s central plains.

On this day trip to Thailand’s history, we’ll roam the ancient capital of Ayutthaya as well as visit the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace along the way.

“Brilliant palace with beautiful gardens and buildings, the wealth and opulence are on show for you to see.” — Steve, Australia

Afterwards, we’ll visit the main temples of the archaeological park…

Wat Mahathat: “The temple of the Great Relic”, known for the stone Buddha head entwined in tree roots

Wat Mongkol Borpit: An 'active' temple compound famous for its gigantic bronze statues

Wat Phrasri Samphet: A restored temple ruin once the most important and holiest site of the old Royal Palace. Today, it remains the most beautiful in Ayutthaya for its three grand chedis – the model for Bangkok’s Wat Phra Kaew.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram: A Buddhist temple in the city of Ayutthaya Historical Park, Thailand.