The temple is still active and monks reside onsite. The park will re-open again on 3rd April. Special occasions are impressive by any standard, you'll see in photos a (parade inside the temple itself). You can easily spend a couple of hours wandering around the different areas of this complex, which is considered "Thailand's National Pride", and there's quite a few other complexes in the area also; you could easily spend a week exploring them all. This waterfall in Erawan National Park features 7 tiers that are accessed via trails & footbridges. It tells you the story from the beginning of why the Japanese Imperial Army wanted to build this railway in their effort to fight against the Allied forces, how it was done and what happened along the way before they lost the war after the Atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. This permanant market has been erected by a bank of the Nakhonchaisi river. So eat out before coming here. Day Trips from Bangkok to Erawan National Park (Erawan Falls) - Viator Seeing how powerful they are, I am convinced that we are just like toys to them! Temperature significantly decreases after level 5. Next on our list of the best temples to visit in Ayutthaya, its time to introduce you to the most iconic of the lot: the insanely popular Wat Mahathat!. Some of these monkeys are very curious especially the young ones. Never dig through your emails again access all your flights, lodging, and any reservations in 1 place. This temple is located on the western bank of the Chao Praya River, quite a bit further away from the previous four temples weve visited. Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, southwest of the old town of Ayutthaya, the large temple is a highlight of the region. There are 5 ways to get from Ayutthaya to Erawan National Park (Station) by bus, train, taxi or car Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2Rio's travel planner. Expect to spend around 2-3 hours here. You could spend hours looking through the ruins imagining what they would have been like originally. Reposting @boundless_inspiration: "Wat phra mahathat Ayutthaya. One suggestion is to put a glass panel over the artwork to preserve them better. It was rebuilt in more recent times, but collapsed again in 1911. Bridge on the River Kwai and Thailand-Burma Railway Tour. Wat Chaiwatthanaram was the royal temple located by the river bank outside the historical island. . . #takemetour #localexperience #amazingthailand #Ayutthaya #thailandluxe #globe_travel #youmustsee #global_stars #earthfocus #roamtheplanet #ig_exquisite #ig_dynamic #ig_photostars #awesomepix #wonderful_places #awesome_photographers #beautifulplaces #wonderfulplaces #theglobewanderer #ig_serenity #getoutstayout #viajar #topdecker #worldtravelpics #thailand #sunset #sunsetpic. A Buddha image called Luang Pho-To is housed in the wihara of the temple. If you keep your legs still for about a minute little fish will start to nipple on them. Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account. It's 2 hours from Ayutthaya and 1 hour from Erawan National Park. One can see its large pagoda from far away. Erawan National Park was founded in 1975 as Thailands 12th National Park. Although it was mostly destroyed in 1767 during the invasion, the temple is still active and monks are living here. Not all Ayutthayas temples are in sorry states of disrepair. Take an early morning train to the city of Kanchanaburi. Add to Plan. Wat Phra Si Sanphet is within walking distance from Wat Mahathat. Reaching the first three tiers is easy; beyond here, walking shoes and some endurance are needed to complete the steep 2km hike (it's worth it to avoid the crowds in the first two pools). It takes its name from the large standing Buddha image erected there in 1503. It is an old bridge. Absolutely loved this experience. Erawan National Park . The cemetery is located on Sangchuto Rd, across from the Kanchanaburi Railway Station. And the ticket is so cheap. Taxis will cost around 600-800 baht from Nam Tok as it's around 60km one way. I spend 2 hours here and enjoy every minute. Huge temple complex, with heaven on one side with lots of buddha statues, and hell on the other side with lots of death and torture. Erawan National Park & Ayutthaya - Bangkok Forum - Tripadvisor Beung Chawak Chaloem Phrakiet. Amazing place to see in the middle part of Thailand. A post shared by TakeMeTour (@takemetour_thailand) on May 2, 2017 at 4:20am PDT. No-one really knows how it ended up here, but it was possible it was left behind by looters, who raided the city after its destruction by the Burmese army in 1767. You could literally spend a week looking at them all. Ok so I will admit that the reviews are spot on, this museum is a little run down and there was no real logic to the positioning and relevance of some of the exhibits. Three large chedis shaped like enormous bells sit in a row on a raised platform in the centre of the temple, and these are the burial place of members of the royal family. Tickets for Thai is 20 THB. The overland distance from Ayutthaya to Erawan National Park is 137 miles (219 km). Situated atop a rectangular platform, a 35-meter (115-foot) high central prang (tower-like spire) is surrounded by four small prangs, which are in turn flanked by eight chedi (stupa)-shaped chapels that sit outside the platform perimeter. I looking to the place for short visit. You can walk on or under the railway to see how hard this railway can be built in just around 2 weeks-time. While in the area, you can find time to visit its temples. named after the allied countries (Japan, England, America, Australia, Thailand and Holland) that helped build Death Railway, this museum details the history of the railroad and offers tours of replica bamboo huts used to house prisoners of war. Talk to our local experts! You can see the seated Buddha image accepting oferings from an elephant and monkey, which is a typical art form of U-Thong Suphannaphum era. It's unfortunate those people had to die the way they did. Built in 1630, the temple features a central, 35-meter-high Prang in Khmer style flanked by four smaller prangs. For those that catch the bus; it departs from the bus station hourly from 8am to 5pm, costs 45 THB per person and takes around one hour. Share. The Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon definitely belongs to the most beautiful temples of Ayutthaya. 703, 80 baht, travel time 1.5h, leaves every 30m. Yes! Overrun with monkeys, so if you dont like monkeys dont bother to go. On the opposite side of river that runs through Ayutthaya, Wat Chai Watthanaram was once used as a cremation site for members of the Thai royal family. It's located right next to one of the main streets of town, so easy to get a drink, meal or tuk-tuk nearby also. View. If you want a cool pics with Giraffes, it is 1000 bath extra each. It was nice walking around there, greenery with historical. Good luck. 3. Lampaya Floating Market Visitors will find graves for Australian, British and Dutch soldiers and the history behind the repatriation of American soldiers who were once buried in the cemetery. Striking ruins & grounds of a centuries-old palace, plus a museum with ancient artifacts & a cafe. This temple was built following the concept of Khmer architecture: a complex of prangs (tall tower-like structures), assembly halls and ordination halls were built following the Hindu and Buddhist views of the universe during the reign of King Boromma Rachathirat I, the beginning of Ayutthaya period. saffron robes. Bull hooks are used here. No one knows exactly how the head of the Buddha statue got there. Bridge Over The River Kwai/Courtesy of Kelly Iverson. The bridge served as a major transportation route over the Khwae Yai River during the war and is now the site for local markets and annual festivals. The temple was built and expanded over a few decades in 14th century, it spreads out over a vast area. Theres a market nearby where you can buy food for lunch. It is about a 3 hour drive from Bangkok. A lot of tourist brochures have this Wat as the featured image and for good reason. Mesmerized by the way they clean the plates n utensils. , Lam Phaya, Bang Len District, Nakhon Pathom 73130, Thailand. The direct drive from Ayutthaya to Erawan National Park is 139 mi (224 km), and should have a drive time of 3 hrs 35 mins in normal traffic. After a long end extensive research we decided to visit this Camp and I'm absolutely delighted with our choice. Wat Chaiwatthanaram is a suitable temple for you to easily hunt beautiful photos. Welcome to a truly magnificent Buddhist temple on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River a design template for a number of subsequent sites throughout Thailand. The beautiful prang, or Khmer-style tower, reveals a similar Cambodia Angkor Wat architectural design, which was en vogue at the time. The pagoda in the daytime has an impact, but the pagoda illuminated at night time is also mysterious. Undoubtedly one of the best temples to visit in Ayutthaya, we cap off our list with what was once the holiest place in the entire city, and the site where the old wooden Royal Palace once stood. Theres a large platform on floating pontoons where stalls cook lots of Thai food. The organization this app provides has taken a huge weight off my shoulders. I've never felt so small before! This great architecture is very unique. Naresuan Rd, Tha Wasukri, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand. Historic bridge & rail line built by the Japanese army's prisoners of war during World War II. Whilst the smell of incense in the air becomes more pronounced by the minute, you can see hundreds of Buddha statues that are still intact, monks walking around in orange garments and many of the locals wrapped up in prayer. A post shared by TakeMeTour (@takemetour_thailand) on May 1, 2017 at 7:41am PDT. The bridge itself is a major tourist attraction and for good reason the bridge, though built under terrible circumstances, is surprisingly beautiful, overlooking riverside restaurants and lush, green banks. View Map. Next to city road and death railway museum. with 37 stops from Nong Pladuk station, Amphur Baanpong, Ratchaburi to the destination at Thanbyuzayat in Burma. Amazing!! Living + Nomads Travel tips, Guides, News & Information! Want to learn more about Thai history?. These stupas are actually quite large, and in particular, quite photogenic too! Finally, I warn the people with young children that the area where the recreation of Buddhist hell and heaven isn't suitable for children because it has horrific sences . 9H45+963, Pratu Chai Sub-district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya13000, Thailand. Buy a cold beer and sit along the riverside. Besides the temple, also there is a symmetry and market selling fresh food, vegetables, fruits , fish and gifts. THE GOOD - The World Peace Project is an admirable achievement. Kids will love taking in the seven-tiered waterfalls which are the star attraction and is surrounded by plenty of lush vegetation and limestone mountains. They won't disturb you once you swim towards the waterfall. 4. Wat Chaiwatthanaram was built in the traditional style of Khmer, similar to the Angkor Wat temple in Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia. 1 to 4). 8. There are vast numbers of graves in the cemetery, and almost all of them are from the building of the railroad. Any place after level 4 is good for camping. This temple was used to perform royal ceremonies, including the cremation of deceased royals along with the occasional religious ceremony. The highlight of the park is the 19-metre-tall . It remained important throughout Ayutthayas history, as a place where conspirators consulted oracles, and kings died hiding from rebellion. A post shared by TakeMeTour (@takemetour_thailand) on Jul 8, 2017 at 6:20am PDT. I couldnt believe my eyes. According to historical records, before succeeding to the throne, King Rama IV was a monk and it was during that time that he was responsible for founding Wat Pa Lelai Worawihara. Happy camping. Would come back. The temple was partially reconstructed in the 20th century, and many of the relics it originally contained are now housed in Thai museums. Why not start your day at Wat Phra Mahathat, one of the most popular attractions in Ayutthaya?. Visit the Largest Temple in Ayutthaya. There is no direct connection from Erawan National Park to Ayutthaya Historical Park. Located in Thailands Kanchanaburi Province, Erawan National Park is one of the most famous natural areas in the country. The ticket is 550 bath for foreigners and 250 for Thai. There are plenty of turquoise colored pools that are ideal for taking a refreshing dip after hitting the scenic trails or just to dabble your toes and let the fish nibble at your feet. At the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767, the large temple was quite thoroughly ransacked by the Burmese. Also called the Great It is a unique bridge with rich history. If you find a good English-speaking taxi driver, they'll even give you a guided tour and get you around town. The ThailandBurma Railway Centre explores the wider history of the railway. open daily until 16:30., may close on Mondays. 73 Chao Khun Nen Rd, Ban Nuea, Mueang Kanchanaburi District, Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand. King Naresuan e Great commanded that the pagoda In 1530, his son and predecessor built an additional section of the temple to house the late kings ashes. Generally, the West was viewed as a bad cardinal point because the sun sets in that direction. We fed them, played with them, rode them bare back and took a bath in the river. . The Death Railway Museum pays tribute to the prisoners of war who died building the railway. The Wat Phra Sri Sanphet is one of the most beautiful temples of Ayutthaya. I went to the cave at Kanchanaburi but this one was more interesting. Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is one of the most important temple of Thai history. Very hot and I recommend an umbrella for shade. The most important temple during the Ayutthaya dynasty. Built in search to find the best places so you dont have to open 50 more tabs. Image Source. It was built in 1630, almost from "Angora" size, and definitely in the "ankarska" style. This temple is located by the river. Not in good shape. How far is it from Erawan National Park to Ayutthaya? 41.84. The eye-catching layout includes a raised platform and eight towering chedis, all linked to secret passageways containing colourful paintings that illustrate the life of Buddha. Its only open on the weekends so many locals come here to eat and shop. Three towering bell-shaped Chedis frame the most historically important temple in old Ayutthaya, where the ashes of former Kings of this Kingdom lie. Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya (State) to Erawan National Park How to get there? But I like this place very sanctuary and quiet. Sunrise is quiet, with less people ruining your panoramas, but you wont get inside early enough for the best light. Erawan is just so beautiful. Known for its impressive seven-tiered waterfall and abundance of native flora and fauna, the park is a popular weekend spot for locals from Bangkok and Kanchanaburi as well as for international visitors. You might like it. It depends on when you visit! Cool to be on the bridge when a train passes: there are obvious places to step aside. Who knows? After being destroyed many times by both enemies and time, a feeling of desolation covers the whole temple. Nice place for an evening stroll! It is rumored that relics of Buddha may live in the main prang. Wat Chaiwatthanaram is one of the most interesting places outside the island. The main prang, or tower, at this temple stands approximately 115 feet (or 35 meters) high and is surrounded by eight smaller towers prangs, all of which are adorned with stucco depictions of scenes from the Buddhas life, and have been recently restored. Set aside 2-3 hours for a visit. All of the grounds are immaculate, and you can often see a veteran in uniform strolling among the graves. Spend the morning swimming and taking pictures at the 7-tiered Erawan Waterfall, then enjoy a picnic in the national park. Other popular stops include Wat Mahathat, Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, and Pra Prang Sam Yod. Personally, it was one of my absolute favourites!. Wat Phra Si Sanphet was built by King Boromatrailokanat in 1448 as his private chapel within the grounds of the former royal palace. R29W+HC8, , Mueang Nakhon Pathom District, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. Historical symbol is hidden in this beautiful place. There is a nearby private war museum. A few metres from this spot, legend holds, two brothers fought violently over who would succeed as the King of Siam. A fantastic place behind BigC in Samut Prakan. At Alpaca Hill, you get the chance to find yourself in a quiet, friendly wildlife in a natural environment. THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY. 10) Koh Kret Island Getting There: Best Day Trips from Bangkok Here is a list of the 10 best day trips from Bangkok. You cannot even stand there for a moment without mosquitoes. Take a break from Bangkok's hustle on this small-group door-to-door adventure, which simply can't be done in a day on public transport. The bridge is very old but well maintained. Learn about the cultural heritage of Nang Yai at this brilliant museum on the banks of the Mae Klong River. There are free guided temple tours too. Seriously, this app does it all! A nearby privately funded museum, the Thailand-Burma Railway Museum, contains interactive displays describing the history of the railway and the prisoners who died building it. Erawan National Park from Kanchanaburi can be reached by taking a local bus. Built in the traditional Khmer style, the complex consists of a central prang or spire perched atop a rectangular base amid four smaller prang and eight chedi-like temples or merus. So many people but very calm atmosphere. Ayutthaya's most Instagrammable shot may just be the view of this 14th-Century temple, reflected in the water of Bueng Phra Ram lake, and silhouetted against a pink sky immediately after sunset. Normally, you can climb to the top to see the city, especially the sunset scenery. Here, it isnt only displays of things that were gathered from the fighting, but it is built as an exact replica of POW camp. Buddhist Temple, Museum, Historical Landmark. You cannot rent a life jacket after level 2. Planning travel has actually been fun instead of tedious because of this app. Relief panels are heavily eroded, but you can make out carved scenes from the Buddha's life. Wat Phra Si Sanphet was the most important temple during the Ayutthaya period as it was part of the royal palace complex. Restoration efforts starting in 1987 transformed Wat Chaiwatthanaram from a looted ruin to one of the most visited attractions in the Ayutthaya Historical Park. It houses the holy relics of Lord Buddha. Right outside the temple theres also a smaller lying Buddha. Its not uncommon to see Buddhist monks wandering around the temple grounds. We get to see free crocodiles show as well. This is by far one of the best museums on WW 2 in Kanchanaburi regarding the construction of the death railway. The Khmer-style temple was constructed in 1630 by King Prasat Thong to honor his mother. This temple was the original home of the Emerald Buddha, now located in the Grand Palace, Bangkok. It was reportedly one of the grandest temples in the ancient capital, and it is still one of the best preserved on the island. We have similar structures in India. Dont think about it - just click download right this minute. Wat Phra Si Sanphet has a row of three large chedis which are an iconic image of Ayutthaya. Even if you dont visit for long, it is worth paying a visit to Kanchanaburi War Cemetery to pay some respect. The museum is air conditioned, well organized and quite educational. Photo An excellent museum is enclosed within these ruins of a 17th-century palace. Wat Mahathat is one of the most famous temples in Ayutthaya. Very modest and well done. The principle prang, in the centre of the temple, signifies the centre of the universe, and the surrounding chedis all symbolise the four continents and the outside universe. About Erawan Kanchanaburi (~70 km), Bangkok (~200 km), Ayutthaya (~220 km) Open the map of Erawan Followed by a sudden storm felling many trees along the trails and road into Erawan Falls, the park was closed from 20th March. This temple is also a part of Ayutthaya Historical Park and it is one of the best known Ayutthayas most instagram temples. Wat Mahathat makes a strong impression on visiting tourists with its mysterious scenery. Duel pricing exists throughout Thailand and entry is 50 bath for foreigners and 10 for Thai. It's located in the royal palace area at that time. THAIest Your Best Thailand Travel Blog, Useful Tips & Tricks! . The kids will love it. Recommended option Bus, taxi 3h 32m Wat Phra Si Sanphet is not just an important historical site, but it was also considered as the spiritual center for Thais. JEATH (Japan, England, Australia/America, Thailand, and Holland) POWs of these allied powers were imprisoned and tortured at the prison camp situated on the grounds of Wat Chai Chumphon. Displays at the JEATH War Museum honor the prisoners of war who died building the bridge. The infamous Death Railway to Burma was constructed by prisoners of war working for the Japanese during WWII. Erawan National Park - Wikipedia This temple was built by King U Thong, the first king of Ayutthaya in 1357. But to pass the history to next generation this is the only option. It is only an hour and twenty minutes from Bangkok by taxi and expect to pay around 2,000 baht (around $80 AUD) for a return trip. As know as temple in Thai local drama series. It was great to learn about elephants and be able to interact with them. Must be cash only so prepare your cash to this Safari! What a brilliant place full of information and historical facts. This is a must see. Wat Phra Si Sanphet was built in 1448 by King Boromatrailokanat. Wat Chaiwatthanaram is one of the most visited sites at Ayatthuya and was one of my favourites. Wat Mahathat is open everyday from 08.00-18.00 hrs. Located in Thailand's Kanchanaburi Province, Erawan National Park is one of the most famous natural areas in the country. It has been built at the exact same site where the original wooden bridge first stood. A 35 metre high central prang tower is surrounded by smaller towers and a gallery all of which are remarkably well preserved and there are some beautiful stone carvings here, as well as the remains of stucco work and painted murals inside the temple itself. Most of them are waiting for u to step into the water to have a nibble at your feet dead skins. I made the mistake of taking the train across the bridge and the next station is very far away from the bridge. There are seating areas but very limited. Wat Phra Si Sanphet is the loveliest but also the most historically important temple in old Ayutthaya. It has often been referenced in films and literature. There's also another entire section of temples across the road, behind where everyone else goes at the main tourist area, which is in fact more intact, and it's only a two minute walk to the next block, where there are no tourists at all. Very large area. This historical event lead to the enthronement of King Maha Chakkraphat. The museum relates to the same death railway that was built within a year. You see it, you could not stop thinking of its stories through the remaining old Thai traditional stupa and so on. Ayutthaya - Suphanburi, public minibus no. Located a few kilometres south of Ayutthaya, Wat Yai Chai Mongkol is one of the most significant temples in the area. The elephant is Thailand's national animal and a big part of the local culture, so naturally, meeting Fanta and Dami was one of the highlights of our trip. Constructed in 1374, Wat Mahathat is one of Ayutthayas oldest and most eminent temples. Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Nature kept running its course and the tree eventually grew around the carved head, creating this seemingly magical sight that would end up becoming one of the greatest tourist attractions in all of Thailand! Great experience. Train tickets cost around 100 THB for foreigners. There are good possibilities here during both the sunrise and sunset. Ayutthaya Historical Park - Entrance fees - Opening hours - Renown Travel Most people head to Erawan National Park to get a photograph of Erawan Falls. Superb experience you should never miss in Thailand: bathing with an elephant in Kwai river.