English for Tourism Business: BLOG#8: Ayutthaya Tour

AYUTTHAYA
a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Welcome to the “Ayutthaya tour”, please let me talk about the importance of Ayutthaya first. AYUTTHAYA was the capital of Thailand just before BANGKOK. It’s located in the valley of the Chao Phraya River, the city was founded in 1350 by King U Thong. Unfortunately, there were completely destroyed by the Burmese invasion in 1767.

Ayutthaya was very abundant and luxuriant for 417 years as the second capital of Thailand. In the 16th century, it was described by foreign traders as one of the biggest and wealthiest cities in the East.

Ayutthaya’s economy is based on agriculture, so you can see the vast plantation of rice that is a major source of income to the city. You know, in 1991, the Ayutthaya historical park was awarded and recognized internationally as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For the first place, we’re going to see the Buddha's Head at Wat Mahathatthat is one of the popular icons of Ayutthaya.

Wat Mahathat is one of the oldest temples in Ayutthaya, originally built around the 14th century. It was used to house a miniature casket containing the Buddha’s relics, buried 17 meters deep into the ground under its base. The casket is now on display at the Chao Sam Phraya Museum. The lone Buddha's head entrapped by the roots of an overgrown banyan tree has become a famous and not to miss. And please leave only your footprints at the site.

Next, we’ll move on to Bang Pa-In Summer Palace. There was built during the reign of SomdetPhra Chao Prasat Thong. It’s set on a nice landscaped lake garden that was once an island. Abandoned after Ayutthaya fell, it was rebuilt by King Rama V.

There were in an eclectic style that blends European neoclassical and Victorian architectures with Early Ayutthaya and Chinese palace styles.

Now we are in the area ofWat YaiChaimongkol, one of the best-preserved ancient royal monasteries. There is the tallest chedi in Ayutthaya, right, a 62-metre inverted bell-shapedpagoda, built to commemorate a victory of King Naresuanagainst the Burmese. Also the temple is famous for its large reclining Buddha. You could worship and wish for the good things happen to your life.

Here is Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the largest temple in Ayutthaya and in its heyday was used as the royal palace. It served as a model for the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok. The three iconic chedis were housing the royal relics of three Ayutthaya Kings which are among a few structures left standing in the temple grounds. That’s a must-see ruin site in Ayutthaya.

From BKK, you can come here by bus, car, train, or boat. It’s about an hour for a drive. You can explore the city with local transportation, including songtaews, tuk- tuk, bicycles, or even get to the various ruin sites atop elephants.

Tuk-tuk will go anywhere around Ayutthaya for 10-30 baht/person depending on the distance, or destination. You can also rent a bicycle from one of the guesthouses for 40-50 baht/day. That’s very cheap!

Then, I’m gonna take you the Elephant Kraal. There is one excellent place for a safe and fun experience riding elephants. You can ride them around the city's sights.That was definitely the highlight of our trip.

The Elephants are Thailand's national symbol and Ayutthaya is home to many elephants. There is the world's oldest Elephant Kraal, and dates back to the 15^th century when the elephants were trained to be part of the Thai army.

Also, there's a conservation center and camp for Elephants, and its staff work to preserve wildlife and fauna specific to Elephants. Riding elephants a round trip is 200-500 for foreigners depending on time. You will get wet, as the elephants like to splash water. Secure or strap on your camera and keeping your balance atop elephant!

And this is the last place, how about this trip? Do you like it? If you love Thailand, please come to see Ayutthaya, the UNESCO World Heritage Site! There are several markets where you can find a variety of local products including clothing, household goods, and local foods. The night markets are great places to pick up souvenirs. The food was great and the elephant were very impressive! Such a wonderful place! Highly suggest taking this trip! J