Ayutthaya

What makes a place sacred? Is it the belief that gods have hovered over the lands and waters of this place in ancient times? Is it the holy practice of the Buddhist monks? Or maybe it is the miraculous preservation of cultures that might as well have been forgotten a long time ago?

(Photo by Chee Yuen)

Do you know that Ayutthaya is the “sacred city” of Thailand? Let us find out why Ayutthaya was tagged as a sacred city…

Ayutthaya is the capital of the Ayutthaya province in Thailand. It is legitimately known as Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. This enigmatic city was established by the great King U-thong in the year 1351.

Over the years of preservation, it has become a place for wandering and knowing the past. It has become a historical park. It is a very old city where you can find the ghostly ruins of the mystical ancient buildings.

There are three rich and vibrant rivers that enliven Ayutthaya. They are the Chao Phraya River, the River of Lopburi and the Pa Sak River.

The province of Ayutthaya was actually the historic capital of Thailand. There were more than a million lively inhabitants who flourished with the river during the younger times of that area.

Ayutthaya has been greatly influenced by Cambodia in terms of architecture and creative designs. There are also traces of intricate Sukhothai designs. The industrious people here have adapted handicraft as one of the main sources of income.

You will be amazed by the large production of unique souvenir items in Ayutthaya City with varied stone carvings, classy ceramics, Thai house designs and original musical instruments.

If you want a more solemn part of Thailand, you must come to Ayutthaya. It is different from the sparkling and busy Bangkok. The place is perfect for reflection and finding the deeper meaning of life.

Anyone with a peaceful heart can feel at home with the still nature along with the uniquely-built structures which seemed to listen to you too. Maybe it is sacred because of these. The whole city has been preserved, practicing the ancient sacred culture, as this is the very reason why tourists come here.

With all the holy stuff, fun-lovers can still enjoy themselves. Guess what? You can spend your time shopping here! There are fancy stores as well as souvenir boutiques where you can have the most unexpected memorabilia. You can have a nostalgic experience just by walking around Ayutthaya city.

Ayutthaya, with all its grace and respectable character is the exact city that can embody the principles of Thailand. Why? Ayutthaya has simply remained in the ancient culture and tradition of Thailand yet it sails smoothly with the new generation.

In this proud yet silent place, Thailand’s ancient history comes alive. You can come to every other city in Thailand and compare them to Ayutthaya. Yet, after you’ve done that, I’m sure you’ll be coming back to the sacred city to have a good natural rejuvenation.

Want to experience Ayutthaya for yourself? Join our Ayutthaya day tour.

For more pictures of the amazing ruins of Ayutthaya – visit our Facebook Page Tour to Ayutthaya – The Ancient Capital of Thailand

Note: This amazing picture of the Roosters from Ayutthaya came No 3 in our Photo Contest Amaze Me Thailand 2011. The picture is taken by Chee Yuen.