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Experience serenity in Ayutthaya, where statues are embraced by vibrant red maple trees, creating a scene of tranquility and contemplation.
Discover the timeless beauty of Ayutthaya, steering clear of bustling Bangkok
Bangkok is unsettled, hot, and crowded. So, don't linger in the capital for long; instead, change the scenery and opt for the ancient city of Ayutthaya.
To reach Ayutthaya, depart from Bangkok, considering these options:
– Hire a taxi to take you directly or purchase a tour from the hotels where you stay.
– Depart from Hua Lamphong railway station, purchase a ticket to Ayutthaya for around 20,000 dong, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival, hire a tuk-tuk to explore these historical sites, costing about 400,000 dong.
– Head to Mochit terminal (accessible by BTS, tuk-tuk, or taxi) and catch a bus to Ayutthaya, departing every 30 minutes.
– Go to Victory Monument, where numerous minivans to Ayutthaya are available, departing every 20 minutes.
If you're traveling in a group of 3-4 people, the most reasonable option is to rent a private taxi for a comprehensive Ayutthaya tour, priced around 800,000 to 1 million dong. Avoid the fatigue of multiple bus rides or train journeys, especially in the scorching sun.
Ayutthaya is approximately 85 km away from Bangkok, once the capital of Thailand, akin to Hue in Vietnam, and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. Established under the reign of King U Thong, it faced destruction in 1767 by Burmese forces after seven ruling dynasties and 33 kings. Upon gaining independence, the capital was relocated to Bangkok. Since then, Ayutthaya has gradually become a desolate landmark.
In Ayutthaya, there are enclaves with challenging names like Wat Choeng Thar, Wat Suwandararam, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Mongkhon Bophit, Wat Phutthaisawan, Wat Pra Sri Sanphet, Wat Worachettharam, Wat Lokaya Suttha, Wat Yai Chaimongkhon, Wat Chaiwatthanaram... If you wish to remember these names, it's advisable to capture detailed photos of each temple area.
Wat Lokaya Sutha hosts an enormous reclining Buddha, tilting its head on a lotus pedestal, facing East, with feet perfectly aligned and adorned in balanced toe positions. The statue, 8 meters tall and about 30 meters long, is made of cement, covered in stucco, and embellished with devotees' meticulous application of thin gold leaf pieces. Thai locals believe adorning Buddha statues with gold leaf brings divine protection and blessings.
However, the image that lingers most in the minds of those who visit Ayutthaya is the face of Buddha enshrined in the roots of a tree at Wat Mahathat. A beautiful, serene visage imparts a sense of peace to all. Legend has it that during the destruction of the ancient capital, a soldier placed the head of the statue at the tree's base. Over the years, the roots gracefully enveloped the Buddha's face, creating a vivid and extraordinary tableau. Wat Mahatat, with its glorious ruins, showcases numerous headless Buddha statues amidst the foundation and crumbling red brick walls.
The atmosphere in Ayutthaya is remarkably serene; statues are embraced by rows of vibrant red maple trees, crafting a tranquil and contemplative scene. Find a shaded spot, stretch out, grab a book, or simply rest your head on your hands and gaze at the Buddha statues—it's truly fascinating.
After exploring the temples and Buddha statues, you can hire a taxi to visit the Ayutthaya Klong Sabua floating market for both leisure and lunch. The market is expansive, with food served on boats or makeshift kitchens on wooden platforms within the market. Many Vietnamese visitors can also be found at the market.
A day of discovery in Ayutthaya is just right—excellent services, a serene atmosphere, the rustling sound of the wind and leaves. As you gaze upon these historically rich Buddha statues, you can't help but reflect on the passing of time and the myriad of ups and downs. Despite the years gone by, you still marvel at the pure, serene faces of the Buddha statues, exuding a subtle melancholy and carefree tranquility.
Source: Ngoisao.net
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Reference: Travel Guide from Mytour
MytourNovember 24, 2015
