The Old Siam: Ayutthaya Temples Small Group Tour With Lunch

Discover the rich history and architectural wonders of Ayutthaya on the Old Siam Small Group Tour. This 7-hour journey takes visitors to four stunning temples, including the iconic Wat Maha That. Immerse in the ancient capital’s past while enjoying an authentic Thai lunch. With hotel pickup and a modest dress code, the tour ensures a respectful and delightful exploration. Uncover the secrets of this UNESCO World Heritage site and gain a deeper appreciation for Thailand’s captivating cultural heritage.

Key Points

• A comprehensive 7-hour tour that covers four significant temples in Ayutthaya, including the Angkor Wat-influenced Wat Chaiwatthanaram and the colossal reclining Buddha at Wat Lokayasutharam.
• Authentic Thai lunch included, featuring a variety of dishes such as Tom Yum Goong soup, Som Tam papaya salad, Pad Thai noodles, and Massaman curry.
• Available in multiple languages, including English, Thai, German, and Japanese, with optional pickup from select Bangkok areas.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility for travelers.
• Modest dress code required, and certain items like baby strollers and large bags are prohibited to ensure a comfortable and respectful experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The Old Siam: Ayutthaya Temples Small Group Tour with Lunch is priced from $38.29 per person and lasts 7 hours.

Available in English, Thai, German, and Japanese, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Pickup is optional from select Bangkok areas, with guests meeting 15 minutes prior in hotel lobbies.

The itinerary covers four significant temples over 45 minutes each, highlighting architectural influences and historical significance. An authentic Thai lunch is included.

Transportation is via air-conditioned van or mini-coach. Modest attire is required, and large bags, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited.

With a 4.6/5 overall rating, this tour provides excellent value.

Itinerary and Highlights

Four significant temples are featured on this tour, each visited for around 45 minutes.

First, visitors explore Wat Chaiwatthanaram, showcasing Angkor Wat-influenced architecture.

Next, they see the impressive reclining Buddha statue at Wat Lokayasutharam.

The tour then moves to Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, once part of the royal palace complex.

Finally, the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots at Wat Maha That’s a highlight.

Throughout, the guide shares the rich history and cultural significance of these ancient Siamese temples.

Architectural Wonders of Ayutthaya

Among the architectural wonders that captivate visitors to Ayutthaya are the ancient temples that stand as testaments to the kingdom’s rich history.

The 17th-century Wat Chaiwatthanaram, for instance, exhibits Khmer-influenced design, with its towering prangs and intricate carvings.

Wat Lokayasutharam, meanwhile, features a colossal reclining Buddha statue, a breathtaking sight.

A colossal reclining Buddha statue, a breathtaking sight at the ancient Wat Lokayasutharam in Ayutthaya.

The ruins of Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, once part of the royal palace complex, showcase the grandeur of the former capital.

And at Wat Maha That, visitors can marvel at the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots, a captivating interplay of nature and history.

Historical Significance of the Royal Palace Complex

Within the ancient city of Ayutthaya lies the ruins of a once-grand royal palace complex, a testament to the region’s rich historical legacy.

Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, one of the temples visited on the tour, was the holiest temple within this palace compound. It served as the royal chapel, where important ceremonies were held.

The temple’s historical significance is evident in its architectural design and the artifacts found on-site. Exploring these ruins offers a glimpse into Ayutthaya’s illustrious past as the capital of the Siamese Kingdom, providing visitors a deeper understanding of Thailand’s storied history.

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The Iconic Buddha Head at Wat Maha That

One of the most iconic and recognizable features of the Ayutthaya temple complex is the captivating Buddha head entangled within the roots of a sprawling banyan tree at Wat Maha That. This haunting image has become a symbol of the once-mighty Siamese kingdom, a poignant reminder of its decline. The story behind this striking tableau is the subject of much fascination and speculation. What happened to the rest of the Buddha statue? How did the head become trapped in the tree’s tendrils? Visitors are drawn to this enigmatic site, captivated by its mystery and beauty.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Location | Wat Maha That |

| Subject | Buddha head |

| Surroundings | Banyan tree roots |

| Significance | Symbol of Ayutthaya’s decline |

Culinary Delights: Authentic Thai Lunch

After exploring the captivating Buddha head at Wat Maha That, the tour takes visitors to a local restaurant for an authentic Thai lunch.

The meal includes:

• Aromatic Tom Yum Goong soup with fresh shrimp

• Spicy, tangy Som Tam papaya salad

• Flavorful Pad Thai noodles with crushed peanuts

• Tender, fragrant Massaman curry with potatoes and peanuts

• Sweet mango sticky rice for dessert

The delectable spread showcases the vibrant flavors and diverse textures of traditional Thai cuisine, providing a delightful culinary experience to complement the historical temple visits.

Transportation and Meeting Points

The tour provides air-conditioned van or mini-coach transportation for participants.

Air-conditioned van or mini-coach transportation is provided for participants on the tour.

Pickup is available from hotels in the Silom, Sathorn, Ratchathewi, Phra Nakorn, and Klong Toei areas. Guests should wait in the hotel lobby 15 minutes prior to the scheduled pickup time.

The tour departs from the Groove at Central World or The Old Siam Plaza meeting points.

At the end of the tour, guests are dropped off at The Old Siam Plaza mall, where they can arrange for their hotel pickup or return to the city meeting point.

Visitor Guidelines and Restrictions

To visit the Ayutthaya temples, guests must adhere to a modest dress code, with shoulders and knees covered.

Certain items aren’t allowed on the tour:

• Baby strollers

• Alcohol and drugs

• Large bags

The tour company provides hand sanitizer for health and safety, but no luggage is permitted on the vehicles.

These guidelines ensure a comfortable and respectful experience for all participants as they explore the ancient Siamese temples.

Adherence to the rules helps preserve the sites and enables a smooth, enjoyable tour.

Since You Asked

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for people with significant mobility issues. It involves extensive walking through historical sites and temples, which could be challenging for those with limited mobility. However, the tour operator may be able to accommodate certain needs with advance notice.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Temples?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the temples, but they must follow the dress code and any specific rules or restrictions set by the temple authorities. Photography is a great way to capture the beauty and history of these sacred sites.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. The standard tour lasts 7 hours and covers the key temples in Ayutthaya. Extending the tour would require booking a separate, customized tour.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snacks and Water?

No, snacks and water are not required as they are not mentioned in the tour details. The tour includes an authentic Thai meal at a local restaurant, so extra provisions are likely unnecessary.

Is There a Dress Code for the Temple Visits?

The tour has a modest dress code – visitors must cover their shoulders and knees when visiting the temples. Casual, comfortable clothing is recommended, as no shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing attire is allowed.

The Sum Up

The Old Siam: Ayutthaya Temples Small Group Tour offers an immersive journey through Thailand’s captivating past. Visitors will marvel at the architectural wonders of ancient temples, uncover the rich history of the royal palace, and savor authentic Thai cuisine. With a respectful approach and manageable duration, this tour provides a delightful and insightful exploration of Ayutthaya’s enduring legacy.

You can check availability for your dates here: