The ancient city of Ayutthaya was home to 33 kings from many different dynasties and the capital of Siam from 1353 to 1767. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bouganvillas with many different colors on one plant!

A reclining Buddha at the entrance to Wat Yai Chai Mongkol.

Ayutthaya was once a place of such fabulous wealth that early travelers described it as 2000 spires clad in gold.

Saffron-draped Buddha statues surround the temple.

Wat (temple) Yai Chai Mongkol

 

Elephant rides for tourists

 

Wat Phra Sri Sanphet

Temple complex situated within the former Royal Palace grounds.

The buildings were burned down by the Burmese when they invaded Siam in 1767.

The temples are being restored as they contain remains of former kings.

Finding some shade!

Using a weed wacker to "mow" grass

A new temple has been built on site.

It houses a large sitting Golden Buddha

And a small emerald Buddha

We boarded a motorized long-tail boat for an afternoon cruise down the canal and river.

Passing by more of the ancient city of Ayutthaya.

Catholic Church

Nearby Muslim Mosque

Visit to Muslim Village

Delicious dinner at local Bangkok restaurant near hotel.

This dish was so good we came back the next night on our own to order it again.