Thailand hotels and travel guide. Hotel reservation for Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi and all provinces in Thailand.

Introduction
The ancient city of Ayutthaya, or Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, The Thai capital for 417 years, is one of Thailand's major tourist attractions. Many ancient ruins and art works can be seen in a city that was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong when the Thais were forced southwards by northern neighbors. During the period of Ayutthaya being the Thai capital, 33 Kings of different dynasties ruled the kingdom until it was sacked by the Burmese in 1767.

Ayutthaya is 76 kilometers north of Bangkok and boasts numerous magnificent ruins. Such ruins indicate that Ayutthaya was one of Indo - China's most prosperous cities. Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya a Historical Park, a vast stretch of historical site in the heart of Ayutthaya city, has been included in UNESCO's list of world heritage since 13 December ,1991.

Ayutthaya covers 2,556 square kilometers, and is administratively divided into 16 districts (Amphoes). It is conveniently accessible due to good roads and a short distance from Bangkok.

Ayutthaya is an ancient city, founded by "King U- Thong or Ramathibodi I " in 1350. It was used as the capital of Thailand for 417, during the Ayutthaya period, 33 Kings of 5 Dynasties reigned over the Kingdom. During the first 180 years , the city was peaceful. The main activity then was about the state affair and trading which made Ayutthaya one of the most prosperous city in ASIA. But nine years after King Ramathibodi ll's death in 1529 Ayutthaya became involved, for the first time , in a war with MYANMAR which led to many wars after that.

Ayutthaya was first defeated by the Burmese in 1569 , but 15 years later it was back to its glory again by " King Naresuan the Great ". Ayutthaya was peaceful again and enjoyed the activities in foreign affairs for about 118 years. It came to its peak until it was invaded and destroyed beyond repair by the Burmese in1767 The capital was moved to Thonburi by "King Taksin the Great" who had fought against the Burmese and defeated them. After 15 years of King Taksin's reign. The capital was again moved to Bangkok by "King Rama the first". The founder of the present Chakri Dynasty.

North	: Lop Buri, Ang Thong
South	: Pathum Thani ,Nonthaburi
East	: Saraburi
West:	: Supanburi

Bangkok	: 76 kms.
Ang Thong	: 31 kms.
Saraburi	: 63 kms.
Suphanburi	: 53 kms.

Tha Ruea	: 60 kms.
Nakhon Luang	: 20 kms.
Bang Sai	: 45 kms.
Bang Ban	: 10 kms.
Bang Pa-in	: 17 kms.
Bang Pahan	: 13 kms.
Phak Hai	: 29 kms.
Phachi	: 35 kms.
Lat Bua Luang	: 65 kms.
Wang Noi	: 20 kms.
Sena	: 20 kms.
Bang Sai	: 34 kms.
Uthai	: 15 kms.
Maha Rat	: 25 kms.
Ban Phraek	: 53 kms.

Bang Sai Arts & Crafts Fair
When: January
Where: The Royal Folk Arts & Crafts Center At Bang Sai

The annual fair showcases products of the SUPPORT project under H.M. the Queen's Royal Patronage. Visitors will enjoy shopping, and viewing exhibitions and a display of local products from each district of Ayutthaya province. Folk entertainment performances enliven the fair.
Songkran Festival When: April 13
Where: In Front of Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit

The traditional Thai New Year is an occasion for merry making in Ayutthaya, with religious ceremonies as well as public festivities. Anyone who ventures out on the streets is likely to get a though soaking, but all in a spirit of fun and welcome at the peak of the hot season. When: November
Where: The Royal Folk Arts & Crafts Center At Bang Sai

Celebrations include traditional float (Krathong) and beauty contests, handicrafts demonstrations and exhibitions, and krathong - launching beneath the full moon.
Bang Sai Loi Krathong When: November
Where: In Front of Chantakasem National Museum

At the Loi Krathong Festival, little floats with candles are set adrift on the river under the full moon, creating a beautiful sight. When: December
Where: Ayutthaya Historical park

The ancient Siamese capital of Ayutthaya was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1991. Ayutthaya celebrates its glorious past with historical exhibitions, traditional cultural processions and performances, light & sound presentations around city ruins, and numerous forms of entertainment.

 

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