Ayutthaya Extravaganza

Ancient capital of Ayutthaya Experiences comparable to a journey to ancient Angkor... Ayutthaya was the main city of the eponymous kingdom that preceded Siam. The city was built in 1350. Many scholars believe that Ayutthaya was one of the most beautiful cities in Southeast Asia. The architecture of this city is truly renowned for its grandeur. According to local legends, most attractions were once covered in gold, but later all were looted. Due to frequent raiding and destruction, today you can see ruins of towers and city walls, ruined palaces and temples. Nevertheless, Ayutthaya today is a modern city where ancient ruins blend seamlessly with new buildings. In the late 20th century, the historic center of Ayutthaya became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tour program: Royal Residence Ban Phai Inn, Wat Ratchaburana – where treasures were found, Wat Chai Watthanaram – where Mortal Kombat was filmed, exotic market Visit to Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon Monastery – an operating complex from the 14th century, still inhabited by monks. Here stands a large bell-shaped stupa built to honor King Nerasuan's victory over the Burmese, with panoramic views of the historic park from the top; getting acquainted with the most photogenic relic of Ayutthaya – a stone Buddha head entwined in the roots of the sacred Bodhi tree. This sculpture is located in the ruins of Wat Mahathat, a temple – “Repository of the Great Sacred,” founded in 1374. Its 43-meter prang served as a royal monastery, and our guide will tell the story of the unusual “merging” of nature and Buddhist relics; walk around the former royal chapel Wat Phra Si Sanphet. Three massive bell-shaped Chedis, built to store the remains of rulers, became symbols of Siam’s golden age. Once, here stood a 16-meter Buddha statue covered with hundreds of kilograms of gold, and ceremonies were held by monarchs that even monks were excluded from; Lunch What to bring: Photocopy of passport Clothing suitable for temples (covered shoulders and knees) Comfortable shoes Hats Hotel breakfast Money for personal expenses