The Ruins of Ayuthaya

I took a day trip to Ayuthaya with Cindy, which is the former Thai capital and is a city of temple ruins. We took the 3rd class train with plastic cushioned seats and open windows from Bangkok and it cost a whopping 15 Baht. That's like 50 cents. Score!

We got a late start, so we hustled to the more famous ruins, starting with Wat Phra Si Sanphet. This site was the royal palace from the city's founding (1350) to mid-15th century when it was converted to a temple. It has 3 large bell-shaped chedi that house the remains of former rulers. It was fascinating to wander around and see the headless statues. I guess the heads used to contain the most jewels, so raiders often stole them. Also a nice form of intimidation, I should think. As I rambled, I was again reminded of Rome and the ancient ruins at the Forum. I guess the ruins of past civilizations are all similar in that aspect.

About this time I realize I'm so thirsty so I buy some water for 15 Baht- the same price as my train ticket! That goes to show you how they really work the tourist areas. But I was thirsty, darnit, so I caved.

Next we went next door to Wat Phra Mongkhon Bophit, which has the largest bronze seated Buddha statue in Thailand. (Everything needs a title, or an award, I've discovered.)This one was nice, but the statue was really about it. Then we walked through a large park that was peaceful, but empty. We saw what I assumed was some kind of monitor lizard - it measured maybe 4 feet long! Cool!

Then we went to Wat Phra Mahathat, one of the first Khmer-style temples built in the capital. It was one of the most holy temples and was the home of the Supreme Patriarch (there go those titles again). The famous image here is a Buddha head that has been entirely engulfed by tentacle-like tree roots. It was an eerie, but amazing sight.


Here's a video of me walking through Wat Mahathat: enjoy!




Finally, we ran back to the bus station to hop a train back to Bangkok.