Ayutthaya is very close to Bangkok and therefore a popular tourist attraction for those who want to see the rich culture of Thailand. The old city of Ayutthaya was the capital city of Thailand (Siam) between 1350 and 1767. The city was a major trading point on trade routes inside south east Asia and between Asia and Europe. Many international merchants visited the city and described the beauty of the temples in their journals. The fine diplomatic skills of the kingdom of Ayutthaya and later kingdoms ensured that no western power ever ruled Siam. The city’s most important sites are partly restored. In 1991 the ruins of Ayuthaya became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tour operators offer day trips to Ayutthaya from Bangkok. You can also go by bus (minivan) or train. The train leaves from Hua Lamphong Station in the city centre. It takes 1 hour and a half to 3 hours to get to Ayutthaya. You can take the buses and minivans from the northern Mo Chit Bus Terminal (close to Chatuchak weekend market). You will get to Ayutthaya in 2 hours and a half. From Ayutthaya’s train station you can travel by train to Pak Chong and visit National Park Khao Yai. Traveling by bus or mini van might be faster.
More background information and travel stories:
Detailed information on WikiTravel.
Exploring Ayutthaya: The City of Ruins by www.doseoflife.com
Thailand Travel Base 