The ancient city of Ayutthaya (full name Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya) is one of Thailand's major tourist attractions and was the former capital of Thailand. The ruins of the old capital in the Ayutthaya historical park are a UNESCO World Heritage Site since December 1991. Many ancient ruins and art works can be seen in the city and Ayutthaya celebrates its glorious past with historical exhibitions, traditional cultural processions and performances, light & sound presentations around city ruins, and numerous forms of entertainment.
There are over 400 temples in and around Ayutthaya to visit, as well as a private boat museum, arts and craft centers and Thailand's largest freshwater fish aquarium - Wang Pla, amongst many others. Some elephant camps provide elephant riding and shows, and boat trips on the Chao Phraya are on offer to enjoy the beautiful scenery and Thai lifestyle along the river. Accommodations are plentiful in the area and some golf courses invite for a day of golfing.


