Ayutthaya Historical Park – Ancient Ruins Near Bangkok Golf Day Trips
Step back in time to Thailand’s golden age at Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with crumbling temples, massive stone Buddhas, and centuries-old stupas. Just over an hour’s drive from Bangkok and a popular stop en route to Royal Bang Pa-In Golf Club, this ancient city offers golfers a rare opportunity to pair their game with deep cultural exploration.
What Is Ayutthaya?
Founded in 1350, Ayutthaya was once the capital of the Siamese Kingdom and among the largest cities in the world. For over 400 years, it thrived as a center of global trade and Buddhist art before being destroyed in 1767. What remains today is a hauntingly beautiful complex of ruins that echo the city’s former grandeur.
Top Sites Within the Historical Park
- Wat Mahathat: Home to the famous Buddha head entwined in tree roots — a symbol of Ayutthaya’s spiritual resilience.
- Wat Phra Si Sanphet: Once the royal temple of Thai kings, known for its trio of chedis that dominate the skyline.
- Wat Chaiwatthanaram: A Khmer-style temple near the river, perfect for sunset photography.
- Wat Lokayasutharam: Site of a giant reclining Buddha, stretching 42 meters in length.
How to Get There
- From Bangkok: Drive north via the expressway (about 1 hour) or take a guided day tour from your hotel or golf resort.
- From Royal Bang Pa-In Golf Club: Just 20–25 minutes by car — ideal for a post-round visit.
Suggested Golf + Culture Itinerary
- Morning: Tee off at Royal Bang Pa-In Golf Club, known for its riverside layout and scenic play.
- Midday: Enjoy lunch at the clubhouse or a riverside restaurant in Ayutthaya.
- Afternoon: Visit 2–3 temple sites at your own pace or join a half-day guided tour.
Best Time to Visit
- Cool season (Nov–Feb): Pleasant temperatures for walking and sightseeing.
- Late afternoon: Ideal lighting for photography and fewer tour groups.
- Avoid midday sun: Shade is limited at many ruins, so plan accordingly.
Travel Tips
- Wear breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water — it can get hot.
- Many temples have entrance fees ranging from THB 20–50 per site.
- Respect local customs: remove shoes before entering sacred areas.
Nearby Golf Course
Royal Bang Pa-In Golf Club: A newer course along the Chao Phraya River, offering a peaceful 18-hole round surrounded by countryside vistas. Known for wide fairways, strategic bunkering, and well-maintained greens, it’s a hidden gem for travelers looking to escape Bangkok’s busy courses.
Dining Options in Ayutthaya
- Raan Tha Luang: Riverside Thai restaurant serving freshwater prawns and spicy curries.
- Malakor Café: Great for light meals, smoothies, and air-conditioned seating near Wat Ratchaburana.
- Ban U Thong: Traditional Thai cuisine in a restored wooden house setting.
Where to Stay
Most golf travelers stay in Bangkok or combine Ayutthaya with a golf retreat nearby. Explore flexible accommodation options with our partners:
- Expedia – Book hotels and golf-friendly tours to Ayutthaya
- Hotels.com – Explore heritage stays near Ayutthaya Historical Park
- Orbitz – Plan your golf + culture combo trip
Why Golf Travelers Should Visit
Ayutthaya provides a powerful cultural counterbalance to the focused precision of a golf round. While one sharpens the mind through strategy, the other broadens the soul with history, spirituality, and timeworn beauty. It’s an enriching way to see more of Thailand without straying far from your fairways.
Conclusion
Just one hour from Bangkok and even closer to local golf courses, Ayutthaya Historical Park is an unforgettable stop for any golf traveler seeking meaning beyond the game. Whether it’s your first temple tour or a return to explore deeper, the city’s peaceful ruins and regal past make a lasting impression.
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