The ancient capital has dozens of ruins — the four essential temples and what makes each special.
Three iconic chedis in a row — the former royal temple; this is the image most people associate with Ayutthaya; spectacular at golden hour.
Famous for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots — one of the world's great photographs; the rest of the site is extensive and underexplored.
The most photographed temple from the outside — a large Khmer-style prang surrounded by smaller chedis along the river; best seen from a boat.
A large white stupa, a massive reclining Buddha, and monks still in residence — more active and alive than most Ayutthaya ruins.
Bicycle rental from the centre (50–100 THB/day) is the best way; tuk-tuks available for those who don't want to cycle; the distances between temples are manageable.
