Bangkok: Day Trip to Ayutthaya With Private Longtail Tour

Exploring the captivating history and cultural heritage of Thailand is a must-do for any visitor to Bangkok. One of the best ways to take in the country’s rich past is through a day trip to the ancient city of Ayutthaya. This excursion, which includes a private longtail boat tour on the Chao Phraya River, promises to transport travelers back in time as they discover the UNESCO-listed temples and iconic landmarks that once made Ayutthaya the thriving capital of the Siamese Kingdom. From the striking Wat Chaiwatthanaram to the enigmatic Wat Maha That, this day trip offers a glimpse into Thailand’s remarkable history that simply can’t be missed.

Key Points

• This day trip from Bangkok to Ayutthaya includes private car transport, a 4-hour private longtail boat tour, and visits to 12 ancient temples.
• The tour price ranges from $215.39 to $226.71 for two people and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The itinerary includes stops at UNESCO site Wat Chaiwatthanaram and other significant temples like Wat Maha That and Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, but a tour guide is not provided, and basic English assistance is available from the local captain and driver.
• The longtail boat tour on the Chao Phraya River offers unique perspectives of Ayutthaya’s ancient palaces and monasteries, and the tour may be adjusted for weather conditions.

Tour Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Bangkok to Ayutthaya offers a comprehensive tour with private car transportation and hotel transfers.

Priced from $226.71 to $215.39 for up to 2 people, the 9.5-hour tour includes a 1.5-hour car ride and a 4-hour private longtail boat tour on the Chao Phraya River.

Visitors can explore 12 ancient temples, including the UNESCO Heritage site Wat Chaiwatthanaram. Entrance fees for select temples are included.

The tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

However, no tour guide is provided, and the local captain and driver only speak basic English.

Itinerary and Temple Visits

The tour begins with hotel pickup around 8 AM, followed by a 1.5-hour car ride to the historic city of Ayutthaya. Upon arrival, guests embark on a 4-hour private longtail boat tour along the Chao Phraya River. During the boat tour, they visit 12 ancient temples, including:

Temple	Entrance Fee (Baht)
Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan	20
Wat Chaiwatthanaram	50
Wat Maha That	50
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon	20
Wat Ratchaburana	50

The tour showcases the remarkable architectural and historical significance of these UNESCO Heritage sites, immersing visitors in the rich cultural heritage of Ayutthaya. The day trip concludes with a return to Bangkok around 5:30 PM.

Inclusions and Fees

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a private longtail boat with a local captain, and visits to 12 ancient temples in Ayutthaya.

Entrance fees are required for specific temples, such as 20 Baht for Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan, 50 Baht for Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Maha That, and Wat Ratchaburana, and 20 Baht for Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon.

While donations at temples are optional, the entrance fees are mandatory.

The local captain and driver provide transportation assistance, though a tour guide isn’t included.

Visitors should dress appropriately, covering their shoulders and knees, to comply with the temples’ dress code.

Important Information

A local captain and driver provide basic English assistance with transportation, though a dedicated tour guide isn’t included on this day trip.

Visitors should plan for temple donations, as these are optional, while entrance fees are mandatory. The dress code requires shoulders and knees to be covered when visiting the temples.

The tour continues even in light rain, provided conditions remain safe. However, the tour may be canceled due to unsafe weather, at which point rescheduling or a full refund will be offered.

The longtail boat tour has a maximum duration of 4 hours but may end earlier if the temple visits are completed quickly.

Weather and Tour Conditions

If rain occurs, the tour will continue as long as conditions remain safe.

The longtail boat excursion on the Chao Phraya River is designed to adapt to the weather. Even if light showers arise, the tour will press on. However, the boat trip may be canceled or cut short if severe storms or hazardous conditions develop. In this case, the tour operator will provide options to reschedule the tour or issue a full refund.

The tour has a maximum duration of 4 hours on the longtail boat, but it may end earlier if the temple visits are completed quickly. Ultimately, the safety and comfort of your are the top priorities during this Ayutthaya day trip from Bangkok.

Pickup and Transportation

Pickup from the hotel in Bangkok typically occurs around 8 AM, kicking off this immersive day trip to the historic city of Ayutthaya.

The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours by private car, providing a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation.

Once arriving in Ayutthaya, guests will embark on a 4-hour private longtail boat tour along the Chao Phraya River.

The local captain, who speaks basic English, expertly navigates the waterways, offering a unique vantage point to admire the ancient temples and ruins.

The tour culminates with a return to Bangkok around 5:30 PM, completing the day’s explorations.

1. Private car transfer from Bangkok hotel to Ayutthaya
2. Approximately 1.5-hour drive time
3. 4-hour private longtail boat tour on Chao Phraya River

Boat Tour on Chao Phraya River

The private longtail boat tour along the serene Chao Phraya River offers visitors a captivating perspective of Ayutthaya’s ancient architectural wonders.

Guests embark on a 4-hour journey, navigating the river’s gentle currents past the remnants of once-mighty palaces and monasteries. From the boat, they can admire the intricate carvings and towering spires of temples like Wat Chaiwatthanaram and Wat Mahathat.

The local captain provides insightful commentary, sharing the history and significance of these UNESCO-listed sites. Gliding through the waterways offers a unique vantage point, allowing travelers to appreciate the scale and grandeur of Ayutthaya’s storied past.

This immersive river tour complements the exploration of the land-based temple visits.

Temple Highlights

Twelve ancient temples dotting the historical grounds of Ayutthaya captivate visitors with their awe-inspiring architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Highlights include:

1. Wat Chaiwatthanaram, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its impressive 35-meter-high Buddha statue and majestic stone towers.

2. Wat Maha That, famous for the Buddha head entwined within the roots of a sacred banyan tree, offering a profound glimpse into the power of nature and spirituality.

3. Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, known for its massive reclining Buddha statue and serene atmosphere, inviting contemplation and reflection on the transience of life.

These temples provide a window into Thailand’s storied past, leaving visitors in awe of the enduring legacy of the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

The minimum group size for the tour is 1-2 people. The price range is from $226.71 to $215.39 for up to 2 people, indicating a private tour experience rather than a group tour.

Can Children Under 12 Go on the Tour?

Children under 12 can join the Ayutthaya day trip tour. The minimum group size is not specified, so it’s likely that single travelers or couples can book the tour. The tour allows flexible booking and cancellation policies.

Are Tips for the Driver and Captain Included?

Tips for the driver and longtail boat captain aren’t included in the tour price. Visitors can provide tips if they’re satisfied with the service, but it’s not mandatory.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the longtail boat tour. The tour doesn’t provide any meals or beverages, so it’s up to travelers to pack their own refreshments for the 4-hour journey.

Are Photography Restrictions in Place at the Temples?

Photography is generally permitted at the temples, but visitors are advised to avoid using flash and to respect any specific restrictions that may be in place. Proper attire is required to enter the sacred sites.

Recap

This day trip to Ayutthaya from Bangkok offers a unique opportunity to take in Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. The private longtail boat tour along the Chao Phraya River provides a captivating glimpse into the former capital’s stunning architecture and history. With visits to twelve ancient temples, including UNESCO-listed sites, travelers can explore the impressive remains of the Ayutthaya Kingdom and gain deeper insights into Thailand’s captivating past.