Ayutthaya is another 25kms farther north. Ayutthaya was the capital of the Siamese kingdom for 400 years until a marauding Burmese army overran it in 1767. The ruins that remain are extensive and preserved enough for UNESCO to list them as a World Heritage Site.
Bang Pa-In and Ayutthaya are easy to reach. Both have stations on the main north-south train line between Chiang Mai and Bangkok. Not every train stops at Bang Pa-In. The trip only takes 90 minutes.
There are also buses from Bangkok’s Morchit Station to both locations with journey times of similar durations. Those looking for extra comfort and convenience might find a private transfer with hotel pick-up the optimum choice.
12GO Asia sells train tickets to Bang Pa-In and Ayutthaya with the option of travelling in second or third class. Private transfers are also available and travellers have the choice of a Toyota Camry or a nine-seater minibus. The advantage of private transfers is that the service fee is for the vehicle and not for individual travellers.
Palaces and ancient ruins at Bang Pa-In and Ayutthaya
News in AsiaBang Pa-In is 70kms to the north of Bangkok and home to a royal palace dating from the 17th century. The palace is noted for the Wehart Chamrunt throne room and gardens that are pleasantly landscaped.