Ayutthaya Temples Tour – Cruising Around Bangkok

Bangkok is a modern city with one foot firmly in the past. Although the Thai capital maybe overrun with futuristic high rise buildings, it also has plenty of historic ones. While a majority of visitors come to Thailand’s cosmopolitan capital to enjoy the amazing shopping opportunities and vibrant nightlife, they all leave with a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich culture and coloured history. The city is steeped in ancient splendour and walking along its streets one will come across many interesting attractions.

Tourists who want to learn more about Thai history and culture can try visiting Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya (shortened to Ayutthaya), which is located around ninety five kilometres to the north of Bangkok. The city was established in 1350 and served as the second capital of Thailand (then called Siam). It soon became an important trade city and grew quickly over the following centuries. Merchants came to Ayutthaya from all parts of the world and the city became more prosperous as time went by.

However, the period of prosperity did not last forever. Ayutthaya was razed in 1767 by Burmese invaders and now only a few ruins mark the presence of this once magnificent city. The ruins are well preserved and evoke visions of a bygone era. Standing here it is easy to picture ancient marketplaces bustling with activity and lines of devotees walking towards the call of temple bells. Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and no trip to Bangkok can be considered complete without visiting here.

As it is a major tourist attraction there are a number of ways to get here. Those who want to use public transport can try the bus or train. Those looking for a better alternative can try taking a Bangkok cruise tour. Not only does a cruise help save time, it is also a highly enjoyable experience. Anantara Cruises Thailand offer luxury Bangkok cruises that takes tourists on a journey through the past. See the ruins of Ayutthaya, the Royal Barges Boat House, the Temple of Dawn, the Grand Palace and a countless number of other attractions. It is bound to be a trip to remember.

Rocket Festival in Thailand

Indulge in a Bangkok Cruise Tour to get a unique perspective of the city. Bangkok Cruises offered by Anantara Cruises are a popular choice in this regard. When in the city, a visitor cannot afford to miss the chance to experience its unique festivals. Celebrated throughout Laos and northeast Thailand by ethnic Lao people, the Rocket Festival customarily features musicians, dancers, competitive processions of floats, other performances and more. Home-made rockets are fired competitively on the third day of the festival. The gigantic skyrockets are part of this custom. These skyrockets are basically large black-powder bottle rockets. Traditionally the rockets are made from bamboo bongs.