Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre

Located diagonally opposite the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum, this centre is a national research institute devoted to the study of mediaval Ayutthaya. The centre contains reconstructions from Ayutthaya's historical past, an information service and a library. The centre is open every day, except Monday, Tuesday and national holidays, between 9am and 4pm. Admission: 10 Baht.

Chanthakasem or Front Palace

Located on the bank of the Pasak river , this palace was built as the residence of King Naresuan the Great ( reign: 1590 - 1605). The palace was renovated during the mid 1800s by King Mongkut (Rama IV) to be his residence during occasional visits to Ayutthaya. The palace is now part of the National Museum under the responsibility of the Fine Arts Department. The museum is open every day, except Monday, Tuesday and national holidays, between 9am and 4pm. Admission: 10 Baht.

Elephant Kraal

This unique teak and brick structure, just beyond Ayutthaya's riverine island, was formerly used to entrap wild elephants herded down from the North. Such occurrences were traditionally presided over by Ayutthayan monarchs, partly because the mighty beasts were vital to Ayutthaya's military strenght.

Chao Sam Phraya National Museum

The museum contains many Ayutthayan-style objects d'art including exquisite golden royal memorabilia excaveted from local temples. The museum is open every day, except Monday, Tuesday and national holidays, between 9am and 4pm. Admission: 10 Baht.

Khun Phaen's Residence

The teak traditional Thai-style residence, as might have been owned by a wealthy merchant, located near the Phra Mongkhon Bophit Chapel, evokes a bygone era's lifestyle.