Ayutthaya, Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, & The Thai Elephant.

This tour blends two important aspects of Thai history and heritage: the noble elephant - once a leading figure in fierce battles, and the World Heritage site of ancient Ayutthaya, the former Thai capital for over 400 years, which at its zenith was one of the world’s most elegant and refined cities. Although razed by the Burmese in 1767, the invaders were unable to destroy its soul, and the charisma remains, embedded in the silent ruined monuments, which you will see and admire. The tour begins with a visit to the elegant and beautiful royal palace complex at Bang Pa In, followed by the best possible introduction to the power and beauty of the Thai pachyderm, – a ride on elephant back from the Elephant Village, passing by some interesting historical sites on the way. After lunch at a local restaurant, we proceed to the Ayutthaya heritage site to contemplate its history, and reflect on how it must have looked during the days of ancient Siam. Visit the most important ruins of the Royal Temple of Wat Pra Si San Phet, the Royal Palace, Wat Mahathat and Wat Chaiwatanaram, all of them standing and proud testament to a tragic but glorious past.