I stood at the platform of a train and stepped off as it drew into Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, through a palm tree whisper breeze in December, when an innocent sky painted itself a pristine blue; there was a vibrant rhythm about the air.  It wasn’t any vacation; I would embark on a pilgrimage in this sense to discover something about a bygone era – a chance to disappear inside whispers of history that have not quite vanished from crumbling temples or magnificent ruins.  Anyone planning to visit Ayutthaya can do so by checking out the train schedule.  It is a very comfortable two-hour train ride, and according to me, this is the best travel option.  You can also hop on a train from Ayutthaya to Bangkok without a fuss.

Unlike most people, my trip to Ayutthaya in December wasn’t a day trip.  I planned to stay a few days so I could cover all that the city has to offer.

My first stop was the Wat Phra Mahathat – the temple that was the cradle of the most worshipped Buddha relic in Thailand.  The towering prang-Khmer-type spire, standing erect on the horizon, is a symbol and silent witness to the architectural expertise of the Ayutthaya kingdom.  On reaching the top, I beheld a tapestry of the city – the ruins bathed in gold from the setting sun-ascending over the ancient city as viewed from the steep stairs.  The serenity of the place was intoxicating and made me mesmerized by the intricate carvings that seemed to hold stories.

The next day, I rode my bike through the historical park, a fantastic way to explore the sheer scale of Ayutthaya.  The gentle December breeze kept me cool as I wove between the ruins, each monument whispering tales of grandeur and resilience.  Wat Chaiwatthanaram, with lotus-shaped chedis or stupas, made us envision the artistic prowess that has passed.  At Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, this reclining Buddha under the setting sun evokes a peace that transcends even to the deepness within.

December of Ayutthaya meant beating the sweltering heat of the summer, making exploration a delight.  One afternoon, I took a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River, the lifeblood of the city.  The gentle rhythm of the water and the cool spray on my face were a respite.  As the sun dipped below the horizon, the temples lining the riverbanks cast long shadows and created an ethereal beauty that left me breathless.

During my visit, the city was filled with a lively Ayutthaya World Heritage Fair, which was full of color and celebrated the history of the city.  With music, dance performances, and colors galore, this place is sure to bring everyone to the streets.  Amidst the food stalls were local delicacies, each one savored with the delightful atmosphere.  It was infectious and I felt myself drawn into it all as part of the grand revelry.

But Ayutthaya provided more than just historical wonders.  I dived into the vibrant present of the city by signing up for a Thai cooking class.  Under the tutelage of a local expert, I learned the secrets behind fragrant curries, spicy stir-fries, and delectable desserts.  The warm smiles and patient guidance of my teacher made the experience not just educational but also heartwarming. Armed with newfound culinary skills, I felt a deeper connection to the Thai culture.

One evening, I indulged in a traditional Thai massage.  A wonderful masseuse expertly relaxed the muscles of my body, making me feel relaxed and rejuvenated.  Later, I just strolled through the Ayutthaya Night Market, grabbing trinkets and letting loose in the bustle and excitement.  The sounds from the market were filled with hushed conversations, laughter, and luscious street food aromas.

During my last night in Ayutthaya, I felt a bit sad.  The city had left an old, deep mark on my soul because the magic of that ancient city had caught up within me.  The weather had perfectly been comfortable with temperatures along with clear skies throughout the month of December.  It was not only the historical sights that made me appreciate Ayutthaya but also the warmth of the local people, the delicious food, and the unique blend of past and present.

When I boarded that train back to Bangkok, I took away memories, sure, but so much more the spirit of another era past, the serenity of a thousand-year-old temples, and a newfound respect for things Thai.

December in Ayutthaya had a perfect blend of history exploration and cultural immersion combined with revitalization.  This is one experience that I am not going to forget anytime soon.  Also, I urge everyone coming to Thailand for a holiday in December to find some time in their itinerary to visit Ayutthaya.  Usually, tourists treat this city as a transit point to reach the famous beaches of Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lipe, and other beaches in southern Thailand.

So, when you come to Thailand, don’t forget to experience the culture and history of Ayutthaya.