Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal
Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal is a popular tourist attraction located in Ayutthaya Province, Thailand. This complex is a must-see for anyone who wants to experience the culture and history of the former capital of Thailand. The complex is a tribute to the Ayutthaya period, which lasted from 1350 to 1767.
History of Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal
The Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal was originally built in the late 18th century. It was the residence of the King of Siam, King Rama I. The palace was built as a symbol of power and strength and was used for ceremonies and receptions.
The complex was destroyed in 1767 when the Burmese invaded and burned the city of Ayutthaya. The complex was then rebuilt in 1868 by King Rama V. The complex was then used as a summer palace for the King and his family.
What to See
The Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal complex consists of three main sections. The first section is the Royal Elephant Palace, which is a large building with two courtyards. Inside the palace, visitors can find a large collection of artifacts and artworks from the Ayutthaya period.
The second section is the Royal Kraal, which is a large area surrounded by a wooden fence. This area was used for training and housing elephants. Visitors can also find several stables and a museum of elephant-related artifacts.
The third section is the Elephant Arena, which is a large open area where visitors can watch elephant performances. Visitors can also watch traditional Thai dances and music performances.
Things to Do
At the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal complex, visitors can take part in various activities. These activities include elephant rides, elephant shows, and elephant feeding. Visitors can also take part in traditional Thai activities such as coconut carving and pottery making.
The complex also has several shops where visitors can buy souvenirs and local products. Visitors can also visit the nearby Ayutthaya Historical Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Getting There
The Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal complex is located about 20 km from Bangkok. Visitors can take a bus or a taxi from Bangkok to the complex. The complex is open daily from 8am to 5pm.
Conclusion
The Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal is a great way to experience the culture and history of the former capital of Thailand. Visitors can take part in various activities and explore the complex’s many attractions. The complex is a great place to visit for anyone who wants to learn more about the Ayutthaya period.