One common regret among world travelers is not being able to experience everything on their must-see lists. But there’s good news for those visiting Bangkok and wanting to soak in as much as possible.
Not far from the Thai capital is the Ancient City (known in Thai as Muang Boran), a 240-acre park featuring 116 monuments and buildings — some having been rescued from demolition elsewhere in the country, others having been replicated at original or reduced size, although these smaller versions are by no means miniatures.
With even a ubiquitous floating market — reflecting traditional Thai life along the river — it’s like visiting all of the historic sites of Thailand in one day. (OK, not quite, but it’s close. And when time is tight, it’s well worth the trip.)
The Ancient City is designed in the shape of Thailand, with each structure placed in the park relative to where it is found in the country. Beginning his work in 1963, founder Lek Viriyaphant continued creating until his death in 2000.
One architectural beauty is Sanphet Prasat Palace (above). Its original served as the principal palace during the early Ayutthaya period (1350–1767) but was burned to the ground when the Burmese attacked the ancient capital in 1767. This replica served as the reception hall for King Bhumibol Adulyadej to welcome Queen Elizabeth II in February 1972, on the official opening day of Muang Boran.
Not far from the Thai capital is the Ancient City (known in Thai as Muang Boran), a 240-acre park featuring 116 monuments and buildings.
Once again, it’s impossible to see everything, even here. You might even have to fight the sense of being in an amusement park. But you soon realize that this is far, far from a tourist trap — despite the number of tourists around you. Rather, it’s a great way to appreciate the beauty of Thailand’s history and culture without taking a month to race around the country.
With that in mind, several highlights of the Ancient City include:
Monk’s Residence A teak building transplanted from Thailand’s northern Tak Province, with interior murals illustrating the life of Buddha.
Ancient Market Town Re-creation of an ancient community complete with shops, spirit houses and traditional homes.
Reclining Buddha The iconic image of Buddha with both eyes closed and leaning on his right hand. (Your best view of this statue might actually be from a manmade hill on the park’s “Cambodian border.” Climb to the top of Prasat Phra Wihan for a bird’s-eye view of the Reclining Buddha and all of the Ancient City.)
Thailand’s ancient wonders surround you at every turn, wherever you travel in this country. But when time restricts you, don’t miss this opportunity to catch the flavor of it all in one place.
