Thailand's former capital reveals historic past

Thailand has become a popular tourist destination because of its warm, balmy weather, sandy beaches and exotic flavor. However, amidst the beautiful coastline lies an historical and architectural gem that is somewhat less known to tourists who choose Thailand as their next vacation spot. Nestled in the plains of central Thailand - about an hour and a half north of Bangkok - is, Ayutthaya, the country's former capital. This ancient city houses the largest amount of temples in Thailand and impressively stands as a long-lasting reminder of a kingdom at its peak.

I visited these impressive temples or wats in 2000.

After spending one night in Bangkok, my traveling partner and I decided to get up before dawn to leave the city for the more serene atmosphere of Ayutthaya.

Our travels northward began on a small train with wooden seats - an economical and memorable way of reaching other parts of Thailand. Trains headed northward and into central Thailand leave from Bangkok's Hualamphong Train Station.

The caboose we sat in gave us a great view of the countryside. When we reached Ayutaya, we rented a tuk-tuk (a small vehicle that looks a lot like a three-wheeler with a covered roof) that also gave us a wonderful view of the central plains of Thailand. The guide then took us to the historic temples in the former heart of the once eminent city. Of the many ruins in Ayutthaya , the largest temple is Wat Phra Si Sanphet. It's known for its noticeable series of giant peaks. Behind the temple lies a pretty waterway that only adds to the scenic chain of peaks in the foreground.

Historically, King-U-Thong established the city in 1350 and Ayutthaya's splendor grew over the next 400 years with 33 different rulers. Ayutthaya was one of the richest cities in Asia at one point. However, the city's affluence and might didn't last. It eventually came to a halt and then crumbled as the continual havoc between Thailand and Burma got the best of it. The Burmese burned down and ruined the city by 1767.

Despite the destruction, however, many of the temples' frameworks survived and, today, they are in relatively good condition - considering the turbulent history. As well, much of the initial work the stone craftsmen of the era painstakingly created is, impressively, still visible today.

Inevitably, all of the temples in Ayutthaya evoke surprise and admiration. Without any effort, I found myself gazing up at all of the wonderful peaks and wanting to climb inside to discover more of the olden blemishes and bizarre wonders within.

After a full day of traveling from one temple to the next, I saw the sun fade behind them. For me, that scenery echoed voices of the past and inspired visions that Thai ancestors once had and constructed as a gift for generations to come.