Hi. We are going to Thailand in a few weeks time with teenagers for just ten days and would love some advice on which ruins to visit. We'll spend time in Bangkok then go to Chiang Mai then back to Bangkok. Should we visit Ayutthaya from Bangkok as a day trip or fly to Sukhotai on our way to Chiang Mai?
Thank you!

Unfortunately, I don't think you can visit Sukhothai 'on your way' to Chiang Mai by air. There used to be flights through Phitsunulok, from Bangkok and on to Chiang Mai, but I believe these have been discontinued.

A day trip Ayuthaya is your best bet. Since some of the temples in Ayuthaya have been used as film sets for popular movies, these might be more interesting to teenagers anyway.

One other alternative would be to visit Wiang Kum Karn while you're in Chiang Mai. The ruins are not very spectacular, but if your teens are active types, you can put them on bikes (available from the visitors center) and let them get some exercise.

we had a wonderful trip to Ayutthaya, taking a boat from Bangkok and returning by bus (or the other way around). it's a nice way to spend the day.

The best thing about the day trip to Ayutthata is the boat trip - make sure you take it one way!

Thank you Michael, lerasp and Kathy. Kathy are the ruins not that worth while to visit?

The ruins are interesting. They aren't as extensive or dramatic as many other Buddhist ruins in SE Asia. My comment about the boat trip wasn't to imply that the ruins aren't worthwhile, but that the boat trip is a delight.

Thank you Kathie. We appreciate your responses. Only 3 weeks to go!!