A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Khao Lak vs. Ayutthaya for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Khao Lak or Ayutthaya?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Khao Lak and Ayutthaya can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a laid back, relaxed, and friendly area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a cultural, famous, and popular city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Khao Lak and Ayutthaya: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Ayutthaya?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ayutthaya. Although Khao Lak and Ayutthaya are both popular with visitors, Ayutthaya has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ayutthaya is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Khao Lak is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Khao Lak and is known for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. It is also home to Wat Chaiwatthanaram in Ayutthaya Historical Park. Khao Lak is popular for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe.

How is Khao Lak different from Ayutthaya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ayutthaya and Khao Lak. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Khao Lak or Ayutthaya?

Ayutthaya is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Ayutthaya. These large and impressive ruins are among the most visited in Thailand. This is in large part because of their easy access from Bangkok. Highlights of the historical park include Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the Royal Chapel, Wat Ratchaburana, and Vihara Phra Mongkol Bophi.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Khao Lak. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

Is the Food Better in Khao Lak or Ayutthaya? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ayutthaya is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Ayutthaya makes for a great culinary experience. The local cuisine makes use of the area's freshwater fish, green vegetables, and river prawns. Dishes often include rice noodles and a spicy sauce. There are many restaurants that cater to the tourist crowds but still serve high quality dishes.

Khao Lak has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Is Khao Lak or Ayutthaya Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Khao Lak or Ayutthaya has a better nightlife scene.

Khao Lak has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

If you're looking for night time activities Ayutthaya has a few options to choose from. There are a number of bars and nightclubs that keep things lively well into the evening.

Is Khao Lak or Ayutthaya Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is notable for its resorts. However, Ayutthaya is not a resort destination.

Khao Lak is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Ayutthaya is not a resort destination.

Is Khao Lak or Ayutthaya Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ayutthaya is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Khao Lak. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Ayutthaya is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Ayutthaya Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Khao Lak. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Ayutthaya is not a beach destination.

Is Khao Lak or Ayutthaya Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Khao Lak does not have a historic old town.

Ayutthaya is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Ayutthaya Historical Park includes 425 archaeological sites that are both inside the city walls, as well as outside.

Khao Lak does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Ayutthaya?

Ayutthaya is a great destination for shopping. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Ayutthaya is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are some great shopping areas around the town that specialize in local handicrafts such as pottery, wicker weaving, and stone masonry. Some of the most interesting places include the Ayutthaya Floating Market and the Ayutthaya Night Market.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Khao Lak. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Is Khao Lak or Ayutthaya Better for Families?

Khao Lak is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Khao Lak is a very family-friendly place to visit. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

Ayutthaya is a family-friendly area. Families will appreciate how easy it is to reach Ayutthaya from Bangkok. The historical ruins are fun for both kids and adults, but the sites are very spread out and you'll need to hire a tuk tuk to see everything. The roads can be crowded and distances far, so biking isn't recommended with kids.

Is Khao Lak or Ayutthaya Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Khao Lak makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Ayutthaya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The historical ruins make an easy day trip from Bangkok, so couples who appreciate history and iconic temples will appreciate a visit here.

Is Khao Lak or Ayutthaya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak and Ayutthaya are excellent places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Khao Lak. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

Many backpackers visit Ayutthaya. The historic temples are popular with all tourists, including backpackers who often visit as a day trip from Bangkok.

Is Khao Lak or Ayutthaya Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Khao Lak is a popular place for its public transit. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Khao Lak has a few public transit options. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ayutthaya. There are organized tours and private tuk tuks for hire that will take you to the various temples. There are also bicycles available for rent, but roads can be crowded.

Is Khao Lak or Ayutthaya a more walkable city?

Khao Lak is a moderate area for its walkability. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for its high level of walkability.

Khao Lak is generally not very walkable. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

Ayutthaya is not a very walkable area. The historic sites are spread out over a vast area and you must have some form of transportation to reach everything. Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Wat Chaiwatthanaram and Wat Phutthai Sawan are the furthest apart. Everywhere else can be accessed on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Khao Lak Worth Visiting? and Is Ayutthaya Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ayutthaya or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Ayutthaya?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Khao Lak or Ayutthaya to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Khao Lak than Ayutthaya because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 1-2 days is enough time in Ayutthaya.

Families should spend more time in Khao Lak than Ayutthaya. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Khao Lak, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Khao Lak than Ayutthaya. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Khao Lak that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Khao Lak or Ayutthaya?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the area of Khao Lak. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The city of Ayutthaya offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Khao Lak or Ayutthaya?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the serene destination of Khao Lak. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Ayutthaya is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ayutthaya, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Ayutthaya?

You'll find nightlife and food around the idyllic area of Khao Lak. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this area makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this area has to offer.

Ayutthaya is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Ayutthaya?

Khao Lak is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Khao Lak, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Ayutthaya is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Thailand, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Khao Lak and Ayutthaya, we can see that Khao Lak is more expensive. And not only is Ayutthaya much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ayutthaya would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ayutthaya and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Khao Lak would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Khao Lak than you might in Ayutthaya.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Khao Lak Expensive? and Is Ayutthaya Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Ayutthaya?

Ayutthaya has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Ayutthaya, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Khao Lak or Ayutthaya?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Ayutthaya in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Ayutthaya. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Ayutthaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Ayutthaya receives a lot of rain in the summer. Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Ayutthaya. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Ayutthaya receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In Khao Lak, it's very sunny this time of the year. Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Ayutthaya during summer. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Ayutthaya receives 176 hours of full sun in the summer.

Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Ayutthaya in the summer. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Ayutthaya fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Ayutthaya in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Ayutthaya. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ayutthaya throughout the year.

Also, November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. May to October in Khao Lak is the rainy season. Also, October to April in Ayutthaya is the dry season. May to October in Ayutthaya is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Ayutthaya. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in October than Ayutthaya. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Ayutthaya receives 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. In the autumn, Khao Lak often gets less sunshine than Ayutthaya. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ayutthaya receives 206 hours of full sun.

In the autumn, Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Ayutthaya. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Khao Lak in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Ayutthaya averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Ayutthaya in the Winter?

Both Ayutthaya and Khao Lak are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Ayutthaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In January, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Ayutthaya. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Ayutthaya receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

It's quite sunny in Ayutthaya. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ayutthaya during winter. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Ayutthaya receives 276 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Khao Lak is generally around the same temperature as Ayutthaya. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 27°C (80°F), and Ayutthaya fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

Should I visit Khao Lak or Ayutthaya in the Spring?

Both Ayutthaya and Khao Lak during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Khao Lak because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ayutthaya year-round.

November to April is the dry season in Khao Lak. May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak. October to April is the dry season in Ayutthaya. May to October is the rainy season in Ayutthaya. It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in April than Ayutthaya. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Ayutthaya receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Ayutthaya, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the spring, Khao Lak often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ayutthaya. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ayutthaya receives 262 hours of full sun.

The heat can be very extreme in Ayutthaya. Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Ayutthaya in the spring. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 29°C (83°F) in April, and Ayutthaya fluctuates around 31°C (88°F).

Typical Weather for Ayutthaya and Khao Lak