What are the most beautiful temples to visit in Ayutthaya ?

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, better known as Ayutthaya, is an ancient and modern city located 85 km in the North of Bangkok. Founded in 1330 by King Ramathibodi I, the historical city of Ayutthaya has become the capital of its kingdom. We have selected for you the 5 most beautiful temples that you must visit during your stay in Ayutthaya!

1. Wat Phra Sri Sanphet

Wat Phra Si Sanphet was the holiest temple on the site of the former Royal Palace in the ancient Thai capital of Ayutthaya until the city was completely destroyed by the Burmese in 1767. The latter was considered to be the biggest and also the most beautiful temple of Ayutthaya, and it has even served as a model for the famous Wat Phra Keow situated in Bangkok.

Admission: 50 bahts

2. Wat Mahathat

Located in the heart of Ayutthaya, Wat Mahathat is one of the most important centers to study Buddhism and practice meditation at the same time. Although the majority of programs are in Thai, it is possible to find some in English. The temple has become a famous place to learn the Vipassana Meditation, an ancient meditation technique from India and rediscovered more than 2,500 years ago by Gautama Buddha. These courses are given almost every day from 7am to 10am, from 1pm to 4pm and from 6pm to 8pm.

Admission: 50 bahts

3. Wat Yai Chai Mongkol

Located a few kilometres South East of Ayutthaya, Wat Yai Chai Mongkol is a temple built in 1592 by one of the greatest kings of Ayutthaya, Nareusan the Great. Today, it has become one of the most important and the most popular historical temples of the city attracting a large number of tourists from all over the world.

Admission: 50 bahts

4. Wat Lokayasutharam

Wat Lokayasutharam is located in the Prathoochai district, behind the Old Palace and Prathoochai Primary School. It is possible to take pictures in front of the impressive statue of a Buddha lying on the ground, the Phra Buddhasaiyart. Measuring more than 37 meters long and 8 meters high, the structure was built mainly of bricks and cement.

Admission: free

5. Wat Phu Khao Thong

Wat Phu Khao Thong, also called the Golden Mount, is a temple built by King Ramesuan in 1395. Measuring about 80 meters high, the point of Wat Phu Khao Thong was made up of 2 kilograms of gold. Concerning the architecture, its base was inspired by the burman style, while the upper parts were inspired by the style of Ayutthaya.

Admission: free

For more information about the history of Ayutthaya : click here