Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
A restored Buddhist temple in Ayutthaya, featuring a grand chedi, a large reclining Buddha, and serene rows of smaller Buddha statues.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
Best Time
Cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A restored Buddhist temple in Ayutthaya, featuring a grand chedi, a large reclining Buddha, and serene rows of smaller Buddha statues.
"This place is very beautiful. The pagoda is very big. It is an old temple."
🎯 Small Entry Fee
Entry is just 20 baht, a bargain for the history and beauty! :ticket:
💧 Beat the Heat
Bring a hat, water, and maybe a small fan umbrella. :umbrella:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Towering Chedi
Central Courtyard
Climb this impressive stupa for panoramic views of the temple grounds and surrounding Ayutthaya.
Reclining Buddha
Main Temple Hall
Marvel at the large reclining Buddha statue, a serene and iconic symbol of the temple.
Rows of Buddha Statues
Pathways around Chedi
Wander through pathways lined with numerous serene Buddha statues draped in saffron robes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Affordable Entry & Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Small Entry Fee
Entry is just 20 baht, a bargain for the history and beauty! :ticket:
💧 Beat the Heat
Bring a hat, water, and maybe a small fan umbrella. :umbrella:
📸 Photogenic Views
The late afternoon light on the brick structures is stunning. :camerawithflash:
🙏 Make a Wish
There's a wishing well inside; drop a coin for good luck. :coin:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Small Entry Fee
Entry is just 20 baht, a bargain for the history and beauty! :ticket:
💧 Beat the Heat
Bring a hat, water, and maybe a small fan umbrella. :umbrella:
📸 Photogenic Views
The late afternoon light on the brick structures is stunning. :camerawithflash:
🙏 Make a Wish
There's a wishing well inside; drop a coin for good luck. :coin:
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon for its beauty, historical significance, and peaceful atmosphere. The affordable entry fee and the impressive chedi and reclining Buddha are major highlights. Some note the heat and recommend visiting during cooler hours.
"Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is perhaps the most iconic tourist attraction near Bangkok.
It takes about an hour and a half by car from Bangkok and is definitely worth the visit. Here, you can encounter the kind of scenery that immediately comes to mind when you think of Thailand. The entire site is manageable, and you can fully look around in about two hours, which is convenient.
However, viewing it in the middle of summer would be extremely challenging due to the heat, so I would not recommend visiting during the summer months.
I enjoyed being able to see several iconic symbols of Bangkok—such as the large Buddha statues and the temple complex—all in one place, and there were many excellent spots for taking photographs."
Joonyoung Kim
"Founded in 1357, this is an active temple with resident Buddhist monks. There is a large white reclining Buddha in the temple. Many Buddhists come to pay respects at this historic site.
Visitors can climb up a flight of stairs into the main temple complex where they can pray for good fortune by dropping a coin into the wishing well. The bell shaped chedi is the main attraction in this beautiful ancient temple."
Julius Tan
"A well-known temple for praying for children and fertility. Many people visit to worship, and those who’ve had their prayers answered come back to offer toys and children’s clothes in gratitude. It’s lively and full of energy — one of the most charming temples in Ayutthaya."
EISUKE IWASAKI
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a train from Bangkok's Hua Lamphong station to Ayutthaya, then hire a tuk-tuk or songthaew to reach the temple. Alternatively, many day tours from Bangkok include Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon. +1
It's slightly further out than some central Ayutthaya temples, but still easily accessible by tuk-tuk or songthaew.
Renting a bicycle or hiring a tuk-tuk for the day are popular options. Many visitors find it convenient to use ride-sharing apps as well. +1
Yes, minivans from Bangkok often stop near Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, though you might need a short tuk-tuk ride to reach the temple itself.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the temple.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is very affordable, typically around 20 Thai Baht.
No, the reclining Buddha is part of the temple complex, and the entry fee covers the entire site.
Yes, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is open year-round, but it's best to visit during cooler parts of the day.
The temple is generally open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. Some visitors mention visiting between 6 PM and 8 PM for a peaceful experience.
No, tickets are usually purchased on-site and are not typically booked in advance.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the chedi offers amazing 360-degree views. The bridge over the reservoir also provides great photo opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed within the temple grounds, but always be respectful of worshippers and sacred areas.
The late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' provides beautiful lighting on the brick structures, making it very photogenic.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules before flying a drone in the vicinity of the temple.
While not explicitly stated, always be mindful of sacred areas and avoid intrusive photography, especially during ceremonies or prayer times.
🎫 🧘 Onsite Experience
You can climb the chedi for views, admire the reclining Buddha, walk among the rows of Buddha statues, and visit the wishing well.
Yes, visitors can climb the chedi and explore its interior.
The temple is described as charming, shady, peaceful, and serene, even with other visitors.
Feeding pigeons and turtles by the water reservoir is a popular activity.
One hour is generally sufficient to tour the site.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants inside the temple itself, but many restaurants are located just outside the temple grounds.
You can find a variety of local Thai dishes at the restaurants outside the temple.
It's a good idea to have a meal or snacks before or after your visit, as dining options are outside the temple.
Yes, there are restaurants and likely some food stalls located outside the temple complex.
While not explicitly forbidden, it's generally polite to consume food and drinks outside the main temple areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the cooler parts of the day to keep kids comfortable. Bringing snacks and water is essential, and the nearby restaurants offer convenient dining options after your visit. The opportunity to feed pigeons and turtles can also be an engaging activity for younger visitors.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with other nearby temples that also have low entry fees. Pack your own water and snacks to save on costs, and consider using public transport like trains or local buses to reach Ayutthaya from Bangkok.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Key spots include the panoramic views from the top of the chedi, the serene rows of Buddha statues, and the bridge over the reservoir. The reclining Buddha also offers a striking subject. Remember to bring your camera and plenty of battery power!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Historical Significance
The most striking feature is the massive central chedi, which was later enlarged and restored. This stupa is believed to contain relics of the Buddha, making it a sacred pilgrimage site. The temple complex also houses numerous Buddha images, including a large reclining Buddha and many smaller seated ones arranged in rows, adding to its spiritual ambiance.
Visiting Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon offers a tangible connection to Thailand's rich past. The well-preserved structures and the serene atmosphere allow visitors to imagine the grandeur of the Ayutthaya Kingdom and the enduring influence of Buddhism.
Experiencing the Serenity
The temple grounds are well-maintained, with shaded areas and gardens that offer a respite from the sun. The late afternoon light is particularly praised for casting a warm glow on the ancient brick structures, enhancing the photogenic qualities of the site. Many find the atmosphere conducive to quiet contemplation and reflection.
To fully appreciate the serenity, it's recommended to visit during the less crowded hours, such as early morning or late afternoon. The quiet reverence that pervades the air, even with other visitors present, makes it a truly special experience.
Climbing the Chedi and Views
Once at the top, you are rewarded with stunning 360-degree panoramic views of Ayutthaya. This vantage point offers a great way to appreciate the scale of the temple and the historical landscape.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes for the climb, and be prepared for the heat, especially if visiting during midday. The effort is well worth the breathtaking vistas.
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