
Wat Yai Suwannaram Phetchaburi
A centuries-old temple showcasing exquisite Ayutthayan art, intricate wood carvings, and a sacred Buddha image.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Wat Yai Suwannaram Phetchaburi
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A centuries-old temple showcasing exquisite Ayutthayan art, intricate wood carvings, and a sacred Buddha image.
"A must-see for history lovers and photographers, offering a glimpse into the finest Ayutthayan art."

👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect for this sacred site. :pray:
🚪 Ask to Close the Door
Request the monk to close the Ubosot door for the best view of the 'Mona Lisas' of Thai art. :iphone:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ubosot (Ordination Hall)
Main temple compound
Marvel at the traditional Thai architecture, guardian paintings, and the sacred Maravijaya Buddha image.

Phetchaburi Artisan School Murals
Ubosot and Sala Kan Parian
Witness stunning depictions of deities, the Buddha's victory over Mara, and guardian spirits.

Intricate Wood Carvings
Temple buildings
Admire the detailed craftsmanship on the ancient teak wood structures, showcasing centuries of artistry.

The 'Spray' Doorway
Entrance to main temple compound
Experience a unique entry point, a testament to the temple's history and preservation efforts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Artistry
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect for this sacred site. :pray:
🚪 Ask to Close the Door
Request the monk to close the Ubosot door for the best view of the 'Mona Lisas' of Thai art. :iphone:
🚶 Explore for Free
Admission is free, making it an accessible historical and cultural experience. :moneywithwings:
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Ample parking and stunning details make it ideal for capturing beautiful shots. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect for this sacred site. :pray:
🚪 Ask to Close the Door
Request the monk to close the Ubosot door for the best view of the 'Mona Lisas' of Thai art. :iphone:
🚶 Explore for Free
Admission is free, making it an accessible historical and cultural experience. :moneywithwings:
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Ample parking and stunning details make it ideal for capturing beautiful shots. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Immerse yourself in the history; the narratives shared add depth to the visit. :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Wat Yai Suwannaram as a fascinating, well-preserved ancient temple, often surprised by its lack of tourist crowds. It's lauded as a must-see for history lovers and photographers, offering a glimpse into the finest Ayutthayan art and architecture. Some note the unique entry and the importance of requesting the Ubosot door be closed to fully appreciate the murals.
"Fascinating ancient temple, over400 years old. Very well preserved. Im surprised that it’s not discovered that much by tourists, it’s a must see location for history lovers. Also great location for photographers… there is plenty of spaces for parking so it’s quite convenient"
oytun
"This is one of the oldest and most beautiful Temples in Phetchaburi dating back to the Ayutthaya Kingdom period. Lovely old wooden buildings make up a part of this site. The main enclosed Temple compound mustn't be missed, only one way in through a "spray" doorway for decontamination. Inside the main Temple make sure they close the tall wooden door so you can see the beautiful guilded artwork and carving."
Miles Macdonald
"Explored the captivating Wat Yai Sunnawaram, an architectural gem hailing from the Ayutthaya era, with a venerable history spanning 665 years. The temple’s alluring teak wood architecture lends it an enduring charm, inviting visitors into a journey through time.
Delving into its history, the door reveals a gripping tale of resilience. During a Burmese invasion, soldiers attempted to breach it, driven by the desire to access the treasures stored by the last Thai king of the Ayutthaya era. Despite wielding an axe, they only managed to create a hole, approximately the size of a feet 38, as evidenced in my video. Below the hole, a distinctive crack runs down the door, underscoring its steadfast strength. According to the monk, the treasures within remained untouched, believed to be under the protection of the Buddha enshrined within the temple.
Adding to its historical significance, Wat Yai Sunnawaram became a temporary sanctuary for King Rama IX upon his passing, housing his revered remains before the solemn ceremony of cremation. This temple stands as both a guardian of the past and a witness to the contemporary rites of royalty.
Exploring this temple was a true privilege, and the narratives shared took me on a captivating journey, immersing me in a world from nearly 300 years ago. The depth of history and cultural tales added an extra layer of appreciation to the visit."
Kenze P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Yai Suwannaram is located in Phetchaburi city. You can reach it by local transport like songthaews or taxis from the city center. If driving, there is ample parking available, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Yes, it's a well-known temple within Phetchaburi and is generally easy to locate using GPS or by asking locals for directions.
For exploring multiple temples like Wat Yai Suwannaram, renting a scooter or hiring a local driver for the day can be efficient. Songthaews are also a budget-friendly option for getting around the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Wat Yai Suwannaram is free, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.
While specific hours can vary, temples in Thailand are generally open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours to best appreciate the architecture and art.
Since there is no entrance fee, advance booking is not required. You can visit anytime during its operating hours.
The 'spray' doorway is a unique, preserved entrance to the main temple compound. It's a historical feature that adds to the temple's ancient charm and emphasizes its well-maintained condition.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most areas of the temple grounds. However, always be respectful and check for any specific signage regarding photography inside the Ubosot or sacred areas.
The intricate murals inside the Ubosot (especially when the door is closed), the detailed wood carvings on the ancient buildings, and the unique 'spray' doorway are excellent subjects for photography. The temple grounds also offer picturesque views.
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for photography. The softer light during these times can enhance the colors of the murals and the textures of the wood carvings, and there will be fewer people around.
While not explicitly mentioned, it's generally advisable to avoid drone photography at religious sites in Thailand unless you have explicit permission, as it can be disruptive and disrespectful.
🎫 🏛️ History & Art
Wat Yai Suwannaram is a very old and historic temple, dating back to the Ayutthaya Kingdom period, with some sources indicating it's over 665 years old.
The murals are considered fine examples of the Phetchaburi artisan school and depict themes like 'Thep Chumnum' (Gathering of Deities), 'Mara Phachon' (Buddha's Victory Over Mara), and 'Arak' (Guardian Spirits). They are often referred to as the 'Mona Lisas' of classical Thai art.
The temple features traditional Thai-style architecture, with notable elements like the brick and plaster Ubosot, delicate guardian paintings on the facade, and charming old wooden buildings.
During a Burmese invasion, soldiers attempted to break down the Ubosot door to access treasures. Despite their efforts with an axe, they only managed to create a hole and a crack, showcasing the door's strength and the treasures' protection.
The principal Buddha image is in the Maravijaya posture, symbolizing the Buddha's victory over Mara. It is enshrined on a pedestal and is considered a magnificent and sacred image.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to dress modestly to respect the temple's sacred nature. The unique 'spray' doorway can be a point of interest for kids, sparking curiosity about its history. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to Thai culture and history in a tangible way, far from a textbook.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss the chance to ask a monk to close the Ubosot door for a truly special photographic moment, revealing the famed 'Mona Lisa' murals. The 'spray' doorway also offers a distinctive framing opportunity. Be mindful of respectful photography practices, especially within sacred areas.
🏛️ History Buffs
Delve into the stories behind the temple, from its ancient defense against invaders to its role in royal ceremonies. The well-preserved teak wood buildings and the historical significance of the Ubosot, including the story of its damaged door, provide a rich tapestry of historical context. This is a place where history truly comes alive.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of the Phetchaburi School
The ordination hall (Ubosot) itself is a masterpiece of traditional Thai architecture, constructed from brick and plaster. Its front facade is adorned with delicate and elegant guardian paintings, and the side walls are solid, adding to the hall's imposing presence. Inside, the Maravijaya posture Buddha image is a focal point, seated majestically on a Chukchi pedestal. The combination of architectural brilliance and artistic expression makes Wat Yai Suwannaram a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.
A Glimpse into Ayutthayan History
Beyond its ancient past, Wat Yai Suwannaram also holds a more recent historical significance. It served as a temporary sanctuary for King Rama IX's revered remains before his cremation ceremony. This dual role—as a guardian of ancient history and a witness to royal rites—adds a profound layer to the temple's narrative. Exploring its grounds offers a captivating journey through nearly 300 years of history and cultural tales.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit