Wat Senasanaram Ratchaworawihan
A tranquil Buddhist temple in Ayutthaya, known for its serene gardens, golden chedi, and peaceful atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tranquil atmosphere
Wat Senasanaram Ratchaworawihan
Best Time
Tranquil atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil Buddhist temple in Ayutthaya, known for its serene gardens, golden chedi, and peaceful atmosphere.
"Not as touristy as other temples but was peaceful."
🚶♀️ Peaceful Exploration
Enjoy the quiet ambiance; it's less touristy than other Ayutthaya temples. Great for reflection.
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this active temple. Essential for entry.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Reclining Buddha
Vihara
A large, serene statue of the reclining Buddha, offering a moment of quiet contemplation.
Central Golden Chedi
Temple grounds
The striking central chedi, painted gold, stands as a prominent landmark within the temple complex.
Peaceful Gardens
Temple grounds
Wander through small, tranquil gardens dotted with white chedis and observe local life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Respectful Attire is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Peaceful Exploration
Enjoy the quiet ambiance; it's less touristy than other Ayutthaya temples. Great for reflection.
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this active temple. Essential for entry.
💰 Donate to Merit Boxes
Participate in local customs by donating coins to the merit boxes.
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture the temple's beauty, but be mindful and respectful of ongoing ceremonies.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Peaceful Exploration
Enjoy the quiet ambiance; it's less touristy than other Ayutthaya temples. Great for reflection.
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this active temple. Essential for entry.
💰 Donate to Merit Boxes
Participate in local customs by donating coins to the merit boxes.
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture the temple's beauty, but be mindful and respectful of ongoing ceremonies.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Wat Senasanaram for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture, noting it's a welcome escape from the usual tourist crowds. The serene gardens and the impressive reclining Buddha are highlights, offering a chance for quiet contemplation and cultural insight into Thai funeral rituals. While not as grand as some other Ayutthaya temples, its tranquility is a major draw.
"A Buddhist temple in Ayutthaya. There a crematorium in the temple premises. There are few florists and funeral undertakers as well. On my visit to Ayutthaya I walked across this area and saw few funeral ceremonies happening. It is a great experience for me to learn the funeral rituals of another nation."
Isuru Dissanayake
"Amazing architecture. Peaceful inside the vihara. Lots of birds chirping. Tiny gardens to walk along. Chickens are playing. Making merit by donating coins to the boxes. Taking photographs are allowed."
Kantavee Wiengsima
"Wat Senasanaram Ratworawihan is located in Tambon Hua Ro, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, at the northeastern part of the Ayutthaya ‘s city island, partially encircled by Klong (canal) Pratu Ho Rattanachai and Klong ( canal) Senasanaram. Established in Ayutthaya period, in A.D. 1767 it fell into ruin by Burmese ‘s invasion, in A.D. 1863 it was rebuilt in the reign of king Rama The fifth. This active Thammayut temple consist of sermon hall and mural inside, large statue if reclining Buddha and Central Chedi painted gold, small white Chedi scattered on the side, 2 sacred Buddha images Phra Phuttha Sai-yat and Phra Inplaeng, a pulpit and teakwood boat were given by king Rama the fifth as gifts.This is the first Thammayut practice temple. For the purpose of modernization of the country, he made national reform by starting at Ayutthaya, setting the provincial center for education and administration, primary and secondary school for children, temple played the role of training the city ‘s first secular teachers and city college took over the role in A.D.1902 this is the precursor of Rajaphat University. At that time the new city’s police station, courthouse, prison and hospital were in the distance of Wat Senasanaram easy access by walking."
Payong Chatwiroon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Bangkok, take a bus or train to Ayutthaya. Once in Ayutthaya, you can hire a tuk-tuk or rent a bicycle to reach Wat Senasanaram, which is located on the city island.
Yes, it's located on the northeastern part of Ayutthaya's city island, partially encircled by canals. It's accessible by walking from other central Ayutthaya sites.
Renting a bicycle is a popular and convenient way to explore Wat Senasanaram and other historical sites in Ayutthaya.
While specific parking details aren't widely mentioned, if arriving by car or motorbike, you can usually find space nearby. Bicycles are very common.
Yes, if you're comfortable walking, Wat Senasanaram is relatively central and can be reached on foot from many other historical attractions on the island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, Wat Senasanaram is free to enter, as it's an active temple. Donations are appreciated.
As an active temple, it's typically open from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to visit during daylight hours.
No, advance booking is not required for Wat Senasanaram. It's a functioning temple, and visitors are welcome during its open hours.
While funeral ceremonies do occur, visitors are generally allowed to observe respectfully from a distance. It can offer a unique cultural insight.
The main rule is to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees. Be quiet and mindful of worshippers and any ceremonies.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally permitted within the temple grounds and Vihara.
While not explicitly stated, it's always respectful to avoid photographing people directly without their consent, especially during ceremonies.
The reclining Buddha, the golden chedi, and the peaceful gardens offer great photographic opportunities. The architecture itself is very photogenic.
Drone usage is generally not recommended at active religious sites without prior permission. Check local regulations.
Early morning or late afternoon provides softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the temple's beauty.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within the temple complex. However, you can find numerous food vendors and restaurants in the surrounding Ayutthaya area.
Expect typical Thai street food, local eateries, and restaurants offering a variety of Thai dishes in the vicinity.
While not explicitly forbidden, it's best to consume food and drinks outside the main temple areas to maintain the sanctity of the site.
Yes, many Thai restaurants in Ayutthaya offer vegetarian options. You can often request dishes without meat or fish sauce.
Tipping is not mandatory in Thailand, but it's appreciated for good service. A small amount is usually sufficient.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds, the peaceful atmosphere allows for a calmer visit. Ensure children are dressed respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) and are mindful of any ongoing ceremonies. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to Thai culture and Buddhist traditions in a gentle way.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While there are no dining facilities within the temple, you can find plenty of local eateries and street food stalls in the surrounding areas offering delicious and inexpensive Thai meals.
📸 Photographers
The temple's less crowded nature compared to other Ayutthaya sites allows for more unhurried shots. The small gardens with scattered white chedis also provide charming compositions. Remember to be respectful and avoid intrusive photography, particularly if ceremonies are taking place.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Historical Significance and Rebuilding
This active Thammayut temple is notable for its sermon hall adorned with intricate murals, a large statue of the reclining Buddha, and a central golden chedi. It also houses sacred Buddha images like Phra Phuttha Sai-yat and Phra Inplaeng, along with a pulpit and a teakwood boat gifted by King Rama V. The temple's role extended beyond religious practice, serving as a center for education and administration in Ayutthaya.
Historically, Wat Senasanaram played a crucial role in the modernization of Thailand. It was a precursor to Rajaphat University, acting as a training ground for the city's first secular teachers and later housing a city college. Its proximity to the new city's police station, courthouse, prison, and hospital made it a central hub in Ayutthaya's development.
Experiencing the Serenity of Wat Senasanaram
The presence of a crematorium within the temple premises and the occasional funeral ceremonies offer a unique, albeit somber, glimpse into local customs and beliefs. For visitors open to learning about different cultural practices, witnessing these rituals from a respectful distance can be a profound experience.
Many visitors appreciate that photography is allowed here, allowing them to capture the architectural beauty and serene moments.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit