Prasat Nakhon Luang — Attraction in Nakhon Luang District

Prasat Nakhon Luang & Ganesha Shrine – A Hidden Gem of Ayutthaya’s Spiritual Heritage

Historical Background Nestled in the quiet outskirts of Ayutthaya, Prasat Nakhon Luang is a unique and lesser-known royal structure that dates back to the reign of King Prasat Thong (17th century). It was inspired by the grandeur of Hindu temples in Cambodia and India, originally built as a royal residence and ceremonial space for kings traveling to important temples in the region. The architecture reflects a blend of Ayutthaya and Khmer styles, with towering prangs, red-brick corridors, and ornate passageways that echo the magnificence of the past.

Sacred Ganesha Shrine One of the most remarkable spiritual highlights here is the ancient Ganesha statue, housed within the brightly painted yellow building of the inner sanctum. This form of Lord Ganesha, the Hindu deity of success and remover of obstacles, draws devout followers who come to pray for prosperity, wisdom, and protection in business and family matters.

Despite the statue’s weathered appearance, it exudes a powerful aura of sanctity. Beneath the figure are sculpted heads symbolizing karma and wisdom, enhancing the spiritual symbolism. Devotees gently touch the deity’s feet, forehead, and hands while making wishes — a gesture believed to bring fortune and blessings.

The Beauty of the Architecture Walking through the ruins of the red-brick palace, visitors are taken on a journey through time. The arched gateways, weathered walls, narrow corridors, and cross-shaped brick ceiling domes make for a dramatic and photogenic experience. The contrast between the aging bricks and the vibrant golden-yellow paint of the shrine creates a unique harmony of decay and divinity.

The footprint of the Buddha, housed in a quiet inner room, further adds to the temple’s sacred ambiance — visitors often sit in meditation, offering coins and prayers at this peaceful spot.

How to Make a Wish at the Ganesha Shrine Light incense and offer marigolds or fresh flowers. Whisper your wish into Lord Ganesha’s ear or gently touch your forehead to his hand. Leave coins or offerings as a token of respect. Ring the small bells nearby if you wish to announce your prayer to the heavens.

Many worshippers return to pay gratitude once their wishes come true, often with offerings like garlands, sweets, or miniature elephant statues.

Getting There by Private Car From Bangkok, take Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road) and connect to Highway 32 toward Ayutthaya. After entering Ayutthaya province, head toward Nakhon Luang District. The site is clearly signposted as “Prasat Nakhon Luang” and is about 1.5–2 hours from central Bangkok by car. Parking is available at the temple.

⸻

Final Thoughts Prasat Nakhon Luang is a place where history, art, and spirituality intertwine. Whether you’re exploring the ruins, admiring the yellow stupa rising above the ancient walls, or making a heartfelt wish to Ganesha, the site offers a deeply personal and enriching experience. It’s a hidden gem well worth the journey for those seeking peace, beauty,...

Prasat ( Thai tongue means castle ) Nakhon ( means city ) Luang ( means capital ) is located on 184/1 Moo ( village ) 1, Tambon ( sub district ) Nakhon Luang, Amphoe ( district ) Nakhon Luang, Changwat ( province ) Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13260, on the east bank of Pasak river. It was built in 1604 A.D. ( 2147 B.E. ) in the reign of King Prasat Thong ( means gold ), the first king of the Prasat Thong dynasty which is the fourth dynasty of the Siamese Ayutthaya kingdom ( during 1629- 1656 A.D. or 2172- 2199 B.E. ).The purpose of establishing either temporary residence en route a visit to the Lord Buddha 's footprint in Saraburi province and used for a trip to Lopburi province or the belief of religious place in Buddhasm. In 1631 A.D. ( 2174 B.E. ) King Prasat Thong ordered to build a castle near Wat Thep ( means deity ) Chandra ( means moon ), celebrating the king 's honor due to the victory over Cambodia and taken back, the temple 's architecture imitated Prasat Sila in the kingdom of Cambodia.The Prasat ( castle ) was gorgeously yellow, mondop was built too, four Buddha footprints inside the castle, castle made of bricks and cement, surrounded by triforium in square- shaped including Prang Tidarl Prang Rai. In front of the castle is Sara ( pavillion ) Prachan ( moon ) Loy ( floating ) made of huge granite plate from Wat Thep Chandra Loy ( Wai Mai Prachum Pol is close by ), Ubosot and Prang are Ayutthaya architecture style. construction had not finished once it had started, might have been abandoned. Before 1809 A.D. in the reign of King Rama 1, Tapakhao Pin ( Mr. Pin in white outfits ), continued the construction of the palace and built the Nakhon Luang temple, four replica of Lord Buddha 's footprints in Thai style, square- shaped hall on the palace open porch. Nakhon Luang palace 's architecture is mixture of the ancient construction and modern restoration, a Thai style square- shaped building called " Mondop Prachan Loy " ( means floating moon mondop ), round- shaped two meters diameter of Dhammachak ( wheel of Buddhism ) stone was unfinished job. Prasat Nakhon Luang was registered as archaeological site by the Fine Art Department, published in the Government Gazette volume 52 chapter 75 on March 8, 1935 ( 2478 B.E.). Open every day from 0600 am....

This ancient temple is just extraordinary, which gives huge Angkor vibes due to the fact it has deep ties to the ancient empire.

Visited on Mother's Day this year which was busy, but not what it could have been. These are just some beautiful ruins that you can take lots of unique photos of as well as go up to the top to pray at Ganesha. I don't have the exact instructions on how to pray, but on the one hand will grant good fortune for work or business the other will give good health in the future. The key to making this prayer is to wish for something that can be obtainable, not something that would be impossible to gain. Before you visit the ruins you will have to pray at the temple at the entrance while you should make sure to touch the statue and make a wish for something that you can possibly obtain.

Theirs a cafe on the grounds multiple parking spots nearby, restrooms, as well as a small market area across the road with plenty of shade and food. Make sure to visit Wat Mai Pra-Chumpol วัดใหม่ประชุมพล which is just a nearby walk and just a short drive to Wat Klang วัดกลาง. It's said that if you pray at all these temples you will obtain the possible wish that you are praying for. You would just have to come back to give thanks if your wish...