Wat Phra Si Sanphet — Attraction in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya City Municipality

Wat Phra Si Sanphet, “the temple of the Buddha Si Sanphet” was the most important temple in the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Being part of the Royal Palace complex, the very large monastery with dozens of structures was used by Ayutthaya Kings only; it was a Royal temple without resident monks.

In its heydays mid 17th century the temple consisted of a raised platform supporting three very large gilded bell shaped stupas and three gilded mondops, an enormous viharn enshrining a 16 meter tall gilded Buddha image, as well as dozens of smaller chedis and chapels.

Architecture of the Wat Phra Si Sanphet The monastery’s main structures are aligned East West. At the center of the Wat Phra Si Sanphet are three large bell shaped stupas (chedis) standing on an elevated platform. Next to each chedi stood a square mondop with a pyramidal roof.

The platform is surrounded by a walled and roofed gallery lined with Buddha images. East stands the massive principal viharn that enshrined the 16 meter tall gilded Phra Si Sanphet Buddha as well as two smaller viharns.

Near the East wall are an ordination hall and the Sala Chom Thong, the hall were monks studied the teachings of the Buddha.

The complex is surrounded by an outer wall with access gates at each of the cardinal directions. Lining the walls is a great number of subsidiary chedis and viharns.

History of the Wat Phra Si Sanphet The history of the Wat Phra Si Sanphet spans several centuries. The first structures were built during the 14th century. During the reign of later Ayutthaya Kings structures were added until the temple reached the peak of its glory in the second half of the 17th century.

It starts halfway the 14th century when U Thong, first King of Ayutthaya, built several chedis on the site near the Royal palace. When King Borommatrailokkanat ordered a new palace built in 1448, he converted the old palace into a Royal monastery.

In 1491 King Ramathibodi II built two large chedis to enshrine the ashes of his father and older brother. Several years later the King had a 50 meter long viharn built East of the chedis to enshrine a large gilded image of the Buddha named Phra Si Sanphet. The temple then got its present name.

Another three decades later a third chedi was constructed to enshrine the ashes of King Ramathibodi II. During the reign of King Narai in the second half of the 17th century a large cross shaped viharn named Prasat Phra Narai was constructed directly West of the central platform supporting the three stupas.

The temple was largely destroyed by the Burmese armies in 1767, leaving only its three massive...

Visiting Ayutthaya Historical Park felt like stepping into another world. If you’re even slightly into history, temples, or just wandering through breathtaking ruins, this place should be high on your list. It’s about an hour and a half from Bangkok, and honestly, the day trip is totally worth it. I went early in the morning to beat the heat and crowds, and I’m glad I did because the entire park is open-air, and it can get hot real quick.

Wat Mahathat was the first stop, and it’s probably the most iconic because of the Buddha head entwined in the tree roots. It’s as magical in person as in the photos, and there’s just something quietly powerful about it. But honestly, there’s more to Wat Mahathat than just that one photo spot. The old brick stupas, broken walls, and half-standing Buddha statues scattered around give you a sense of how grand this place once was. It’s really fun to just walk around and let your imagination run wild.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet, on the other hand, was a little more polished and structured. It used to be part of the royal palace complex and you can totally feel that “royal” vibe when you’re there. The three large chedis lined up are impressive, and they’ve been well preserved. It’s easy to see why this spot used to be the spiritual heart of Ayutthaya. I also appreciated how peaceful it was — not too crowded, lots of space to walk and take it all in without being rushed.

If you’re planning to visit, wear comfy shoes because there’s a lot of walking involved — like, a lot. Bring water, sunscreen, maybe a hat, and definitely dress respectfully. Most people rent a bike to go between the temples, and that’s probably the most efficient way to explore the park, especially if you’re on a time crunch. I just walked because I had all day and wanted to take it slow.

I also recommend hiring a local guide or at least reading up a bit before you go. Knowing the backstory really brings the ruins to life. There are signs with some info at each site, but having a bit more context makes the experience so much richer.

Overall, Ayutthaya blew me away. It’s beautiful, historical, and humbling. It’s not just another tourist stop — it actually makes you think about time, empires, and how things change. Whether you’re taking stunning photos, learning about Thai history, or just soaking in the peaceful energy of ancient ruins, this place has something special to offer. Totally one of the highlights of my trip...

Wat Phra Si Sanphet is located in the North of Wat Mongkol Borpit, formerly this place is the ancient grate royal palace. King Boroma-Tri-Loka-Nat moved the grate royal palace to rebuild in the North beside Lopburi river and dedicated this area to be temple named “ Wat Phra Si Sanphet “ in B.E.2035(A.D.1492) with the space of 1,810 rais ( 1 sq.km. =625 rais) where Fine Arts Department registered as ancient remains in B.E.2634(A.D.1991) totally area 3,000 rais. In B.E.2035(A.D.1492) during the reign of king Boroma-Tri-Lola-Nat , stupas in Langka shape (spherical pagoda shape with glass lotus base) built in line from East to West direction ( East stupa first built ),stupas containing relics of: 1.the East stupa built in B.E.2035(A.D.1492) by king Ramathibodi 2, relics of king Boroma-Tri-Lola-Nat contained, 2.the middle stupa built in B.E.2042(A.D.1499) by king Ramathibodi 2, relics of king Baroma Rachathirat 3 contained ( king Ramathibodi 2’ s brother), 3.the East stupa built in the reign of king Boroma Rachatirat 4, relics of king Ramathibodi 2, Wat Phra Si Sanphet preserved for royal ceremonies no monk resided , occasionally invited for particular rites. Ayutthaya falled on 7 April B.E.2310(A.D. 1767) the enemy fired the statue of Phra Si San Petch ( standing position),uncovered gold only axis of the statue leftover. The reign of king 1(Ratanakosin era)restored and moved to Wat Pra Chetupol-wimolmangkararam (Wat Pho, the premise of grate palace in Bangkok). Besides , there are Vihara, bell tower and Ubosot in Wat Phra Si Sanphet. ( officially open for visitors from 08.00 a.m.until 06.00p.m.(18.00) fee as followed: Thai visitors THB 10,foreigners visitors THB 50( 1USD=31.55 THB on May 11, 2019 10.15 a.m.) Totally fee(for every temple), Thai visitors THB 40, foreigners visitors THB 220 Free of charge for children, high school students and undergraduate students, Thai senior citizens (above 60 of ages). ( electric will be on service in the night time during 06.30 p.m. until 09.00 p.m.(21.00) every night for the beautiful secenery a little bit the...