Wat Mahathat

📍 Location of Wat Mahathat 🚘 Directions to Wat Mahathat

About Wat Mahathat

Sukhothai's largest temple, Wat Mahathat, is a sight to behold. Nestled behind the Royal Palace, it is a testament to the grandeur of the Sukhothai Empire. The temple features a magnificent seated bronze Buddha image, a masterpiece cast in the Sukhothai style by King Lithai in 1362. The temple complex is a marvel of the 8th century, offering a glimpse into the past and the splendor of the First Kingdom. The beauty of the complex is breathtaking, providing ample opportunities for capturing stunning photographs. It's a place that can be enjoyed by the entire family, sparking the imagination of what this grand complex must have looked like in its heyday.

Wat Mahathat is not just a sight to behold, but also a place to explore. Visitors can take a leisurely bike ride around the park where the temple is located, especially around sunset when the temple is bathed in a warm, golden glow. For a small additional fee, visitors can also opt to explore the temple grounds on a bike, adding a touch of adventure to the experience.

The temple holds a significant place in the hearts of the Thai people. Known as "Wat Mahataj", it has been an important spiritual center for centuries. It is the largest and most impressive Buddhist temple in the Sukhothai Historical Park, located in the central zone of the old walled town. The temple was the most important in the Sukhothai Empire, standing proudly next to the Royal Palace.

Wat Mahathat, which translates to "temple of the Great Relic", was founded by Sri Indraditya in the 13th century to enshrine relics of Lord Buddha. The temple was built following the concept of Mandala, an ancient Hindu symbol representing the universe. The main stupa, shaped like a lotus bud, is surrounded by smaller stupas in eight directions. Two 9-meter tall standing Buddha images, known as Phra Attharot, flank the main stupa.

The temple is also home to a unique white Buddha image in the Bhumisparsha position, which can be seen even from outside the temple. Another notable feature visible from outside is a masonry Chedi made of red bricks. Despite parts of the temple being in ruins, the temple grounds are beautifully maintained, with a tidy garden and beautiful flowers adding to the serene atmosphere.

For those staying in Bangkok for a short time, a visit to Wat Mahathat is a must. It takes approximately an hour to get from the center of Bangkok to Ayyuthaya, where the temple is located. The best time to visit is in the mid-afternoon, around 2pm or 3pm, to catch the beautiful sunset. The entrance fee is affordable, and there's also an option to get audio-guided tours. The ruins are beautiful and the structures are interesting, and it's easy to explore other areas on foot.

Visitors to Bangkok can also experience a meditation class at Wat Mahathat. The temple grounds are divided into districts, with the meditation course located in district five. There are three sessions a day in English, and participants get a private monk to tutor them. The classes begin at 7:00am, 1:30pm, and 6:00pm and last for about 3-4 hours. This experience offers a unique insight into Buddhism and the life of monks, providing a deeper understanding of the culture.

Wat Mahathat is the largest ruin in the Sukhothai historical park and a symbol of the park. It's a sight that cannot be missed, and it's featured in all the postcards due to its grandeur. It's the perfect spot for capturing the best sunset pictures, promising an experience that won't disappoint.