Wat Na Phra Men

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About Wat Na Phra Men

Nestled just outside the city of Ayutthaya, across a small bridge from the island, lies a 17th-century Wat, a temple that offers a unique experience away from the usual tourist track. This grand temple complex consists of two buildings, each with its own distinct charm. The smaller of the two is particularly captivating, housing an unusual and unique Buddha statue that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

The temple is not just a historical monument, but a functioning place of worship. It is well-maintained and in good condition, with a beautiful Buddha statue dressed in royal garb taking center stage. Visitors are reminded to respect the sanctity of the place and adhere to a modest dress code.

The temple grounds are a sight to behold. A large pond teeming with fish and tortoises adds to the serene ambiance. The main temple is a marvel, with a huge golden Buddha surrounded by intricate decorations. Miniature temples scattered around the main structure add to the overall grandeur of the place.

This temple holds a special place in the history of Ayutthaya. It is the only structure that survived the invasion, standing as a testament to the city's resilience. The temple is exquisitely maintained, contrasting strongly with the ruined structures in the rest of historical Ayutthaya. The golden Buddha inside the temple, reflecting gold, black, and red under the skylight, is a sight to behold. The temple also houses a series of votive Buddha statues in various postures, representing different days of the week.

The temple is deeply rooted in local lore and spirituality. It is said that the principal Buddha image of this temple shed tears when Ayutthaya was sacked by the Burmese in ancient history. This has led to a strong emotional attachment to the temple by the local people. The temple building itself is a beautiful example of architecture inspired by the lines of a boat. The main point of interest, however, is the stone Buddha image in the smaller shrine on the side. This unusual depiction of the Lord Buddha sitting with feet on the floor, rather than in the lotus position, is a sight to behold.

The temple, although not centrally located in Ayutthaya, is a hidden gem. It may be a bit hard to find, but it is well worth the effort. The temple houses two distinct Buddha statues, each with a unique style dating back more than 600 years. The temple is frequented mostly by Thai people, making it a great place to experience the local culture.

The temple is unique in many ways. It is the only temple in the city that wasn't destroyed by the war and is constructed in the late-Ayutthaya-period architecture style. A small vihara, or Buddhist monastery, next to the main temple houses a huge 14th-century standing stone Buddha image. This temple is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or spirituality.