Wat Phra Sri Sanphet

Hours (Open/Closed) Monday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Tuesday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Wednesday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Thursday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Friday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Saturday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Sunday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

📍 Location of Wat Phra Sri Sanphet 🚘 Directions to Wat Phra Sri Sanphet

About Wat Phra Sri Sanphet

Wat Phra Si Sanphet, a temple ruin in Ayutthaya, is a sight to behold. Constructed in 1448 A.D. during the reign of King Boromtrilokanath, it stands as the largest temple ruin in the area. Its unique feature is the three large stupas that stand alongside each other, a testament to the grandeur of the past when these structures stood tall and proud. The stupas are generally in good condition, making them a popular spot for photography.

The temple is situated on a large open ground, surrounded by multiple stupas. Visitors should be aware that the area can get quite hot and lacks shade from midday. However, the beauty of the temple and its surrounding structures make it well worth a visit. It's a short walk from the road and has royal chambers nearby, which are more noticeable from the road. Visitors are advised to bring a hat and a camera to capture the stunning views.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet is not just a temple, but a piece of history. It was the holiest temple on the site of the old Royal Palace in Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya. In 1350, King Ramathibodi I ordered the construction of a royal palace in the same area. The palace was completed in 1351, and Ayutthaya was established as the capital of his Kingdom. In 1448, a new palace was built to the north, and the old palace grounds were converted into a holy site.

In 1499, the Royal Chapel was built on the palace grounds. This temple was built for private royal use without resident monks. King Ramathibodi II ordered the making of a massive 16 meters tall Buddha image of bronze, covered with more than 340 Kg of gold. This statue, called “Phra Si Sanphetdayan”, and the temple was named Wat Phra Si Sanphet, “temple of the Buddha Si Sanphet”. Unfortunately, during the Burmese invasion, it was destroyed and its surface gold was melted and taken to Burma.

At the center of the temple are three large bell-shaped stupas (chedis) standing on an elevated platform. Next to each chedi, stands a square mondop with a pyramidal roof. The sharp-pointed Chedis give the temple a mysterious aura, different from other temples. There's a staircase in the Chedi’s surface for going up the chedi, making it one of the only temples in the park that you’re allowed to climb. This makes it a very popular spot for photography in the historical park.

The temple is about 900 meters from Wat Mahathat and Wat Ratchaburana. It is open for visitation from 08.30 - 16.30. There is a light opening to see the archaeological site from around 19.30 - 21.00. Admission fees vary for Thai people and foreigners, with children, students, and admission fees being free.

If you visit Ayutthaya, Wat Phra Si Sanphet is a must-see. It’s a big facility where you can see many different structures, but the highlight is undoubtedly the three chedis. This temple will not disappoint and is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.