Outside the city, to the west, lies this sprawling Khmer-style temple. Situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, it is also accessible by boat. Built in 1630, it was the first temple established under Prasat Thong. Its 35-meter-high central prang is typical of the Khmer style and is surrounded by eight chedis. One of these chedis contains the ashes of Prasat Thong's mother, to whom the temple is dedicated. Nestled between the river and trees, the temple is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and is ideally positioned to enjoy the sunset.

Open from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. Admission: 80 THB.

Wat Chai Wattanaram is easily accessible by bicycle. Rent one from one of the many rental shops in downtown Ayutthaya or at your hotel or guesthouse (often free of charge). Alternatively, you can hire a tuk-tuk to either just go to the temple or explore the entire complex (approximately 200 THB per hour). Since the temple is located a bit outside the city center, the journey takes a little longer, but it's manageable by bicycle. Sometimes you can also rent a scooter at your hotel or in town. River cruises, especially the sunset cruises offered by various operators in Ayutthaya, also stop there.

Wat Chai Wattanaram is a temple, and when visiting a temple in Thailand there are some rules to follow: appropriate clothing (knees and shoulders should be covered), take off your shoes when entering the building, be quiet, do not hug or kiss, do not point your feet at the Buddha statue, do not smoke.

How to get there

How do you get to Wat Chai Wattanaram? You can easily reach Wat Chai Wattanaram by bicycle. Rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in downtown Ayutthaya or directly from your hotel or guesthouse (often free of charge). Alternatively, you can hire a tuk-tuk, either just for the trip to the temple or for a round trip (approximately 200 THB per hour). Since the temple is located a bit outside the city, the journey takes a little longer, but it's manageable by bicycle. Sometimes you can also rent a scooter at your hotel or in town. River cruises, especially the sunset cruises offered by various operators in Ayutthaya, also stop there.