Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
Also known as the Great Monastery of Auspicious Victory, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon stands as one of the most important temples in Ayutthaya. This religious site is marked by its towering chedi.
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is known for many names – Wat Pa Kaeo and Wat Chao Phraya Thai. When Ayutthaya was made the capital of Siam, the King chose Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon – then known as Wat Chao Phraya Thai – to be the royal temple. Unlike other temples in the island, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is an active temple where you can always find a throng of local patrons. The royal sight still bears the grandeur that it had in the past – the bell-shaped chedi, the statue of the reclining Buddha, towering statues of Buddhas, and the impressive ancient architecture of the building. People come here not only to honour Buddha but King Naresuan the Great as well. Keep your cameras, taking pictures of the Buddha statues is strictly prohibited.
Location
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is located in U-thong Road, Pranakorn Sri Ayutthaya District, Ayutthaya.
Opening Days and Hours
The place is open daily from 8:00 to 17:00.
Entry Fee and Bookings
Entrance to Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is THB 20 or USD 0.60.
How to Get There
- Board a train from Bangkok to Ayutthaya.
- You can also take a taxi from Bangkok to Ayutthaya.
- If you’re interested in a tour, you can avail of the Thai River Cruise that offers boat cruises from Bangkok to Chao Phraya. This tour makes a stop at Ayutthaya.
- Take a taxi to Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon.
Suggested For
- Solo travelers/backpackers
- Couples
- Family
- Groups
Time to Spend
Suggested duration in this attraction is 1 hour only.
Popularity and Best Time to Go
Best time to visit is between 8:00 to 10:00 and 15:00 to 17:00.
Food
For food, you can head to 29 Steak, Baan Khun Phra, Chai Nam, Krua Baan U-Thong, Malakor, and Tony’s Place.
Nearby Attractions
- Wat Mahathat
- Wat Phra Sri Sanphet
- Wat Ratchaburana
Stay
For accommodations, you can choose from The Park, Tony’s Place, Busaba, Ban U Thong, Ayutthaya Retreat, and Krungsri River Hotel. Rates range from USD 25 to USD 80.
