Ayutthaya is an old city in Thailand and owns hundreds of centuries-old Buddhist temples. Some of these temples have become ruins, while others are still standing. When you are in Ayutthaya, visiting these temples is a must. But, if you don't have enough time to admire the elegant structural design of each temple, you must explore Wat Ratchaburana.
Wat Ratchaburana was constructed in the 15th century. The temple is popular for its stunning intricate murals, prang, and underground crypt. You can find it beside the Wat Mahathat and visit it any day of the week.
Are you curious to learn more about this old temple? Continue to read, as we will tell you everything you need to know before exploring the temple!
Know About Wat Ratchaburana, Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya, one of Asia's wealthiest towns, owns several royal palaces, temples, and pavilions. Wat Ratchaburana is a well-known temple you can explore in Ayutthaya. The temple was built in remembrance of two rulers who died fighting for their rule after the death of their father. Prang, or tower, is the temple's most notable feature. Buddhist and Hindu architectural styles inspire its complex designs.
Best Things To See At Wat Ratchaburana
Like many other places, there are many things to see at WatRatchaburana. These are:
- The Eye-Catching Five-Tier Tower.
- Two Old Buddha Statues, One Sitting and One Standing.
- Take the 3 Steps Up to the Main Hall.
Best Time to Visit Wat Ratchaburana, Ayutthaya?
November to February is the only period with significantly less rainfall and pleasant weather. Therefore, it is the best time to visit Wat Ratchaburana. The busiest month of the year is January. Therefore, the hotels and other affordable lodging options were slightly expensive then. The March, April, and May are the warmest months. The time from June to September is regarded as windy and off-season.
How To Reach Wat Ratchaburana, Ayutthaya?
If you want to see Wat Ratchaburana and don't know how to reach there, below is the route you will follow:
- Since Ayutthaya is located about 85 kilometers north of Bangkok, you have three options: train, bus, or private vehicle rental, depending on the amount of time and money you have.
- You can travel straight to Ayutthaya from Sukhothai by bus, which takes around six hours.
- After reaching Ayutthaya, cycling will be far more enjoyable, and easiest to explore Wat Ratchaburana.
- Scooters are another excellent way to get from the town center to Wat Ratchaburana.
- You can take a boat to the old town from the train station and reach Wat Ratchaburana.
- You can reach Wat Ratcchaburana by Tuk Tuk; the part is that you will not need any map to reach there.
Tips For The Visitors
Below are the tips that can make your trip to the temple memorable:
- Going around the temple and climbing the steep steps will be difficult and exhausting. Therefore, the best time to visit the temple is between November and January when the weather is optimum.
- Bring cash because most temples and Wats are not free to visit.
- Carrying drinking water and protecting the head with a cap or umbrella from direct sunlight is necessary.
- Don't forget to try the region's characteristic meal, kuay tiao ruea, or a bowl of boat noodles when you are there.
- Only some locals may speak or understand English. Therefore, before you visit WatRatchaburana, arrange a translator for better communication.
- When visiting sacred sites, dress appropriately, and don't forget to cover your shoulders and knees.
What Can You Visit At Ayutthaya?
Along with Wat Ratchaburana, the other temples, and places you can explore in Ayutthaya include:
- One of Ayutthaya's stunning temple structures, Wat Chai Watthanaram, is surrounded by lovely grassy areas where kids can play.
- Another must-see temple in the town is Wat Phra Mahathat, known for its captivating vantage points, with the Buddha's head encased in a tree's trunk and roots.
- Wat Yai Chai Mongkol is another unique place to explore. You can find a Buddha statue at its main gate and four smaller pagodas at the corners.
- The other popular temples in Ayutthaya to explore are Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Phra Kaew, and Wat Phra Si Sanphet.
- The Phra Buddha Saiyart, a massive east-facing Buddha image measuring 37 meters in length and 8 meters in height, is present in Wat Lokayasutharam. It is a popular place to explore where the sculpture's legs cross over, and its head sits on a hotel.
- Wat Na Phra Meru is another must exploring the place. The main Buddha image and the historical painting are popular tourist destinations you can see there.
- Wat Phanan Choeng is the major reason for the popularity of the historical park of Ayutthaya. The main tourist destination is Luang Pho Tho, a 19-meter-tall gigantic statue of Lord Buddha. Do not sit on the elevated area as the statue is situated there.
- The primary reason to visit Ayutthaya is its temples. But, the night market is equally popular, where you can taste various street food. So, when you get tired after exploring the temple and other historical spots all day, take some time at night and visit the market. There, you can move from one stall to the other and will find a different taste and dish. A visit to this night market will be a treat to your taste buds!
Conclusion:
Ratchaburana, one of the largest central prang, has been built in a very different style, which makes it unique from other temples. Also, you can find the large statues and carvings on each side of the temple. Climb up the stairs to visit the temple from inside. The temple remains open throughout the week, and you can go there anytime easily.
Remember that a day or two would not be enough to explore the Ayutthaya. You can explore the ruins, learn more about the history, and, most importantly, visit Wat Ratchaburana. So, plan a trip for a week or two to explore everything in a better way!
