Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan is one of the oldest and most spiritually significant temples in Ayutthaya. Built in 1324, even before the founding of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, the temple is famous for its massive seated Buddha statue, known as Luang Pho Tho. Standing at an impressive 19 meters tall, this golden Buddha is one of the largest and most revered in Thailand. Wat Phanan Choeng is an active monastery, attracting both local worshippers and visitors who come to admire its stunning architecture and experience its sacred atmosphere.
Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan Tours & Excursions
The Basics
The highlight of Wat Phanan Choeng is its enormous golden Buddha, which is housed in a beautifully decorated viharn (prayer hall). The statue is highly respected, especially among Thai-Chinese visitors, as it is believed to bring blessings and protection. The temple complex also features intricate murals, smaller shrines, and a riverside pavilion dedicated to a Chinese princess. Unlike some of the ruined temples in Ayutthaya, Wat Phanan Choeng remains a fully functioning place of worship, making it an excellent site for those interested in Thai Buddhist traditions.
Things to Know Before You Go
As an active religious site, visitors should dress modestly by covering their shoulders and knees. The temple is open daily, and there is a small entrance fee. It is common to see locals making offerings of flowers and gold leaf to the Buddha, so visitors should be respectful and avoid loud conversations inside the prayer hall. The site can get busy, especially during weekends and Buddhist holidays. Taking off your shoes before entering the main hall is required, and photography is allowed, but flash should be avoided inside.
How to Get There
Wat Phanan Choeng is located near the southeastern edge of Ayutthaya’s historical island, along the Pa Sak River. It is easily accessible by tuk-tuk, bicycle, or motorbike from the city center. If traveling from Bangkok, Ayutthaya can be reached in about 1.5 to 2 hours by train, bus, or private car. Once in Ayutthaya, renting a tuk-tuk for the day is a convenient way to visit multiple temples, including Wat Phanan Choeng. Boat tours along the river also stop at the temple, offering a scenic alternative to land transport.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Wat Phanan Choeng is in the morning or late afternoon when the temple is less crowded, and temperatures are cooler. The months from November to February provide the most comfortable weather for exploring Ayutthaya. During Buddhist holidays and weekends, the temple is busier with local worshippers, creating a lively and authentic experience. The rainy season from June to October can bring occasional showers, but the temple remains open, and the riverside location offers a peaceful atmosphere even on cloudy days.
Day Trips from Ayutthaya
Wat Phanan Choeng is often included in temple tours around Ayutthaya. Nearby attractions include Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, known for its large reclining Buddha and towering chedis, and Wat Mahathat, famous for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots. The Ayutthaya Historical Park offers a deeper exploration of the city’s ancient ruins, while boat tours provide a relaxing way to see riverside temples and traditional Thai houses. For a more extended trip, visitors can explore the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, a beautifully preserved summer retreat of Thai kings.
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