King Naresuan Monument
Standing beside a lake in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Ayutthaya, this monument pays tribute to King Naresuan, one of Thailand's most celebrated historical figures, renowned for his military leadership and his role in defending the kingdom during the Ayutthaya period. The centrepiece is a large equestrian sculpture, commanding in both scale and craftsmanship, that offers a tangible connection to a defining chapter in Thai history.
The atmosphere is calm and open, with enough surrounding space for quiet reflection or a morning jog along the lake. Visitors will notice a collection of rooster statues throughout the grounds, which carry symbolic significance tied to King Naresuan's legend and lend the site a distinctive character. Stairs allow visitors to ascend for a closer look and a different vantage point. It is worth noting that English-language signage is limited, so reading up on King Naresuan's story beforehand will significantly enrich the visit.
Opening hours are not publicly listed, so checking locally before arrival is advisable. The site is best visited during the cooler months of November to February, when Ayutthaya's heat is more manageable. As a culturally significant monument, modest and respectful clothing is appropriate. The location fits naturally into a broader day trip from Bangkok, pairing well with Ayutthaya's many nearby temples and ruins.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After King Naresuan Monument, round out your day in Ayutthaya with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Temple - Wat Huay Mongkol Called the big-headed monk, this statue of the revered Luang Phor Thad is a beloved Buddhist pilgrimage site. The southern Thai monk is said to have performed miracles, such as turning seawater into fresh water, inspiring many Thais to travel here to pray. While the 12m figure's head and ears might appear disproportionately large, these features actually represent his enlightenment. The other pic of a man on a horse is a replica of the real Thai King a few generations ago Ratchapat, he was famous for enjoying roster fighting so people buy a roster statue hoping that it will bring them good luck.
The surrounding space is peaceful, and the rooster statues tell a meaningful story that adds soul to the place. This is not just a monument. It is a place that makes you feel proud, grateful, and connected to the past. A truly memorable stop that stays with you long after you leave.
Calm place, big statue, lots of toy chicken, not sure why.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 1,300 reviews on Google.
Also Popular in Ayutthaya
Ayothaya Floating Market
A purpose-built tourist market rather than a real one, but the food is cheap and the kids will enjoy it.
Ayutthaya City Park
Air-conditioned refuge with 500-odd shops, a Lotus, a Robinson and a Sizzler, all joined up under one roof.
Sriayuthaya Lion Park
A big, clean zoo with cheap feeding stations, brilliant with kids, but the animal shows sit badly with some.
Chet Sao Noi National Park
Seven gentle tiers along a shaded stream, and really only the fourth one is worth getting wet in.
King Naresuan Monument: Frequently Asked Questions
Is King Naresuan Monument worth visiting?
King Naresuan Monument holds a 4.7★ rating from 1,300 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Ayutthaya.
What are the opening hours of King Naresuan Monument?
King Naresuan Monument is open 24 hours a day — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit King Naresuan Monument?
The best months to visit Ayutthaya are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in November – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: August – October (flooding risk).
Where is King Naresuan Monument located?
King Naresuan Monument is at 9GCR+RPF, Lum Phli, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand, in Ayutthaya. Getting around Ayutthaya: Bicycle rental (best way to see ruins); Tuk-tuks (negotiate half-day rate).
Location Info
9GCR+RPF, Lum Phli, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: August – October (flooding risk)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
22°C – 38°C(72°F – 100°F)
Crowds
Peak: November – February
Getting there
Train from Bangkok Hua Lamphong (~1.5 hrs, very cheap). Minivan from Bangkok's Mo Chit (~1.5 hrs). A day trip by car from Bangkok is easy.
Getting around
- •Bicycle rental (best way to see ruins)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate half-day rate)
- •Motorbike rental
- •Boat tours on the river
Where to stay near King Naresuan Monument
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Nearby Places
Wat Phraya Maen
An off-the-beaten-path ancient temple ruin north of Ayutthaya where visitors can climb and explore crumbling structures.
Wat Phra Ngam (Portal of Time)
Quiet ruins in Ayutthaya where the light does the work, and you can turn up at dawn if you like.
Wat Tha Ka Rong
A working 16th-century monastery with robotic pandas, giant monk models and a merit-market attached.
Pridi Banomyong Memorial
A riverside memorial and former home honouring Pridi Banomyong, a key architect of Thai democracy.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Go at 08:30 or don't bother, the Emerald Buddha's courtyards fill up fast and stay full until closing.
Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.
The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.
The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.
Where to stay near King Naresuan Monument
Find hotels in Ayutthaya on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: August – October (flooding risk)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
22°C – 38°C(72°F – 100°F)
Crowds
Peak: November – February
Getting there
Train from Bangkok Hua Lamphong (~1.5 hrs, very cheap). Minivan from Bangkok's Mo Chit (~1.5 hrs). A day trip by car from Bangkok is easy.
Getting around
- •Bicycle rental (best way to see ruins)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate half-day rate)
- •Motorbike rental
- •Boat tours on the river