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San Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak

A two-floor Chinese goddess shrine within Wat Phanan Choeng, known for its peaceful spiritual atmosphere.

4.7(208)
Directions

Plan your visit

Hours
Open 24 hours daily

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.

Details

Full opening hours
MondayOpen 24 hours
TuesdayOpen 24 hours
WednesdayOpen 24 hours
ThursdayOpen 24 hours
FridayOpen 24 hours
SaturdayOpen 24 hours
SundayOpen 24 hours

Why go, and how to do it well

Situated within the grounds of the historically significant Wat Phanan Choeng in Ayutthaya, this shrine is dedicated to Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak, a revered goddess associated with love, prosperity, and good fortune. The building spans two floors, with Guan Yin housed on the first level and the principal deity, Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak, enshrined on the second. The setting beside the river adds to its tranquil character, and the site draws both devout worshippers and visitors seeking a quieter, more spiritually intimate experience than Ayutthaya's larger temple complexes typically offer.

Visitors describe a strong sense of spiritual energy upon entering, and the atmosphere reflects the genuine devotion of those who come to offer prayers and seek blessings. The shrine's location within Wat Phanan Choeng means it can be explored as part of a broader visit to one of Ayutthaya's most important riverside temples, making it a natural addition to any temple itinerary in the region.

Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Sep 2026

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Around here, on foot

Well-rated places within a short walk of San Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak, nearest first. Minutes are at an easy pace in the heat.

Experience hints

Hidden gem
Visitor favorite

Pair your visit. After San Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak, round out your day in Ayutthaya with contrasting stops nearby.

Reviews from Google

Wishing for love that keeps growing—just like my list of things I want more of, including a fatter wallet! 💕📸💰#ChaoMaeSoiDokMak Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak Shrine, located at Wat Phanan Choeng in Ayutthaya, has a captivating story. Legend has it that a Chinese emperor sent his daughter, Princess Soi Dok Mak, to marry King Sai Nam Phueng of Ayutthaya. A grand fleet was sent to escort her to the city. When she arrived, however, she only saw royal officials waiting and not the prince himself, who was still preparing. Upset by the lack of a proper welcome, she refused to disembark. When King Sai Nam Phueng finally came aboard to invite her personally, she expressed her displeasure and, heartbroken, took her last breath on the boat. Today, Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak is still believed to be a powerful deity. Many people come to the shrine to make wishes for children, success, or love, and they often see their prayers answered. Offerings of pearl necklaces, cosmetics, lion dance decorations, and other items are left in gratitude for fulfilled wishes. The legend of the "Prince of Honey Water and Princess Soi Dok Mak" is also tied to the establishment of Wat Phanan Choeng. Visitors believe that Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak can grant any wish to those who pay their respects. #AyutthayaAwe #AyutthayaAttractions

Free entry. The Shrine is next to the main building near the river. There is 2 floor. The first floor has Guan Yin, and Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak is on the 2nd floor. So beautiful and peaceful.

Beautiful place.

A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 208 reviews on Google.

8HVH+RJ4 ตำบล คลองสวนพลู อำเภอ พระนครศรีอยุธยา จังหวัดพระนครศรีอยุธยา 13000, Thailand

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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture

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.

Go Early Morning

Big-name temples are dramatically less crowded in the first hour after opening. You'll also avoid the worst of the midday heat and get softer light for photos.

San Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak: Frequently Asked Questions

Is San Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak worth visiting?

San Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak holds a 4.7★ rating from 208 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Ayutthaya.

What are the opening hours of San Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak?

San Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak 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 San Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak?

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 San Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak located?

San Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak is at 8HVH+RJ4 ตำบล คลองสวนพลู อำเภอ พระนครศรีอยุธยา จังหวัดพระนครศรีอยุธยา 13000, Thailand, in Ayutthaya. Getting around Ayutthaya: Bicycle rental (best way to see ruins); Tuk-tuks (negotiate half-day rate).

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