San Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak
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.
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Experience hints
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.
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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).
Location Info
8HVH+RJ4 ตำบล คลองสวนพลู อำเภอ พระนครศรีอยุธยา จังหวัดพระนครศรีอยุธยา 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 San Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak
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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 Phanan Choeng Worawihan
A working temple built round a huge gilded Buddha, still packed with worshippers rather than tourists.
Wat Rattanachai
A neighbourhood temple in Ayutthaya's historic heartland, offering a calm retreat from the busier sites.
Phet Fortress
A historic riverside fortress marking where the Pasak and Chao Phraya rivers meet in ancient Ayutthaya.
Wat Suwandararam
A late Ayutthaya-period Buddhist temple with remarkable murals, white pagodas, and deep royal history.
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 San Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak
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