Wat Mahathat
That stone Buddha head held in the bodhi tree roots is the photograph everyone comes for, and it earns the queue. But if you turn up, snap it and leave, you've missed the point. The rest of the complex spreads out around you in weathered prangs, headless statues and crumbling chedis, one of the most important temple sites of the Ayutthaya period and still, in places, an active one. Colourful shrines sit among the old stonework. Reviewers keep using the word peaceful, which is odd for a site sitting in the middle of city traffic, but that's how it reads.
Go slow. There's a lot of detail across the grounds and most of it is unshaded, so the cooler morning hours are kinder than the middle of the day. Some people bring a guide and learn a fair bit about how the temple was built and what's been done to hold it together since.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Mahathat, round out your day in Ayutthaya with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
It is an old temple from the Ayutthaya period. One of the temples that was very important in that era. It is not far from Bangkok and unfortunately, there are not many parking lots in the area and you also need to pay for the entry ticket which is a reasonable price. You will see traces of culture that remain from the past. The ruins that are still in history for future generations to learn. The prosperity of that era before it was destroyed when they lost the war for the second time. One of the highlights that tourists often come to admire is the head of the Buddha image. It is a wonder and Unseen Thailand, which is world-famous. It is caused by the roots of a large Bodhi tree that grows out to wrap the head of the sandstone Buddha image that is expected to fall during the Ayutthaya's loss in the fight. This highlight is located next to the temple near the entrance. Advice: when taking pictures with the Buddha‘s head you should be position yourself lower than or equal to the head of the Buddha image to show respect.
This temple is located right in the heart of the city, yet it feels surprisingly peaceful and calm despite the constant traffic nearby. What makes this place special is the beautiful balance between the old and the new — traditional temple architecture standing gracefully alongside modern buildings and technology. It feels like the present and the past coexist in perfect harmony. I would highly recommend stopping by to make a small offering, take a quiet moment for yourself, or simply enjoy the view of a serene temple surrounded by the busy city. It truly preserves the beauty and unique spirit of Thai culture.
I had a wonderful visit to Wat Mahathat in Thailand. The ancient stone structures, ruins, and Buddha statues look incredibly historic and beautiful. Walking around the site really makes me feel the deep cultural and historical atmosphere. At the entrance, the temple provides free umbrellas for visitors, which is extremely helpful in Thailand’s sunny weather. It even saved me when I suddenly got caught in an unexpected rain shower. Overall, a very memorable and worthwhile place to visit.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 26,049 reviews on Google.
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Wat Mahathat: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wat Mahathat worth visiting?
Wat Mahathat holds a 4.7★ rating from 26,049 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Ayutthaya.
What are the opening hours of Wat Mahathat?
Wat Mahathat is typically open 08:30-18:30 — 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 Wat Mahathat?
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 Wat Mahathat located?
Wat Mahathat is at Soi Chikun, Tambon Pratuchai, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chang Wat 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
Soi Chikun, Tambon Pratuchai, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand+66 35 242 286Visitor 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 Wat Mahathat
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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
Ayutthaya
An ancient former capital packed with remarkable temple ruins and rich cultural heritage.
Buddha Head In The Roots Of A Bodhi Tree
Iconic sandstone Buddha head cradled within ancient Bodhi tree roots at Ayutthaya's Wat Mahathat.
Wat Ratchaburana
Climb the steps into the crypt beneath the prang, and you've done the one thing Ayutthaya's other ruins can't match.
Wat Langkha Khao
A lesser-known Ayutthaya temple ruin distinguished by its striking bell-shaped chedi and quiet, unhurried atmosphere.
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 Wat Mahathat
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