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Wat Ratchaburana
Temples & Culture
Ayutthaya

Wat Ratchaburana

4.7(2,795 reviews)

Ancient Buddhist temple remains with elaborate carvings & a restored tower & tomb.

Experience hints

Visitor favorite

Visitor Reviews

Visiting Ayutthaya was absolutely amazing! The whole historical city has such a special atmosphere — beautiful ruins, ancient temples, and so much history everywhere you look. That said, it’s huge, and many of the sites look quite similar. I wouldn’t recommend buying tickets for all of them (there are around 10–11 in total). Instead, choose 1–2 of the most unique ones — especially Wat Ratchaburana, where you can see the famous Buddha head beautifully engraved within tree roots. It’s truly unforgettable. After that, just take a walk around the surrounding gardens and open park areas — they’re free to enter, and you can see many of the temples from outside. The views are stunning, and wandering around at your own pace makes the experience even better. Definitely worth visiting, just plan smart and enjoy the atmosphere! 🌿✨

A historic and majestic temple. The central tower is stunningly beautiful and truly impressive. The inside is clean and well maintained. It’s quiet yet feels open and spacious. There’s an entrance fee, but it’s a great spot for young people to take photos. Unlike in Bangkok, the weathered state of the buildings here gives a real sense of history — very emotional and moving.

Wat Ratchaburana is an impressive historical temple with detailed architecture and a tall central prang that stands beautifully preserved. The site has a calm atmosphere and offers a real sense of Ayutthaya’s ancient history. You can even explore the crypt below, which adds an extra layer of mystery and fascination.

Location Info

9H58+FWF, Soi Chikun, Tambon Tha Wa Su Kri, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
Opening Hours
Monday08:00-18:30
Tuesday08:00-18:30
Wednesday08:00-18:30
Thursday08:00-18:30
Friday08:00-18:30
Saturday08:00-18:30
Sunday08:00-18:30

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.

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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

Moderate

Peak: November – February

Getting there

Train from Bangkok Hua Lamphong (~1.5 hrs, very cheap). Minivan from Bangkok's Mo Chit (~1.5 hrs). 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