Wat Tako Luang Pho Ruay
The chickens are the thing people remember. Hundreds of figurines, left as offerings, scattered across a temple built in tribute to a much-loved monk who has since passed. Head for the pond and the two long dragon sculptures, then wander. The grounds split roughly into older and newer buildings, with mature trees and shade throughout, and it stays quiet in a way the heritage sites nearer central Ayutthaya simply don't.
This is a working merit-making temple first and a sight second, which is exactly why I'd send you. Plenty of Thai worshippers, few coachloads. Entry is free, parking is free if you drive, and there are food stalls nearby if you turn up hungry. If you're already heading to the lion park, it's two minutes down the same road, so pair them.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Tako Luang Pho Ruay, round out your day in Ayutthaya with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Wat Tako is a beautiful and serene temple that truly captures the spirit of Ayutthaya’s traditional architecture. The grounds are peaceful and well-maintained, with plenty of shaded areas that make it a pleasant spot to walk around and reflect. It’s also a popular destination for those interested in spiritual practices and making merit — a favorite among locals and “faith-seekers” alike. Whether you’re visiting for cultural appreciation or spiritual reasons, Wat Tako is definitely worth a stop.
A peaceful, quiet and well maintained temple. If you are going there without driving. You have to reserve a taxi to bring you back as this area is not easy to get a transport back.
This is a must visit attraction if you are heading to the lion park - it’s only 2 minutes drive away on the same road
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 15,536 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.
Wat Tako Luang Pho Ruay: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wat Tako Luang Pho Ruay worth visiting?
Wat Tako Luang Pho Ruay holds a 4.7★ rating from 15,536 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Ayutthaya.
What are the opening hours of Wat Tako Luang Pho Ruay?
Wat Tako Luang Pho Ruay is typically open 08:00-17:00 — 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 Tako Luang Pho Ruay?
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 Tako Luang Pho Ruay located?
Wat Tako Luang Pho Ruay is at 31 2 Tambon Don Ya Nang, Amphoe Phachi, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13140, Thailand, in Ayutthaya. Getting around Ayutthaya: Bicycle rental (best way to see ruins); Tuk-tuks (negotiate half-day rate).
Location Info
31 2 Tambon Don Ya Nang, Amphoe Phachi, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13140, Thailand091 444 5492wattako.com/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
Where to stay near Wat Tako Luang Pho Ruay
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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.
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 Tako Luang Pho Ruay
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