Wat Phra Si Sanphet – 1 important temple in Ayutthaya Kingdom
Wat Phra Si Sanphet is one of the historical sites in Ayutthaya that attracts many visitors due to its structure and historical values. Wat Phra Si Sanphet is also an important temple in the Ayutthaya Kingdom. It was a part of the Royal Palace Complex for the Ayutthaya King, so there is no monk residing in this temple.
The main area of Wat Phra Si Sanphet is home to 3 bell-shaped chedis
Basic information of Wat Phra Si Sanphet
Wat Phra Si Sanphet was first built in the 14th century and continued to be added with new structures by Ayutthaya King until it reached its heydays in the second half of the 17th century.
- Address: 9H45+77R, Tambon Pratuchai, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000 (See map)
- Opening hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
- Ticket fee: 50 THB/ foreigner; 10 THB/ Thai
What is Wat Phra si Sanphet famous for?
Wat Phra si Sanphet is known as the Temple of the Buddha Si SanPhet.
The first highlight feature of the place is the three big chedis or large bell-shaped stupas. These chedis were used to be gilded. On each chedi lie four cardinal-direction porches which protrude out from the stupa structure. Under each porch is a standing image of Buddha. In the center of each chedi enshrined a small chamber with the ashes of Ayutthaya Kings. Nowadays, visitors are not allowed to enter this area due to safety and conservation purposes.
Three main bell-shaped chedis are the highlight of Wat Phra Si Sanphet
The second outstanding feature is the 16-meter standing Buddha Si Sanphet image. It was gilded with over 340 kilos of gold and enshrined in the royal sermon hall (Viharn Luang). The hall was also named Viharn Phra Si Sanphet after the Buddha image name. The image was later ruined in 1767 during the Burmese invasion. All the gold was melted down and taken to Burma. Nowadays, only the base remains as the bronze core was taken to Bangkok and enshrined in Wat Pho.
The last-but-not-least feature of Wat Phra Si Sanphet is its architecture. The main structures are in East-West alignment. The 3 bell-shaped stupas in the center of the temple stand on a lifted ground. They are surrounded by walls and many Buddha statues to create a complex of stupas, viharns, and many chedis and chapels.
Tips when visiting Wat Phra Si Samphet.
Like all other temples in Thailand, there are some temple manners you need to follow when visiting this place to avoid entry rejection.
Always pay attention to the place manners to avoid entrance rejection
- Dress modestly
- Do not climb up/sit on Buddha image/ sacred places
- Do not bring food and drink (Water is fine)
- Strictly avoid affections
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