Wat Yai Chaimongkhon – 1 must-visit temple in Ayutthaya
Wat Yai Chaimongkhon is one of the famous temples in the Historical city of Ayutthaya. Also, known as Wat Pa Keaw, Wat Chao Phyathai, or Great Monastery of Auspicious Victory, the temple is an attraction for those who want to visit Ayutthaya.
Many 100-year plumeria trees planted surround the main chedi
Basic information of Wat Yai Chaimongkhon
The temple was supposed to be built by King Uthong in 1357 as a monastery for a group of monks named Pa Keaw, who were back from Sri Lanka to stay.
- Address: 40/3 Moo 3 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya (See map)
- Opening hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
- Ticket fee: 20 THB/person
What is Wat Yai Chaimongkhon famous for?
The attraction of this place lies in its history and typical temple architecture.
Built in 1357, Wat Yai Chaimongkhon was firstly named Wat Pa Keaw after the name of monks ordinating from Sri Lanka. Later on, when the group leader got appointed as Somdet Phra Wannarat, they change the temple name to Wat Chao Phyathai.
In 1592, after conquering the war with Myanmar’s King Uparat in Sapanburi Province, King Naraesua built a big chedi as the signal of his victory. The tower was constructed in a similar concept with Wat Phu Khao Thong, which was 2 km from Grand Palace. Until now, it is still unclear until now if the chedi was newly built or restored from the old one.
Known as Chaimongkhon Chedi or Chedi Yai, people combine the two names after that and create the current name as Wat Yai Chaimongkhon.
This place was abandoned after the second fall of Ayutthaya and restored in Rattanakosin Kingdom(Chakri Dynasty).
Hundreds of Buddha statues placed around the main chedi
Wat Yai Chaimongkhon is a complex of the monastery, chedi, dozens of Buddha statues everywhere. The attraction of this temple is the main bell-shaped tower with a steep stair to enter. The chedi is surrounded by hundreds of Buddha images and plumeria trees. Outside the area, on the green glass base, lies many small chedis with revealed damage making the place antique and attractive.
Visitors need to go up a steep stair to get in the main chedi
Tips when visiting Wat Yai Chaimongkhon
Always pay attention to the place manners to avoid entrance rejection
Wat Yai Chaimongkhon is a sacred place, so you should follow some temple rules to make your trip smooth:
- Do not sit/stand/climb up Buddha images/sacred places
- Dress properly
- Pay respect and be polite
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