Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit, located in Naresuan Rd, Pratu Chai Subdistrict, Thailand, is a significant cultural site renowned for its stunning architecture and the majestic seated Buddha statue. Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere, marvel at exquisite craftsmanship, and explore the rich history that defines this remarkable temple.
Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit stands as a testament to Thailand’s rich spiritual heritage, attracting tourists and locals alike to its tranquil grounds. Nestled on Naresuan Rd in the Pratu Chai Subdistrict, this impressive temple is known for housing one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the country, measuring an astounding 9 meters in height. The temple’s architecture blends traditional Thai design elements, such as intricate murals and ornate decorations, that reflect the artistic prowess of previous generations. Visitors to Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit can enjoy a peaceful environment conducive to reflection, prayer, and photography, making it an ideal spot for cultural exploration. The site is frequently visited by those eager to learn about Buddhism and its significance in Thai culture, providing an authentic glimpse into the spiritual life of the region. With its welcoming ambiance, stunning visual displays, and historical importance, Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit promises an enriching experience for all who seek to understand the depth of Thailand’s religious architecture in a serene setting.
Attractions
6 miles
0.00 miles
0.07 miles
0.20 miles
0.25 miles
0.29 miles
0.30 miles
0.39 miles
0.42 miles
0.48 miles
0.50 miles
Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit is perched on a picturesque hilltop overlooking Naresuan Rd Pratu Chai Subdistrict, 13000, Thailand
We visited this Wat, after completing our tour of Wat Phra Si Sanphet. Both of this site, are located next door to each other. There is no admission fees /ticket to enter this place. This is an active temple and was busy when we visited, as there were large number of devotees. You need to remove your Shoes to enter the building, dress discreetly and not point your feet’s towards the Buddha. The centre of attraction here is a large bronze seated Buddha image, which is one of the biggest in Thailand.We spend about 40 minits in this place.
This temple has one of the largest bronze Buddha idols in Thailand and I had visited the same during my sightseeing in Ayuthaya. The Buddha can be found here in a peaceful sitting posture and the total height of the image is almost 17 meter. This place is located right next to the UNESCO world heritage site of Wat Phra Sri Sanphet.This is an active temple thronged by devotees.
You will probably visit the place just because it’s close to Wat Mahathat, as it was for me. It nice, but definitely not must-see location.
Phra Mongkhon BoPhit is one of the largest bronze Buddha images in Thailand and is housed in a wihan. It dates from the 15th Century. The lap of the image is 9.55 metres wide, the image height is 12.45 metres, the base is 4.50 metres high and the total height of the image is 16.95 metres high.You can walk all the way around the Buddha and it is also surrounded by many other Buddhas.It is located next to Wat Phra Sri Sanphet which is a must see.
Because of the corona virus the site was very quiet with very few tourists. Which although not good for Thailand’s tourist industry meant we didn’t have to fight with hordes of other tourists to get round and get some great pictures. This was one of the first working temples we had seen and been into. Although not the most impressive was still worth the time.
Wat Mongkhon Bophit is a very beautiful temple. The weather is not very hot if you come in the morning. People come to see the beauty of the old temple.
If you are in Ayutthaya City, you must visit this temple (free). The Buddha is huge within inside. It’s very beautiful in the evening. You can walk around some ruins to the right (50 baht for foreigners) and 10 baht for Thais.
It’s a still functioning temple. The building is beautiful and exotic. The area surrounding it is also well managed and clean.
We were visiting Wat Phra Si Sanphet and had walked past this temple and popped by. It houses Phra Mongkhon Bophit, one of the largest bronze Buddha images in Thailand which is believed to be constructed during the early Ayutthaya period (1448 to 1602 AD). The temple also shows images of the restoration and the history of the statue, among others. We would recommend a visit if you are around the area.
As it is next door to Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, you will inevitably go here. Nice to spend some time here or grab a soda nearby. Otherwise nothing much. The real treasure awaits next door.
When we were there in 2024/11, the famous huge 12 metre bronze statue of the Great Buddha was under renovation, so we couldn’t see it, the view was obscured by large tarpaulins… a great pity.The temple was badly damaged during the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767. It was only rebuilt in the 20th century at the instigation of the King of Thailand, giving it its present magnificent appearance. Queen Sirikit contributed to the reconstruction of Wiharn Phra Mongkhon Bophit in 1956. This restoration was part of a wider effort to preserve and restore Thailand’s historical sites damaged during the Burmese invasion of 1767. The Queen’s contribution was an important step in the restoration of this important religious site, which has since become a tourist attraction and spiritual centre.It is built in a traditional Thai style, combining elements of religious and royal architecture. Its exquisite details and grandeur reflect the importance of the site.We were there with a Thai guide… who showed us the traditional wand divination known as Siem Si. In this method of divination, wooden sticks with numbers on them are held in a bamboo cylinder. The sticks are rattled gently until one falls out. The number on the dropped stick corresponds to the divination card containing the prediction or advice. We received the slip from the lady who collected the voluntary donations.This method of divination is popular in Thailand and other parts of Southeast Asia, and although it is considered more of a fun tradition than serious prophecy, many visitors enjoy it as part of the cultural experience.At Wiharn Phra Mongkhon Bophit, there is a tree on which visitors hang their divination cards when a bad or unwanted prediction is made. This custom is meant to symbolise leaving negative things behind and leaving them to fate or nature. Hanging a leaf on a tree is seen as a way of getting rid of bad luck and hoping for a better future. A piece of paper with a bad hanging should not be taken home.This act is part of traditional Thai culture and spiritual practices, where it is believed that bad omens can be alleviated or changed in this way.Visitors often come to pray for good luck, health and success.A traditional wooden bell can also be seen as you enter the temple. These bells are common in Thai temples and are often used instead of metal bells. Wooden bells, known as ‘phuang malai’, are used to mark the beginning or end of prayers and rituals.These bells have a symbolic meaning and their sound has a purifying and protective effect according to Buddhist traditions. Wooden bells can be decorated with beautiful carved designs and are considered an important part of temple decoration.During various Buddhist festivals, such as Songkran (Thai New Year) or Visakha Bucha Day (celebrating the birth, enlightenment and death of the Buddha), large ceremonies and processions are held here, attracting many devotees and tourists.
A great place to visit and soak 8n the history. Was a bit disappointed that the temple was under renovation so could not see the majestic Buddha but the atmosphere was electric.