https://om.trip.com/moments/detail/phra-nakhon-si-ayutthaya-1187-133943455
knowKTV
levelIconIntermediate traveler

Travel Back in Time! A Stunning Encounter at Wat Chaiwatthanaram Near Bangkok

Just an hour's drive from Bangkok, you'll arrive at the hidden gem of Ayutthaya Province, often referred to as Thailand's "Mini Angkor Wat"—Wat Chaiwatthanaram! As you step through the temple gates, the towering central prang surrounded by four smaller prangs immediately captures your attention. The layered layout is strikingly reminiscent of Angkor Wat, transporting you back to the Khmer Empire. Though the prang's surface has weathered over time, the intricate carvings still showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of the past. Amid the ruins, a profound sense of historical grandeur lingers. Golden Hour Splendor! At dusk, the temple's prangs and the surrounding moat are bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, creating a golden reflection on the water that feels like a dream. Wearing a simple long dress for photos here will make you feel like you've stepped into a movie scene! Inside the temple, 120 seated Buddha statues, though incomplete, quietly narrate the story of the rise and fall of a dynasty. Outside, lush ancient trees add vitality to the scene, creating a striking contrast. Helpful Tip: Be sure to rent a traditional Thai outfit (around 100 THB) to elevate the atmosphere! With its easy accessibility from Bangkok, this short trip is absolutely worth it. Come and explore this breathtaking "budget-friendly Angkor Wat"!
View original text
*This content is provided by our partner and translated by AI
Posted: Jul 17, 2025
Submit
0
Mentioned in this post
Attraction

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

4.9/5182 reviews | Historic buildings
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
No.2 of Best Things to Do in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Details
Related Trip Moments
Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Visit the Historic Wat Chaiwatthanaram in Ayutthaya

PK Backpacker
Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Why Visiting Ayutthaya’s Temple Complex Is the Perfect Escape from Bangkok

agustintravel
Wat Phra Si Sanphet

How to Enjoy a Relaxing and Fun Day Trip to Ayutthaya from Bangkok

리제님
Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Ayutthaya Trip, dear travelers.

Inorth
Wat Chaiwatthanaram

🙏 : Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Ayutthaya tour

larcsky_journey
Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Ayutthaya Wanderings: Whispers of History, Echoes of Time

幻影旅人
Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Exploring Ancient Capitals: Temple Hopping in Ayutthaya

ともちゃげ
Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Tree Embracing Buddha Head: Siam's "Eternal Smile" Location: Wat Mahathat Legendary Story: In 1767

SilverMoon999
Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Ayutthaya: Capturing the Essence of Historical Traces

First@lala
Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Sunset at the Golden Tower Reflects on the Chao Phraya River

栗栗子
Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Beautiful temple in Ayutthaya at night✨

เที่ยวเรี่ยราด
Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Ayutthaya, Thailand: postcard-quality views at every turn

艾亞亞