Wat Mahathat (Temple of the Great Relic)

Temple in Bangkok

Wat Mahathat Bangkok

Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit is a prominent Buddhist temple located in Bangkok, Thailand. It holds the distinction of being one of the ten royal temples of the highest class, reflecting its importance in Thai religious and cultural life.The temple’s origins date back to the Ayutthaya period (1351–1767), where it was originally known as Wat Salak. When Bangkok became the capital of Siam, the temple was strategically positioned between the Grand Palace and the Front Palace, the residence of the vice-king. This prime location made it a key site for royal ceremonies and funerals. Over the centuries, the temple has undergone various renovations and upgrades, with successive Thai kings raising its status. In 1803, the temple was officially named Wat Mahathat of Bangkok, and in 1996, it was given its current name. Today, it is also home to the Vipassana Meditation Center, where visitors can practice insight meditation.

Originally constructed to enshrine a Buddha relic, Wat Mahathat is one of Bangkok’s oldest temples, nestled amidst a confusing maze of schools, offices, and other buildings. Upon arriving at the entrance to the inner courtyard, you’ll find the door closed, its purpose being to block out the surrounding noise. Inside, the courtyard is filled with a collection of statues and relics, with an unexpected garden of towering palm trees positioned at the back, creating a serene contrast against the bustling urban backdrop.

The temple grounds also house Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Thailand’s oldest institution of higher learning for Buddhist monks. Established in 1889, the university is a leading center for Buddhist education and offers a range of faculties, including human sciences, social sciences, an international program, and graduate studies. By 1997, the university became a public institution, further cementing its status as an integral part of Thailand’s academic landscape.

The Wat Mahathat (Temple of the Great Relic) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bangkok!

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Visiting Wat Mahathat (Temple of the Great Relic)

Address: Tha Suphan Alley, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand

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