Wat Ratchaburana, Ayutthaya

Buddhist Temple in Ayutthaya

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Supanut Arunoprayote

Wat Ratchaburana is one of the most atmospheric ruins in Ayutthaya, blending royal history with remarkable early Ayutthaya artistry. Built in 1424 by King Borommarachathirat II, it commemorates his two elder brothers, who tragically died in a duel for the throne. Today, its elegant prang, serene grounds, and ancient crypt murals make it one of the must-see places in Ayutthaya for visitors wanting to connect deeply with the city's past. It is also often visited on walking tours of Ayutthaya thanks to its central location and rich architectural detail.

Among the ruins, the temple's central prang stands out as an enduring symbol of Ayutthaya craftsmanship. Intricate stucco work, gracefully weathered by time, blends Khmer and Sukhothai influences, and the crypt inside preserves some of the oldest surviving murals in the historical park. The temple's peaceful ambience and historical depth make it an exceptional site for anyone exploring Ayutthaya's UNESCO-listed heritage.

History and Significance of Wat Ratchaburana
Things to See and Do in Wat Ratchaburana
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting Wat Ratchaburana
Where to Stay close to Wat Ratchaburana
Is Wat Ratchaburana Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting
Nearby Attractions to Wat Ratchaburana

History and Significance of Wat Ratchaburana

Wat Ratchaburana was founded as a monument of reconciliation and remembrance after the death of Chao Ai and Chao Yi, who fought each other to claim the Ayutthaya throne. Their younger brother, Borommarachathirat II, built the temple to honour their memory and restore unity within the kingdom. This origin story gives Wat Ratchaburana a uniquely personal and emotional foundation among Ayutthaya's temples.

The central prang is a masterpiece of early Ayutthaya architecture. As the spiritual heart of the temple, it symbolises Mount Meru, the centre of the universe in Buddhist cosmology. Within its crypt, archaeologists discovered murals depicting mythical beings, floral motifs, and scenes from Buddhist cosmology-priceless artworks that survived centuries of conflict and looting.

The discovery of gold artefacts, sacred relics, and ceremonial objects during excavations further highlighted the temple's historical significance. These treasures, now on display at the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum, testify to the temple's once-great splendour and the devotional culture of the Ayutthaya period.

Things to See and Do in Wat Ratchaburana

Begin your exploration with the central prang, the temple's most striking feature. Visitors can climb part of the structure to reach the upper chambers, where weathered stucco decorations reveal artistic influences from the Khmer Empire and Sukhothai traditions. Descending into the crypt offers a rare opportunity to view ancient murals in situ-faded yet captivating reminders of Ayutthaya's early religious artistry.

Around the prang are the remains of smaller chedi, assembly halls, and walkways that once formed an elegant temple complex. Wandering among these foundations helps you imagine the temple at its height, filled with monks, pilgrims, and ceremonial life. Informational signs around the site provide useful context for understanding the layout.

A visit to the nearby Chao Sam Phraya National Museum is highly recommended, as it houses the gold treasures and relics discovered during excavations at Wat Ratchaburana. Viewing these artefacts enriches your appreciation of the temple and the cultural richness of the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

How to Get There

Wat Ratchaburana is centrally located in the Ayutthaya Historical Park, making it easy to reach by bicycle, taxi, or tuk-tuk from anywhere in the city. Travelling by car is convenient for those exploring several temples in a single day.

Visitors coming from Bangkok often take the train to Ayutthaya Station and then hop onto a local ride to the historical park. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Practical Tips on Visiting Wat Ratchaburana

Best time to visit Wat Ratchaburana: Early morning for soft light and fewer visitors.
Entrance fee in Euros: Approximately €1-€1.50 (paid in Thai Baht).
Opening hours: Generally 8:00-18:00.
Official website: Check details on the Tourism Authority of Thailand website.
How long to spend: 45-60 minutes.
Accessibility: Some steps and uneven ground; crypt access may be challenging for some visitors.
Facilities: Limited on-site facilities; restrooms available nearby.
Photography tip: Capture the prang from the front path for perfect symmetry.
Guided tours: Guides can be hired at the historical park or via local tour companies.
Nearby food options: Small cafés and street vendors can be found around the park entrances.

Where to Stay close to Wat Ratchaburana

Several excellent accommodation options place you within easy reach of the historical park. Sala Ayutthaya offers stylish riverside rooms with views of ancient ruins across the water. For a comfortable mid-range stay, Ayothaya Hotel provides convenient access to key temple sites. Those seeking a peaceful boutique retreat may enjoy Baan Tye Wang, known for its gardens and serene atmosphere.

Is Wat Ratchaburana Worth Visiting?

Wat Ratchaburana is absolutely worth visiting for its powerful blend of history, artistry, and atmosphere. Its well-preserved prang, ancient murals, and compelling royal origin story make it one of the top cultural stops in Ayutthaya and a rewarding addition to any temple itinerary.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (2,711)

Wat Ratchaburana in Ayutthaya is an atmospheric ancient Buddhist temple featuring a tall, beautifully preserved central prang, elaborate stone carvings and a restored tower with an accessible crypt below; visitors praise its calm, spacious feel, well-maintained interiors and photo opportunities, note there may be an entrance fee, and mention nearby places to eat.

EISUKE IWASAKI

2 months ago

"A historic and majestic temple. The central tower is stu ingly beautiful and truly impressive. The inside is clean and well maintained. It’s quietyet feels open and spacious. There’s an entrance fee, but it’s a great spot for young people to take photos. Unlike in Bangkok, the weathered state of the buildings here gives a real sense of history — very emotional and moving...."

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Lazizbek Ergashev

a month ago

"Wat Ratchaburana is an impressive historical temple with detailed architecture and a tall central prang that stands beautifully preserved. The sitehas a calm atmosphere and offers a real sense of Ayutthaya’s ancient history. You can even explore the crypt below, which adds an extra layer of mystery and fascination...."

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西村英明

4 months ago

"There is a sense of scale that can only be experienced here, and something that tells the story of past historical events. We are castaways adrift onan ocean of wisdom, and we are sure that we will find nourishment on this island where we have arrived...."

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FAQs for Visiting

Its central prang, ancient crypt murals, and emotional royal backstory set it apart from other temples in Ayutthaya.

Yes, visitors can climb the structure and descend into the crypt, though access may vary depending on preservation needs.

Yes, but supervision is advised due to steep steps and uneven terrain.

It is generally less crowded than nearby Wat Mahathat, especially early in the morning.

Not required, but a guide can greatly enhance the historical context and understanding of the murals.

Nearby Attractions to Wat Ratchaburana

Wat Mahathat: Famous for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet: The former royal temple with three iconic chedi.
Chao Sam Phraya National Museum: Home to the gold treasures found at this temple.
Wat Thammikarat: Known for its dramatic lion statues and vibrant spiritual atmosphere.
Wat Lokayasutharam: Features an enormous reclining Buddha statue.

The Wat Ratchaburana appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Ayutthaya!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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