Wat Thammikarat
Buddhist Temple
Wat Thammikarat is one of Ayutthaya's quieter treasures, offering a calm and atmospheric escape from the busier parts of the historical park. Dating back to the 14th century and attributed to King U-Thong, founder of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, the temple evokes the earliest years of the city's rise to power. Although partially ruined, its central prang, scattered Buddha images, and open layout make it one of the things to do in Ayutthaya for travellers who enjoy exploring lesser-known historical sites. Thanks to its location near several major ruins, it is also often visited on walking tours of Ayutthaya.
With its blend of collapsed halls, weathered sculptures, and photogenic angles, Wat Thammikarat offers a contemplative space that contrasts sharply with the grand, restored temples nearby. The temple's quiet paths and shaded areas invite visitors to slow down and appreciate the spiritual heritage that has endured here for centuries.
History and Significance of Wat Thammikarat
Wat Thammikarat dates to the early Ayutthaya period and is traditionally linked to King U-Thong, the kingdom's founder. The temple served as a centre for Buddhist ceremonies, meditation, and religious gatherings during Ayutthaya's formative years. Its proximity to the old royal precinct highlights its possible importance in the early urban landscape of the city.
Although much of the site fell into ruin over time, it preserved enough of its original structures to reveal its former prominence. The Burmese invasion of 1767 contributed to significant damage, but the temple continued to hold religious significance for local communities. Occasional ceremonies are still held today, maintaining its spiritual connection to the past.
The temple's significance lies not only in its architecture but also in its atmosphere. With fewer crowds and untouched natural surroundings, Wat Thammikarat allows visitors to experience an older, quieter side of Ayutthaya.
Things to See and Do in Wat Thammikarat
The most striking feature is the central prang, a classic example of early Ayutthaya design. Although weathered, it rises firmly above the surrounding ruins and hints at the temple’s former grandeur. Smaller chedi and brick foundations around the site add depth to your exploration, offering glimpses into the overall layout of the complex.
As you walk through the temple grounds, you’ll notice numerous stone Buddha figures and fragments scattered across the site. Some remain in meditation poses, while others lie broken among the ruins-evocative reminders of the temple’s long and turbulent history. The viharn’s remaining foundations reveal its once-impressive size, giving insight into the scale of religious life here.
Because Wat Thammikarat is less visited, it is ideal for slow photography, sketching, or simply sitting quietly beneath the trees to take in the setting. It's an excellent stop for travellers who want to balance Ayutthaya's major landmarks with more reflective locations.
How to Get There
Wat Thammikarat is located near the centre of the Ayutthaya Historical Park and can be reached easily by bicycle, tuk-tuk, or taxi from anywhere in the city. Travelling by car is convenient if you plan to visit multiple temple sites in one outing.
If arriving from Bangkok, most visitors come by train to Ayutthaya Station before taking local transport to the historical park. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
Practical Tips on Visiting Wat Thammikarat
- Best time to visit Wat Thammikarat: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and softer light.
- Entrance fee in Euros: Free or a small donation (varies).
- Opening hours: Typically 8:00-17:00.
- Official website: Refer to the Tourism Authority of Thailand for updates.
- How long to spend: 20-40 minutes.
- Accessibility: Mostly level terrain with some uneven surfaces.
- Facilities: Limited; restrooms and shops available near other nearby temples.
- Photography tip: Capture the central prang framed by trees for a dramatic composition.
- Guided tours: Includeable as part of broader Ayutthaya walking tours.
- Nearby food options: Local food stalls and cafés can be found just outside the historical park.
Where to Stay close to Wat Thammikarat
Several accommodations near the historical centre provide easy access to this temple and others. Sala Ayutthaya offers boutique riverside comfort with views across the Chao Phraya River. For a more budget-friendly stay, Ayothaya Hotel gives simple but convenient access to the park. Travellers seeking tranquillity may prefer Baan Tye Wang, surrounded by greenery and quiet paths.
Is Wat Thammikarat Worth Visiting?
Wat Thammikarat is absolutely worth including in your Ayutthaya itinerary, especially if you enjoy temples with fewer visitors and strong historical ambience. Its central prang, scenic ruins, and peaceful surroundings offer a meaningful, reflective experience that complements visits to Ayutthaya's more famous temples.
What Other Travellers Say...
Wat Thammikarat is a historic, still-functioning temple complex near Wat Mahathat that combines original ruins and replica statues with an active monastery and shrine where locals worship; visitors report free entry, available street parking and toilets, a relaxed atmosphere away from tour groups, scenes of roosters and a notable Buddha head, though access via some alleyways can feel awkward or off-putting to some.
FAQs for Visiting
Nearby Attractions to Wat Thammikarat
- Wat Mahathat: Famous for the iconic Buddha head in tree roots.
- Wat Ratchaburana: Home to a beautifully preserved prang and crypt murals.
- Wat Phra Si Sanphet: The former royal temple with three iconic chedi.
- Viharn Phra Mongkhon Bophit: Features one of Thailand’s largest bronze Buddha images.
- Wat Lokayasutharam: Known for its impressive reclining Buddha statue.
The Wat Thammikarat appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting !
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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Planning Your Visit
8.30 am-4.30 pm
Nearby Attractions
- Wat Na Phra Men (0.5) km
Buddhist Temple - Wat Phra Si Sanphet (0.5) km
Buddhist Temple - Wat Phra Ram (0.6) km
Buddhist Temple - Wat Ratchaburana (0.6) km
Buddhist Temple - Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit (0.6) km
Buddhist Temple - Wat Mahathat (0.7) km
Buddhist Temple - Chao Sam Phraya Museum (0.9) km
Museum - Wat Lokaya Sutha (1.0) km
Buddhist Temple - Wat Suwan Dararam (2.2) km
Buddhist Temple - Wat Phu Khao Thong (2.6) km
Buddhist Temple
