Rating: 4.2/5 (5 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 09.00 – 18.00

 

Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit Ratchaworamahawihan If you like Bangkok’s “Old Town” side—where a short walk can bring you face to face with history, art, and everyday life—Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit is one of those temples that gives you all of that without trying too hard. The temple stands by Sanam Luang on Na Phra That Road, close to Silpakorn University and the Tha Phra Chan area. Put simply, it sits right in the heart of Rattanakosin Bangkok—the kind of place travelers feel they “have to reach at least once.”

 

The temple’s appeal begins with the many historical layers woven into its story. It was originally known as “Wat Salak.” Later, Krom Phra Ratchawang Bowon Maha Surasinghanat had it rebuilt during the early establishment of the capital and bestowed the name “Wat Nippanararam.” At another stage it came to be called “Wat Phra Si Sanphet.” After the passing of the Front Palace (Krom Phra Ratchawang Bowon), King Rama I renamed the monastery “Wat Mahathat.” The term “Yuwaratrangsarit” was added in the reign of King Rama V following a major restoration. So the temple’s full name is not long just by royal-temple tradition—it is long because it truly records the layers of the nation’s timeline.

 

In terms of status, Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit is a first-class royal monastery of the Maha Nikaya. In everyday terms, it is one of Bangkok’s top-tier royal temples. Architecturally, the complex often feels composed, orderly, and dignified in a distinctly courtly way. It is not about flashiness, but about a confident layout, elegant proportions, and the sense that this is a place shaped for ceremonial purpose—while still remaining a living space of devotion for the public.

 

As you walk through the grounds, the key features most often mentioned include the Ubosot (ordination hall), the Viharn and Phra Mondop complex, the Phothi Lanka Viharn (also known as the Small Viharn), and the Sri Maha Bodhi tree, which holds its own place in popular belief. The overall atmosphere is calm, well-suited to those who prefer a slow walk and careful observation rather than rushing to tick off photo spots. Most importantly, this is not merely a backdrop for pictures—it remains a temple with real roles in the city today, spanning religious life, education, and meditation practice.

 

One of the clearest ways Wat Mahathat stands out is its living connection to learning. Within the temple grounds is the Buddhist university “Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University.” It is common to see monks and novices, meditators, and everyday visitors sharing the space naturally throughout the day. The temple feels alive—not simply a tourist stop, but a place that continues to do the work of a temple, every day.

 

For those who value quiet, Wat Mahathat is also well known for Vipassana meditation activities. The temple communicates news, schedules, and guidance through its own channels. If you are visiting specifically for practice, it helps to plan your timing carefully and to observe etiquette—especially silence, modest dress, and respect for areas used for religious activities—so your visit feels more like “being with” the place rather than merely “using” the space.

 

Getting There If you enjoy the classic Old Town route, the most atmospheric way is to take the Chao Phraya River Express Boat to Tha Phra Chan Pier, then walk a short distance to the temple. Another option is to use rail transit and connect by walking or local transport into the Sanam Luang–Na Phra That Road area. It’s a neighborhood that’s enjoyable to explore on foot anyway, with a mix of university life, museums, older bookstores, and small cafes along the way. Driving is possible, but the Old Town has limitations around parking and traffic, so it’s smarter to allow extra time, park where convenient, and walk in.

 

If you only have half a day, Wat Mahathat is ideal for a smooth, walkable Old Town pairing around Sanam Luang–Tha Phra Chan. You can connect to other important sites without constantly switching transport modes. Even on a short trip, the temple still delivers that satisfying feeling of having touched the true core of historic Bangkok.

 

 

A: Yes. It is open daily, and the general visiting hours are 09.00 – 18.00.

 

A: No. Entry is free.

 

A: The classic option is the Chao Phraya River Express Boat to Tha Phra Chan Pier, then a short walk. Another option is to connect by rail or bus into the Sanam Luang area and walk from there.

 

A: The Ubosot, the Viharn and Phra Mondop, the Phothi Lanka Viharn (Small Viharn), and the Sri Maha Bodhi tree, along with the calm atmosphere typical of a top-tier royal monastery.

 

A: The temple grounds include the Buddhist university “Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University,” so the site continues to play an active role in learning and religious activities.