Rating: 3.7/5 (6 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00 (hours may change due to ceremonies or temple activities; please recheck before your visit)

 

Wat Tum feels noticeably calmer than the headline temples on Ayutthaya Island, yet it has a signature feature that draws people here on purpose: “Luang Pho Suk,” a bronze Buddha in royal attire with an unusual characteristic — the head can be opened. Local tradition also speaks of a monthly head-opening observance on the 1st day of each month. Because of this, a visit to Wat Tum is not only about ordinary merit-making; it feels more like stepping into a living local temple tradition that still continues as part of the community’s real day-to-day religious life.

 

The temple stands along Khlong Wat Tum beside the Ayutthaya–Ang Thong road in Wat Tum Subdistrict. The setting feels more like a community area than a pure check-in tourist zone, so the rhythm of the visit naturally suits travelers who prefer slowing down. You can walk gently, make merit, pay respects, and take in the atmosphere of an old temple without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds often found at popular island landmarks. Early morning or late afternoon is especially pleasant — the softer light and breeze make everything feel quieter, and it becomes easier to stay present with the place rather than rush through it.

 

Historically, there is no definitive record of exactly when Wat Tum was founded or who established it. Local accounts, however, describe it as an ancient temple dating back to the period of “Mueang Ayothaya,” before Ayutthaya was formally established as the capital. The temple is said to have once fallen into abandonment around the time of the 1767 sack of Ayutthaya, before being restored again in the early Rattanakosin era. Since then, monks have continued to reside here up to the present day. In that sense, Wat Tum feels like a site layered with time — from the older pre-Ayutthaya memory of the area to the continuity of faith that followed.

 

The heart of Wat Tum is its revered Buddha image, commonly known as “Luang Pho Suk,” with an older name that is often recounted as “Luang Pho Thongsuk Samrit.” The image is a bronze Buddha in royal attire in the Mara-Vijaya posture (subduing Mara). What makes it truly rare is that the upper portion of the head above the forehead can be opened, and the topknot can be removed. Inside the head is a deep hollow, and water is said to seep continuously. Many devotees connect this phenomenon with sacredness and auspicious merit, which is why the image holds a special place in local belief and pilgrimage.

 

When you arrive, the best approach is simple: pay respects quietly, with focus, and with respect for the space. Wat Tum is an active religious site where monastic routines and merit-making continue in real time. If you intentionally come on the day associated with the head-opening observance, it is wise to plan extra time and be prepared for an atmosphere different from an ordinary day. There may be more devotees waiting to make merit or participate. Follow the temple’s guidance closely — especially regarding etiquette, photography, and keeping a respectful distance so you do not disturb others.

 

For a visit that feels complete, start by paying respects to Luang Pho Suk first to set the tone in a calm, devotional way. Then walk through the temple grounds at a pace that avoids disturbing monastic areas, and finish with a gentle walk along the canal. That canal-side moment is where you naturally pause, breathe, and let the day settle in. If you’re traveling with elders or children, bring water and wear comfortable shoes — the best temple visits here happen slowly, with attention to detail, not as a quick stop-and-go.

 

Because parts of older temple grounds and canal areas can have uneven surfaces — and may be slippery after rain — it’s smart to be mindful of your footing. Dress modestly, keep noise low, remove shoes before entering important buildings, and do not write on, move, or disturb anything on site. If there is a ceremony or a sign marking restricted areas, respect the rules of the temple first and foremost.

 

Getting There Wat Tum is on the Ayutthaya–Ang Thong road in Wat Tum Subdistrict. Driving is typically the easiest option. You can set a pin for “Wat Tum Ayutthaya” and follow the main road into the Wat Tum area, then watch for signage near the final approach. If you plan to visit multiple places in one trip, it helps to arrange your route as a loop within the same zone first, and only then move on to Ayutthaya Island — this reduces backtracking and saves time.

 

 

A: Wat Tum is in Wat Tum Subdistrict, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, along Khlong Wat Tum beside the Ayutthaya–Ang Thong road.

 

A: It is generally open daily from 08:00 – 17:00, but hours may change due to ceremonies or temple activities, so it’s best to recheck before you go.

 

A: Luang Pho Suk is a bronze Buddha in royal attire in the Mara-Vijaya posture, and it is known for the rare feature that the head can be opened. Local tradition also connects the image to a monthly head-opening observance.

 

A: Local tradition mentions the 1st day of each month, but the exact timing and format can vary, so you should confirm details with the temple before visiting.

 

A: For a relaxed visit to make merit, walk around, and enjoy the calm atmosphere, plan about 45 – 90 minutes.

 

A: Dress modestly, keep noise low, remove shoes before entering important buildings, respect restricted-area signs, and avoid disturbing monks or worshippers.