Rating: 4/5 (4 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: Approximately 07:30 – 18:00 (hours may change according to the temple’s announcements)

 

Wat Tha Ka Rong is an old riverside temple along the Chao Phraya River in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. It is located in the Ban Pom area, outside the western side of Ayutthaya Island. What stands out about this temple is its relaxed, easygoing atmosphere — a place where visitors can comfortably come to pay respect, admire riverside architecture, and then continue on to explore the floating market within the same area. It is ideal for those who want to experience Ayutthaya without rushing between many locations, while still enjoying both historical ambience and the everyday life of a riverside community.

 

From a historical perspective, Wat Tha Ka Rong is situated within Ayutthaya’s broader riverside landscape, an area that once held strategic importance. Waterways were the main lifelines of the city and crucial routes for troop movements. Public historical records indicate that the temple existed before 1549 CE (B.E. 2092) and is mentioned in various chronicles across different periods. At the same time, local oral traditions suggest that it was built during the reign of King Chairachathirat.

 

One of the narratives that frequently brings attention to the temple relates to the final years of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, when Burmese forces advanced toward the city. Several historical accounts and chronicles describe the temple area and its surroundings as having been used as a military encampment and artillery position to pressure the city’s defenses. The name “Ne Myo Thihapate” often appears in Thai accounts related to the fall of Ayutthaya. The key point to remember is that the peaceful temple grounds where visitors now come to pray or take photos by the river once served as the backdrop for intense and dramatic historical events.

 

Upon entering the temple’s main area, the highlight for worshippers is the principal Buddha image in the ordination hall, commonly known as “Luang Pho Yim,” whose official name is “Phra Phuttha Rattanamongkhon.” This Buddha image is deeply revered, and many visitors come specifically to pay respect and seek blessings. One distinctive aspect of worship here is the friendly and approachable atmosphere. There are various ways to make merit, as well as riverside spots to sit and rest, making a visit feel calm and unpressured — a temple where people can truly come to “find a moment of coolness for the heart.”

 

Another charm of Wat Tha Ka Rong lies in its riverside scenery and architectural elements that make it easy to “read the landscape of Ayutthaya.” Wooden riverside structures, such as the sermon hall, are often mentioned as favorite resting spots for visitors. The river breeze helps ease the daytime heat, and if you arrive at the right time, the light is particularly beautiful for photography without the need for heavy editing.

 

Overall, Wat Tha Ka Rong today represents the coexistence of two key elements: a “core of faith,” centered on worshipping Luang Pho Yim, and a “leisure experience” that encourages visitors to stay longer. This includes strolling along the river, visiting merit-making points, and continuing on to enjoy local food in the same area. Many visitor reviews echo similar sentiments, describing it as a lively temple that is easy to walk around, offers plenty of food options, and is well suited for family visits.

 

If your plan combines “temple visit + food exploration,” the Wat Tha Ka Rong Floating Market completes the experience. Located behind the temple along the river, the market offers savory and sweet foods, souvenirs, and comfortable seating areas. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and easy to navigate — not large, but enjoyable. It is especially lively on busy days. For opening days and hours, it is best to follow official announcements from the temple or organizers, as the market tends to be most active on weekends and public holidays, with schedules that may vary by season.

 

Getting There If driving from Bangkok, head toward Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District and continue to the Ban Pom area on the western side outside the island. Traveling from Ayutthaya Island to Wat Tha Ka Rong generally takes little time, and the roads are convenient. On weekends and public holidays, however, it is advisable to allow extra time, as the floating market attracts more visitors and parking can fill up quickly. For a more relaxed visit, consider arriving slightly before noon or later in the afternoon to avoid the heat.

 

For a smooth visit, it is recommended to begin by paying respect to Luang Pho Yim in the ordination hall, then take time to enjoy the riverside atmosphere and wooden architectural features, and finally move on to the floating market. This sequence allows for a calm, focused moment of worship before transitioning into a more leisurely food experience. Dressing modestly is also advised, especially if you plan to enter the ordination hall, and photography should be done with consideration for others who have come to worship.

 

If you have extra time, Wat Tha Ka Rong also works well as a “starting point” for exploring other major historical sites in Ayutthaya. Several important temples and museums within the island are located nearby, making it easy to plan a one-day Ayutthaya trip that combines faith, history, and local cuisine along a single, convenient route.

 

 

A: The temple is located in the Ban Pom area of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, along the Chao Phraya River, on the western side outside Ayutthaya Island. It is not far from the main island area.

 

A: The floating market is usually liveliest on weekends and public holidays, generally operating around 08:00 – 16:00. Hours and activity levels may vary by season, so checking the latest announcements before visiting is recommended.

 

A: The main object of reverence is “Luang Pho Yim,” officially named “Phra Phuttha Rattanamongkhon,” enshrined in the ordination hall.

 

A: If focusing on worship and strolling around the temple, about 45 minutes to 1.5 hours is sufficient. If continuing on to the floating market and enjoying food, allowing 2 to 3 hours for a relaxed visit is recommended.

 

A: There is generally parking available and seating areas for rest, making it suitable for families. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon is more comfortable, while on holidays it is advisable to allow extra time for parking.

 

A: You can continue on to major historical sites within Ayutthaya Island, such as Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, or Wat Mahathat, all of which are nearby and easy to combine into a single route.