Rating: 3.6/5 (5 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: Approximately 08:30 – 16:30 (Hours may change depending on temple announcements; calling ahead is recommended)

 

Wat Thammikarat is an ancient temple located on Ayutthaya Historical Island, widely remembered by its nickname “the Temple of the Lion-Encircled Chedi.” This nickname comes from the temple’s most distinctive feature: its principal chedi surrounded by lion statues, creating an atmosphere that clearly differs from many of the larger royal temples in the same area. Visiting this temple does not feel like merely passing through a historical ruin, but rather like getting close to Ayutthaya’s craftsmanship, where beauty lies not only in grandeur, but in subtle details that naturally invite visitors to pause and observe.

 

When viewed within the broader context of Ayutthaya, Wat Thammikarat enjoys a highly strategic location that connects easily with the city’s main historical landmarks. It can be seamlessly included in a one-day itinerary linking Wat Thammikarat with Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Viharn Phra Mongkhon Bophit, the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Ratchaburana without the need for long travel times. The temple’s strong visual identity and its unique historical narratives also make it well suited for content that blends history, architecture, and family-friendly travel into a single experience.

 

In terms of historical background, Wat Thammikarat is commonly described as a Maha Nikaya Buddhist temple, formerly known as “Wat Mukharat.” It is often linked to the period before the formal establishment of Ayutthaya as the capital. Traditional accounts state that Phraya Thammikarat (or King Thammikarat), a son of King Sainamphueng, ordered the construction of this temple in an area believed to have been an earlier settlement predating Ayutthaya. Subsequent kings carried out restorations over time, resulting in multiple overlapping layers of history—legendary, historical, and modern conservation. This layered timeline explains why the story of Wat Thammikarat is best told by clearly distinguishing traditional narratives from later historical interpretations.

 

Another period frequently mentioned in connection with the temple is the reign of King Borommatrailokanat, during which the temple was reportedly restored and a royal sermon hall was constructed for listening to Dhamma sermons on Uposatha days. This reflects Ayutthaya as a city where daily life was closely intertwined with temple activities, not limited to major ceremonies alone. Imagining people of the past gathering in the sermon hall adds depth to a visit, revealing a dimension of living faith beyond the visual appeal of ancient ruins.

 

The most prominent highlight of Wat Thammikarat is the “Lion-Encircled Chedi,” which is widely said to be surrounded by 52 lion statues. This feature clearly distinguishes it from the more familiar elephant-encircled chedis found at other temples. What makes the experience especially engaging is that each lion appears slightly different in condition, restoration, and surface detail. Walking around the chedi becomes an act of reading the “traces of time,” where artistic craftsmanship and historical wear coexist.

 

The most rewarding way to explore the chedi is to begin by stepping back to view the structure as a whole, then gradually move closer to observe each lion individually. Seeing the overall form first helps visitors understand the proportions and dignity of the chedi, while close-up observation reveals the subtle craftsmanship and weathered textures that give the monument a sense of life. This approach makes Wat Thammikarat particularly appealing to travelers who enjoy slow, immersive exploration and detailed photography rather than quick landmark shots.

 

Another important feature often mentioned alongside Wat Thammikarat is the “Viharn of the Reclining Buddha.” According to tradition, it was commissioned by a royal consort during the reign of King Borommarachathirat II in fulfillment of a vow. The reclining Buddha measures approximately 12 meters in length and faces north, with gilded and glass-inlaid decoration on the soles of the feet. Visitors who appreciate fine details are encouraged to stand at a comfortable distance and slowly follow the lines of the statue to fully sense the care and intention behind its composition.

 

An additional layer that connects Wat Thammikarat with other cultural institutions is the history of certain artifacts once associated with the temple. One example often mentioned is a bronze Buddha head in the U Thong style, which is now preserved at the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum. This allows visitors to link the original temple site with artifacts conserved in the museum, creating a meaningful connection between physical space and preserved historical evidence within a single day’s itinerary.

 

The overall atmosphere of Wat Thammikarat can be described as relaxed and flexible, allowing visitors to choose their own pace—whether walking slowly through the ruins in detail or simply stopping to pay respects and take photographs. On busier days such as weekends and public holidays, it is advisable to allow extra time, as Ayutthaya is a popular destination and key sites can become crowded. On the positive side, the surrounding area offers a wide range of restaurants, cafés, and accommodations, making it easy to plan either a day trip or an overnight stay for a more leisurely visit.

 

Getting There Wat Thammikarat is located on Ayutthaya Historical Island in Tha Wasukri Subdistrict. If traveling by car from Bangkok, head toward Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District and enter the island area, then follow navigation to “Wat Thammikarat.” This is the most convenient option, as the historic zone contains many intersections and turns. During weekends or holidays, allow extra time for traffic, and for certainty regarding opening hours on the day of your visit, calling the temple in advance is recommended.

 

A smooth itinerary for most visitors is to begin at Wat Thammikarat in the morning, when the weather is cooler and the lion-encircled chedi can be explored comfortably. From there, continue to Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Viharn Phra Mongkhon Bophit, then finish at Wat Mahathat or Wat Ratchaburana, all easily connected along the same route. To add further historical context, a visit to the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum helps link temple sites with conserved artifacts, making a single day in Ayutthaya feel both full and unhurried.

 

In terms of attire, modest dress is recommended in accordance with temple etiquette, especially if you plan to pay respects in areas actively used by worshippers. When taking photographs, visitors are encouraged to be considerate of others making merit, helping to maintain a calm and respectful atmosphere where local devotees and tourists can comfortably share the space.

 

 

A: The temple is located on Ayutthaya Historical Island in Tha Wasukri Subdistrict, within the main historical zone and conveniently connected to Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Viharn Phra Mongkhon Bophit, and Wat Mahathat.

 

A: The most distinctive feature is the lion-encircled chedi, which gives the temple a unique identity among Ayutthaya’s temples. Another popular spot is the Viharn of the Reclining Buddha, known for its detailed decorative elements.

 

A: It is widely mentioned that the temple’s main chedi is surrounded by 52 lion statues, forming the iconic “lion-encircled chedi.” Although many of the lions are weathered over time, the surrounding arrangement remains clearly visible.

 

A: Opening hours are generally reported as approximately 08:30 – 16:30, though this may vary depending on temple announcements. Calling ahead is recommended for confirmation.

 

A: For a focused visit covering the main highlights, about 45 minutes to 1.5 hours is sufficient. Visitors who enjoy detailed observation and photography may wish to allow up to 2 hours.

 

A: It is recommended to continue to nearby major sites on Ayutthaya Historical Island, such as Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Viharn Phra Mongkhon Bophit, the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Ratchaburana, all of which are easily reached along the same route.

 

A: Early morning or late afternoon is most comfortable, as temperatures are cooler and lighting is ideal for photographing details around the lion-encircled chedi, especially the textures and forms of the lion statues.