Wat Koro Koso

Rating: 4/5 (4 votes)

Open Days: Open daily (outdoor archaeological site)

Opening Hours: Recommended 08:00 – 17:00

 

Wat Koro Koso is located in Moo 5, Khao Mao Subdistrict, Uthai District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. It is an abandoned temple of significant historical and archaeological value within the Chao Phraya River basin. Based on available evidence, scholars believe that this temple may have been established prior to the founding of Ayutthaya, making Wat Koro Koso an important remnant of early Buddhist development and ancient settlement patterns in central Thailand.

 

The temple stands on low-lying land, which is characteristic of Ayutthaya Province as a whole. Such terrain was well suited to ancient communities because of convenient access to water sources and water-based transportation. Wat Koro Koso therefore did not emerge in isolation, but formed part of a broader network of ancient religious sites distributed throughout the Chao Phraya River basin, clearly reflecting the prosperity of pre-Ayutthaya communities.

 

At present, Wat Koro Koso is classified as an “abandoned temple,” meaning that no monks reside there and no regular religious ceremonies are conducted. Records indicate that the site was clearly left abandoned around 1967. However, its abandoned status has enhanced its value as an archaeological site, as many historical traces remain relatively undisturbed by modern use.

 

The most prominent feature of Wat Koro Koso is the discovery of a large sandstone Buddha image from the Dvaravati period, seated as the principal image. This Buddha statue displays distinctive Dvaravati artistic characteristics, including its proportions, facial features, and seated posture. It serves as strong evidence that this area held religious significance long before the Ayutthaya period and may have functioned as a major religious center for ancient communities of that era.

 

In addition to the Buddha image, remains of laterite-built structures have been found within the temple grounds. These are believed to be the remains of an ordination hall or a structure resembling a Loha Prasat. The use of laterite as a construction material is characteristic of central Thai monuments, especially during the Dvaravati period and early Ayutthaya era. Although only structural remnants remain today, they are sufficient to convey the former importance and scale of Wat Koro Koso.

 

From an archaeological perspective, Wat Koro Koso is an important source of information linking the transition from the Dvaravati period to the Ayutthaya period. The coexistence of a sandstone Buddha image and laterite structures within the same site demonstrates continuous occupation and adaptation of artistic and religious forms over time. The temple can therefore be regarded as a “living piece of evidence” that helps illuminate the foundations of Buddhism in the Chao Phraya River basin.

 

Visitors to Wat Koro Koso should be aware that this is a fragile archaeological site. Walking through the area should be done with care, avoiding climbing on or unnecessarily touching ancient remains. Preserving the site in its original condition is an essential part of showing respect and supporting the long-term conservation of Thailand’s cultural heritage.

 

Getting There Wat Koro Koso is most conveniently reached by private car. Visitors can search for “Wat Koro Koso, Khao Mao Subdistrict, Uthai District, Ayutthaya” on navigation apps. From Ayutthaya city, the drive takes a relatively short time, mainly along local roads that are not complicated. Visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and for clearer visibility of the ruins.

 

 

A: It is an abandoned temple with no resident monks and no regular religious activities.

 

A: It is believed to have been established before the founding of the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

 

A: The Dvaravati-period sandstone Buddha image and the laterite archaeological remains.

 

A: Yes, it can be visited as an open-air archaeological site. Daytime visits are recommended.

 

A: Visitors should respect the site, avoid climbing or damaging structures, and help preserve the area for future generations.