Wat Chaiwatthanaram
Wat Chaiwatthanaram is a magnificent Buddhist temple in Ayutthaya situated on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. A number of temples throughout Thailand take their design from this building, an eye-catching arrangement which includes a raised platform and eight towering chedis, or chapels. All of the chedis are attached to secret passageways and have colorful paintings illustrating the life of Buddha inside. There are 120 sitting Buddha statues dotted around the area; originally thought to have been painted black and gold, they now sit dressed in orange drapery, creating a peaceful, picturesque scene.
Wat Mahathat
Immediately across the road from Wat Ratchaburana stands Wat Mahathat, which tradition claims King Ramesuan built in 1384. Its most famous feature is the face of a stone Buddha peeking out from among the roots at the base of a tree. The central prang here is one of the old city's most impressive edifices. In about 1625, the top portion broke off, being rebuilt in 1633 some four meters higher than before. Later, it collapsed again and only the corners survived. Among the treasures found inside were gold jewelry, a gold casket containing a relic of the Buddha, and fine tableware.
Wat Phra Sri Sanphet
Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, meaning “Temple of the Holy, Splendid and Omniscient” in English, was revered as the grandest and most beautiful temple when it served the Siamese capital over 700 years ago. Today it remains a stunning testament to the culture of times past. Built on old palace ground, the site is comprised of three ancient chedis or chapels, these ruins being all that was left of the temple after it was destroyed by the Burmese in 1767. The steps here are steep, the architecture breathtaking, and there is the option of an elephant ride to the site if visitors are feeling weary and sun-drenched.
Wat Lokaya Sutha (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Wat Lokaya Sutha is the restored ruin of a monastery located in northwest Ayutthaya, in the Pratu Chai sub-district. This is one of the most impressive sites in the region and is certainly an unmissable spot for any trip to Ayutthaya. Visitors can explore the ancient remains of the monastery’s floors, walls and pillars, and examine the detritus of archaic Buddha images. The highlight of this ruin is the ginormous reclining Buddha statue, 42 meters high and eight meters wide. The Buddha is usually wrapped in brightly colored orange cloth, and there is a small altar at its side where visitors can make offerings. If you travel on hot days, make sure to relax with a refreshing mango juice at one of the roadside cafés overlooking the temple.