Wat Kudee Dao
Discover Ayutthaya's serene past at Wat Kudee Dao, a hidden gem with dramatic ancient pillars and a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Wat Kudee Dao
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Ayutthaya's serene past at Wat Kudee Dao, a hidden gem with dramatic ancient pillars and a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere.
"Awesome ruins, a few info plates, no entrance fee, a few merchants and nearly no other tourists."
📸 Capture Dramatic Shots
The tall pillars and weathered ruins offer incredible photo opportunities. Bring your camera!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Ayutthaya can get hot. Carry plenty of water, especially if you're exploring during the day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Majestic Pillars
Main prayer hall area
Towering brick-and-stucco pillars stand as dramatic remnants of the ancient prayer hall.
Red Brick Architecture
Surrounding structures
Admire the classic Ayutthaya-era craftsmanship in the red brick walls and pointed arch windows.
Serene Abandoned Atmosphere
Entire temple grounds
Experience a quiet, solemn, and peaceful walk through history, feeling like you have the place to yourself.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Foreigner Fee & Translation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture Dramatic Shots
The tall pillars and weathered ruins offer incredible photo opportunities. Bring your camera!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Ayutthaya can get hot. Carry plenty of water, especially if you're exploring during the day.
☀️ Sun Protection
Don't forget sunscreen and a hat, as much of the site is exposed to the sun.
🚶♀️ Explore Off-Peak
Visit when tour groups are minimal for a more personal and reflective experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture Dramatic Shots
The tall pillars and weathered ruins offer incredible photo opportunities. Bring your camera!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Ayutthaya can get hot. Carry plenty of water, especially if you're exploring during the day.
☀️ Sun Protection
Don't forget sunscreen and a hat, as much of the site is exposed to the sun.
🚶♀️ Explore Off-Peak
Visit when tour groups are minimal for a more personal and reflective experience.
📱 Use Translation Apps
Google Translate is helpful for understanding historical context if English signage is scarce.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Wat Kudee Dao for its stunning historical ruins, particularly the dramatic pillars, and its peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere. It's considered a worthwhile visit for its photogenic qualities and authentic glimpse into Ayutthaya's past, despite a modest entrance fee for foreigners.
"Was supposed to go here on Saturday, but after a wet night out on Friday, my gf birthday, we postponed it to Sunday instead, great place, lots of historical ruins from a time long ago! But to remember history are really important in my opinion! For a foreigner it will cost you about 80฿, but it’s definitely worth it. A big thank you to google translate, that helped me out about understanding lots of what’s written about the different historical relics"
Espen Gyllstrøm
"🛕 Discovering the Timeless Charm of Wat Kudidao – Ayutthaya’s Hidden Gem
Tucked away in the historic city of Ayutthaya, Wat Kudidao is a captivating reminder of Thailand’s glorious past. Though lesser known among tourists, this ancient temple holds a powerful presence with its towering weathered columns and remnants of intricate architecture that echo the grandeur of the Ayutthaya Kingdom.
🌟 Highlights & Attractions
The moment you step onto the terracotta-tiled floor of Wat Kudidao, you’re greeted by the majestic rows of tall brick-and-stucco pillars — strikingly dramatic and photogenic. These aged columns, once supporting the main prayer hall (ubosot), now stand proudly under the open sky, weathered beautifully with time. The red brick walls and pointed arch windows show classic Ayutthaya-era craftsmanship, giving visitors a glimpse into the elegance and artistry of that period.
One of the most fascinating elements is the temple’s serene, abandoned atmosphere. It feels like walking through history — quiet, solemn, yet incredibly peaceful. You won’t find crowds here, making it the perfect spot for reflection, photography, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of old Siam.
🚗 How to Get There
Wat Kudidao is located just east of Ayutthaya’s city island, close to Wat Maheyong. The temple is easily accessible by:
• Car or Motorbike: From central Ayutthaya, it’s just a 5-10 minute drive. Ample parking is available.
• Tuk-tuk or Bicycle: Renting a tuk-tuk for a day is a convenient way to visit several temples, or you can explore at your own pace by bike.
• GPS Coordinates: 14.3580° N, 100.5848° E
📝 Travel Tips
• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and cooler weather.
• Entrance Fee: Free of charge.
• What to bring: Water, sunscreen, and a camera for those dramatic pillar shots!
📷 Final Thoughts
If you’re a history enthusiast, photographer, or someone who loves peaceful off-the-beaten-path spots, Wat Kudidao is a must-visit. While Ayutthaya has many famous temples, this one offers a rare mix of mystery, majesty, and solitude — a truly immersive experience into Thailand’s royal past."
Sutthiphat Ieamsukmongkhol
"Wat Kudi Dao, also known as the "Monastery of the Star Dormitory," is a magnificent testament to the architectural prowess and spiritual devotion of the Late Ayutthaya period. Though now a collection of impressive ruins, its surviving structures speak volumes about its past importance and beauty. It's a key site within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ayutthaya Historical Park.
While the exact foundation date of Wat Kudi Dao is uncertain, many researchers believe it was built on the foundations of even older structures predating the Ayutthaya Kingdom. It rose to prominence during the late Ayutthaya period, particularly under King Thai Sa (1709-1733).(Gemini)
Wat Kudi Dao is relatively easy to access. Parking is typically available right out front, providing convenience for visitors. The admission fee for foreigners is 80 baht และ สิบบาท สำหรับคนไทย
#วัดกุฎีดาว #อยุธยา #watkudidao #ayutthaya #thailand #temple #its6pmsomewhere
#97km97km #กื๋อบางกรวย"
Kiatkorn Panyavuddhiwongg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Kudee Dao is located east of Ayutthaya's city island, near Wat Maheyong. It's a short 5-10 minute drive by car or motorbike from central Ayutthaya. You can also rent a bicycle or tuk-tuk for a more scenic journey.
Yes, ample parking is typically available right in front of the temple, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car or motorbike.
While direct public transport might be limited, renting a tuk-tuk for a day is a popular and convenient option to visit multiple temples, including Wat Kudee Dao.
You can use these GPS coordinates to navigate to Wat Kudee Dao: 14.3580° N, 100.5848° E.
Wat Kudee Dao is situated close to Wat Maheyong, making it easy to combine visits to these nearby historical attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for foreigners is approximately 80 THB. Thai nationals may have a different or free admission.
While Wat Kudee Dao is within the Ayutthaya Historical Park area, it's often mentioned as having a separate, small entrance fee for foreigners, distinct from the main park pass.
The temple is generally open during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the recommended times for optimal experience and to avoid any potential early closures.
No, advance booking is not typically required for Wat Kudee Dao. You can purchase tickets upon arrival.
Information on specific discounts for students or seniors is not widely available, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter.
📸 📸 Photography
The rows of tall, weathered pillars are incredibly photogenic, especially during the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon. The red brick walls and archways also offer great shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or temple staff before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the pillars and ruins. A standard zoom lens is versatile for details. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions.
Yes, photography is generally permitted throughout the site, but always be respectful of any sacred areas or ongoing religious activities.
While generally allowed, avoid intrusive photography, especially if monks or worshippers are present. Respect the historical and religious significance of the site.
🎫 🏛️ History & Culture
Wat Kudee Dao is a significant site from the Late Ayutthaya period, showcasing architectural prowess. It's believed to be built on older foundations and was important during King Thai Sa's reign.
The name 'Wat Kudee Dao' translates to 'Monastery of the Star Dormitory,' hinting at its past function or astronomical significance.
There are some information boards, but they might be primarily in Thai. Using translation apps can help decipher the historical context.
The site features classic Ayutthaya-era architecture, characterized by red brick construction, pointed arch windows, and stucco work.
Wat Kudee Dao is part of the larger Ayutthaya Historical Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, recognizing its global historical importance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Visit during cooler parts of the day (early morning or late afternoon) to avoid the heat. Ensure everyone has plenty of water and sun protection. Consider renting bicycles for a fun way to explore the area, but be mindful of traffic. While the entrance fee is modest, it's worth it for the unique experience.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Photography tips: Aim for the golden hours (sunrise and sunset) for the most magical light. Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the scale of the ruins and telephoto lenses for details. Look for interesting textures, shadows, and the interplay of light and dark. Be patient and explore different angles to find your perfect shot.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Solo traveler tips: Arrive early or stay late to maximize the quiet hours. Bring a good book or journal to further enhance the contemplative experience. Utilize translation apps to understand the historical context, enriching your solo exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Majesty of the Pillars
These pillars are a testament to the architectural skill of the Ayutthaya period. The way they have withstood the test of time, even in their ruined state, speaks volumes about the quality of construction. Visitors often describe the feeling of standing among them as stepping back in time, a profound connection to the past that is both solemn and awe-inspiring.
When visiting, take time to appreciate the details: the subtle variations in color, the moss and lichen that have grown over centuries, and the way the light plays through the gaps. It’s these elements that transform a simple ruin into a place of profound beauty and historical resonance.
Experiencing Ayutthaya's Past
The site's architecture, with its characteristic red brick walls and pointed arch windows, showcases the craftsmanship of the era. The remnants of the temple evoke a sense of its former glory, inviting visitors to imagine the lives and rituals that once took place here. The peaceful, abandoned atmosphere is a key part of its charm, making it a favorite for those seeking a less commercialized historical experience.
For history enthusiasts and photographers alike, Wat Kudee Dao is a treasure. It’s a place where the echoes of history are palpable, offering a quiet space to contemplate Thailand's rich heritage. The site serves as a powerful reminder of the impermanence of even the grandest structures, yet also the enduring legacy of human endeavor.
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