ご本尊様
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Wat Yai Suwannaram Phetchaburi

4.6
·1k reviews·Tambon Tha Rab, Thailand

A centuries-old temple showcasing exquisite Ayutthayan art, intricate wood carvings, and a sacred Buddha image.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
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ご本尊様

Wat Yai Suwannaram Phetchaburi

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A centuries-old temple showcasing exquisite Ayutthayan art, intricate wood carvings, and a sacred Buddha image.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"A must-see for history lovers and photographers, offering a glimpse into the finest Ayutthayan art."

Vertical photo
TIP

👗 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees to show respect for this sacred site. :pray:

🚪 Ask to Close the Door

Request the monk to close the Ubosot door for the best view of the 'Mona Lisas' of Thai art. :iphone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ubosot (Ordination Hall)

Ubosot (Ordination Hall)

Main temple compound

Marvel at the traditional Thai architecture, guardian paintings, and the sacred Maravijaya Buddha image.

Phetchaburi Artisan School Murals

Phetchaburi Artisan School Murals

Ubosot and Sala Kan Parian

Witness stunning depictions of deities, the Buddha's victory over Mara, and guardian spirits.

Intricate Wood Carvings

Intricate Wood Carvings

Temple buildings

Admire the detailed craftsmanship on the ancient teak wood structures, showcasing centuries of artistry.

The 'Spray' Doorway

The 'Spray' Doorway

Entrance to main temple compound

Experience a unique entry point, a testament to the temple's history and preservation efforts.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Artistry

To truly appreciate the intricate murals and wood carvings at Wat Yai Suwannaram, aim for quieter times. Early mornings or late afternoons offer better light and fewer crowds, allowing for a more immersive experience with this ancient Ayutthayan art.

Respectful Exploration

As a sacred site, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and be mindful of your surroundings. Visitors often mention the unique 'spray' doorway for entry, emphasizing the temple's preserved nature and the importance of respectful conduct.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dramatična snimka: Helikopter odlazi s tobogana na Rabu. Tamo je poginula djevojčica (3)#24sata #rab #tobogan #tragedija #hrvatska
@24sata
26.6K likes • 1.7M views

👗 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees to show respect for this sacred site. :pray:

🚪 Ask to Close the Door

Request the monk to close the Ubosot door for the best view of the 'Mona Lisas' of Thai art. :iphone:

Wat Yai Suwannaram in Phetchaburi is a center of faith and a repository of the city’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. This revered temple has long been a place of worship for Buddhists. The temple’s ordination hall (ubosot) showcases exquisite craftsmanship, particularly in its stunning mural paintings. Additionally, the temple preserves the authentic artistic traditions of Phetchaburi and fe...
siam.piya
44.5K likes • 355.8K views
Wat Yai Suwannaram in Phetchaburi is a center of faith and a repository of the city’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. This revered temple has long been a place of worship for Buddhists. The temple’s ordination hall (ubosot) showcases exquisite craftsmanship, particularly in its stunning mural paintings. Additionally, the temple preserves the authentic artistic traditions of Phetchaburi and fe...
siam.piya
1K likes • 10.3K views

🚶 Explore for Free

Admission is free, making it an accessible historical and cultural experience. :moneywithwings:

📸 Photographer's Paradise

Ample parking and stunning details make it ideal for capturing beautiful shots. :camerawithflash:

The Ubosot of Wat Yai Suwannaram, Phetchaburi Province The ordination hall of Wat Yai Suwannaram is surrounded by a cloister and features traditional Thai-style architecture. The structure is made of brick and plaster. The front façade has three doorways adorned with delicate and elegant guardian paintings. The side walls are solid without windows. The ubosot is elevated on a two-tiered base, wi...
nanuam.n
157 likes • 2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👗 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees to show respect for this sacred site. :pray:

🚪 Ask to Close the Door

Request the monk to close the Ubosot door for the best view of the 'Mona Lisas' of Thai art. :iphone:

🚶 Explore for Free

Admission is free, making it an accessible historical and cultural experience. :moneywithwings:

📸 Photographer's Paradise

Ample parking and stunning details make it ideal for capturing beautiful shots. :camerawithflash:

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Immerse yourself in the history; the narratives shared add depth to the visit. :clock1:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Wat Yai Suwannaram as a fascinating, well-preserved ancient temple, often surprised by its lack of tourist crowds. It's lauded as a must-see for history lovers and photographers, offering a glimpse into the finest Ayutthayan art and architecture. Some note the unique entry and the importance of requesting the Ubosot door be closed to fully appreciate the murals.

"Fascinating ancient temple, over400 years old. Very well preserved. Im surprised that it’s not discovered that much by tourists, it’s a must see location for history lovers. Also great location for photographers… there is plenty of spaces for parking so it’s quite convenient"

oytun

"This is one of the oldest and most beautiful Temples in Phetchaburi dating back to the Ayutthaya Kingdom period. Lovely old wooden buildings make up a part of this site. The main enclosed Temple compound mustn't be missed, only one way in through a "spray" doorway for decontamination. Inside the main Temple make sure they close the tall wooden door so you can see the beautiful guilded artwork and carving."

Miles Macdonald

"Explored the captivating Wat Yai Sunnawaram, an architectural gem hailing from the Ayutthaya era, with a venerable history spanning 665 years. The temple’s alluring teak wood architecture lends it an enduring charm, inviting visitors into a journey through time.

Delving into its history, the door reveals a gripping tale of resilience. During a Burmese invasion, soldiers attempted to breach it, driven by the desire to access the treasures stored by the last Thai king of the Ayutthaya era. Despite wielding an axe, they only managed to create a hole, approximately the size of a feet 38, as evidenced in my video. Below the hole, a distinctive crack runs down the door, underscoring its steadfast strength. According to the monk, the treasures within remained untouched, believed to be under the protection of the Buddha enshrined within the temple.

Adding to its historical significance, Wat Yai Sunnawaram became a temporary sanctuary for King Rama IX upon his passing, housing his revered remains before the solemn ceremony of cremation. This temple stands as both a guardian of the past and a witness to the contemporary rites of royalty.

Exploring this temple was a true privilege, and the narratives shared took me on a captivating journey, immersing me in a world from nearly 300 years ago. The depth of history and cultural tales added an extra layer of appreciation to the visit."

Kenze P

What People Like

Fascinating ancient art
Well-preserved architecture
Lack of tourist crowds

What People Dislike

Murals fading slightly

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Wat Yai Suwannaram is located in Phetchaburi city. You can reach it by local transport like songthaews or taxis from the city center. If driving, there is ample parking available, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Yes, it's a well-known temple within Phetchaburi and is generally easy to locate using GPS or by asking locals for directions. Reddit

For exploring multiple temples like Wat Yai Suwannaram, renting a scooter or hiring a local driver for the day can be efficient. Songthaews are also a budget-friendly option for getting around the city. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, admission to Wat Yai Suwannaram is free, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors. Reddit

While specific hours can vary, temples in Thailand are generally open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours to best appreciate the architecture and art. TikTok

Since there is no entrance fee, advance booking is not required. You can visit anytime during its operating hours. Reddit

The 'spray' doorway is a unique, preserved entrance to the main temple compound. It's a historical feature that adds to the temple's ancient charm and emphasizes its well-maintained condition. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed in most areas of the temple grounds. However, always be respectful and check for any specific signage regarding photography inside the Ubosot or sacred areas. Instagram

The intricate murals inside the Ubosot (especially when the door is closed), the detailed wood carvings on the ancient buildings, and the unique 'spray' doorway are excellent subjects for photography. The temple grounds also offer picturesque views. InstagramReddit

Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for photography. The softer light during these times can enhance the colors of the murals and the textures of the wood carvings, and there will be fewer people around. Instagram

While not explicitly mentioned, it's generally advisable to avoid drone photography at religious sites in Thailand unless you have explicit permission, as it can be disruptive and disrespectful. TikTok

🎫 🏛️ History & Art

Wat Yai Suwannaram is a very old and historic temple, dating back to the Ayutthaya Kingdom period, with some sources indicating it's over 665 years old. InstagramReddit

The murals are considered fine examples of the Phetchaburi artisan school and depict themes like 'Thep Chumnum' (Gathering of Deities), 'Mara Phachon' (Buddha's Victory Over Mara), and 'Arak' (Guardian Spirits). They are often referred to as the 'Mona Lisas' of classical Thai art. InstagramReddit

The temple features traditional Thai-style architecture, with notable elements like the brick and plaster Ubosot, delicate guardian paintings on the facade, and charming old wooden buildings. Instagram+1

During a Burmese invasion, soldiers attempted to break down the Ubosot door to access treasures. Despite their efforts with an axe, they only managed to create a hole and a crack, showcasing the door's strength and the treasures' protection. Reddit

The principal Buddha image is in the Maravijaya posture, symbolizing the Buddha's victory over Mara. It is enshrined on a pedestal and is considered a magnificent and sacred image. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wat Yai Suwannaram offers a unique educational experience for families. The free admission makes it an accessible outing. While the historical narratives might be complex for very young children, the impressive architecture and vibrant murals can capture their imagination. Instagram Encourage them to spot the guardian spirits or the Buddha's victory over Mara in the paintings. The ample parking also adds to the convenience for families traveling by car. Reddit

Remember to dress modestly to respect the temple's sacred nature. The unique 'spray' doorway can be a point of interest for kids, sparking curiosity about its history. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to Thai culture and history in a tangible way, far from a textbook. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Wat Yai Suwannaram to be a dream location. The intricate wood carvings, the vivid murals, and the unique architectural details provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. InstagramReddit The ample parking makes access easy, and visiting during the golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) will provide beautiful lighting for capturing the temple's essence. Instagram

Don't miss the chance to ask a monk to close the Ubosot door for a truly special photographic moment, revealing the famed 'Mona Lisa' murals. Reddit The 'spray' doorway also offers a distinctive framing opportunity. Be mindful of respectful photography practices, especially within sacred areas. Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, Wat Yai Suwannaram is an absolute must-visit. This temple is a living museum, showcasing Ayutthayan art and architecture in remarkable condition. InstagramReddit The Phetchaburi artisan school murals are a significant draw, offering insights into Buddhist narratives and artistic techniques of the era. InstagramReddit

Delve into the stories behind the temple, from its ancient defense against invaders to its role in royal ceremonies. Reddit The well-preserved teak wood buildings and the historical significance of the Ubosot, including the story of its damaged door, provide a rich tapestry of historical context. This is a place where history truly comes alive. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistry of the Phetchaburi School

Wat Yai Suwannaram is a treasure trove of art, particularly renowned for its murals belonging to the Phetchaburi artisan school. These vibrant paintings, found within the Ubosot and Sala Kan Parian, depict significant Buddhist themes such as 'Thep Chumnum' (Gathering of Deities), 'Mara Phachon' (The Buddha's Victory Over Mara), and 'Arak' (Guardian Spirits). Instagram Visitors often describe these murals as the 'Mona Lisas' of classical Thai art, highlighting their exquisite detail and cultural importance. Reddit

The ordination hall (Ubosot) itself is a masterpiece of traditional Thai architecture, constructed from brick and plaster. Its front facade is adorned with delicate and elegant guardian paintings, and the side walls are solid, adding to the hall's imposing presence. Inside, the Maravijaya posture Buddha image is a focal point, seated majestically on a Chukchi pedestal. Instagram The combination of architectural brilliance and artistic expression makes Wat Yai Suwannaram a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts. Instagram

A Glimpse into Ayutthayan History

Wat Yai Suwannaram stands as a testament to the Ayutthaya Kingdom period, with a history stretching back over 665 years. Reddit Its enduring charm is largely attributed to its alluring teak wood architecture, which has withstood the test of time. Reddit The temple's resilience is further highlighted by a dramatic historical event: during a Burmese invasion, soldiers attempted to breach the Ubosot door to steal treasures. Despite their efforts with an axe, they only managed to create a hole and a crack, a testament to the door's strength and the sanctity of the treasures within. Reddit

Beyond its ancient past, Wat Yai Suwannaram also holds a more recent historical significance. It served as a temporary sanctuary for King Rama IX's revered remains before his cremation ceremony. Reddit This dual role—as a guardian of ancient history and a witness to royal rites—adds a profound layer to the temple's narrative. Exploring its grounds offers a captivating journey through nearly 300 years of history and cultural tales. Reddit

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