Wat Mahathat Thailand
Explore the ancient ruins of Wat Mahathat, a spiritual heart of Ayutthaya, famed for its iconic Buddha head embraced by tree roots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Wat Mahathat Thailand
Best Time
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the ancient ruins of Wat Mahathat, a spiritual heart of Ayutthaya, famed for its iconic Buddha head embraced by tree roots.
"The Buddha head in the tree roots is very unique and even more impressive in real life than in photos."
📸 Capture the Buddha Head
Kneel to show respect when photographing the Buddha head in the tree roots.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Shaded
Carry water and an umbrella, especially during hotter months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Buddha Head in Tree Roots
Central Courtyard
The iconic symbol of Wat Mahathat, a serene Buddha head cradled by ancient tree roots. A truly unique and photogenic sight.
Ancient Temple Ruins
Throughout the complex
Explore the remnants of a once-grand capital, where history whispers from every crumbling brick and fallen stupa.
Serene Atmosphere
Various prayer and meditation areas
Experience a profound sense of peace and tranquility amidst the historical grandeur.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Respectful Attire and Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Buddha Head
Kneel to show respect when photographing the Buddha head in the tree roots.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Shaded
Carry water and an umbrella, especially during hotter months.
🚶♀️ Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees. Scarves are available for rent.
💰 Affordable Entry
Entry fee is 50 Baht for non-Thai nationals.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Buddha Head
Kneel to show respect when photographing the Buddha head in the tree roots.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Shaded
Carry water and an umbrella, especially during hotter months.
🚶♀️ Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees. Scarves are available for rent.
💰 Affordable Entry
Entry fee is 50 Baht for non-Thai nationals.
👟 Remove Your Shoes
Essential etiquette when approaching sacred sites like the Buddha head.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wat Mahathat is widely praised for its historical significance and the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots, offering a serene and picturesque experience. Visitors appreciate the tangible connection to Ayutthaya's past and the peaceful atmosphere. Some find the crowds can detract from the tranquility, especially during peak times.
"One of the most famous temples in Ayutthaya, renowned for the most photographed Buddha head encased within the tree roots. Legend has it that a thief had intended to sell the Buddha head but was either forced to abandon it at the spot or the head was too heavy for him to carry further away, and so he had to leave it there. Over time, tree roots began to envelop the Buddha's head, and hence, this peculiar and unique landmark was formed. One can pray to the Buddha Head, but you must kneel and remove your shoes to show your respect."
Julius Tan
"We visited Wat Mahathat as part of a group tour to the ancient city of Ayutthaya. It is a fantastic place that is full of history. It was the capital prior to Bangkok but was completely burned down by an invasion in 1767. This place just oozes history and it is a great day trip on a visit to Bangkok. It's about an hour or hour and a half by car or there are many daily trains from Bangkok that take one hour and are very cheap. This is also where you can see the buddha head that has been surrounded by the roots of the sacred banyan tree. You should definitely try to make the time if you're in the area. There are a number of other sites only five to ten minutes away also."
Justin Rejda
"This place is full of history and has such a relaxing atmosphere. Walking around the ruins feels like stepping back in time, with every corner showing something interesting. The Buddha head in the tree roots is very unique and even more impressive in real life than in photos. It’s a beautiful spot to take pictures, learn about the past, and just enjoy some quiet moments away from the busy city. Definitely worth a visit."
Olivia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Wat Mahathat from Bangkok via a day trip. Options include taking a train, which takes about an hour and is very affordable, or hiring a car. Many tour operators in Bangkok also offer day tours to Ayutthaya.
Once in Ayutthaya, you can rent a bicycle to explore the historical park, including Wat Mahathat.
For couples, a day trip from Bangkok is popular. Consider a guided tour for convenience or rent a bike for more flexibility.
The journey from Bangkok to Ayutthaya typically takes about an hour to an hour and a half by car or train.
While trains connect Bangkok to Ayutthaya, within the historical park, renting a bicycle or hiring a tuk-tuk are common ways to get around.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry ticket for Wat Mahathat is 50 Baht for non-Thai nationals.
Wat Mahathat is generally open daily from morning to late afternoon, but it's advisable to check current hours before your visit.
Tickets can usually be purchased on-site at the entrance. Advance booking is typically not required for Wat Mahathat.
Yes, a respectful dress code is mandatory. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Scarves or trousers can be rented if needed.
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of sacred areas and other visitors. Remember to kneel when photographing the Buddha head in the tree roots.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunity is the Buddha head entwined in the tree roots. Many visitors also capture the vast temple ruins.
Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Early mornings can also provide soft, diffused light.
While general photography is permitted, be respectful of the religious nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography of monks or worshippers.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical and religious sites to preserve their integrity and for safety reasons. It's best to check local regulations.
A versatile lens like a 16-50mm or a wide-angle lens is great for capturing the ruins and the Buddha head. A smartphone with good camera capabilities is also sufficient.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The most famous feature is the Buddha head encased within the roots of a banyan tree, a truly unique sight.
Wat Mahathat was a significant temple during the Ayutthaya Kingdom, which was the capital of Thailand for over 400 years before its destruction.
You should kneel to show respect and remove your shoes before approaching the Buddha head.
Yes, Wat Mahathat is an excellent destination for a day trip from Bangkok, offering a glimpse into Thailand's rich history.
Visitors describe the atmosphere as serene, peaceful, and full of history, offering a calming escape from busy city life.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more comfortable for kids, consider visiting during cooler parts of the day, bringing plenty of water, and perhaps renting bicycles for a fun way to navigate the historical park. The relatively flat terrain and open spaces make it manageable for younger children.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the temple complexes and a prime lens for detailed shots. The interplay of light and shadow on the ancient bricks creates dramatic effects. Don't forget to capture the serene atmosphere and the interactions of visitors showing respect.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Once in Ayutthaya, renting a bicycle is an inexpensive way to explore the historical park, including Wat Mahathat and other nearby temples. Packing your own water and snacks can also help keep costs down.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Buddha Head
Visitors are deeply moved by this sight, often describing it as even more impressive in person than in photographs. It's a powerful reminder of the passage of time and the resilience of nature. When approaching this sacred artifact, it is customary to kneel and remove your shoes as a sign of respect.
Exploring Ayutthaya's Historical Park
Beyond Wat Mahathat, the historical park is dotted with other significant ruins like Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Ratchaburana, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram. Renting a bicycle is a popular and enjoyable way to navigate between these sites, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden corners. Many travelers recommend dedicating a full day to explore the park thoroughly, appreciating the scale and historical depth of this ancient city.
Photography Tips for Wat Mahathat
When photographing the temple ruins, experiment with different times of day. Early mornings offer soft, diffused light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide a warm, golden glow. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for capturing the scale of the structures, and a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating architectural details.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit