Wat Kudi Dao, also known as the Monastery of the Star Dormitory, stands as a striking restored ruin strategically positioned along the Khlong Kudi Dao canal in Ayutthaya, Thailand. This canal, flowing north to south, connects to Khlong Hantra (the old Pa Sak River) and served as a crucial transportation artery extending to Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon. Bordering the temple’s northern side was Khlong Pradu, running east to west from the new Pa Sak River towards Wat Maheyong. The temple’s location at this canal intersection underscores its historical significance, reinforced by remnants of its surrounding moat still visible today.

Located in an area believed to have been an ancient Dvaravati settlement predating King U-Thong’s establishment of Ayutthaya in 1351, Wat Kudi Dao has attracted scholarly interest for its potential ties to an early kingdom in the region. This belief was first proposed by Phraya Boran Ratchathanin in 1907 and supported by Prince Damrong Rajanubhab, a pioneer in modern Thai education, in 1914. Subsequent research and excavations, including those by Srisak Vallibhotama in 1967, continue to underscore this hypothesis.

The restoration of Wat Kudi Dao commenced in 1711 and concluded in 1715. According to the Royal Chronicles, upon the completion of these renovations, a seven-day festival was organized to mark the occasion. The festivities included sacred acts of merit such as the giving of alms and offerings of worship, underscoring the temple’s renewed significance within the community.