A Guide to Wat Na Phra Men in Ayutthaya

Wat Na Phra Men; Ubosot; Phra Buddha Nimitr Vichit Maramoli Sisanpeth Boromtrailokanat

Wat Na Phra Men is a historically significant Buddhist temple that stands out for its remarkable preservation and architectural beauty. Unlike many other temples in Ayutthaya, it miraculously survived the Burmese invasion of 1767, maintaining much of its original structure and artifacts.

Architecture: 7.0
Aesthetics: 8.0
Culture: 8.5
X Factor: 7.5
Value: 10.0

Name (Thai): วัดหน้าพระเมรุ

Former Name: Wat Phra Meru Rachikaram

Address: 76 Tambon Lum Phli, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Opening Hours: 8.00 to 17.00 daily

Entrance Fee: None

Recommended Tour: View Price ->

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Length of Trip: ~45 minutes

Trip Type: cultural / historical

Age Restrictions: none 

Dress Code: modest and conservative 

Religious Affiliation:

Classification:

  • Active temple.

Table of Contents

Wat Na Phra Men

The Temple's History

Wat Na Phra Men, also known as the “Monastery in Front of the Funeral Pyre,” holds a unique place in Ayutthaya’s history due to its exceptional state of preservation. The temple’s origins date back to the early Ayutthaya period, although the exact date of its founding remains unclear. It is believed to have been constructed during the reign of King Ramathibodi II (1491-1529), serving as a significant religious and royal site.

The temple gained its name from its location in front of the royal cremation ground, indicating its importance in royal funeral rites and ceremonies. Wat Na Phra Men played a crucial role in the religious life of the kingdom, hosting various significant events and royal rituals. Its strategic location along the Chao Phraya River further elevated its status, making it accessible and prominent within the capital.

Wat Na Phra Men’s most remarkable historical event occurred during the Burmese invasion of Ayutthaya in 1767. Unlike many other temples and structures in Ayutthaya, which were destroyed or severely damaged, Wat Na Phra Men was miraculously spared from the widespread destruction. The reasons for its survival are not entirely clear, but it is speculated that its use as a Burmese command post may have contributed to its preservation. This unique circumstance has allowed the temple to retain much of its original architecture and artifacts.

One of the temple’s most significant features is its main ordination hall (ubosot), which houses a rare and magnificent Buddha image. This statue, known as the Phra Buddha Nimitr Vichit Maramoli Sisanpeth Boromtrailokanat, is a seated Buddha adorned in royal attire, reflecting the high esteem in which it was held. The statue is crafted in the early Ayutthaya style, characterized by its serene expression and detailed craftsmanship. Another notable image within the temple is the Phra Khantharat, an impressive Dvaravati-style Buddha image that stands over 6 meters tall.

The preservation of these artifacts and the temple’s architecture provides invaluable insights into the religious and cultural practices of the Ayutthaya period. The temple complex also includes a viharn (assembly hall) and several chedis (stupas), each with their own significance.

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Wat Na Phra Men Guide

Actionable Information

When visiting Wat Na Phra Men, it’s important to adhere to a respectful dress code in keeping with its religious and cultural significance. Visitors should wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. This means avoiding shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops. Instead, opt for long pants, skirts, or dresses that fall below the knee, and shirts with sleeves. Lightweight and breathable fabrics are recommended to ensure comfort in the warm weather.

Shoes should be easy to remove, as you will be required to take them off before entering certain temple buildings. It’s also a good idea to carry a scarf or shawl that can be used to cover up if your attire does not fully meet the dress code requirements.

Wat Na Phra Men is free for both Thais and foreigners. However, we recommend leaving a small donation if you decide to visit the temple.

To reach Wat Na Phra Men from central Ayutthaya, you have several transportation options available. If you’re up for a bit of adventure and exercise, renting a bicycle is a popular choice among travelers. This allows you to leisurely explore the city’s streets and riverside paths on your way to the temple. Alternatively, if you prefer more direct and quicker transportation, renting a motorbike or driving a car is convenient, though note that parking at the temple can be limited.

For those who prefer not to drive, motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available in central Ayutthaya. These modes of transport offer a convenient way to reach Wat Na Phra Men. However, it’s essential to arrange your return trip beforehand if you opt for a motorbike taxi or tuk-tuk. 

The best time to visit Wat Na Phra Men in Ayutthaya is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. During these times, the weather is typically cooler, making it more comfortable to explore the temple grounds. Additionally, visiting early in the morning allows you to experience the serene atmosphere before the crowds arrive, providing a peaceful and introspective visit.

Late afternoon is also a good time to visit as the temple may be less crowded, and you can enjoy the beautiful evening light casting a warm glow over the architecture. Avoid visiting during midday when temperatures are at their peak, as the heat can be quite intense and make the visit less enjoyable.

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Interactive Map

The Temple's Location

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Welcome to North of Known! We’re Alan and May, a married couple who have embraced digital nomadism while calling Bangkok, Thailand, our current home base. Over the past 7 years, our shared passion for exploration and adventure has fueled our journey across the globe. Join us as we continue to embark on our nomadic adventures, sharing our insights, discoveries, and travel tales along the way.

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