Thailand's Heritage Temples: Exploring Millennia of History & Art - Thai Impact | Thailand Travel, Culture, Food & Local Vibes

(Part 2) Welcome back to our captivating journey through Thailand’s rich past! In this second part of our exploration, we continue to unveil more of Thailand’s heritage temples, each a testament to centuries of unwavering faith, remarkable artistry, and profound history.

From the historic heart of Ayutthaya to the deep south, these sites offer a unique window into the diverse spiritual landscape of the nation. Discover five more magnificent temples, from Ayutthaya’s sacred past to the timeless ancient wonders of Southern Thailand.

Part 1 : Discovering Thailand’s Timeless Treasures: Ancient Temples of Central Thailand

6. Wat Phra Mahathat (Ayutthaya)

History & Beliefs: Established during the reign of King Borommarachathirat I (Khun Luang Pha-Ngua), this was a crucial temple in Ayutthaya. It housed sacred Buddha relics and served as a central hub for religious ceremonies and spiritual activities within the kingdom. Worshipping the relics here is believed to bring great blessings, embodying the spiritual depth of Thailand’s heritage temples.
Significance of Ancient Structures/Artifacts: The sandstone Buddha head in Bodhi roots symbolizes a powerful harmony between sacred faith and enduring nature.
Age of Temple: Approximately 651 years old (built in 1374 CE).
Province: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Region in Thailand: Central Thailand
How to Get There: Located within the Ayutthaya Historical Park, not far from Wat Ratchaburana. Accessible by train, minivan, or private car from Bangkok.

7. Wat Ratchaburana

History & Beliefs: Built by King Borommarachathirat II (Chao Sam Phraya) as a cremation site for his elder brothers, Chao Ai Phraya and Chao Yi Phraya, who tragically died battling for the throne. This temple is deeply associated with poignant tales of love, separation, and sacrifice, characteristic of Thailand’s heritage temples.
Significance of Ancient Structures/Artifacts: The main prang of the temple is remarkably beautiful and strikingly distinct. Golden artifacts and Buddha images found in the crypt reflect Ayutthaya’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.
Age of Temple: Approximately 601 years old (built in 1424 CE).
Province: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Region in Thailand): Central Thailand
How to Get There: Located within the Ayutthaya Historical Park, directly opposite Wat Phra Mahathat. Accessible by train, minivan, or private car from Bangkok.

8. Wat Yai Suwannaram Worawihan

History & Beliefs: Dating back to the Ayutthaya period, this temple, originally named “Wat Noi,” underwent significant restoration during the Rattanakosin era. It is an important temple in Phetchaburi, housing a Buddha image in the Maravijaya posture, reflecting late Ayutthaya artistry.
Significance of Ancient Structures/Artifacts: The temple’s Ubosot features remarkably well-preserved and beautiful murals, showcasing the art of the late Ayutthaya to early Rattanakosin periods. These murals vividly depict stories from the Jataka tales (birth stories of Buddha) and the life of the Buddha. The temple also boasts exquisite carved teak monastic quarters, making it a unique example among Thailand’s heritage temples.
Age of Temple: Approximately 300-400 years old (built during the late Ayutthaya period).
Province: Phetchaburi
Region in Thailand: Central/Western Thailand
How to Get There: Located in Phetchaburi town. You can take a train or minivan from Bangkok, which takes approximately 2 hours.

9. Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat Woramahawihan (Wat Yai)

History & Beliefs: Affectionately known as “Wat Yai,” this temple was built during the early Sukhothai period. It is home to “Phra Phuttha Chinnarat,” widely considered the most beautiful Buddha image in Thailand and one of the most important in the world. This is a must-visit among Thailand’s heritage temples.
Significance of Ancient Structures/Artifacts: Phra Phuttha Chinnarat is admired for its perfectly proportioned and divine features. The temple also boasts a Viharn and a chedi in the distinctive “lotus bud” shape, showcasing the elegant Sukhothai art style.
Age of Temple: Approximately 668 years old (built in the early Sukhothai period, around 1357 CE).
Province: Phitsanulok
Region in Thailand: Lower Northern Thailand
How to Get There: Located in Phitsanulok city. You can take a train or fly from Bangkok to Phitsanulok Airport, then take local transport into the city.

10. Wat Mahathat Woramahawihan (Nakhon Si Thammarat)

History & Beliefs: This temple has been a spiritual cornerstone of Nakhon Si Thammarat for over 1,000 years. Built in the Srivijaya era, this temple enshrines Buddha’s relics brought from Sri Lanka, predating Sukhothai. It served as the center of the Theravada Buddhist (Lankavamsa) sect in Thailand. Its enduring significance makes it one of the most important of Thailand’s heritage temples.
Significance of Ancient Structures/Artifacts: The Phra Borom That Chedi, towering majestically with its gold-leaf-adorned spire, is surrounded by numerous smaller chedis. This temple has been nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Age of Temple: Over 1,000 years old (built during the Srivijaya Kingdom, approximately 7th-13th centuries CE).
Province: Nakhon Si Thammarat
Region in Thailand: Southern Thailand
How to Get There: Located in Nakhon Si Thammarat city. You can fly from Bangkok to Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport and then take local transport into the city, or travel by train.

A journey through these old temples is not just about visiting historical sites; it’s about immersing yourself in the spirit, faith, and history that have shaped Thailand into the vibrant nation it is today.