Wat Chai Mongkhon is a historic Buddhist temple located in Ayutthaya, Thailand. It is known for its unique connection to traditional boat races and for its stunning ordination hall, which blends classic Thai temple architecture with modern mural artistry.
In Ayutthaya, Thailand, there is an old Buddhist temple called Wat Chai Mongkhon. People know it for its unique link to traditional boat races and its beautiful ordination hall, which combines traditional Thai temple architecture with modern mural art. People from all over the world still come to the temple to pray and learn about the culture.
History of Wat Chai Mongkhon
King U-Thong built a monastery called Wat Pakaew in 1357 AD to house monks who had been ordered by Phra Wanratana Mahathera Burean. This is when the site first appeared. Later, in 1592 AD, King Naresuan the Great built a big chedi here on the advice of Phra Wanratana. The monastery became known as Wat Yai Chaimongkhon.
The current temple, Wat Chai Mongkhon, was built in 1857, during the reign of King Rama IV. The name Chai Mongkhon means victory and is connected to traditional boat racing. The temple was the finish line, and Wat Sanam Chai was the starting point. Visitors can see murals in the ubosot that use modern art techniques like light and shadow effects, colours that reflect light, and realistic pictures of Buddhist stories.
Location, Directions, and Timings
Wat Chai Mongkhon is in Ayutthaya, Thailand’s old capital, which is famous for its rich history and culture. It is easy to get to the temple from the centre of Ayutthaya. People can get to it by tuk-tuk, taxi, or rented bike. Renting a bike is a popular way to see the temples around the city. Most of the time, Wat Chai Mongkhon is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Things to Do in Wat Chai Mongkhon
- Look at the ordination hall which has murals that mix modern and traditional Thai art styles.
- Look at the murals that tell Buddhist stories.
- Find out how the temple is connected to boat racing traditions, which is how Wat Chai Mongkhon got its name.
- To enjoy the peaceful and spiritual atmosphere of the temple, walk around its grounds.
Tips Before You Visit the temple
- Visitors should wear modest clothes that cover their shoulders and knees.
- The best time to go is in the morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler and the light is softer for taking pictures.
- The murals inside the ubosot and the historical ties to both ancient kings and Ayutthaya’s cultural traditions are the main draws.
- Respectful behaviour means keeping your voice down, not touching sacred things, and always being polite to monks and worshippers.
FAQs about Wat Chai Mongkhon
It is known for the modern murals in the ordination hall and the fact that it was the end point for traditional boat races.
No, they are two different temples. The temple Wat Yai Chaimongkhon is from the time of King Naresuan, while the temple Wat Chai Mongkhon was built later, in 1857, when King Rama IV was in charge.
Wat Chai Mongkhon usually lets people in for free, but donations for upkeep are always welcome.
It usually takes 30 to 45 minutes to look around the murals and temple grounds.
Yes, you can usually take pictures, but you should do it respectfully and not bother people who are praying cultural landmark for locals and visitors alike.
