Wat Lokayasutharam, Ayutthaya | Tips to Visit

Overview of Wat Lokayasutharam in Ayutthaya

Wat Lokayasutharam, a historical gem nestled in the ancient city of Ayutthaya, Thailand, stands as a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the region. This significant Buddhist temple, dating back to the Ayutthaya Kingdom's period (1350-1767 AD), holds immense historical and spiritual significance. The temple is renowned for its gigantic reclining Buddha statue, which is one of the largest in Thailand, symbolizing the Buddha's entry into Nirvana. The site, though partially in ruins, continues to captivate visitors with its serene atmosphere and historical grandeur.

The temple's origins are shrouded in mystery, with little concrete information available regarding its founding and the era of its peak prominence. However, it is believed that Wat Lokayasutharam played a pivotal role in the religious and cultural life of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. The temple complex, now a part of the Ayutthaya Historical Park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting historians, archaeologists, and spiritual seekers from around the world.

Architecture of Wat Lokayasutharam

The architecture of Wat Lokayasutharam is a splendid showcase of the artistic and architectural prowess of the Ayutthaya period. The most striking feature is the enormous reclining Buddha statue, Phra Bhuddhasaiyart, measuring an impressive 37 meters in length and 8 meters in height. This statue, made of bricks and mortar, is an iconic representation of the Buddha's serene and composed state before entering Nirvana. The figure's elongated earlobes, intricately designed headrest, and peaceful facial expression are quintessential elements of Buddhist iconography in Thailand.

The temple complex itself, though partly in ruins, reveals the typical layout of Ayutthayan temples. The site includes remnants of viharas (assembly halls), chedis (stupas), and prangs (reliquary towers), each reflecting the distinctive architectural style of the period. Intricate stucco work, sandstone decorations, and the use of locally sourced materials are some of the key characteristics of the temple's architecture. The orientation of the structures, alignment with the cardinal points, and the spatial arrangement within the complex offer insights into the religious and philosophical beliefs of the era.

Tips When Visiting Wat Lokayasutharam

Dress Appropriately

As a revered religious site, visitors should dress modestly. It's recommended to wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees. This respects the cultural and spiritual significance of the temple.

Respect the Site

Visitors should maintain a respectful demeanor, avoid loud noises, and follow the temple's guidelines. Remember, it's not just a tourist attraction but a place of worship and historical significance.

Photography Etiquette

While photography is allowed, it should be done respectfully. Avoid posing inappropriately with the Buddha statues and always ask for permission if there are monks or worshippers in your frame.

How To Reach Wat Lokayasutharam

Reaching Wat Lokayasutharam is relatively straightforward. Located in the heart of Ayutthaya, it's accessible by various modes of transportation. Visitors can opt for a train ride from Bangkok to Ayutthaya, which takes about 1.5 hours. Upon reaching Ayutthaya, local tuk-tuks, bicycles, or even a rented motorbike can be used to navigate to the temple. For those preferring a more scenic route, riverboats offer a unique way to reach Ayutthaya, providing a glimpse of the riverside scenery and life along the Chao Phraya River.

For international tourists, the nearest airport is Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport. From there, one can take a taxi, bus, or train to reach Ayutthaya. It's advisable to check the latest transportation schedules and routes as they may vary.