Wat Ratburana

Introduction: The Royal Crypt Temple of Ancient Siam

Situated on the central island of Ayutthaya Historical Park, directly across the road from Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana (also spelled Wat Ratburana) is one of the most historically significant, visually striking, and archaeologically celebrated temples of the ancient Ayutthaya Kingdom. Founded in 1424 by King Borommarachathirat II (Sam Phraya), the monastery was built on the cremation site of his two elder brothers, Prince Ai Phraya and Prince Yi Phraya, who tragically killed each other in single combat on elephant-back while fighting for the royal throne.

Renowned globally for its exceptionally preserved main Khmer-style central prang (corn-cob tower), delicate stucco reliefs depicting mythical Garudas and Nagas, and a multi-chambered underground crypt, Wat Ratchaburana remains famous for the discovery of a vast trove of 15th-century royal gold treasures and rare historical wall murals.

Architectural Masterpieces & The Royal Gold Crypt

Wat Ratchaburana's architectural layout represents classic Early Ayutthaya design with strong Khmer-derived influences:

1. The Central White Sandstone Prang

The crown jewel of the complex is a magnificent, well-restored central prang standing atop a high brick platform. Adorned with original stucco carvings of mythical creatures, celestial guardians, and lotus petals, it is framed through the ruined doorway arch of the principal royal assembly hall (*Wihan Luang*).

2. The Accessible Underground Crypt & Wall Murals

Unlike most temples in Ayutthaya, visitors can descend steep, narrow stone staircases into a two-tiered subterranean crypt located directly beneath the central prang. The lower chamber features 15th-century royal wall murals depicting early Buddhist iconography, Chinese motifs, and heavenly devas—among the oldest surviving wall paintings in Thailand.

3. The Legendary Gold Treasure Discovery

In 1957, looters broke into the hidden crypt, stealing hundreds of ancient artifacts. The Fine Arts Department subsequently excavated the remaining vault, uncovering an extraordinary royal treasure consisting of golden Buddha statues, royal crowns, jeweled swords, gold caskets, and crystal reliquaries. Today, these priceless royal regalia are preserved in the nearby **Chao Sam Phraya National Museum**.

4. The Main Wihan & Surrounding Stupas

The brick foundations of the massive ordination hall (*Ubosot*) and assembly hall display remaining pillar bases and chedi ruins, framed by lush royal parklands and ancient trees.

Key Highlights & Attraction Summary

• 15th-Century Central Prang: Towering Khmer-style brick tower featuring intact stucco reliefs.
• Accessible Underground Crypt: Descend stone stairs inside the prang to view early 15th-century royal wall murals.
• Royal Succession History: Built by King Sam Phraya in 1424 to honor his two fallen brothers.
• Chao Sam Phraya Museum Connection: Houses the royal gold regalia and treasures unearthed from the crypt.

How to Reach Wat Ratchaburana

Wat Ratchaburana is located in central Ayutthaya city island, easily accessible via public transit from Bangkok.

By Train from Bangkok (Most Authentic Route)

Take a commuter train from Bangkok's **Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal** or **Don Mueang Railway Station** directly to **Ayutthaya Station** (1.5 to 2 hours, costing 15–20 THB). From Ayutthaya station, take a 5-minute ferry across the Pa Sak River and walk 15 minutes or ride a bicycle directly to Wat Ratchaburana.

By Minivan / Bus / Taxi

Air-conditioned minivans depart from Bangkok's **Mochit Bus Terminal** (approx. 1 to 1.5 hours, 70–100 THB). Taxis or private cars reach the temple via Highway 32 in about 60 to 75 minutes.

Getting Around the Historical Park

Situated directly opposite Wat Mahathat, visitors can easily explore the central island on a **rented bicycle** (50 THB/day), scooter, or by hiring an **Ayutthaya frog-nosed tuk-tuk** (200–300 THB/hour).

Best Time to Visit

Lighting and temperature guidelines for optimal sightseeing and photography.

Best Season: Cool Dry Season (November to February)

Brings dry, sunny weather and pleasant temperatures (22°C–31°C). Ideal for walking around outdoor brick ruins and climbing the prang.

Best Time of Day (Early Morning or Late Afternoon)

Visit between **08:00 AM and 10:00 AM** to photograph the central prang framed through the Wihan doorway before afternoon heat, or visit after **04:00 PM** when the red brick walls glow in warm sunset light.

Top Nearby Attractions

1. Wat Mahathat (100 meters away)

Located directly across the street, famous for the stone Buddha head naturally enshrined in banyan tree roots.

2. Chao Sam Phraya National Museum (1 km away)

Houses the excavated gold crowns, royal swords, and golden Buddha relics unearthed from Wat Ratchaburana's crypt.

3. Wat Phra Si Sanphet & Royal Palace (800 meters away)

The holiest temple within the ancient royal palace grounds, featuring three iconic bell-shaped chedis holding royal ashes.

Things to Do at Wat Ratchaburana

• Descend into the Underground Crypt: Walk down the stone steps inside the central prang to view ancient wall murals.
• Photograph the Wihan Doorway Frame: Capture classic alignment photos of the central prang through the ruined assembly hall arch.
• Examine Stucco Relief Carvings: Study the detailed mythical Garudas and Naga sculptures on the upper walls of the prang.
• See Crypt Gold Treasures at the Museum: Visit nearby Chao Sam Phraya National Museum to view the original gold regalia.

Local Food and Culinary Delights

Ayutthaya is renowned across Thailand for distinct regional culinary specialties.

Must-Try Culinary Specialties

• Ayutthaya Giant River Prawns (Goong Mae Nam): Charcoal-grilled freshwater king prawns served with rich head fat and spicy chili-lime dip.
• Roti Sai Mai (Cotton Candy Roti): Freshly spun palm sugar threads wrapped in thin pandan crepes, sold along U-Thong Road.
• Ayutthaya Boat Noodles (Kuay Teow Ruea): Savory pork or beef noodle soup seasoned with aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and pork crackling.

Where to Stay: Accommodation Options

Staying overnight allows visitors to experience the illuminated ancient ruins after dark without day-trip rushes.

Boutique & Riverside Hotels ($40 – $180 USD / 1,400 – 6,000 THB per night)

• Sala Ayutthaya / Baan Pomphet / Kantary Hotel Ayutthaya: Premier boutique properties offering pool views, riverside dining, and views of ancient temple ruins.

Budget Guesthouses & Hostels ($15 – $35 USD / 500 – 1,200 THB per night)

• Old Ayutthaya island features clean, family-run guesthouses and bicycle-friendly hostels within walking distance of Wat Ratchaburana.

Budget Travel Guide for Wat Ratchaburana

• Entrance Fee: Individual admission ticket costs **50 THB** ($1.50 USD) for foreign adults (free for Thai citizens).
• Combination Temple Pass: Covered under the official **220 THB Combination Pass** that includes 6 major historical sites (Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Maheyong, and Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon).
• Cheap Transport: Third-class train from Bangkok costs 15–20 THB, and bike rentals cost 50 THB/day for a complete day trip under $10 USD.

Sample 1-Day Itinerary

• 07:30 AM: Take the morning train from Bangkok (Krung Thep Aphiwat / Don Mueang) to Ayutthaya Station.
• 09:15 AM: Arrive in Ayutthaya; cross the river ferry and rent a bicycle near the pier.
• 09:30 AM: Explore **Wat Ratchaburana**, climb the central prang, and descend into the underground crypt.
• 11:00 AM: Walk across the street to **Wat Mahathat** to see the stone Buddha head in banyan roots.
• 12:30 PM: Enjoy a local lunch of boat noodles and fresh coconut water at a nearby cafe.
• 02:00 PM: Visit **Chao Sam Phraya National Museum** to view the gold treasures excavated from Wat Ratchaburana.
• 04:30 PM: Cycle across the river to **Wat Chaiwatthanaram** to watch the sunset over the Khmer prangs before taking the train back to Bangkok.

Essential Rules and Temple Guidelines

• Respectful Dress Code Enforced: Shoulders and knees must be covered at all ancient temple ruins—wear light pants, long skirts, or scarves.
• Crypt Staircase Caution: The stone steps leading down into the underground crypt are steep, narrow, and dimly lit—watch your step and hold handrails.
• Do Not Touch Wall Murals: Touching ancient brickwork or 15th-century frescoes inside the crypt is strictly prohibited.
• Sun Protection: The open ruin park has limited shade—carry an umbrella, sun hat, sunglasses, and plenty of drinking water.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Where is Wat Ratchaburana located?

Wat Ratchaburana is located on the central island of Ayutthaya Historical Park, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, Thailand, directly opposite Wat Mahathat.

2. Why was Wat Ratchaburana built?

It was built in 1424 by King Borommarachathirat II (Sam Phraya) on the cremation site of his two elder brothers who died fighting each other in an elephant duel for the throne.

3. Can you go inside the crypt at Wat Ratchaburana?

Yes, visitors can descend narrow stone stairs inside the central prang to view the underground crypt and 15th-century wall paintings.

4. How much is the entrance fee for Wat Ratchaburana?

The admission fee is **50 THB for foreign adults**, or covered under a **220 THB combination ticket** for 6 major temples.

5. Where are the gold treasures found inside Wat Ratchaburana displayed?

The excavated gold crowns, jeweled swords, and golden Buddha relics are preserved in the **Chao Sam Phraya National Museum** in Ayutthaya.

6. How do you get to Wat Ratchaburana from Bangkok?

Take a 1.5 to 2-hour train from Bangkok (15–20 THB), an AC minivan from Mochit, or a private taxi via Highway 32.

7. Is a dress code enforced at Wat Ratchaburana?

Yes, modesty rules apply—shoulders and knees must be covered when exploring ancient temple grounds.

8. What local food should I try in Ayutthaya?

Giant charcoal-grilled river prawns (*Goong Mae Nam*), *Roti Sai Mai* (spun sugar crepes), and Ayutthaya boat noodles.

9. How long should you spend at Wat Ratchaburana?

Plan for **1 to 1.5 hours** to explore the central prang, descend into the crypt, and photograph the ruins.

10. What is the best season to visit Wat Ratchaburana?

The cool dry season from **November to February** offers optimal sunny weather and comfortable temperatures for sightseeing.

Conclusion

Wat Ratchaburana stands out as one of Ayutthaya's most captivating historical monuments, where 15th-century Khmer prang architecture, royal succession legends, accessible underground mural crypts, and rich gold treasure heritage converge. From descending into the subterranean crypt and framing the prang through ruined assembly hall doorways to viewing royal gold regalia at Chao Sam Phraya Museum and tasting giant grilled river prawns, Wat Ratchaburana delivers an unmissable cultural journey. Plan your trip, observe temple dress etiquette, and discover Wat Ratchaburana Ayutthaya!