Things to Do at Wat Mahathat

Wat Mahathat is probably the most recognizable temple ruin in Ayutthaya, and for good reason - it's home to that famous Buddha head wrapped in banyan tree roots that you've likely seen in countless photos. Built in the 14th century during the kingdom's golden age, this was actually one of the most important temples in the ancient capital, serving as the royal monastery where kings would come to meditate and conduct important ceremonies. What strikes you first isn't just the iconic tree-wrapped head, but the sheer scale of destruction and beauty coexisting here. The Burmese invasion of 1767 left most of the structures as atmospheric ruins, with headless Buddha statues and crumbling prangs (towers) scattered across the complex. It's genuinely moving to walk among these remains - you get a real sense of both the grandeur that once was and the impermanence that Buddhism teaches.

A Buddha head grows from tree roots at Wat Mahathat-one of Ayutthaya's most photographed sights. The temple sits in central the historical park, roughly 80 km north of Bangkok, and you can reach it by train in about 90 minutes to Ayutthaya station. Then grab a tuk-tuk or bike. Most visitors rent bicycles at the station. This beats walking around the sprawling historical park in Thailand's heat, and you can cover more temples in less time. Driving works too. There is parking near the entrance, but weekends get crowded-arrive early or stick with the train.