Overview:

Wat Yai Chai Mongkol Ayutthaya in Thailand is a Buddhist temple complex situated near the confluence of the Pasak River and the Chao Phraya River. It was built during the Ayutthaya period in 1357, and is one of the most important historic sites in Thailand. The temple is known for its grand pagoda, intricate architecture, and surrounding water canals, making it a popular tourist destination. Wat Yai Chai Mongkol Ayutthaya houses a number of important Buddha statues, as well as religious artifacts. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Thailand
Prominent Features:

1. Chedi: The temple is known for its huge grey-green chedi resembling a huge upside-down bell and supported by a series of tiered porches. 2. Viharn: It houses a central holy image, believed to be the largest of its kind. Measuring 10.6 meters long and 9.6 meters tall, the bronze Buddhimage of Lord Buddha in Bhumisparsha Mudra is powerful looking with its closed eyes and gently curving face. 3. Memorial Tower: A unique pagoda shaped memorial tower that stands 15 meters high. 4. Ubosot: An interesting ubosot or ordination hall is situated at the foot of the chedi and is believed to have been built to commemorate King U Thong, who restored the temple in 1361 and used as an ordination hall for monks. 5. Stupas: A number of smaller stupas, some containing broken Buddha images, are located around the temple grounds. 6. Picturesque Setting: Wat Yai Chai Mongkol is situated in tranquil, picturesque settings, surrounded by lush vegetation and a beautiful pond adorned with peaceful white swans. This national monument of Thailand portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Wat Yai Chai Mongkol is a Buddhist temple located in the ancient city of Ayutthaya, Thailand. It was built in 1357 by King U-Thong during the Ayutthaya pre-Ratanakosin period. The temple was originally called Wat Phanan Choeng, which means entrance to victory. It is situated in a highly important place connecting the old city near Wang Luang pond and the new royal palace, built for King U-Thong. The temple was later renamed Wat Yai Chai Mongkol after the construction of a large standing Buddha statue known as Chai Mongkol, which means great victory, the symbol of Thai people’s victory over the Burmese army in the war of 1592. The statue is 12 meters tall, made of brick and stucco, and stands in the main hall of the temple. The temple served as the residence of King U-Thong for some time before he decided to settle in a new palace, Wat Suwandaram. Today, Wat Yai Chai Mongkol remains the most important temple in Ayutthaya. It is a popular destination for visitors interested in learning about the history and heritage of Ayutthaya. There are several ordination halls, chedis, and statues set among the peaceful surroundings of the temple. There is also a Phra U-Thong shrine dedicated to the King who built the temple. It is said that the temple provides luck and fortune for devotees who offer prayers here. Wat Yai Chai Mongkol is now a National Historical Park and has been placed on the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. You must visit one of these historical places in Thailand on your Thailand tour

Interesting facts:

1. Wat Yai Chai Mongkol was founded in 1357 by King U Thong after defeating the Khmer. 2. The temple stands 43 metres high and is one of the tallest in Ayutthaya. 3. The temple gained importance during the early reign of King Naresuan and is a unifying symbol of Thai independence. 4. The huge golden stupa of Wat Yai Chai Mongkol is known as the “giant pancake” because of its 16-tier design. 5. In front of the temple, a giant seated Buddha statue is the sanctuary’s main attraction. 6. Wat Yai Chai Mongkol is home to the largest bronze standing Buddha of the Ayutthaya period. 7. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists and is one of the stops on the Supreme Patriarch’s Tour of Duty. 8. During the Chinese New Year celebrations, the temple is popular with Thai Chinese followers who come to offer candles and joss sticks in honor of the New Year. 9. Wat Yai Chai Mongkol houses the remains of Luang Phor Khao, one of the most highly respected monks in Thailand. 10. On the grounds of the temple, there is also a Chinese cemetery, believed to be the first in Ayutthaya. Visit one of the famous monuments of Thailand with your friends and family.