Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Ayutthaya

History

Built in 1630 by King Prasat Thong, Wat Chaiwatthanaram (also spelled Chai Watthanaram) is one of Ayutthaya's most photographed temples, thanks to its riverside setting and Khymer-style prang.

What to see

The temple can be viewed from the riverside as the sunset behinds it. The 35-meter-high central prang and satellite chedis are similar to the layout of Cambodia's Angkor Wat.

Getting there

The temple is to the south of the island and can be seen on a sunset river cruise or reached by bicycle via a nearby bridge.

Updated: January 21, 2011.