Na Phra Meru Temple, commonly known as Wat Na Phra Meru, is located along Sa Bua Canal on the northern side of Ayutthaya’s city moat, formerly the Lopburi River, directly opposite the Royal Palace. Its location reflects its close connection to royal ceremonies and the court since the early Ayutthaya period.

The temple was built in 1503 AD (B.E. 2046) during the early Ayutthaya era and was originally named Wat Phra Meru Ratchikaram. It is believed that this area was once used as a site for constructing royal cremation pavilions for the kings or royal family members of early Ayutthaya. Later, a temple was established on this site, and its name continues to reflect the original function of the location.

According to legend, Prince In during the reign of King Ramathibodi II was responsible for founding the temple in 1503 AD. Na Phra Meru Temple holds great historical significance. In 1563 AD (B.E. 2106), during the war between Ayutthaya and Hongsawadee, King Maha Chakkraphat concluded a truce with King Bayinnaung. A royal pavilion was constructed between Na Phra Meru Temple and Hatsadawas Temple to serve as a residence and a venue for royal ceremonies and diplomatic negotiations.

Na Phra Meru Temple is the only temple in Ayutthaya that was not destroyed by the Burmese army during the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767. As a result, it remains one of the best-preserved examples of Ayutthaya-period architecture in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, particularly its ordination hall, which is considered an outstanding example of early Ayutthaya architecture.

The ordination hall measures approximately 50 meters in length and 16 meters in width_. Originally built in the early Ayutthaya style with interior columns, it was later expanded during the reign of King Borommakot by adding exterior columns to support the extended roof, enhancing both stability and elegance. The gable is carved from teak wood, depicting Vishnu riding Garuda while trampling a Naga, with Rahu figures on both sides of the Naga’s head, reflecting traditional cosmological beliefs.

The windows are tall and narrow, arranged vertically. Inside, two rows of square columns, eight in each row, are topped with lotus-shaped capitals in the Ayutthaya style. The ceiling is decorated with star motifs carved in wood and gilded with lacquer and gold. The doors of the smaller vihara feature thick teak panels intricately carved from single pieces of wood, layered with complex patterns, demonstrating the exceptional craftsmanship of Ayutthaya artisans.

The principal Buddha image in the ordination hall was created in the late Ayutthaya period. Cast in bronze and adorned in royal regalia, it depicts the Buddha in the Maravijaya posture and is named Phra Phuttha Nimit Vichit Man Moli Si Sanphet Borom Trilokanat. It is considered the largest surviving royal-attired Buddha image from the Ayutthaya period, standing approximately 6 meters tall with a lap width_ of about 4.40 meters, and remains remarkably complete and beautiful.

During the reign of King Rama III of the Rattanakosin period, the temple was restored while preserving its original architectural style. At that time, Phra Khanthararat, a green stone Buddha image in the seated posture with legs pendant from the Dvaravati period, was relocated from Wat Mahathat to be enshrined in the Vihara Sanphet, also known as the “Small Vihara,” located beside the ordination hall.

This Dvaravati-style stone Buddha image is one of only five such images in Thailand, making it an extremely valuable artifact in terms of history, art, and religion. Na Phra Meru Temple therefore stands as a remarkable testament to Thailand’s cultural continuity, royal devotion, and artistic achievement from ancient times to the present day.

Private Car:

• Cross the Pridi-Thamrong Bridge, go straight to the Wat Sam Pluem pagoda roundabout, turn left, and cross the bridge past the Ancient Palace. The temple is on the right along Khlong Sa Bua.

"Frog-head" Tuk-Tuk:

• Available for hire from the railway station or Chao Phrom Market; simply mention "Wat Na Phra Meru."

Rental Bicycle/Motorbike:

• A popular way to explore the Ayutthaya island; the temple is located just north of the Grand Palace.

Best Time to Visit:

• Accessible year-round. Morning hours (08:00 - 10:00) provide the best light for photographing the ordination hall and cooler temperatures.

Dress Code:

• As it is a sacred religious site, please dress modestly (no shorts above the knee or sleeveless tops).

Photography:

• Photography is allowed inside the halls, but please remain quiet and refrain from using flash to preserve the sanctity and the artifacts.

Local Highlights:

• Stalls in front of the temple sell local drinks and souvenirs, and the area is near riverside restaurants in the Khlong Sa Bua zone.

Planning:

• Allocate at least 1 hour to explore the main hall, the Small Vihara, and the surrounding grounds to appreciate the fine craftsmanship.

Admission Fee

• Thai Visitors: Adult Free, Child Free

• Foreign Visitors: 20 THB

Opening Hours

• Open daily from 08:00 – 17:00.