Wat Phutthaisawan is a historic and architecturally rich temple situated on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. It was built in 1353 by King Ramathibodi I (King U-Thong) at the very location where he established his royal residence before founding Ayutthaya as the capital. The temple stands as a royal memorial and one of the earliest sacred monuments of the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

Its most iconic structure is the central white Khmer-style prang, built in 1352, believed to be the first of its kind in Ayutthaya. The prang stands on a raised platform with stairways on both east and west sides. Inside are two sacred Buddha footprints, a reclining Buddha image tucked discreetly at the back, and surrounding cloisters lined with various Buddha images in different postures.

The temple also houses rare murals depicting the voyages of Thai monks to Sri Lanka in 1753 and 1755—an effort to revive and strengthen Buddhism abroad. A monument known as the Royal Memorial of Five Kings honors the monarchs who contributed significantly to Thai Buddhism and the nation.

Although it was not destroyed during the Burmese invasion in 1767, Wat Phutthaisawan was heavily looted. Hidden caches of gold and silver were discovered and removed—reportedly requiring three large boats—under the direction of King Taksin to finance the new capital and military campaigns. Restoration was later championed by King Chulalongkorn and continues today with support from the Fine Arts Department.

Contemporary Cultural Significance:

Wat Phutthaisawan features prominently in the historical Thai drama Love Destiny II (บุพเพสันนิวาส 2), set during the late Ayutthaya era. The temple served as a filming location for scenes of martial training and mystical arts led by King Tai Sa and his disciples, including Muen Sunthorn Thewa and Muen Rueang Ratchaphakdi. In episode 25, the temple is beautifully lit with traditional lanterns, leaving a lasting visual impression that has drawn drama fans and tourists eager to walk in the footsteps of the characters.

• From Bangkok, drive via Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road), then turn onto Highway 32 and continue on Highway 309 into Ayutthaya. Cross Pridi Bridge and proceed to the old City Hall junction. Turn left for 500 meters, then right onto the island’s ring road. Pass Sirinilaya Pavilion and cross the bridge at Wat Kasattrathirat. Turn left toward Wat Chaiwatthanaram, and after 2 km, turn left again and pass a mosque and St. Joseph Church. Wat Phutthaisawan is about 700 meters ahead.
• From Ayutthaya city island, take the small ferry from in front of Ayutthaya Hospital to the west bank and walk a short distance to the temple.
• Trains from Bangkok to Ayutthaya run daily on northern and northeastern lines. Check timetables at 1690 or visit www.railway.co.th.

• Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid heat

• Bring a hat or umbrella for sun protection

• Ferry service is a convenient option from the city

• Ideal for historical photography and architectural appreciation

• Dress respectfully as it is an active religious site

Admission fee:

• Free entry