Phra Ram Temple & Bueng Phra Ram is believed to have been constructed around 1369 CE (B.E. 1912) during the reign of King Ramesuan. The site holds great historical significance as it was the location where the royal cremation of King Ramathibodi I (King U Thong), the founder of Ayutthaya and the king’s father, was held. However, King Ramesuan ruled for only about one year, leading to the assumption that King Borommarachathirat I may have assisted in completing the construction of the temple. Another possibility is that Phra Ram Temple & Bueng Phra Ram was fully completed during King Ramesuan’s second reign.

The most prominent structure of the temple is the main prang, a large tower standing on a raised square base and rising sharply upward. It represents early Ayutthaya architecture with strong influences from Khmer art. To the east of the main prang stands a medium-sized prang, while the western side features an entrance gate with steep staircases ascending from the base on both sides. The corners of the prang are decorated with figures of Himavanta mythical creatures, reflecting Buddhist cosmological beliefs. Smaller prangs are located to the north and south, each surrounded by chedis on all four sides. In addition, approximately 28 chedis of varying sizes are scattered around the main prang, emphasizing the former grandeur and importance of the temple.

One particularly notable feature of Phra Ram Temple & Bueng Phra Ram is the design of its surrounding walls. The northern wall shows an unusual staggered alignment, while the eastern, western, and southern walls contain gateways positioned slightly toward the west. These gateways align with the northwestern corner of the prang’s gallery. In contrast, the staggered section of the northern wall aligns with the northeastern corner of the prang’s gallery but lacks any gateway. This distinctive layout suggests that the builders may have intentionally designed it for a specific purpose that remains unclear today.

Within the temple complex, several vihara buildings can be found. The main vihara is located east of the prang at the front of the temple and is connected directly to the prang by a walkway. A smaller vihara stands to the south, facing east, with its rear connected to a large chedi that has since collapsed. Another medium-sized vihara is located at the northeastern corner, also facing east, with a large square-based chedi situated behind it.

In the southwestern area, there is another small vihara facing east, accompanied by a nearby small chedi. A small vihara located in front of the ordination hall has one doorway on each side, and behind it stands a square-based chedi now in ruins. Additionally, a vihara once stood to the west of the main prang; smaller than the eastern vihara, it has deteriorated over time and today only its foundation remains.

Private Car:

• Drive into the city island via Rojana Road, turn right onto Si Sanphet Road. The temple is on the right, next to the former National Defence College and near Khum Khun Phaen.

Tuk-Tuk:

• Readily available from the train station or market. Ask for Wat Phra Ram. Its central location makes it very easy to find.

Rental Bicycle:

• A top stop for cyclists, as the paths around the lake are convenient for sightseeing and connect easily to Wat Mahathat or Wat Ratchaburana.

Best Time to Visit:

• 16:30 – 18:00 PM for the sunset at Bueng Phra Ram, when the golden light illuminates the prang beautifully.

Preparation:

• The park has many trees; mosquitoes can be active in the evening, so carrying repellent is recommended.

Photography:

• The best spot is on the wooden bridge in the middle of the lake, capturing the prang as a backdrop against the water.

Local Culture:

• On weekends, small markets and cultural activities often pop up near the lake where you can buy Thai snacks to enjoy.

Planning:

• Phra Ram Temple is opposite Viharn Phra Mongkhon Bophit and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, making it easy to visit all three on foot.

Admission Fee

• Thai Visitors: 10 THB

• Foreign Visitors: 50 THB

Opening Hours

• Open daily from 08:00 – 16:30 (The lake area functions as a public park until evening)