Samana Kottharam Temple, historically known as “Wat Phraya Phraklang,” is an ancient royal temple located east of Ayutthaya Island. It is believed to have been established during the early Ayutthaya period and gained great importance during the reign of King Narai the Great. The temple underwent major restoration under the patronage of Chao Phraya Kosathibodi (Lek) and later Chao Phraya Kosathibodi (Pan), influential nobles responsible for royal finance and foreign affairs. It was designated as their family temple, reflecting their loyalty, gratitude, and devotion to the kingdom and the monarch.

The significance of Samana Kottharam Temple is also recorded in the accounts of Engelbert Kaempfer, a German traveler, who described the temple as magnificent and dignified in its time. This indicates that the temple once served as an important religious and social center of the capital. It was considered one of the major “Maha That” temples, functioning as a spiritual pillar and symbolic landmark of Ayutthaya in the past.

The most outstanding architectural feature of the temple is its grand prang, which stands on a circumambulatory base with a projecting porch extending to the east. Archaeologists believe this design was inspired by the Seven Spires Pagoda in Chiang Mai, reflecting the exchange of artistic concepts between different regions. The temple also features an ordination hall built of brick and stucco with a distinctive curved hull-like form, characteristic of late Ayutthaya art. Inside enshrines “Phra Si Samana Kotthibophit,” a sandstone Buddha image in the subduing Mara posture, noted for its serene and dignified appearance.

The atmosphere within the temple is solemn and mystical, surrounded by scattered ruins throughout the grounds. Visitors can explore the remains of large assembly halls, now reduced to brick foundations and columns, which reveal the former grandeur of the complex. The tranquility of the site allows visitors to reflect on the stories of loyal nobles and the crucial roles played by Ayutthaya’s elite in shaping the kingdom’s political, economic, and diplomatic strength.

Samana Kottharam Temple is a must-visit destination for historians and lovers of Thai architecture due to its rare prang design. It is also popular among spiritual seekers who come to pay respects at the shrines of Chao Phraya Kosathibodi (Lek) and Chao Phraya Kosathibodi (Pan), seeking blessings for career success and negotiations. The most picturesque viewpoint is from the eastern side, where the grand prang rises behind ancient brick walls, beautifully illuminated by the warm light of the setting sun.

Visitors are invited to experience the architectural grandeur and the inspiring stories of the noble figures who stood beside the throne of Ayutthaya at Wat Samana Kottharam, a temple rich in historical depth and spiritual significance.

Private Car:

• From the Wat Sam Pluem roundabout (the central pagoda), turn left towards Wat Kudi Dao. Wat Samana Kottharam is located on the left, immediately adjacent to Wat Kudi Dao.

Tuk-Tuk (Frog-head style):

• You can hire a local Tuk-Tuk from the Ayutthaya Railway Station; the journey takes less than 10 minutes as the temple is very close by.

Best Time to Visit:

• Accessible year-round. Morning visits (08:30 - 10:00 AM) are recommended for cooler weather and optimal lighting for architectural photography.

Dress Code:

• As an active monastery and sacred historical site, please wear modest attire covering shoulders and knees.

Photography:

• Don't miss capturing the intricate remaining stucco patterns on the prang and the ancient altar foundations in the ruins.

Planning:

• The temple is adjacent to Wat Kudi Dao and near Wat Maheyong, making it easy to visit multiple major ruins in one walking tour after parking.

Admission Fee

• Local Visitors: Free

• Foreign Visitors: Free (Donations are welcome)

Opening Hours

• Open Daily 08:00 – 17:00