Practical information
- Location
- Ayutthaya, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya · 14.34528, 100.59250
- Dress code
- Dress politely: long sleeves, trousers or a knee-length skirt; no sleeveless, crop, tight or revealing tops. Take off your shoes before entering the chapel or other buildings. (source: thailand.go.th)
- Period
- Ayutthaya period; great chedi linked to King Naresuan
Opening hours and entrance fee: no reliable source found, so not listed. Ask on site or check the official website.
About Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon lies southeast of Ayutthaya island and, unlike many sites in the city, is still an active monastery. It is known for having the tallest chedi in Ayutthaya, which tradition links to King Naresuan and his victory over the Burmese. The chedi is surrounded by rows of seated Buddha images wrapped in saffron cloth, and you can climb its stairs to look inside. A white reclining Buddha lies in the grounds. Because monks live here, visitors should dress and behave respectfully. Come early or late for softer light.
Highlights
- Tallest chedi The highest stupa in Ayutthaya.
- Rows of Buddhas Seated images wrapped in saffron cloth.
- Reclining Buddha A white reclining figure in the grounds.
Tips for Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
- Cover your shoulders and knees and take off your shoes before you enter a temple building.
- Combine your visit with Wat Phanan Choeng, about 1 km away as the crow flies.
More photos of Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
Buddha statue with orange sash among brick walls, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon Photo: Y.Thanongsak · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons 
The great bell-shaped chedi, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon Photo: กสิณธร ราชโอรส · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
Frequently asked questions about Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
Where is Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon?
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is in Ayutthaya, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, in central Thailand.
What is Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon known for?
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon lies southeast of Ayutthaya island and, unlike many sites in the city, is still an active monastery. Highlights include Tallest chedi, Rows of Buddhas and Reclining Buddha.
How old is Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon?
Ayutthaya period; great chedi linked to King Naresuan.