Wat Choeng Tha, Ayutthaya – Serenity by the River and Artistic Heritage

Amidst the many famous temples on Ayutthaya Island, there is a small riverside temple along the Chao Phraya River that is often overlooked: Wat Choeng Tha. For those who are passionate about ancient sites, this is a stop you shouldn't miss. The temple's most striking feature is its ancient prang (a type of Thai-style stupa), which remains majestic despite enduring hundreds of years. The prang, built with laterite in the early Ayutthaya style, stands on a square base. Surrounding the prang are stucco decorations adorning the niches, some of which have worn away with age. However, the overall sharpness of the design still invites admiration. This prang reflects the craftsmanship of ancient artisans and clearly showcases the connection between Thai architecture and Buddhist art from the early Ayutthaya period. Unlike larger temples, Wat Choeng Tha is not bustling with crowds. Instead, it exudes charm through its tranquility, simplicity, and the living aura of history. Strolling quietly around the prang by the river might evoke a sense of something unique that larger temples cannot offer. If you're planning a smooth trip to Wat Choeng Tha, consider using the Trip.com app to find routes from Bangkok, book accommodations near Ayutthaya Island, or include other temples in a one-day itinerary in Ayutthaya. It's the one app that helps you explore places with deeper understanding.