About Wat Ratchaburana
Wat Ratchaburana is a historic Buddhist temple in Pratu Chai Subdistrict, Ayutthaya, within the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in 1424 by King Borommarachathirat II on the cremation site of his two elder brothers, it is renowned for its towering Khmer-style prang, well-preserved crypt with ancient murals, and the discovery of gold treasures. It exemplifies early Ayutthaya architecture and royal memorial traditions.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a restored temple complex centered on a tall Khmer-style prang with intricate stucco details, surrounded by ruined viharns, chedis and boundary walls within the Ayutthaya Historical Park. The main attraction is the accessible crypt beneath the prang, reached by steep stairs, containing faded murals of Buddha images. The open courtyard allows walking around the prang, viewing ancient Buddha images, and photography of the historic ruins in a park-like setting near Wat Mahathat.
Key highlights
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Central Khmer-style prang restored with detailed stucco ornamentation
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Underground crypt with rare early Ayutthaya wall murals
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Historical site of royal cremation and gold treasure discovery in 1957
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Part of Ayutthaya Historical Park UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Well-preserved example of early Ayutthaya architecture from 1424