Wat Yai Chai Mongkol is located near the main Ayutthaya ruins and a short distance from the walls of Ayutthaya. It is famed for an impressively large statue of the Reclining Buddha inside the temple compound. Built by King U Thong (Ayutthaya’s first ruler) in 1357, the temple is also known as "Chao Phaya Thai Temple" and has a large Chedi that dominates the skyline. The Chedi was built in 1592 to celebrate King Naresuan’s single-handed defeat of the then Burmese Crown Prince after an elephant back duel. The size of the Chedi was intended to match that of Phu Khao Thong – a Pagoda purportedly built by the Burmese which is visible in the distance from the temple. This is a great site to visit and wander around so give yourself plenty of time for a visit.
Details: Admission is 20 Baht and the temple opens daily between 08:30 and 16:30.
How to get there: Wat Yai Chai Mongkol is in the Southeast of the town and easily accessible by Tuk-Tuk or rickshaw for around 30 Baht.
Hotels in the Wat Yai Chai Mongkol locality 
Restaurants and bars in the Wat Yai Chai Mongkol locality 
