Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Buddhist temple in Ayutthaya, Thailand
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is a Buddhist temple in Khlong Suan Phlu subdistrict, Thailand, known for its height and the many stone figures lined along the walls. The compound includes several prayer halls, shaded courtyards, and a central tower visible from all sides of the grounds.
The structure was built during the Ayutthaya Kingdom era to commemorate King Naresuan's victory over Burmese troops in the 16th century. The tower was raised after the battle and later expanded to mark the weight of the event.
Buddhists come here to place offerings before stone figures and meditate in small prayer halls around the chedi. The compound remains an active place of devotion, visited by pilgrims who pause here and bow with burning incense in their hands.
The grounds open daily in the morning and are easy to explore on foot, so bring comfortable shoes and sun protection. A walkway circles all the main points, letting you view the tower from several angles and walk along the rows of figures at your own pace.
The stone figures wear orange cloths that are regularly renewed and give the place a lively appearance. This gesture comes from an old tradition in which believers dress the statues like monks to show respect.
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