Wat Na Phra Meru: The Last Temple Not Burned in Ayutthaya

Wat Na Phra Meru: The Last Temple Not Burned in Ayutthaya

When talking about the ancient city of Ayutthaya, many people probably think of the ruins of temples destroyed by the fires of war until hardly any trace remains. But believe it or not, in this land there is one temple that survived the fires during the late Ayutthaya period, which isWat Na Phra MeruFor me, mr.hotsia, visiting here is like experiencing history that remains intact and an atmosphere truly different from other temples in Ayutthaya.

I traveled to Wat Na Phra Meru one morning. The soft morning sunlight made walking around the temple feel cooler than other places. The area is peaceful and quiet, unlike the main tourist spots in the old city, which I really like because it lets me experience the true atmosphere of Ayutthaya temples, not just places for photos or typical check-ins.

Why Wat Na Phra Meru Was Not Burned

What makes Wat Na Phra Meru stand out is its survival from the war fires in 1767, when Ayutthaya was sacked by the Burmese. Most temples were burned down, but this one shows no severe damage like others. I heard from local villagers that this temple might have been important, with monks governing it and the community continuously taking good care of it, which kept the main buildings and principal Buddha image well preserved.

The principal Buddha image at Wat Na Phra Meru is very unique and interesting. It is a Burmese-style dressed Buddha statue, unlike other temples in Ayutthaya that usually have Sukhothai or classic Ayutthaya style Buddha images. Seeing this statue reminded me of the diversity of art and culture that flowed into Ayutthaya in the past.

Travel and Surrounding Atmosphere

Getting to Wat Na Phra Meru is not difficult. I traveled from Ayutthaya town by motorcycle taxi known locally as “Rot Kob,” which is one of Ayutthaya’s charms (if interested, you can read more in the articleAmazing Rot Kob Ayutthaya). Along the way, I saw the simple lifestyle of locals, small markets, and many roadside food stalls that looked tempting to try.

After visiting the temple, I recommend stopping by Ayothaya Floating Market, which is not far away. This is a newly established floating market but with a nostalgic and warm atmosphere (check it out atAyothaya Floating Market). What I like is seeing authentic Thai lifestyle in a not overly crowded setting. And if you love boat noodles, don’t forget to try Pa Lek’s Boat Noodles, which I reviewed inPa Lek Boat Noodles Ayutthaya. I guarantee it’s as delicious as ever.

Feelings After Visiting Wat Na Phra Meru

For me, mr.hotsia, Wat Na Phra Meru is not just a tourist spot but a living history lesson. Every time I pass through the gate or look at the large principal Buddha image, I feel the endurance and love for culture that the people of Ayutthaya have preserved despite many severe events.

If anyone wants to experience Ayutthaya from a different perspective, I recommend waking up early and visiting Wat Na Phra Meru before heading to the floating market or other tourist spots. Visiting here will help you understand and truly feel the essence of Ayutthaya.

Finally, don’t forget to follow my travel stories in Ayutthaya through the articleMr. Hotsia On Tour: Chanchai Net’s Exciting Ayutthaya Tripwhere I share in-depth experiences about food, travel, and lifestyle. I guarantee you’ll get the full flavor of this ancient city.

For those who enjoy videos, I have filmed the atmosphere and details of Wat Na Phra Meru in this clip.Wat Na Phra Meru: The Last Temple Not Burned in AyutthayaFeel free to watch it to see real images from my perspective, mr.hotsia, more clearly.