Wat Phu Khao Thong (Golden Mount)

Wat Phu Khao Thong (Temple of the Golden Mount) stands alone in open fields northwest of Ayutthaya's island city and is one of the most distinctive landmarks in the region. The temple's tall white chedi, built on an elevated brick platform (originally constructed by the Burmese during their occupation), is visible from miles around and can be climbed via a staircase to reach a viewing platform offering sweeping 360-degree panoramic views over the flat central Thai plain, the ancient city ruins, and the surrounding rice paddies and waterways. The view at sunset is particularly beautiful. The temple has an interesting history — its chedi was rebuilt by Thai kings after the Burmese left, making it a symbol of Thai resilience and national pride.