Wat Ratchaburana

Wat Ratchaburana is one of the most impressive and underrated temples in Ayutthaya. Built in 1424 by King Borom Rachathirat II, its massive central Khmer-style prang towers above the surrounding ruins and can actually be entered via a narrow staircase descending into the crypt below. In 1957, when archaeologists excavated the crypt, they discovered an astonishing cache of royal gold artefacts, Buddha images, jewellery, and votive objects — much of which is now displayed in the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum nearby. The temple sits opposite Wat Mahathat and is typically included in the same visit. Climbing into the dark, ancient crypt beneath the prang is a thrilling and atmospheric experience unlike any other temple in Ayutthaya.