Wat Chang (Monastery of the Elephant)

Welcome, esteemed travelers, to the historic and occasionally submerged grounds of Wat Chang Yai, the Monastery of the Great Elephant. Located just north of the primary Ayutthaya city island, this temple represents a fascinating…

Begin your exploration near the entrance of the primary complex, where you will immediately encounter the sculptural tributes that give this monastery its name. Flanking the pathways and positioned prominently behind the main…

Carefully make your way toward the most historically significant structure on the property: the Old Ordination Hall. This building is an absolute treasure of Early to Middle Ayutthaya architectural styling. …

If the resident monks have permitted the heavy wooden doors to be opened, step inside the old hall. The interior reveals a fascinating mix of architectural details and desperately fragile artwork. …

Direct your focus to the main altar at the rear of the hall. The principal Buddha image sits in the classic subduing Mara posture, radiating a calm permanence in stark contrast to the crumbling walls that surround it. …

Exiting the old ordination hall, carefully navigate the sometimes-muddy grounds toward the prominent ruins standing adjacent to the building. Here you will find the remains of a highly complex and incredibly old reliquary…

Our final observation point brings us to the edge of the temple's usable land, looking out over the water. From here, you can see the stark reality of life at Wat Chang Yai. …

As we conclude our visit to Wat Chang Yai, take a moment to absorb the profound quiet of this forgotten corner of Ayutthaya. You have strayed far from the manicured lawns of the central historical park to witness something raw,…