Visit the World’s Tallest Buddhist Monument
Phra Pathom Chedi, meaning the ‘Holy chedi of the beginning’, stands as the world’s tallest chedi. It towers an impressive 127 meters from its base to the tip of its orange roof. Moreover, the Phra Pathom Chedi marks the site where Buddhism first arrived in Thailand more than two thousand years ago.
Customer feedback – “Not just another temple. Enjoyed the day trip here and learning more about Thai culture and Buddhism. Take the journey, worth it!”
Rich History Dating Back to Ancient Times
Many cities around the world grew up around important religious temples, landmarks, or chapels. However, none are as interesting as Phra Pathom Chedi. The chedi has a long, varied history dating back to the 4th century. During this time, Indian emperor Ashoka sent monks to many parts of Asia, including Thailand, to spread Buddhism.
The chedi houses relics from the Buddha that Indian monks brought to Thailand. Furthermore, builders modeled it after the Great Stupa of Sanchi in central India. Therefore, it connects Thailand directly to Buddhism’s ancient roots.
Customer feedback – “Nakhon Pathon is a place worth exploring and is a perfect day trip for travelers who have already seen most of Bangkok and want to experience a more realistic feel of what Thai life is outside the capital.”
King Mongkut’s Restoration Project
Long after its construction, the chedi fell into disrepair and became overgrown by jungle. However, Thailand’s King Mongkut visited the site when he traveled the country as a monk. He saw that the structure needed help.
Upon becoming king in 1851, King Mongkut ordered the original chedi to be preserved. Therefore, workers built an enormous chedi over the original structure. The restoration also included adding a compound area with four viharns (chapels), many sculptures, Buddha castings, meditation caves, and a garden sanctuary.
Unique Treasures to Discover
When you visit Phra Pathom Chedi, you’ll see several special items:
- A massive, standing golden Buddha in Pang Ham Yati posture
- Small alcoves around the base containing hundreds of Buddha images representing each day of the week
- A large gilt standing Buddha image (Phra Ruang Rodjanarith) where King Rama VI’s ashes rest in the statue’s base
- A large market next to the chedi selling Buddhist amulets
Additionally, two museums offer deeper insights into the site’s history.
Museums and Cultural Learning
The Wat Phra Pathom Chedi Museum houses historical remains discovered during digs in Nakhon Pathom. Meanwhile, the National Museum of Phra Pathom Chedi sits in a modern Thai building. It contains artifacts and historical remains, most dating back to the Dvaravati period.
Customer feedback – “Truly beautiful. Not crowded at all. Lots of history and we were glad our private tour guide suggested this temple to us. Well worth the visit and was happy to get outside of Bangkok.”
Practical Visitor Information
The temple complex opens daily from 7:00 am until 8:00 pm. However, the Phra Pathom Chedi Museum opens Wednesday through Sunday from 9:00 am until 4:30 pm. Similarly, the National Museum of Phra Pathom Chedi opens Wednesday through Sunday from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm.
Admission Price: The temple complex at Phra Pathom Chedi is 20 Baht per person.
Other attractions that can be easily arranged along with a visit to Phra Pathom Chedi include our Sanam Chandra Palace and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market tours. Visit this attraction on our Thailand Royal Coast Experience tour.
Things you should be aware of when visiting Phra Pathom Chedi:
- Respectful attire is required. Phra Pathom Chedi is a revered Buddhist site, and as such the management insists that visitors dress in a respectful manner.
- Photography is highly encouraged along every part of this tour.
- On the twelfth lunar month, usually in November, Phra Pathom Chedi hosts their main Annual Fair. On this very special day, thousands of residents come and pay homage to the temple and walk around the base of the chedi.
