Reclining Buddha at Wat Lokayasutharam Ayutthaya

Wat Lokayasutharam ( Lokaya Sutharam) is also called as the Temple of reclining Buddha. A simple, graceful huge image of Buddha lay in the open with no protective structure over it. Usually it is covered with a saffron cloth, but that particular day when we visited the image wasn’t covered. Behind there was the ruins of the vihara. The prang there still stands as a mute proof that it belongs to middle Ayutthaya period.

Reclining Buddha at Wat Lokayasutharam Ayutthaya

During our Wat hopping spree in Historic City of Ayutthaya we were astonished to see this full size image of Buddha out in the open. This Wat Lokaya Sutharam is located a distance of 1 km behind Wat Suanluangsopsawan and close to Wat Worachettharam. The reclining image of Buddha is on a raised platform made of brick and covered with plaster. It is 29 m long.

The ruins of the Ubosot, large hexagonal pillars, lie near the image. One can see the central chedi and ubosot in the courtyard. The courtyard is surrounded by four chedis, now in ruins, one in each corner of the courtyard. All that remains of them is their base. The ubosot is a 14 m wide and 33 m long structure that is made up of brick.

This was a sacred place once, where people came to obtain monkhood. Today, a miniature Buddha image is placed right in front of it for people to be able to worship him and give their offerings.

Reclining Buddha at Wat Lokayasutharam Ayutthaya

Buddha here is known as Phra Bhuddhasaiyart. It lies facing east. The image is made of brick and mortar and had just yellow paint all over. At some places the paint has washed off and looked discolored. The head rested on a lotus flower, feet overlapping left over the right, with equal toes. Observe the picture carefully to see the equalized toes which signify enlightenment and beauty.

It is believed that before Buddha’s death, that is before he attained nirvana, he lied on his side, right hand supporting his head. His left hand resting over his body, this posture of Buddha’s nirvana is revered everywhere.

See another reclining Buddha in Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon in Ayutthaya.

Wat Lokayasutharam Ayutthaya

Reclining Buddha at Wat Lokayasutharam Ayutthaya

Reclining Buddha at Wat Lokayasutharam Ayutthaya

History of Wat Lokaya Sutharam 

I couldn’t find much about the history of Wat Lokaya Sutharam. There is some mention that origin of this Wat belongs to early 14th century. The remains of a moat, that originated from Chao Phraya River, around the structure indicates the Wat was of royal importance. Sadly during the Burmese attack in the year 1767, the Wat was destroyed.

The Prime Minister’s family made a number of renovations to Wat Lokaya Sutha. The image was restored in 1954 and again in 1989. It is out in the open exposed to sun and rain, year after year prone to continuous deterioration; it may require another restoration soon.

Tips to Visit Wat Lokaya Sutharam

  • Dress with knees and shoulders covered properly.
  • No shoes are allowed near the Wat, you will have to leave it a distance and walk barefoot to get close.
  • Any unnecessary physical contact with one another is not appreciated or expected from tourists.
  • No smoking inside the premises.
  • Do not point your feet towards the image of Lord Buddha as it is frowned upon by the locals.
  • Open throughout the day, and a free sight.

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