Wat Aranyik Phitsanulok

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Description

Tucked away in the heart of Phitsanulok, Wat Aranyik offers a calm, historical detour for curious travelers eager to experience Thailand’s spiritual traditions beyond the usual tourist trails. My own visit to the temple introduced me to a unique blend of ancient ruins and living worship—a place where centuries-old chedis share space with a serene, active temple and wandering, friendly dogs.

Despite being centrally located near Phaya Suea Road, Wat Aranyik maintains a tranquil, almost secluded atmosphere. Perhaps it’s the moats filled with fish, the overlapping sounds of monk chants and rustling leaves, or the lingering aura of its Sukhothai-period ruins. Whatever the reason, wandering the temple grounds feels like stepping into a patchwork of history and daily life.

Wat Aranyik isn’t as famous as Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, but it’s a favorite with locals and those with archeological curiosity. The juxtaposition of restored temple buildings and crumbling brick chedis makes each corner feel like its own discovery. The temple is easily accessible if you’re in the city, and I found it perfect for a gentle afternoon of exploring, feeding the pond fish, and soaking up snapshots of old Siam.

Key Features

• Sukhothai-Period Ruins: Several brick chedis and Buddha images survive from the early centuries, offering a rare glimpse into 14th-century temple architecture and history.
• Moat and Fish Feeding: The temple is surrounded by a water-filled moat, home to large, well-fed fish. You’ll spot locals (and kids) tossing fish food in—an unexpected, gentle activity I found fun and oddly relaxing.
• Active Monastic Life: It’s not just ruins—the temple has an active monastic community. You’ll likely encounter monks and novices during chanting or daily routines.
• Peaceful Walking Paths: Paved walkways make the grounds wheelchair accessible and easy to navigate. Benches scattered around shaded spots are great for sitting and reflecting.
• Playful Temple Dogs: Friendly, well-cared-for dogs roam the grounds. They often join visitors on short walks—especially if you bring a treat.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: The entrance and parking lot are both wheelchair accessible. Ramps and smooth paths make this site one of Phitsanulok’s most inclusive attractions.
• Buddhist Shrine and Prayer Halls: There are several halls where you can quietly observe local rituals, make offerings, or just enjoy the calm interior adorned with Buddha images.

Best Time to Visit

I recommend visiting Wat Aranyik either in the early morning or late afternoon. Mornings bring a cool, golden light that filters beautifully through the trees and over the ruins, making it an ideal time for photography or just undisturbed contemplation. Around sunrise, you might even spot monks on their alms round.

If you visit in the late afternoon, the heat softens, and you’ll likely have the place almost to yourself. I once visited at sunset and found the entire temple area bathed in a soft pink hue, with chanting from the main hall echoing across the moat. It’s an incredibly peaceful experience.

Weather-wise, the cool season (November to February) is pleasantly mild and comfortable for walking outdoors. The rainy season (May to October) brings lush greenery and a fuller moat but might make some pathways muddy. Still, Wat Aranyik remains accessible even after showers, thanks to its paved walkways.

How to Get There

Wat Aranyik’s central location in Phitsanulok makes it easy to reach from most parts of the city. Here’s what you need to know:

• By Taxi or Tuk-tuk: From the city center or main railway station, it’s about a ten-minute ride by taxi or tuk-tuk. Just mention “Wat Aranyik” to your driver—they’ll know it.
• By Bicycle: The flat, quiet roads make this area ideal for cycling. Rentals are available near the railway station. I loved cycling here; it gave me time to stop and explore the neighborhoods along the way.
• By Car: If you’re driving, parking is directly outside the temple grounds, and spaces are ample and wheelchair accessible.
• On Foot: It’s about a 20-minute walk from the Old City. The route passes through lively local markets, so the walk can be an experience of its own!

The official address is 78 Phaya Suea Rd, Nai Mueang, Mueang Phitsanulok District, Phitsanulok 65000. Most map apps will get you directly to the entrance without hassle.

Tips for Visiting

• Dress Respectfully: As with all Thai temples, visitors should wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Lightweight, long clothing is best for both comfort and cultural respect.
• Bring Small Change: Fish food is available at the temple entrance usually for a small donation. Feeding the fish is a local ritual that, according to some, brings good merit!
• Mind the Dogs: The temple’s dogs are friendly and generally calm, but it’s wise to avoid sudden movements or feeding them unless you’re comfortable with animals. Some may even nap beside you as you rest.
• Quiet Observation: You’re welcome to observe monks and worshippers, especially during chanting sessions, but keep your voice low and avoid interrupting rituals. Photography is allowed outdoors, but ask if you’re unsure inside prayer halls.
• Accessibility: If you or a companion uses a wheelchair, rest assured that paths, entrances, and parking are designed for easy movement. Benches along the way offer periodic resting spots.
• Photography: Early or late in the day provides the most atmospheric lighting for photos, especially of the brick chedis and the central prayer hall. The reflections in the moat are gorgeous after rain.
• Spend Time Wandering: The site is larger than it first appears. There are lesser-known ruins in the far corners and a few unmarked Buddha images tucked among mature trees. Give yourself time to explore beyond the main complex.
• Combine with Nearby Attractions: You can easily pair a visit to Wat Aranyik with nearby Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat or the Nan River banks for a full morning or afternoon of cultural sightseeing.
• Stay Hydrated: The temple grounds can get hot, especially around midday. Carry a water bottle, as shops are a short walk away.

Visiting Wat Aranyik in Phitsanulok is, in many ways, about quiet discovery. It’s a place where ancient stories linger in brickwork and lotus-filled moats, and where daily life quietly continues all around you. If you find yourself in central Thailand, take an hour or two to wander these peaceful grounds. The temple’s blend of history, accessibility, and genuine atmosphere will likely leave you with a lasting memory of Phitsanulok’s rich, timeless spirit.