The original structure was significantly smaller and dates back to the 6th century, based on archaeological evidence of Dvaravati ruins.
The base of the current structure is built over the remains of an ancient, smaller chedi that is now completely concealed.
King Rama VI, who was once the governor of Nakhon Pathom, had his ashes interred within the base of the Phra Ruang Rochanarit statue.
The structure's height of 120.45 meters makes it taller than the Shwedagon Pagoda in Myanmar.
The temple complex is built on a massive circular terrace with a diameter of 233 meters.
Construction of the current exterior shell took 17 years to complete after King Rama IV initiated the project.
The temple fair held every November is one of the oldest and largest religious festivals in the country.
It is considered one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Thailand, officially ranked as a first-class royal temple.
Phra Pathom Chedi is the tallest stupa in Thailand, reaching a height of 120.45 meters. The current structure is a circular bell-shaped chedi encased in a larger shell commissioned by King Rama IV in 1853. It serves as the primary landmark of Nakhon Pathom and marks the site where Buddhism was reportedly first introduced to Thailand. The exterior is covered in orange Chinese tiles, while the base features four viharas containing various Buddha images. A large standing Buddha, known as Phra Ruang Rochanarit, is housed in the northern vihara. The complex includes a museum and a large park-like courtyard surrounding the central stupa. It is the center of an annual nine-day temple fair held in November. The site holds significant historical status as a major center for Dvaravati-era culture.
From the edge of the outer courtyard looking up at the chedi, or from the entrance to the northern vihara.
Walk the inner circular corridor around the base of the stupa to view the smaller shrines and diverse Buddha statues.
Visit the small museum on the temple grounds to see artifacts excavated from the surrounding Dvaravati-era archaeological sites.
Carry an umbrella or wear a hat, as the open-air courtyard provides minimal shade during the midday sun.
Avoid touching or climbing on the statues, and do not use flash photography inside the chapels.
Dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees; remove footwear before entering the viharas (chapels).
