Wat Mahathat, located in the historic city of Ayutthaya, Thailand, is an iconic temple renowned for its picturesque ruins and the famous Buddha head entwined in tree roots. It's easily accessible from Bangkok, about a 1.5-hour drive, or you can take a leisurely train or bus ride. Visiting Wat Mahathat is best done independently at your own pace, although guided tours provide rich historical context for those interested. The site is generally open year-round, but it's advisable to visit during the cooler months from November to February to avoid the scorching heat. Entry costs around 50 THB, and you should budget approximately 1-2 hours to fully explore the temple complex. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees, as it's a religious site.