From Persia to Ayutthaya: Tracing Iran’s Cultural Footprint in Thailand

Thailand and Iran are celebrating 70 years of diplomatic relations this year. However, their cultural connection dates back centuries, with Persian influence deeply woven into Thai religion, language, food, and architecture, particularly during the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

From khao buri (biryani) and massaman curry, to words like kularb (rose) and musjid (mosque), and even the unique identity of the Khaek Chao Sen Muslim community—these are not just borrowed elements, but living testaments of a long-standing Thai–Persian exchange.

To witness these cultural traces up close, it is worth exploring Bangkok Yai—an old quarter where the past lingers quietly along the canals.

Sheikh Ahmad’s family built Ton Son Mosque during the reign of King Narai, and Persian architectural influences are evident in features like its gilded carvings and the mihrab (prayer niche).

Ton Son Mosque showcases Persian influence architecture.//Photo by Warunee Maneekum

The mosque’s design links strongly to Iran’s Safavid era, known for grand architecture featuring domes, iwans (arched portals), intricate tilework, and Persian calligraphy.

Ton Son Mosque’s interior reveals a distinct Persian aesthetic.///Photo by Warunee Maneekum

Historically, the mosque’s cemetery includes tombs of Persian descendants, notably Chao Phraya Chakri Sri Ongkharak (Mud), a key military ally of King Taksin the Great, demonstrating the close ties between the Thai court and these families.

The tomb of Chao Phraya Chakri Sri Ongkharak (Mud), a key military ally of King Taksin the Great.//Photo by Veena Thoopkrajae

“During that time, the word ‘Muslim’ (Thai-Islam) did not exist, so many used the term Khaek (literally meaning ‘guest’) for Muslims, and they were often called Khaek Tade,” says Teeranun Chuangpichit, an expert in Persian and Muslim culture.

Bangkok Yai’s three important mosques—Ton Son Mosque, Bang Luang Mosque, and Charoen Pas Mosque (Kadee Charoen Pas)—share preserved traces of Muslim and Persian heritage.

Kadee Charoen Pas, a key Shia Muslim hub in Bangkok. ///Photo by Warunee Maneekum

Walking through these sites is more than visiting religious places; it’s a journey into the pluralistic and layered history of the community.

Bang Luang Mosque, rebuilt during the reign of King Rama III, looks like a Thai temple at first glance, and locals say many passersby have mistaken it for one.

Bang Luang Mosque exemplifies adapted local architecture within the Muslim community.//Photo by Veena Thoopkrajae

“A mosque’s construction does not necessarily require a dome. Bang Luang Mosque thus stands as a key example of how local architectural styles were adapted by Muslim communities in their place of settlement,” Teeranun notes.

Ton Son Mosque features domes, iwans (arched portals) and intricate tilework, inspired by Persia’s Safavid era.//Photo by Veena Thoopkrajae

Inside, the Persian aesthetic can still be found in the minimal decorations such as the mihrab and minbar.

Looking up, visitors can see a historic royal lamp gifted by King Rama VI in memory of King Chulalongkorn—a symbol of the close ties between the Islamic community and the Thai monarchy.

A royal gift from King Rama VI symbolises the strong bond between the Islamic community and the Thai monarchy.///Photo by Warunee Maneekum

Within walking distance, Kadee Charoen Pas perhaps best represents the strong link to Persian culture.

The word ‘Kadee’ specifically refers to a Shia mosque. Built by Shia Muslims of Persian descent from Iran, it remains an important hub for Thailand’s Shia community.

“They are known locally as Khaek Chao Sen (referring to Persian-descended people). Today, the mosque still holds annual Ashura processions,” Teeranun explains.

Charoen Pas Mosque exhibits a strong Persian-Shia identity, featuring Persian-style tiles and woodwork originating from Qom.

Its annual Ashura procession—locally called the Chao Sen Rite—provides Thailand’s Shia Muslims with a unique space to express their shared identity and preserve their heritage in a changing society.

These three mosques offer just a glimpse into the extensive Persian imprint in Thailand. Shia Muslims began arriving in the 16th century.

Through trade, religious ties, and court appointments, their culture became so deeply embedded in Thai society that many Thai descendants today may not realize the Persian roots of these traditions.

Persian culinary tastes continue to enrich Thai cuisine. Beyond the aromatic khao buri (biryani) and rich Massaman curry, Persian-influenced sweets like lutti and la-tieng, and savory dishes abundant with dates, raisins, and nuts, still grace Thai tables today, often with a delicate rosewater essence.

Persian-influenced dishes like lutti remain available in Muslim community like Bangkok Yai. ///Photo by Warunee Maneekum

Thai words like kularb (rose), ten (tent), bu-nga (fragrant blend), and khao buri (biryani) all derive from Persian, now common in everyday Thai language.

Teeranun also points to Persian influence in unexpected areas, such as today’s graduation gowns.

Historical records show that during the Ayutthaya period, Thai envoys adopted fashionable Persian-style ceremonial attire.

Depictions of Kosa Pan’s delegation to France during Louis XIV’s reign reveal these elements: pointed hats (similar to Persian turbans), long robes, and upturned shoes. These styles later influenced royal and ceremonial attire in Thailand.

The Persian influence also lives on in Thai art, evident in floral motifs, geometric designs, and flame-like forms that mirror Persian styles.

While now seen as quintessentially Thai, these blended forms quietly carry their Persian roots.

From a saffron-scented plate of biryani to the lingering echoes of Persian verses in a local mosque’s call to prayer, Iran’s cultural presence endures—woven into Thailand’s streets, kitchens, and beliefs.

Kadeejeen Khlongsan Foundation in Bangkok Yai displays old documents and exhibits within an old teak house.///Photo by Warunee Maneekum



Recommended for Further Exploration

See Persian-influenced architecture:

Haroon Mosque (Bang Rak)

Chakraphong Mosque (Bang Lamphu)

Nural Islam Mosque / Masjid Ban Yuan (Bang Pa-in, Ayutthaya)

Ton Son Mosque (Phra Pradaeng, Samut Prakan)

Cultural stop:

Kadeejenn Khlongsan Foundation (Bangkok Yai), within walking distance from Bang Luang Mosque

Dine at Muslim restaurants in Bangkok or Ayutthaya:

Usman Restaurant (Sukhumvit)

Yusup Pochana

Mohsen

Persian House

Or explore community kitchens near mosques in areas like Bangkok Yai, Bang Lamphu, and Bang Rak

Regional excursion:

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur)

Note: The writer visited the three mosques featured in this article as part of a TK Park “Read Iran” event. Visitors should be aware that access to some mosques may require a formal request to their religious leaders.