Must-See Temples in Bangkok | An Epitome of Architectural Brilliance
If you thought Bangkok was all about its pretty palaces and scintillating nightlife, think again! Most visitors believe that this vibrant, pulsating, and bustling Asian Metropolis is packed with classy clubs, discotheques, pubs, spas, electrifying nightlife, theme parks, affordable shopping options, food joints dispensing lip-smacking food, etc., but one thing they tend to miss out on is their opulent temples. A trip to the City of Angels is incomplete without visiting its awe-inspiring wats. Besides visiting these magnificent temples, there are many interesting and exciting things to do in Bangkok that you can enjoy.
With 85 to 95 per cent of the population being Theravada Buddhists, the city is dotted with small to huge, simple to extravagant, religiously significant to architecturally brilliant temples. The capital city of Thailand has a repertoire of magnificent attractions to offer to discerning travellers. Still, one of the most compelling factors that will make your trip memorable is its spectacular temples. Are you ready to go on a temple tour with us? Check out the list of fab Bangkok Thailand Temples that must be on your itinerary.
List of Temples in Thailand that You Must Visit
Peppered with more than 400 wats or temples, these abodes of spirituality are also famous for their architectural magnificence and visual beauty. From simple to ornate, these wats or temples in Bangkok are a must-see attraction for visitors. Visit these temples and connect with your inner self!
- Wat Phra Kaeo. The Temple of Emerald Buddha
- Wat Pho. Temple of the Reclining Buddha
- Wat Traimit. The Golden Buddha Temple
- Wat Arun. The Temple of the Dawn
- Wat Benchamabophit. The Marble Temple
- Wat Suthat. An Idyllic and Quiet Temple
- Wat Ratchanatdaram. An Awe-Inspiring Temple with 37 Chedis
- Wat Intharawihan. The Temple of Standing Buddha
- Wat Saket. The Temple of Golden Mount
- Loha Prasat Temple. The Metal Castle
- Wat Mahathat. A Royal Temple in Bangkok
- Wat Yannawa. A Magnificent Temple at the banks of the Chao Phraya River
1. Wat Phra Kaeo. The Temple of Emerald Buddha
Popular as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Phra Kaeo is an incredible sight. It is located on the grounds of the famous Grand Palace. Breathtaking ornaments, golden chedis, and glittering statues will make you marvel at the opulence of the temple. The statue of Buddha is actually made up of jasper. It is small but quite stunning. The king dresses the statue in a new gold outfit three times a year as the country ushers in the new season. Meditate or chant with Buddhist monks and soak in the religious solitude.
- Location. Na Phra Lan Rd, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon
- Timing. 8:30 AM To 3:30 PM
- Entry Fee. 500 Baht
2. Wat Pho. Temple of the Reclining Buddha
No doubt, the most compelling factor that brings tourists to this temple in droves is the rare but magnificent statue of the reclining Buddha. Besides soaking in the beauty of this impressive statue, you can explore other elements of the temple complex, which are spellbinding, to say the least. Golden Buddha images, intricate decorations, lovely paintings, murals, and more will also give you a completely legit reason to visit this reclining Buddha temple.
- Location. 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon
- Timing. 8 AM to 6:30 PM
- Entry Fee. 200 Baht
3. Wat Traimit. The Golden Buddha Temple
Famous for the world's largest solid-gold image of Lord Buddha, Wat Traimit is located close to Chinatown. Sitting atop a huge pedestal, this serene idol looks at you with kind eyes. It is more than three metres tall and weighs more than 5 tonnes. The idol is believed to be more than 700 years old and has a rich historical legacy behind it. It is undoubtedly one of the best temples in Bangkok.
- Location. 661 Charoen Krung Rd, Khwaeng Talat Noi, Khet Samphanthawong, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon
- Timings. 8:30 AM to 5 PM
- Entry Fee. 50 Baht
4. Wat Arun. The Temple of the Dawn
The Temple of the Dawn, or Wat Arun, is known for its picturesque location by the banks of the Chao Phraya River and its striking architecture that will surely cast a spell on you. You can arrive at the temple through an exciting boat ride. This famous temple in Bangkok, its 70-m high pagodas are visible from afar. When the temple is brightly illuminated in the night, it looks magnificent. We highly recommend visiting this temple during your Bangkok visit!
- Location. 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Khwaeng Wat Arun, Khet Bangkok Yai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon
- Timings. 8 AM to 6 PM
- Entry Fee. 50 Baht
5. Wat Benchamabophit. The Marble Temple
One of the famous temples in Bangkok, Wat Benchamabophit, is also referred to as the marble temple because of the Italian marble used in its construction. The building is a fine example of Thai architecture, with Singha lion statues guarding the doorways and pointy layered rooftops visible from a distance. Built in 1899 by the king of Thailand, this Buddhist Temple is located within a huge temple complex.
- Location. Khwaeng Dusit, Khet Dusit, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon
- Timings. 8 AM to 5:30 PM
- Entry Fee. 20 Baht
6. Wat Suthat. An Idyllic and Quiet Temple
Located in the heart of the city, Wat Suthat is sprawled over a vast expanse of 4 hectares of land. Tourists relatively less visit this quiet and peaceful temple. Its long corridors lined with golden Buddha statues look impressive. If you want to spend some alone time connecting with your inner self, visit this temple.
- Location. 146 Bamrung Mueang Rd, Khwaeng Wat Ratchabophit, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon
- Timings. 8:30 AM to 9 PM
- Entry Fee. 100 Baht