Are you planning for a tour to Bangkok and are confused where to go? Don’t worry my friend, it is obvious to get stuck because you are travelling to a place with a lot of tourist spots. But don’t tell me that you are not going to visit even a single temple in Bangkok.
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is not just a city of bustling markets and street food, it is also a spiritual haven with beautiful temples that tell stories about Thai culture and history. Therefore it is also known as the “land of temples”.
In this article we will discuss in detail about the best temples in Bangkok, how to reach the temples, the dress code, and the best time to visit the temples. Here is a brief Bangkok temple guide.
There are certain temples in Bangkok or wats that you cannot give a miss such as the Wat Saman Rattanaram, Wat Rakhang Khositaram, Thao Maha Brahma (Shrine), Wat Pho, Wat Arun, The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Trai Mit Witthayaram Worawihan,Wat Saket Ratchawora Mahawihan, Wat Benchamabophit and Wat Suthat Thep Wararam. Let me take you through the Bangkok temple tours.
Here’re the must-see temples in Bangkok:
- Wat Saman Rattanaram
- Wat Rakhang Khositaram (Temple of Bells)
- Erawan Shrine (Thao Mahaprom Shrine)
- Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
- Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
- Wat Phra Kaew (The Temple of the Emerald Buddha)
- Wat Traimit (Temple of Golden Buddha)
- Wat Saket (The Golden Mount)
- Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple)
1. Wat Saman Rattanaram
It was also known as Wat Mai Khun Saman temple and one of the best temples in Bangkok. This temple is located in Chachoengsao, Central Thailand. Wat Saman Rattanaram is a famous Hindu temple in Bangkok and houses the giant pink reclining Ganesha which makes tourists come and visit this place. It is the biggest statue of Lord Ganesha in Thailand. It also has statues of other deities like Chinese Goddess Guanyin, Buddhist monks, and a golden Buddha
Things to do in Wat Saman Rattanaram
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Explore the ground | There are many statues and also the Lotus in the middle of the water which you can explore. |
| Take a boat ride | You can take a boat ride on the Bang Pakong River and enjoy the scenery of the beautiful temple. |
| Practice meditation | It provides the perfect spot for the visitors to sit and meditate and enjoy the time by themselves. |
| Visit food stalls | You will definitely find a lot of food stalls on the ground which offer local Thai cuisine which will satisfy your taste buds. |
To reach the temple from Bangkok, take a train (from Lamphong Railway Station to Chachoengsao Railway Station) or bus (from Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal to Chachoengsao Bus Terminal) and it’s just an hour away from Chachoengsao. The easiest route to reach the temple from Chachoengsao would be to hire a taxi.
Pro tips to visit the temple
- You do not need to reserve or book a ticket in advance to visit the temple.
- The temple is open 24 hours a day so you can visit anytime.
- Get your wishlist ready and whisper it into the mouse ears of the reclining Buddha. It is said that your wish will come true.
2. Wat Rakhang Khositaram (Temple of Bells)
It is one of the unique temples in Bangkok. It is located on Arun Amarin Road, near Wang lang market and Ban Khamin Junction. Built in the Ayutthaya period, was originally called “Wat Bangwayai” which means the “big black plum temple”. King Rama I discovered the iconic bell and shifted it to the temple of the Wat Phra Kaew and gave the temple 5 new bells in exchange. Therefore the Wat Rakhang Khositaram temple is also known as the “Temple of the bell”. It is one of the best Bangkok religious sites.
Things to do in Wat Rakhang Khositaram
| Activity | Description |
| Offer prayer and meditate | Visitors can participate in religious ceremonies and practice mindfulness in the temple. |
| Marvel at the architecture | The architecture of the temple cannot be missed. It has stunning statues and murals which tell about the rich history of the temple. |
| Learn about Buddhism practices | You can learn about Buddhism practices, rules and rituals from the monks present in the temple. |
| Visit the nearby attractions | There are other major attractions like The Grand Palace and Wat Arun which you can visit nearby on the same day. |
You can take the Chao Phraya River ferry from a pier on the east bank of the river. There are many options available like the Saphan Taksin pier and Riverside pier. Then take a small walk to reach your destination.
Pro tips to visit the temple
- The temple is open everyday from 8am to 5pm so you can plan to visit anytime between these hours. It is best to visit the temple in the morning or in the evening.
- The entry to the temple is free of cost.
- The temple is located near Chao Phraya River, so you can also take a boat ride which will provide a scenic view of the surrounding and the temple.
3. Erawan Shrine (Thao Mahaprom Shrine)
Thao Maha Brahma Shrine or the Erawan Shrine has a very interesting history and it will be worth knowing about how it came in the first place, what all events happened and what is it today. It was established in 1956. However it was built on the advice of the astrologer named Luang Suwichanphaet. The Government was building the Erawan hotel but it faced many obstacles. So to bring Goodluck this temple was built. It is situated opposite the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel and is one of the best temples in Bangkok.
Things to do in the Erawan Shrine
| Activity | Description |
| Pray and make offerings | Visitors can pray before the four-faced Phra Phrom statue and make spiritual offerings. |
| Enjoy the traditional Thai Performance | Tourists can enjoy traditional Thai performances which are performed before the deity often as a way to show gratitude and respect. |
| Shop and relax | You will find a number of small shops and places to rest on the temple grounds and also around it. |
| Explore nearby places | There are other famous places which you can explore nearby such as the Gaysorn Shopping Centre, Lakshmi Shrine and Jatulokbal Shrine |
To reach this Bangkok religious site you’ve to take the BTS Sukhumvit Line, and get off at Chit Lom Station. Then take exit 2 and walk via the skywalk for about 5 minutes and you will reach the Erawan Shrine.
Pro tips to visit the temple
- Plan your visit to the temple anytime between 6am – 11pm.
- You need not worry about the budget as the entry to the temple is free of charge. The only cost you will have to pay is for the transportation cost
- It is compulsory to avoid the consumption of meat for 3 days during your visit to this temple. The day before, on the day and a day after.
4. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Wat Pho is one of Bangkok’s oldest temples and also one of the best Bangkok religious sites. It is well known for being the home for the 46 metre reclining Buddha and is covered in gold leaf. This temple is not only about the cultural and historical significance but also is popular for having the school of medicine and being the centre for the world class Thai massage.
It was originally called Wat Photaram and it existed during the Ayutthaya period. It became a royal temple due to its proximity to the palace which was built by King Rama I and further renovated by King Rama III. Today it stands as an iconic and one of the best temples in Bangkok. Wat Pho is also known as Temple of the Reclining Buddha.
Things to do in Wat Pho
| Activity | Description |
| Admire the reclining Buddha | You can admire and take pictures with the reclining Budhha which is the largest Buddha in Bangkok. |
| Take Thai massage | It is popular for the traditional Thai massage so do not skip to take the massage and relax |
| Participate in Cultural activities | It is said that if you drop coins into the containers you will receive blessings from Buddha |
| Explore the temple ground | You can explore the temple ground which has the Ubosot, the bodhi tree and the chedis. |
To reach Wat Pho you can either take bus, boat or taxi. If you choose boat, you can take the easiest route from the Chao Phraya Express Boat, for bus, take bus numbers 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 25, 44, 47, 53 or 82 to reach Wat Pho. Taxis are also easily available which will take you directly to Wat Pho.
Pro tips to visit the temple
- You can plan to visit the temple anytime between 8:30am – 6pm
- Be prepared to pay a fee of 300 baht per person
- Since the place is famous for Thai massage you can book it in advance through the website
5. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Temple of Dawn is a well known Buddhist temple in Bangkok. Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, this stunning Wat Arun temple is best known for its towering prang, or spire, which stands at 70 meters tall and is decorated with colorful seashells. The architecture is a great blend of Hindu and Buddhist design. The central prang represents the centre of the universe according to the Hindu and Buddhist scripture while the surrounding smaller prangs symbolise the four continents and the four major directions.
Things to do in Wat Arun
| Activity | Description |
| Climb the central prang | Although it is difficult climb but the top will give a beautiful view of the Chao Phraya River. |
| Explore the ordination hall | You will find a Buddha image and murals which depicts the stories about Thai culture and history which is quite insightful. |
| Participate in workshops | There are many workshops that are held in the temple such as garland making and fruit carving. |
| Explore nearby places | There are other famous places which you can explore nearby such as the Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, and the Museum of Siam |
To reach the temple you will need to take the BTS Skytrain (Silom Line) to Saphan Taksin Station. Then take exit 2 which will lead to Sathorn Pier. From the Sathorn Pier take the Chao Phraya Express Boat which will lead you to your destination.
Pro tips to visit the temple
- Plan to visit the temple anytime between 8:00 am to 6pm any day of the week
- You need to plan you budget because the entry to the temple for the foreigners is 200 Thai baht.While for the locals it is free of cost
- Do not miss out on climbing the central pang else you will miss a beautiful view
6. Wat Phra Kaew (The Temple of the Emerald Buddha)
Wat Phra Kaew is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It is one of the most revered temples in Thailand. Located within the Grand Palace complex, this temple is a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand the spiritual heart of Bangkok. It has the image of the Emerald buddha made from a single block of jade. It is a must visit temple because of its marvellous architecture, golden spire, intricate design, the murals which tells us the stories about the history of Thailand and the beautiful courtyards.It is a symbol of the Thai monarchy and the nation itself.
Things to do in Wat Phra Kaew
| Activity | Description |
| Observe religious ceremonies | The place holds major religious ceremonies and events that one can observe and participate in. |
| Learn about Ramakian | You can learn about the Ramakian epic which is inspired from the Ramayana. |
| Visit the Phra Kaew Museum | There are various art and sculptures which talk about the spiritual and cultural significance of the temple. |
| Explore nearby places | There are other famous places which you can explore nearby such as the Lumphini Park and the Bangkok National Museum. |
To reach the temple you can opt for 3 routes i.e. Bus, taxi and boat. Additionally, if your accommodation is nearby, you can reach the temple on foot. Alternatively you can take the train and ferry option. Take the BTS Skytrain to Saphan Taksin Station and then take the Chao Phraya Express Boat from the Sathorn Pier and then walk a short distance to reach the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
Pro tips to visit the temple
- You can plan to visit the temple anytime between 8:30am – 3:30pm
- There is an entry of 500 baht so budget needs to be planned
- Do visit the neoclassical shophouses from King Chulalongkorn’s reign.
7. Wat Traimit (Temple of Golden Buddha)
Located on 661 Charoen Krung Road, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Wat Traimit is one of the lesser known temples in Bangkok. It was earlier known as Wat Sam Chin. As per the history the temple was discovered by 3 chinese friends which also reflects in the name of the temple. People all around the world come to see the Phra Phuttha Maha Suwana Patimakon, a seated Buddha statue in the Sukhothai-style. This is also called the Temple of Golden Buddha.
Things to do in Wat Traimit
| Activity | Description |
| Visit China Town | Don’t miss to explore Chinatown which is known for its vibrant market, street food and lively atmosphere. |
| Engage in park activities | You can participate in the park activities such as boating, jogging and other recreational activities. |
| Explore the museum | There is a museum which you can explore to learn about the temple’s history. |
| Explore nearby places | There are other famous places which you can explore nearby such as the Golden Palace and the Wat Pho. |
The easiest way to reach the temple would be to take the BTS Skytrain (Silom Line) to Saphan Taksin Station. From there, take the Chao Phraya River Station. Once you get off, it’s a 10-minute walk to Sathorn Pier (also known as Central Pier). From there you get on a river boat heading to Ratchawong Pier. After getting off at Ratchawong, it’s about a 15-minute walk to Wat Traimit.
Pro tips to visit the temple
- You can plan to visit the temple anytime between 8am – 5pm
- There is an entrance fee of 40 TBH so plan your budget accordingly
- You must visit the museum second floor to learn about the Thai- Chinese community
8. Wat Saket (The Golden Mount)
The Golden Mount temple in Bangkok is popular as Wat Saket. Wat Saket is one of the city’s oldest temples located outside Rattanakosin island. This temple has been there since the Ayutthaya period and was called as Wat Sakae. But on the order of King Rama I the temple was rebuilt and called Wat Saket Ratcha Wora Maha Wihan. It is an iconic temple due to its 60 meter tall artificial hill called the Golden Mountain or the Phu Khao Thong The most important part of this temple is the climb of 320 stairs. Once you have climbed the stairs and reached the top, you get to have a beautiful view of the city.
Things to do in Wat Saket
| Activity | Description |
| Climb the stairs | You cannot miss climbing the 318 steps to have a panoramic view of the city. |
| Loy Krathong festival | You are really lucky if you get to witness the Loy Krathong festival because the place is lit and there are many religious activities that one can participate in. |
| Observe the Buddha Relics | Observe the Buddha relics that are stored inside the temple and offer your prayer. |
| Explore nearby places | There are other famous places which you can explore nearby such as the King Prajadhipok Museum and Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall. |
To reach Wat Saket Ratchawora Mahawihan one can take the MRT (Metropolitan Rapid Transit) to Sam Yot station. Upon exiting, walk straight along Maha Chai Road, cross the small bridge on your right, and then turn left. A blue sign board will show you the way to Wat Saket’s entrance gate which you will find on the right. The walk will take you around 20 minutes. If you do not prefer to walk you can take a taxi or Tuk Tuk to reach you faster.
Pro tips to visit the temple
- You can plan to visit the temple anytime between 9am – 7pm
- For foreigners there is an entrance fee of 100 Baht while for the locals it is free
- You must try Rongros and All Meals Sawasdee when you visit this place
9. Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple)
This temple is popularly known as the Marble temple and is one of the significant temples in Thailand. King Chulalongkorn constructed this temple in 1899 just next to his palace. Wat Benchamabophit is located near the Dushit Palace, the name of the temple literally means the temple of the 5th King. It is the home to the monks who study Buddhism in the temple and also help the visitors to participate in religious activities and teach Buddhism principles.
Things to do in Wat Benchamabophit
| Activity | Description |
| Learn Buddhism | Yes, it is the centre where the monks study Buddhism so there will be no better spot to learn about the core of Buddhism. |
| Worship | You can indulge in the sacred religious activities that are conducted in the temple. |
| Participate in Buddhist Festivals | Engage in the candle processions that are carried out during the main Buddhist festivals. |
| Explore nearby places | There are other famous places which you can explore nearby such as the Rajadamnern Muay Thai Stadium and The Equestrian Statue of Rama V. |
You can take the BTS Skytrain to Victory Monument Station and then you can either walk or take a taxi to the temple. Alternatively you can take a taxi directly to the temple.
Pro tips to visit the temple
- You can plan to visit the temple anytime between 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
- There is no entrance fee to the Wat Benchamabophit Dusitwanaram. It is free of charge so you do not need to worry about the budget
10. The Grand Palace
If you are visiting Bangkok temples then you cannot miss out to visit The Grand Palace. Let me take you through the Bangkok temple tours of the Grand Palace. It has a complex of buildings and was the official residence of the Kings of Siam since 1782. It spans over 218,000 square meters and today is the place where most of the royal ceremonies and functions are held. The temple is divided into two main zones, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the royal residence. You will be in awe of the temple architecture, intricate designs and the rich cultural history which makes it a must visit site for the visitors.
Activities to do in The Grand Palace
| Activity | Description |
| Visit the Temple of the Emerald | You can visit the sacred Temple of the Emerald which has the Emerald Buddha image made from a single jade stone. |
| See a Khon performance | You cannot afford to miss the famous Khon performance at the Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theater. |
| Visit the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles | If you are in the Golden Palace then do explore the rich textile heritage of Thailand. |
| Explore nearby places | There are other famous places which you can explore nearby such as the Saranrom Park, City Pillar Shrine, The Great Chakri Palace and the Phra Mondop. |
How to reach the Grand Palace?
The easiest way to reach would be to take the BTS skytrain to Saphan taksin Station. Then take a boat from the Chao Phraya Express boat at Sathorn Pier. You will reach Chang Pier. From the Chang pier you need to take a short walk and will reach the Golden Palace.
Pro tips to visit the temple
- You can plan your visit anytime between 8:30am – 3:30pm.
- There is an entrance fee of 500 baht.
- The best time to visit this place would be anytime from November – February.
Dress Code for Visiting Temples in Bangkok
Since you are visiting Bangkok religious sites and these are sacred places, it’s best to wear clothes that are respectful and modest. Men should wear long pants and full sleeved shirts while women should wear skirts and tops that cover their knees and shoulders. It is best to avoid wearing revealing clothes.
Best Time to Visit the Bangkok Temples
The best time to visit Bangkok temples would be in the morning hours when there is calm breeze and less crowd. It is best to avoid visiting the temple during the afternoon or day time as it will be very crowded and hot too which can lead to sunburn.
Etiquette: Behavior within the temple grounds
There are certain basic Etiquette that one must follow, such as:
- Removing the shoes before entering the temple
- Talking in low voice
- Not pointing your hands or feet towards the Buddha Statue
- Standing up when monks or nuns enter a room
- Not littering the place
Safety and Awareness: Protecting Your Belongings
Some of the safety tips would be:
- To keep your important belongings in your bag and not carry them in your hand.
- Be mindful of your surrounding especially in the crowded areas in the temple
- Avoid wearing gold jewellery or carry too much cash with you as it will attract the robbers
Conclusion
The temples of Bangkok are more than just temples, they are the testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Thailand. Each temple in Bangkok has its own significance and is different from each other and has great stories to tell about the city of Bangkok. Through the temples of Bangkok you will be able to dive deep into the lives of people of Bangkok and know why and how they lead their lives.
As you explore the temples of Bangkok take the time to appreciate the great architecture, intricate designs, murals and tranquil ambience that each temple of Bangkok exudes. So if you are on a spiritual and self discovery journey then do not forget to add a few of the temples in the Thailand tour package. Hopefully this Bangkok temple guide will help you to select a few of the temples that you would want to visit on your next trip to Thailand.