The Top 8 Temples to Visit in Bangkok

Choosing among the top temples to visit in Bangkok isn’t easy. All have unique stories, ancient Buddha statues, and intrigue.

 

Better to choose a few temples to enjoy instead of trying to see them all. Visiting too many can lead to the dreaded wat (temple) burnout that affects travelers in Thailand. You know you’re experiencing it when a 400-year-old temple no longer sparks your inner archaeologist! To enhance the experience, read a little about the temple’s history beforehand, and mix in some of Bangkok's other interesting things to do.

 

Although there are hundreds of Buddhist temples to visit in Bangkok, a majority of travelers end up visiting the top three: Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun, but there are serene and less crowded alternatives.

Wat Phra Kaew

Located within the grounds of the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Wat Phra Kaew is the most visited temple in Thailand. Makes sense—the temple is home to the Emerald Buddha, a jade statue from the 1400s considered to be the protector of all of Thailand. The Buddha statue is adorned in a garment of gold that is changed seasonally by the King of Thailand.

 

The official name for Wat Phra Kaew is Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram. As the country’s busiest temple, don’t expect to find much serenity inside. Instead, expect tourists bumping and jostling for position to snap selfies.

 

Unlike some other temples in Bangkok, proper dress is strictly enforced at Wat Phra Kaew. If you turn up in shorts, a sleeveless top, or stretch pants, you’ll be sent away to buy or rent appropriate clothing from nearby stalls.

• Location: Inside the Grand Palace
• What to Know: The hours for Wat Phra Kaew are the same as the Grand Palace: from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The ticket window closes at 3:30 p.m.

ADDRESS:

QF2V+M34, Na Phra Lan Rd, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand