7 Sacred Temples
to Visit in Bangkok
STORY
See & Do
Bangkok, a city where tradition and spirituality intertwine seamlessly with modern life, there are many temples where locals and visitors alike gather to observe this important day. Among them, seven temples stand out not only for their historical and spiritual significance but also for their architectural splendor and the sacredness of their Buddha images and chedis.
Each of these temples offers a unique window into Thailand’s rich religious heritage. They are places where ancient beliefs endure through rituals, art, and architecture.
Whether you are seeking spiritual solace, historical insight, or architectural beauty, these seven temples in Bangkok are ideal destinations. From towering chedis to intricately carved chapels, each site reveals a different facet of Buddhist devotion in Thailand.
Wat Phra Kaew
(Temple of the Emerald Buddha)
Situated within the Grand Palace complex, Wat Phra Kaew is considered the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. It houses the Emerald Buddha, a highly venerated statue carved from a single block of jade, enshrined on a golden altar. The temple was built in 1782 during the founding of Bangkok as the capital of the Rattanakosin Kingdom.
The architecture of Wat Phra Kaew is a dazzling array of gold leaf, colored glass, and ornate rooflines. Unlike other temples, it does not have resident monks, as it functions primarily as a ceremonial site.
The Marble Temple
(Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram)
Situated within the Grand Palace complex, Wat Phra Kaew is considered the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. It houses the Emerald Buddha, a highly venerated statue carved from a single block of jade, enshrined on a golden altar. The temple was built in 1782 during the founding of Bangkok as the capital of the Rattanakosin Kingdom.
The architecture of Wat Phra Kaew is a dazzling array of gold leaf, colored glass, and ornate rooflines. Unlike other temples, it does not have resident monks, as it functions primarily as a ceremonial site.
Temple of Dawn
(Wat Arun Ratchawararam)
Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is one of Bangkok's most iconic landmarks. Its central prang (Khmer-style tower) rises over 70 meters and is adorned with colorful porcelain and seashells. The temple symbolizes Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Buddhist cosmology.
Wat Arun dates back to the Ayutthaya period but was expanded and renovated significantly during the reign of King Rama II and Rama III. The temple is particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset.
Wat Suthat
Wat Suthat is notable for its grand ordination hall and the towering red Giant Swing that stands in front of the temple. It was begun during King Rama I’s reign and completed under King Rama III. The temple features exquisite murals and woodwork reflecting refined craftsmanship.
The principal Buddha image, Phra Sri Sakayamuni, was relocated from Sukhothai and is one of the largest bronze images in Thailand. The temple is revered for its spiritual atmosphere and is a favorite among serious meditators.
Loha Prasat
at Wat Ratchanatdaram
Loha Prasat, or the "Metal Castle," is a unique architectural marvel and the only structure of its kind remaining in the world. Modeled after ancient Buddhist monasteries in India and Sri Lanka, it consists of 37 metal spires representing the 37 virtues toward enlightenment. The structure was commissioned by King Rama III in the 19th century.
The multi-tiered design leads visitors upward through meditation halls and exhibits on Buddhist philosophy. The quiet interior encourages introspection, making it a perfect site for contemplative practice. Pilgrims often walk through each level as a symbolic journey toward spiritual awakening.
The Golden Mount
at Wat Saket
Built atop an artificial hill, Wat Saket features the iconic Golden Mount—a gleaming chedi that houses relics of the Buddha. This temple dates back to the Ayutthaya era but was expanded and developed during King Rama I’s reign. The chedi was later constructed during King Rama III and completed in King Rama V’s time.
Pilgrims ascend the 300-step spiral staircase to reach the summit, where the cityscape unfolds below. On Religious days, the mount is wrapped in ceremonial cloth, and candles line the stairway, creating a mystical ambiance. Many visitors perform a walking meditation around the chedi, reciting prayers in remembrance of the Buddha’s teachings.
Wat Pho
(Wat Phra Chetuphon)
Famous for the Reclining Buddha, which stretches 46 meters in length, Wat Pho is one of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok. It served as the first public university of Thailand and is regarded as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. The temple complex is filled with chedis, chapels, and statues of remarkable artistry.
The Reclining Buddha symbolizes the Buddha’s passing into nirvana, making it especially meaningful. Devotees often walk along the feet of the statue, placing coins in 108 bronze bowls for good fortune. The temple also holds chanting ceremonies and meditation sessions open to the public during the festival.