A Spiritual Journey: Must-Visit Temples in Bangkok for Culture Enthusiasts

Thailand is famous as the land of the golden temples, where numerous renowned sacred temples gather worldwide recognition with over 400 temples, among the most beautiful are Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Arun, and Wat Pho.

In this article, the Admin will introduce you to the 10 most beautiful temples in Bangkok, all in close proximity to the Grand Palace, offering a perfect combination for a day tour with directions on how to get there and admission fees.

1. Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)

Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) is the home of the Emerald Buddha, considered the most important Buddha statue in the land of the golden temples. You’ll be surprised at how small the Emerald Buddha statue is, especially after exploring other temples housing larger Buddha statues like Wat Pho.

Address: Wat Phra Kaew is located within the grounds of the Grand Palace Royal Palace in Bangkok.

Admission Fee: Entrance to the Palace (500 baht for foreigners) includes admission to Wat Phra Kaew.

2. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)

Wat Pho is one of the oldest and largest Buddhist temples in Bangkok. Also known as the ‘Temple of the Reclining Buddha’ due to the 15-meter high, 43-meter long image of the Reclining Buddha covered in gold.

Address: Adjacent to the Grand Palace Royal Palace.

Entrance Fee: 100 baht

3. Wat Arun

Wat Arun stands out as the most prominent Buddhist temple along Bangkok’s skyline. Situated on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, it’s often referred to as the “Temple of Dawn.”

Address: Across the river between the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. Easily accessible by ferry to Maharaj pier.

Entrance Fee: 50 Baht

4. Wat Saket

Wat Saket, also known as the Golden Mount Temple, is situated atop a high hill in the old city of Bangkok. This grand structure boasts a long history. Visitors have to climb 300 steps to reach the top and enjoy a panoramic view.

Address: Located between Boriphat Road and Lan Luang Road, off Ratchadamnoen Klang Road.

Entrance Fee: 50 Baht

5. Wat Traimit

Wat Traimit stands out in brilliant golden color along Yaowarat Road. Its main attraction is not just its beautiful architecture, but also the giant solid gold Buddha statue within.

Address: Traimit Road

Entrance Fee: 10 Baht for the museum. Temple visit is free.

6. Loha Prasat

Bangkok isn’t short of magnificent temples, but some stand out with unique architectural styles. You’ll be amazed by Loha Prasat; truly striking with its distinct architecture. Known as the ‘Metal Castle’, Loha Prasat sits on the grounds of Wat Ratchanatdaram.

Address: Located close to Wat Saket and the Democracy Monument, near the Khao San Road area.

Entrance Fee: 20 Baht

7. Wat Mahathat

Wat Mahathat, or more accurately, “Wat Mahathat Yuwarajarangsarit Rajaworamahavihara,” was built during the Ayutthaya period. It’s one of the top ten royal temples in Bangkok, often used for important royal ceremonies.

Address: Phra That Road (near Sanam Luang Park, between the Grand Palace and the National Museum), Rattanakosin Old City.

Entrance Fee: Free.

8. Wat Suthat

Wat Suthat garners attention due to its Giant Swing (Red Giant Swing) standing prominently at the entrance. It’s one of the oldest and most impressive temples in Bangkok, featuring elegant prayer halls, beautiful murals, and intricately carved wooden doors.

Address: Bamrung Muang Road, Rattanakosin Old City, opposite Bangkok City Hall.

Entrance Fee: 20 Baht

9. Wat Benjamabophit (Wat Benja)

Known as the “Marble Temple” because the outer walls of the main temple are covered with marble imported from Italy, complemented by perfectly curved yellow-tiled roofs imported from China.

Address: 69 Nakornpathom Road, Dusit, Bangkok 10300

Entrance Fee: 50 Baht

10. Wat Prayoon

Also known as Wat Rua Lek, located on the western bank of the Chao Praya River. Wat Prayoon features a distinct and prominent white pagoda and a large pond housing numerous turtles in front of the temple.

Address: Situated along the Thonburi riverside, below the Memorial Bridge (Saphan Phut).

Source: Compiled from the Internet.