What Are the Must-Visit Bangkok Temples – Experience the Mysticism and Majesty of These Sacred Sites

Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital, is counted amongst the world’s best-loved travel destinations, presenting an array of engrossing attractions to the visitor. Thailand is an overwhelmingly Buddhist country and travellers will have the opportunity to explore a number of absorbing temples during their adventures in the capital. Some of the most interesting and fascinating Buddhist places of worship that you should visit are described below. 

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Wat Pho

An excellent choice with which to start your tour of Bangkok’s alluring temples is the well-known Wat Pho. It is commonly referred to as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. This shrine which was constructed during the rule of the monarchs Rama I and Rama III is probably best known for the immense reclining Buddha statue that it houses. This colossal figure measures 46 m in length and 15 m in height. Additionally, Wat Pho boasts an extensive selection of smaller Buddha images which have been collected from various parts of the nation. This place of worship was also Thailand’s initial university and a noteworthy massage and medical school continues to function here. 

Wat Arun 

An outstanding religious attraction in the capital of Thailand is the iconic Wat Arun or Temple of Dawn which is located at Thonburi on the Chao Phraya River’s western bank. This place of worship is undoubtedly a magnificent sight with its striking central spire. This temple also inherits an interesting historical heritage; it is believed that King Taksin arrived at this site at the time of dawn on the way to fight the invaders who had besieged the nation. That said, a popular time to view this site is at sunset during a cruise along the Chao Phraya River. Wat Arun is undoubtedly counted amongst the city’s foremost temples, acting as a symbol of Thailand’s treasured cultural legacy. Interestingly, the greatly venerated Emerald Buddha statue was enshrined here before it was transferred to Wat Phra Kaew. 

Wat Phra Kaew 

Your tour of Bangkok’s splendid temples wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the famed Wat Phra Kaew, or Temple of the Emerald Buddha. As you might expect, this shrine houses the priceless Emerald Buddha statue which has been carved out of a single section of jade. After being kept in a number of locations, this statue was permanently moved to this noteworthy place of worship during the reign of the monarch Rama I. Next to Wat Phra Kaew, you will find the majestic Grand Palace compound, formerly a royal residence and now a site for ceremonial occasions. The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew are considered to showcase the nation’s architectural heritage and cultural grandeur.

Wat Benchamabophit 

Another renowned religious attraction in the city is the splendid Wat Benchamabophit which is also referred to as the Marble Temple. This handsome place of worship may be regarded as an outstanding example of Thailand’s architectural legacy. Precious Italian marble was imported for the construction of this shrine, providing it with a luminous, majestic appearance. This temple is considered to display a blend of the typical Thai Rattanakosin architectural style and elements of the Italian Renaissance style. An accommodation choice to consider from which you could easily visit this attraction is Gardina Asoke, an ideal base for your trip.

Wat Saket 

One of the outstanding things to see in Bangkok Old Town is the remarkable Wat Saket, also known as the Temple of the Golden Mount. It is considered to preserve the architectural legacy of the nation and is also an appealing place to visit. This place of worship which inherits a history stretching to the Ayutthaya period stands on an artificial hillock; its recognizable golden chedi (stupa) presents a striking sight for the visitor. It is believed that this temple enshrines Buddhist relics obtained from the nation of India. If you make the effort to ascend the steps leading to the summit here, you will have the opportunity to experience splendid views over the city.