Bangkok is home to some of the most beautiful and important Buddhist temples in Thailand. Visiting the best temples in Bangkok is one of the highlights of any trip to the Thai capital. Whether you have just one day or several, these temples offer a fascinating glimpse into Thailand’s history, culture, and religion.
With hundreds of temples scattered across the city, deciding which ones are truly worth your time can be overwhelming. This guide covers the must-visit temples in Bangkok, from world-famous landmarks like Wat Arun and Wat Pho to lesser-known gems that many visitors overlook. You’ll also find practica tipson entrance fees, dress codes, and how to plan your visit, so yu can make the most of your time exploring these incredible places.
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WHY VISIT BANGKOK'S TEMPLES?
Visiting temples is one of the best ways to experience the history, culture, and traditions of Thailand. The temples in Bangkok ar not only beautiful places to admire, but they also play an important role in Thai Buddhism and everyday life. Many locals come here to pray, make offerings, and take part in religious ceremonies.
The famous temples in Bangkok are also some the city’s most impressive landmarks. From the colourful porcelain details of Wat Arun to the giant golden Buddha at Wat Traimit and the peaceful gardens of Wat Benchamabophit, each temple has its own unique story and architecture. Exploring different Buddhist temples in Bangkok allows you to discover many influences that shaped the city over centuries.
Another reason to visit Bangkok’s temples is that they offer a welcome contrast to the busy streets of the city. Behind their ornate gates, you will often find quiet courtyards, beautiful gardens, and peaceful spaces away from the traffic and crowds. Adding some of these must-visit temples to your itinierary is an experience you should not miss.
THE 15 BEST TEMPLES IN BANGKOK
Bangkok is home to hundreds of temples, ranging from small neighborhood shrines to grand royal temples covered in gold and intricate details. While every temple has its own charm, some stand out because of their history, architecture, religious importance, or unique features.
The best temples in Bangkok are spread across different areas of the city, but many of the most famous ones can be found around the historic centre and along the Chao Phraya River.
Below are the 15 must-visit temples in Bangkok that deserve a place on your itinerary.
1. WAT PHRA KAEW (TEMPLE OF THE EMERALD BUDDHA)
Located inside the grounds of the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew is the most sacred temple in Thailand and one of the most important temples to visit in Bangkok. Built in 1782 when Bangkok became the capital of Thailand, this temple was originally created as the royal chape for the Thai monarchy.
Unlike many temples in Thailand, Wat Phra Kaew does not have resident monks. Its importance comes from the Emerald Buddha, a highly revered Buddha image carved from a single block of jade. Despite its small size, this statue is considered the spiritual protector of Thailand.
Trivia: Did you know the Emerald Buddha has three different costume for each season (rainy, summer and winter)? Depending on the time of the year that you visit, you will see him dressed differently. The one you see in our photos is the winter costume.
The temple complex is an impressive display of Thai architecture, with golden stupas, colourful mosaics, mythical statues, and beautifully decorated buildings. Take your time to walk around the different courtyards and admire the incredible details.
Because Wat Phra Kaew is located inside the Grand Palace, it is usually one of the busiest places in Bangkok. Try to arrive early in the morning to enjoy a more peaceful visit and avoid the hottest hours of the day.
Practical information
- Entrance fee: Included with the Grand Palace ticket, which is 500 BHT per person.
- Opening hours: The temple is open between 8:30 and 16:30.
- Time needed to visit: You will spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the whole complex.
2. WAT ARUN (TEMPLE OF DAWN)
Wat Arun is arguably the most recognisable temple in Bangkok and one of the most photographed landmarks in Thailand. Located on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River, this beautiful temple is famous for its towering central prang decorated with colourful porcelain and seashells.
The temple gets its name from Aruna, the Hindu god of dawn, and its riverside location makes it especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset. Although many visitors only admire Wat Arun from across the river, it is worth taking the ferry across to explore the temple grounds and see the intricate details up close.
The central prang represents Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Buddhist and Hindu cosmology. Visitors can climb part of the structure for panoramic views over the Chao Phraya River and Bangkok’s historic district.
In addition to the central prang, the temple also has a beautiful side building with beautiful mystical warrior decorations guarding its entrance.
Thanks to its unique design and riverside setting, Wat Arun is often considered one of the most beautiful temples in Bangkok. You will not regret visiting the temple and admiring all its colourful and intricate details.
Practical information
- Entrance fee: Tickets to enter Wat Arun cost 200 BHT per person
- Opening hours: The temple is open between 8:00 and 18:00.
- Time needed to visit: You will spend approximately 1 hour exploring the whole complex.
3. WAT PHO (TEMPLE OF THE RECLINING BUDDHA)
Wat Pho is one of the oldest and most important temples in Bangkok. Located just south of the Grand Palace, this temple is best known for its enormous Reclining Buddha statue, which measures 46 metres long and is covered in gold leaf.
However, there is much more to discover beyond the famous Buddha image. The temple complex is filled with colourful stupas, peaceful courtyards, stone inscriptions, and hundreds of Buddha statues. It was also Thailand’s first center of public education and is still considered the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
Walking through the temple, will allow you to admire the detailed decorations of the chedis and if you visit early in the morning you will experience a pleasant peaceful atmosphere.
Practical information
- Entrance fee: Tickets to enter Wat Pho cost 300 BHT per person
- Opening hours: The temple is open between 8:00 and 19:30.
- Time needed to visit: You will spend between 1 and 1,5 hours exploring the whole complex.
4. WAT SAKET (GOLDEN MOUNT)
Wat Saket, also known as the Golden Mount, is one of the moust unique temples to visit in Bangkok. Unlike many of the city’s grand temples, this one is built on top of an artificial hill, offering one of the best viewpoints over Bangkok’s historic centre.
To reach the golden chedi at the top, you need to climb 344 steps through a peaceful spiral walkway surrounded by trees, bells, and small gardens. The climb is not difficult, and there are several places where you can stop and enjoy the views along the way.
At the top, you will find a golden stupa that houses Buddha relics and a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the old city.
Practical information
- Entrance fee: Tickets to enter Wat Saket cost 100 BHT per person
- Opening hours: The temple is open between 7:00 and 19:00.
- Time needed to visit: You will spend between 45 minutes and 1 hour exploring the whole complex.
5. LOHA PRASAT OR WAT RATCHANATDARAM
Loha Prasat, also known by locals as the Metal Castle, is an unusual temple. Located near Wat Saket, this temple stands out because of its impressive multi-tiered structure covered with 37 golden spires.
The name Loha Prasat means “iron castle”, referring to the metal decorations used throughout the building. The 37 spires represent 37 qualities needed to reach enlightenment in Buddhism, making this temple not only an architectural masterpiece but also an important religious site.
While visiting this temple, it is possible to walk through the different levels of the structure and reach the top viewpoint, where you can enjoy beautiful views over the surrounding area. This temple is much quieter than other more famous temples in Bangkok, maiking it a great place to escape the crowds.
Next to the main building of Loha Prasat, there is a secondary hall that, even though it is not as impressive as the iron castle, it is also worth stopping to admire it.
Practical information
- Entrance fee: If you just want to visit the temple from outside, you can do so for free. Climbing up to the top costs 100 BHT per person.
- Opening hours: The temple is open between 8:00 and 15:00.
- Time needed to visit: You will spend between 30 and 45 minutes visiting this temple.
6. WAT BENCHAMABOPHIT (MARBLE TEMPLE)
Wat Benchamabophit, also known as the Marble Temple, is one of my favoirte temples in Bangkok. Located away from the busiest tourist areas, this elegant temple is famous for its white marble architecture and peaceful surroundings.
Built during the reign of King Chulalongkorn in the late 19th century, Wat Benchamabophit combines traditional Thai design with European influences. The main ordination hall features polished marble columns, golden details, and a beautiful collection of Buddha images from different periods of Thai history.
But the most important Buddha statue is the one inside the mainordination hall. It is a big sitting golden Buddha in front of a bright royal blue wall. The ashes of King Rama V are buried directly beneath the base of the golden Buddha.
Practical information
- Entrance fee: Tickets to visit Wat Benchamabophit cost 100 BHT per person.
- Opening hours: The temple is open between 8:30 and 17:30.
- Time needed to visit: You will spend between 30 and 45 minutes visiting this temple.
7. WAT TRAIMIT (TEMPLE OF THE GOLDEN BUDDHA)
Wat Traimit is famous for housing the world’s largest solid gold Buddha statue, making it one of the most impressive must-visit templesin Bangkok. Located near Chinatown, this temple is easy to combien with a visit to one of Bangkok’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
The Golden Buddha statue is almost five meters tall and weighs around 5,5 tonnes. What makes it even more fascinating is its history. For centuries, the statue was covered in plaster and its true value remained hidden until it was accidentally discovered in the 1950s.
A visit to Wat Traimit will allow you to admire this impressive Gold Buddha, the modern temple building, and the panoramic views over Chinatown from the temple. Once you’re done exploring the temple, you can also learn about the temple’s story in the museum located on the lower floors.
Practical information
- Entrance fee: Tickets to visit Wat Traimit cost 100 BHT per person (temple + museum).
- Opening hours: The temple is open between 8:00 and 17:00.
- Time needed to visit: You will spend between 45 minutes and 1 hour visiting this temple.
8. WAT PAKNAM PHASI CHAROEN
Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen is one of the most impressive modern Buddhist temples in Bangkok. Located in the Thonburi district, away from the main tourist areas, this temple has become famous for its enormous golden Buddha statue and its colourful meditation hall.
The highlight of the temple is the massive Buddha image that raises above the surrounding neighbourhood. It is one of the talles Buddha statues in Bangkok and can be seen from many parts of the city.
Inside the temple complex, you can also explore the beautiful Maharatchamongkhon Stupa. The interior features colourful artwork, a glass stupa, and intricate decorations that create a peaceful and unique atmosphere.
This temple is still relatively unknown for tourist but its popularity is rising fast. We loved not only exploring the temple but also the quite neighborhood it sits in. If you have some extra time, consider taking a long tail boat ride through the canals to admire the Buddha from a different perspective.
Practical information
- Entrance fee: You can visit the temple for free.
- Opening hours: The temple is open between 8:00 and 18:00.
- Time needed to visit: You will spend between 45 minutes and 1 hour visiting this temple.
9. WAT RATCHABOPHIT
Wat Ratchabophit is one of Bangkok’s most elegant royal temples and a hidden gem among the city’s many religious sites. Located near the Grand Palace, this temple combines traditional Thai architecture with European influences, creating a design unlike many other famous temples in Bangkok.
The temple’s exterior features a traditional Thai-style ordination hall surrounded by a beautiful circular courtyard with colourful ceramic tiles. Inside, visitors can admire intricate gold decorations and European-inspired details that reflect Thailand’s connections with the outside world during the late 19th century.
This temple is often overlooked by visitors heading to the most famous temples like Wat Pho and Wat Phra Kaew (I did too during my first trip to Thailand), which means you will be almost completely alone within the temple complex and you will be able to fully appreciate the beautiful architecture.
Practical information
- Entrance fee: You can visit the temple for free.
- Opening hours: The temple is open between 8:00 and 17:00.
- Time needed to visit: You will spend between 30 to 45 minutes visiting this temple.
10. WAT SUTHAT (TEMPLE OF THE GIANT SWING)
Wat Suthat is one of the oldest and most important royal temples in Bangkok. Located near the Giant Swing and Loha Prasat in the historic centre of the city, this temple is also not very busy. But don’t let this prevent you from visiting it, it is actually impressive.
The temple is famous for its elegant architecture, beautiful murals, and peaceful atmosphere. Inside the main hall, you will find an impressive golden Buddha image called Phra Sri Sakyamuni, which was brought from Sukhothai in the early 19th century. The surrounding walls are covered with detailed murals depicting stories from Buddhist teachigns and Thai history.
One of the highlihts of Wat Suthat is the large courtyard filled with rows of Buddha Statues.
Practical information
- Entrance fee: Tickets to visit this temple cost 100 BHT per person
- Opening hours: The temple is open between 8:30 and 16:30.
- Time needed to visit: You will spend between 30 to 45 minutes visiting this temple.
11. WAT PRAYURAWONGSAWAT
Located on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Prayurawongsawat or Wat Prayoon is one of Bangkok’s hidden gems.
The temple’s most recognisable feature is its large white chedi, which stands on a small hill surrounded by a circular courtyard. Inside the chedi, visitors can learn more about Buddhist history and admire the quiet atmosphere of this historic site.
In 2013, Wat Prayurawongsawat received a UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award for its restoration, highlighting its cultural importance. If you are looking for a temple that is away from the main tourist routes, this temple is a wonderful choice.
Practical information
- Entrance fee: Entrance to this temple is free.
- Opening hours: The temple is open between 8:00 and 17:00.
- Time needed to visit: You will spend between 30 to 45 minutes visiting this temple.
12. WAT KALAYANAMIT
Wat Kalayanamit is another beautiful riverside temple located on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River. It is a lesser-known temple among international visitors.
The temple is famous for its enormous golden Buddha image, Luang Pho To, which stands inside the main prayer hall. This statue is especially important among Thai and Chinese communities, who often come here to pray and make offerings.
Another important highlight of this temple is its riverside location. From the temple grounds, you can enjoy beautiful views across the river towards the famous Wat Arun.
Practical information
- Entrance fee: Entrance to this temple is free.
- Opening hours: The temple is open between 8:00 and 16:00.
- Time needed to visit: You will spend between 30 to 45 minutes visiting this temple.
13. WAT INTHARAWIHAN (TEMPLE OF THE STANDING BUDDHA)
Wat Intharawihan is best know for its huge standing Buddha statue, one of the most impressive Buddha images in Bangkok. The statue is 32 meters tall and dominates the temple grounds.
Construction of the Buddha began in the 19th century and took many years to complete. The statue is decorated with golden mosaics and features a beautiful glass-covered topknot that is believed to contain Buddha relics.
Wat Intarawihan is relatively simple to explore. The main attraction is the giant Buddha itself, which you can climb up to his chest. From there you can get a nice view of the surrounding temple grounds and Bangkok.
Practical information
- Entrance fee: Foreigners need to pay a simbolic 50 BHT ticket to enter.
- Opening hours: The temple is open between 8:30 and 20:00.
- Time needed to visit: You will spend 30 minutes visiting this temple.
14. WAT MANGKON KAMALAWAT (DRAGON TEMPLE)
Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, also known as Wat Leng Noei Yi, is the largets and most important Chinese Buddhist temple in Bangkok. It is located in the heart of Chinatown, and it is a nice contrast with all the Thai Buddhist temples in this list.
Wat Mangkon reflects Chinese architectural influences, with colourful decoration, dragon statues, incense-filled courtyards, and traditional Chinese designs.
The temple is especially lively during Chinese festivals, such as Chinese New Year. However, if you want to visit the temple peacefully and truly appreciate the details, then it is better if you visit outside Chinese festivities. On a regular day, it is commen to see locals making offerings, lighting incense, and asking for blessings.
Practical information
- Entrance fee: Foreigners need to pay a simbolic 50 BHT ticket to enter.
- Opening hours: The temple is open between 8:00 and 17:00.
- Time needed to visit: You will spend 30 minutes visiting this temple.
15. WAT SAM PHRAN (DRAGON TEMPLE)
Wat Sam Phran, also known as the Dragon Temple, is technically not in Bangkok but in Nakhon Pathom Province (around 40 km west of the city). However, its unique design and proximity to Bangkok makes it worth including in this list. Just keep in mind this is more of a half-day trip.
The temple is famous for its 17-storey pink tower wrapped by a huge colourful dragon. The dragon’s body winds all the way around the building, creating one of the most unusual sights you will find in Thailand. You can walk through the dragon’s body and climb towards the top of the tower.
Due to time constraints, we did not visit this temple. However, I would have loved to include it in my itinerary.
Practical information
- Entrance fee: Free, although donations are appreciated.
- Opening hours: The temple is open between 9:00 and 17:00.
- Time needed to visit: You will spend around 1 hour visiting this temple.
WHICH TEMPLES TO VISIT DEPENDING ON HOW MUCH TIME YOU HAVE?
Lets face it, you will not be able to visit all these temples in half a day or a full day. If you are limited on time, you will have to make some choices.
If you only have half a day, I would focus on the three iconic temples in the historic centre: Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho and Wat Arun. These are the most famous temples in Bangkok and you can’t leave Bangkok without visiting them. They are also quite close to one another, so you will not have to spend too much time traveling between them.
For one full day, you can add Wat Saket and Loha Prasat to your itinerary. Start early at Wat Saket, then explore Loha Prasat before heading to the most famous temples I recommended for a half-day. This combination is an ideal mix of famous landmarks and quieter temples.
If you have two days, you can explore many more of the temples I listed in this blog. I would recommend adding Wat Benchamabophit, Wat Suthat, Wat Ratchabophit, and some of the temples on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River. You will have plenty of time to appreciate the architecture without rushing from one temple to another.
Finally, if you have three days or more, you can check out all the temples in this list (including a half-day trip to Wat Sam Phran. We spent a total of three days in Bangkok and were able to visit all of them, except for Wat Sam Phran.
TEMPLE DRESS CODE
When visiting Buddhist temples in Bangkok, it is important to dress respectfully. Temples are active religious sites, not just tourist attractions, and some have stricter rules than others.
As a general rule, your shoulders and knees should be covered. Avoid crop tops, tank tops, short shorts, and mini skirts or dresses. Loose-fitting trousers, long skirts, and lightweight shirts are good options, especially during Bangkok’s hot weather.
At some temples, you may need to remove your shoes before entering the main prayer hall. Wearing shoes that are easy to take off can make your visit more convenient.
The dress code is particularly strict at Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace. If you arrive wearing inappropriate clothing, you will be asked to cover up or you will not be able to enter.
I recommend carrying a lightweight scarf or sarong in you day bag. It takes up very little space and can be useful if you need some extra coverage.
Remember that dressing appropriately is not only about following the rules. It is also a simple way to show respect for Thai culture, religion, and the people who come to these temples to pray.
TIPS FOR VISITING BANGKOK TEMPLES
Here are a few simple tips that can make your experience much more enjoyable.
- Start early. The popular temples become really busy throughout the day. Arriving early means smaller crowds, and better conditions for taking photos.
- Group nearby temples together. This may seem obvious but Bangkok is a really large city. Grouping nearby temples will avoid you traveling back and forth between temples.
- Carry water. Bangkok’s heat and humidity are no joke. Make sure to drink frequently and take regular breaks.
- Dress appropriately. Follow my tips on the previous chapter “Temple dress code”. Otherwise, you might have some issues entering temples.
- Bring some cash. Some temples charge a small entrance fee. Cash can also be useful for donations, drinks, and smalls purchases around the temples.
- Remover your shoes when required. Many temple buildings require visitors to leave their shoes outside. Pay attention to signs.
- Be respectful when taking photos. Photography is allowed in temples, but always be respectful of people praying.
- Take your time. It can be tempting to rush through the temples just to tick them off your list. Instead, slow down and look a the details. The murals, statues, mosaics, and decorations are what make these temples so special.
- Be careful with temple scams. If someone approaches you outside a temple a tells you that it is closed, be cautious. Some unofficial guides and tuk-tuk drivers use this as a way to take tourists to shops or other attractions. Always check at the official entrance to be 100% sure.
ACCOMMODATION IN BANGKOK
Bangkok is a huge city so there are endless neighbourhoods where you can get your accommodation. However, if this is your first trip to Bangkok, and you are going to be visiting the most famous sites in the city, I would recommend booking your hotel near Khao San Road.
Lamphu Treehouse Boutique Hotel
During our most recent trip to Bangkok, we stayed at Lamphu Treehouse Boutique Hotel. The hotel is located in a very calm area of the city, yet it is only 10 minutes walking from Khao San Road and it is incredibly well connected. The rooms were spacious and comfortable. The breakfast buffet was delicious. And the most important thing of all, they allowed us an early check-in at 9:00 am!
FAQ ABOUT THE BEST TEMPLES IN BANGKOK
WHAT IS THE MOST FAMOUS TEMPLE IN BANGKOK?
Probably Wat Arun is the most recognisable temple in Bangkok. However, Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho are also very famous.
which temples should I visit in bangkok if this is my first time visiting the city?
If this is your first trip to Bangkok, you should at least include Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun in your itinerary. You can’t go to Bangkok and not visit them. Then, depending on the time you have, add those that look more special to you.
ARE BANGKOK TEMPLES FREE?
Some temples are completely free, while others charge an entrance fee. The smaller and less touristy temples are usually free, while the major attractions charge you a fee.
CAN I VISIT BANGKOK TEMPLES WITHOUT A GUIDE?
Yes. Most temples are easy to explore independently, and you can find plenty of information about their history and architecture beforehand.
ARE BANGKOK TEMPLES WORTH VISITING?
Absolutely. Even if you are not particularly interested in religion, Bangkok’s temples are worth visiting for their architecture, history, art, and cultural importance.
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FINAL THOUGHTS
Bangkok’s temples are one of the highlights of visiting Thailand’s capital so make sure to include at least some in your Bangkok itinerary.
If you are visiting Bangkok for the first time, you do not need to see all 15 temples on this list. Start with the three most famous ones and then add more depending on your time.
Ultimately, the best temples in Bangkok are not only the ones with the biggest crowds or the most impressive buildings. Take some time to explore, slow down, and appreciate the details.
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