Best Temples in Bangkok

This was the huge reason Ian and I went to thailand to begin with. I don't think we are the only ones either. The temples are so jaw-droppingly beautiful and the history that each temple has and symbolizes will leave you in awe. After a few temples they do all start to look similar so thats why it is beneficial to do research on what each statue symbolizes, why it's facing in the direction it's facing and the overall significance. EVERYTHING, has a perfect purpose. Do not overlook the meanings or else you won't fully enjoying the experience.

All temples have different rules based on what they symbolize. However, I HIGHLY recommend treating each temple with respect and plan your outfit ahead of time (both men and women).

The rule of thumb for most temple is to cover up your knees, shoulders and cleavage. It's going to be more difficult at times because it can get so incredibly hot and the thought of long pants gets you sweating. However, that won't stop the guards from stopping you and telling you to stand in line (they aren't short lines either) as you now have to buy/rent appropriate clothes. Wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off when visiting because all temples ask you remove your shoes before entering worship areas. There is a lot of Temple/Thai etiquette that should be followed out of respect for their culture.

There are so many temples in Bangkok. It may not seem like it when you are planning your trip but trust me, you will burn yourself out if you try to do too many temples in one day or a even a week. Make sure you fully understand each temple you are going to and the basic history of it's significance. I know I've said that a lot already but I cannot stress it enough. I just really don't want you to hate your temple experiences.

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Top Temples in Bangkok

Wat Phra Kaew (The Temple of the Emerald Buddha)

The Gand Palace of Bangkok is one of the cities most revered landmarks. Home for the Thai King for 150 years, built in 1782. The Grand Palace was also home to the Thai war ministry, state departments, and even the mint. Today, being the heart of modern Bangkok, The Grand Palace is open to the public and shows exquisite Thai craftsmanship; from the 14th century Emerald Buddha, to the artistic creation of the Guardians.

This temple is famous for many reasons. With fame, comes A LOT of tourist. Arrive 30 minutes before opening time and stand in line early so that you can explore a little of the temple grounds before it gets obnoxiously crowed. Tour groups usually start to take OVER around 9:30 and its hard to get anything seen or done trying to move around them. Also, like I said above, always play it safe with your outfits. Ian and I showed up at 8:30 but apparently my shirt was not appropriate enough and we stood in line for 45 minutes just to get a shirt!! By that time, all the tours started to show up. PLEASE, learn from our mistake.

Open from: 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Entrance Fee: 500 Baht

Location: 1 Na Phra Lan Rd, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200

Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha)

The Wat Pho or Wat Phra Chetuphon is famed for the giant "reclining buddha" completely covered in gold leaf. Located within walking distance of the Grand Palace. This Buddha is 46 meters long and impossible (okay, I'm a little dramatic) to take a picture in front of. This is also a great area to get a Thai message and an easy walk from the Chao Phraya River and down town streets of Phra Borom.

Open from 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Entrance Fee: 100 Baht

Location: 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200

Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn)

Given the craftsmanship and beauty of this temple, rising over 70 meters high, the Wat Arunis one of Thailands most beautiful temples. Nestled against the river banks of the Chao Phraya River, the "Temple of Dawn" stands. This was an idea by King Taksin in 1768, it is said that when the Burmese took over the Ayutthaya areas, he fought he way of the war and arrived at this temple just as dawn was breaking. King Taksin later had the temple renovated and renamed it Wat Chaeng, the Temple of the Dawn.

Unfortunately, when we went it was under construction so a lot of places and areas were closed. We were still able to get in and we actually went to this temple while we did a private canal tour which our boat driver took us here as a part of the package!

Open from 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Entrance Fee: 100 Baht

Location: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Khwaeng Wat Arun, Khet Bangkok Yai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon

Wat Saket (The Golden Mount)

The Temple dates back into the Ayuttahaya area. When bangkok became the capital, King Rama I renovated the temple and gave it its current name. This temple has a trenquil feeling and covered with beautiful and mature trees and plants. Wat Saket severed as a a "dumping ground" of more than 60,000 plague victims in the 18th century. But, on a lighter note, literally and figuratively, you will be welcomed as you crest the hill by a wall of bells and panoramic views of Bangkok.

I suggest doing this an hour before closing. The climb is easy (344 steps) but if you do it in the dead center of the day, you will hate yourself. It gets so hot. We did this right before sunset time and it was a beautiful climb and surprisingly not busy at all. We were able to do this climb without being many people until we got to the top.

Open from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Entrance Fee: 50 Baht

Location: Between Boriphat Road and Lan Luang Road, off Ratchadamnoen Klang Road.

Wat Phra Mahathat

Wat Mahathat is located in Ayutthaya which is on the out skirts of Bangkok and well worth the trip over to see it. This temple, we were not able to see due to getting sick. However, I still put this on the list because this is one of those things we regret. Its beautiful ruins and holds the infamous Buddha head wrapped in a tree.