Best Temples in Bangkok: A Local’s Guide to Hidden Gems
Golden spires rise above the skyline of Thailand’s capital, telling stories of faith and history. Bangkok houses over 400 Buddhist temples or “wats,” each with its own unique charm and significance. While most visitors know about Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace, many amazing temples remain hidden from tourist crowds. This guide takes you beyond the typical tourist trail to discover the best temples in Bangkok, where you can admire unique architectural styles, connect with local culture, and capture amazing photos for your memories.
To truly enhance your temple experience, consider renting traditional Thai costumes from Siam Crown store. Professional photographers like ลุคโฟโต้ (Lukfoto), known as the best temple photographer in Bangkok, can help capture stunning photos of you dressed in elegant Thai attire against the backdrop of these magnificent temples. This creates not just photos but treasured memories of your Bangkok adventure.
Most Popular Temples in Bangkok
Before we explore the hidden gems, let’s quickly cover the most famous temples in Bangkok that you’ve likely heard about:
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Wat Pho holds several impressive records – it’s Bangkok’s largest temple complex, contains Thailand’s largest collection of Buddha images, and houses the spectacular 46-meter long reclining Buddha covered in gold leaf. This temple is also historically significant as Thailand’s earliest center for public education and the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
The magnificent Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho represents Buddha entering Nirvana.
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Standing majestically on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, วัดอรุณ is immediately recognizable by its striking 104-meter central prang (spire) surrounded by four smaller towers. The temple derives its name from Aruna, the Indian god of dawn, and is often referred to as the “Temple of Dawn” because of how it catches the first light of day. The central tower and surrounding spires are decorated with colorful porcelain pieces and seashells, creating an intricate mosaic pattern that showcases extraordinary Thai craftsmanship.
Wat Arun’s iconic silhouette against the Bangkok skyline is best appreciated from across the river at sunset.
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing
Known for both its impressive temple grounds and the towering red Giant Swing that stands at the entrance, วัดสุทัศน์ ranks among the oldest and most important temples in Bangkok. The temple houses Thailand’s largest Sukhothai-era bronze Buddha statue, while its walls display detailed murals depicting the life of Buddha. The Giant Swing itself stands 21.5 meters tall and was once used in ancient Brahmin ceremonies.
The Giant Swing stands as a historic landmark in front of Wat Suthat.
The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)
No discussion of Bangkok’s temples would be complete without mentioning the Grand Palace complex and its crown jewel, Wat Phra Kaew. Built in 1782 when King Rama I established Bangkok as the capital, this sprawling complex serves as the spiritual heart of Thai Buddhism and the monarchy.
The main attraction is the Emerald Buddha, a relatively small (66 cm tall) but highly revered statue carved from a single piece of jade. The image is housed in an elaborately decorated ordination hall surrounded by mythical guardian figures and intricate architecture. The Buddha’s costume is changed three times a year by the King himself, corresponding to Thailand’s seasons.
The ornate spires and golden details of Wat Phra Kaew make it one of Thailand’s most magnificent temples.
Planning tip: These popular temples can get crowded, especially during peak tourist hours (10am-2pm). Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a more peaceful experience and better lighting for photography. The Grand Palace has a strict dress code, so ensure you’re properly covered before arriving.
Hidden Temple Gems in Bangkok
Now let’s discover some less-visited temples that offer unique experiences and photo opportunities without the crowds:
Wat Ratchabophit: The Royal Temple
Built during the reign of King Rama V in 1869, Wat Ratchabophit features a fascinating blend of Thai and Western architectural styles. What makes this temple truly special is its unique layout – the wihan and ubosot (ordination hall) are connected by a circular courtyard with a golden chedi (stupa) at its center. The temple’s walls are adorned with colorful hand-made mosaics that reflect light in mesmerizing patterns.
Located near the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, this temple receives surprisingly few visitors despite its central location and magnificent design. It currently serves as the residence of the Supreme Patriarch, the head of Thailand’s Buddhist community.
The golden chedi and intricate mosaic designs make Wat Ratchabophit a photographer’s dream.
Wat Benchamabophit: The Marble Temple
Known as the “Marble Temple,” Wat Benchamabophit showcases an elegant fusion of Thai and European architectural styles. Constructed in 1899 during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), this temple is built from Italian Carrara marble, giving it a distinctive appearance compared to other Bangkok temples.
The temple features marble pillars, a marble courtyard, and two large singhas (lion statues) guarding the entrance. Inside, you’ll find a Sukhothai-style Buddha statue and a gallery containing 52 Buddha images displaying different mudras (hand positions). This temple is so significant that it appears on the reverse side of the Thai five-baht coin.
The striking white marble and classical lines of Wat Benchamabophit make it one of Bangkok’s most photogenic temples.
Loha Prasat (Wat Ratchanatdaram): The Metal Castle
โลหะปราสาท, or “Metal Castle,” is a unique architectural marvel located within the grounds of Wat Ratchanatdaram. Built in 1846 during the reign of King Rama III, this striking structure features 37 metal spires representing the 37 virtues toward enlightenment in Buddhist philosophy.
The temple consists of multiple concentric square levels with diminishing size as they ascend, creating a pyramid-like structure. Visitors can climb the spiral staircase to access different levels, with the top floor offering panoramic views of Bangkok through the golden spires. The shrine at the very top contains relics of the Buddha.
The 37 golden spires of Loha Prasat create a striking silhouette against the Bangkok skyline.
Did you know? Loha Prasat in Bangkok was inspired by similar structures in India and Sri Lanka. Today, it’s the last remaining structure of its kind in the world, as the others no longer exist. In 2005, it was submitted to UNESCO for consideration as a World Heritage Site.
Wat Saket (The Golden Mount)
Crowned with a gleaming gold chedi, Wat Saket sits atop an artificial hill and offers one of the best panoramic views of Bangkok. To reach the top, visitors climb 320 steps that spiral around the hill, with various decorations and bells along the way. The journey upward is part of the experience, offering increasingly better views of the surroundings.
The Golden Mount has a fascinating history. During the early Bangkok period, King Rama III attempted to build a large chedi here, but the soft soil couldn’t support the weight and it collapsed. King Rama IV later built a smaller chedi on the resulting mound, which was then expanded and reinforced by King Rama V to create what we see today.
The Golden Mount rises above Bangkok’s old town, offering a peaceful retreat and panoramic views.
Wat Paknam: Home of Meditation Traditions
Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen is a royal temple located in Phasi Charoen district on the Chao Phraya River. Established in 1610 during the Ayutthaya period, this temple underwent major revival in the 20th century under the leadership of meditation master Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro.
The temple is known for its meditation traditions and attracts many practitioners, particularly female Buddhist nuns (mae chi). It houses the largest mae chi community in Bangkok and has had a significant impact on female Buddhist practice in Thailand. Wat Paknam is less visited by tourists but offers an authentic glimpse into living Buddhist traditions.
Wat Paknam offers visitors a glimpse into active Buddhist meditation practices and traditions.
Wat Prayun: Home of the Turtle Mountain
Located near the Memorial Bridge on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Prayun is easily identified by its large white chedi visible from across the river. Built in 1828 during the reign of King Rama III, this temple features a unique attraction called Khao Mo or “Turtle Mountain” – an artificial rock garden surrounded by a pond filled with turtles.
The main chedi, known as Phra Borommathat Chedi, stands about 60 meters tall with a base diameter of 50 meters. It’s encircled by 18 smaller chedis designed in Ayutthaya style. What makes this chedi special is that it’s the only large-sized structure of its kind in Bangkok.
The serene Turtle Mountain rock garden is a perfect spot for contemplation at Wat Prayun.
Wat Sutthiwararam: Modern Buddhist Art
Unlike most temples in Bangkok that showcase traditional art styles, Wat Sutthiwararam stands out for its display of religious art in modern styles. This temple embraces contemporary artistic expressions while maintaining Buddhist themes and teachings. You’ll find minimalist and abstract representations of Buddhist concepts like reincarnation, nirvana, and mythical figures like garudas.
While the architectural style remains traditional, the innovative approach to religious art makes this temple a refreshing stop on your exploration of Bangkok’s sacred spaces. The combination of spirituality with a modern art gallery atmosphere creates a unique temple experience.
Contemporary Buddhist art gives Wat Sutthiwararam a distinctive character among Bangkok temples.
Wat Hualamphong: An Urban Sanctuary
Located near the Hua Lamphong railway station in Bangkok’s urban core, Wat Hualamphong provides a peaceful sanctuary amid the city’s hustle and bustle. While not as grand or ornate as some other temples, its accessibility and serene atmosphere make it worth a visit for those exploring the area.
The temple features traditional Thai architecture with golden Buddha images and detailed murals. For travelers using the nearby train station or exploring Bangkok’s Chinatown district, Wat Hualamphong offers a convenient spiritual respite and glimpse into local religious practices without the crowds of more famous temples.
Wat Hualamphong provides a tranquil escape from the surrounding urban environment.
Wat Samphran: The Dragon Temple
Located about 40 kilometers west of central Bangkok in Nakhon Pathom Province, Wat Samphran is one of Thailand’s most visually striking temples. The temple features a 17-story tall pink cylindrical building with a gigantic red-and-green dragon sculpture curling around its entire height.
Built in the early 1980s, the temple stands 80 meters high (a reference to Buddha’s age at death). The interior of the dragon contains a spiraling staircase, allowing visitors to climb inside the dragon itself. The temple grounds also feature various Buddha statues and other mythological figures.
The spectacular dragon wrapped around Wat Samphran creates one of Thailand’s most unusual temple sights.
Finding the Best Buddha Temple in Bangkok
When it comes to finding the best Buddha temple in Bangkok, visitors are spoiled for choice as each temple houses impressive Buddha images with unique characteristics and historical significance. Here are some temples that stand out for their remarkable Buddha statues:
- Wat Pho – Home to the massive 46-meter reclining Buddha covered in gold leaf
- Wat Phra Kaew – Houses the highly revered Emerald Buddha carved from jade
- วัดเบญจมบพิตร – Features a Sukhothai-style Buddha statue named Phra Buddhajinaraja
- วัดสุทัศน์ – Contains Thailand’s largest Sukhothai-era bronze Buddha statue
- Wat Paknam – Known for its seated Buddha images following meditation traditions
Each Buddha image represents different moments from Buddha’s life or various meditative states. Observing the differences in style, posture, and hand positions (mudras) offers insight into different aspects of Buddhist teachings and artistic traditions throughout Thai history.
Different Buddha images reflect various aspects of Buddhist teachings and artistic traditions.
Create Magical Memories with Traditional Thai Costumes
For a truly memorable temple experience, consider renting traditional Thai costumes from Siam Crown store. These authentic outfits allow you to connect with Thai culture while creating stunning photos in these historic settings.
- Choose from various styles of traditional Thai dress for men and women
- Professional fitting ensures you look your best
- Expert photographers like ลุคโฟโต้ (Lukfoto) can help capture perfect shots
- Create unique memories that stand out from typical tourist photos
- Learn about the cultural significance of different Thai costume styles
Transform your temple visit with traditional Thai costumes from Siam Crown store.
Planning Your Temple Tour
With so many temples to explore, planning your visits requires some strategy. Here are three suggested routes based on temple locations:
Route 1: Riverside Temples
Start at Wat Pho, then take a ferry across the river to Wat Arun. After exploring the Temple of Dawn, catch a boat to Wat Prayun to see the unique Turtle Mountain. Continue to Wat Bukkhalo for river views and fish feeding. End your day with sunset views overlooking the Chao Phraya River.
Route 2: Old City Temples
Begin at the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, then walk to Wat Ratchabophit. Continue to Wat Suthat to see the Giant Swing. Visit Wat Hualamphong, then Loha Prasat (Metal Castle). Finish your tour at the Golden Mount (Wat Saket) for panoramic views of the city. This route can be completed on foot or with short tuk-tuk rides between temples.
Route 3: Hidden Gems Day Trip
Start your morning at the marble beauty of Wat Benchamabophit, then visit the peaceful Wat Sitaram. Continue to Wat Sutthiwararam to see modern Buddhist art. After lunch, take a taxi to Wat Samphran (Dragon Temple) for truly unique photos. On your return to the city, stop at Wat Paknam to experience an active center of Buddhist practice.
Transportation tip: Bangkok’s transportation system offers various options for temple hopping. River boats are perfect for visiting waterfront temples, while the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway can get you close to many central temples. For more distant locations like Wat Samphran, taxis or ride-sharing services like Grab are your best options.
Beyond the Temples: Enhancing Your Bangkok Experience
While temples form an important part of Bangkok’s cultural landscape, there’s much more to experience in this vibrant city. After your temple explorations, consider these complementary activities:
- Sample authentic Thai street food at markets near the temples
- Take a canal boat tour to see Bangkok from the water
- Visit local communities around lesser-known temples
- Shop for handcrafted souvenirs at markets like Chatuchak
- Experience a traditional Thai massage after a day of temple walking
Final Thoughts: The Spirit of Bangkok’s Temples
Bangkok’s temples represent more than just tourist attractions – they are living spiritual centers where locals pray, meditate, and connect with centuries of tradition. By exploring beyond the most famous sites, you’ll discover the authentic pulse of Thai Buddhist culture and create memories that go deeper than the typical tourist experience.
Each temple has its own unique character, history, and architectural style. From the gleaming golden stupas to intricate mosaic designs, from ancient meditation traditions to quirky dragon-wrapped towers, Bangkok’s temples offer something for every traveler seeking cultural experiences.
So put on appropriate attire, bring your camera, rent a traditional Thai costume if you wish, and set out to discover the sacred spaces that have shaped Thailand’s spiritual landscape for centuries. The temples of Bangkok await your respectful exploration.
The many temple spires of Bangkok create a magical skyline as the sun sets on this city of spiritual wonders.