1. WAT MAHATHAT
Located across the street from Wat Phra Kaeo on the west side of Sanam Luang, Wat Mahathat, known as the Temple of the Great Relic, is the national centre for the Mahanikai Monastic sect. The temple houses Mahachulongkorn Buddhist University, one of two highest seats of Buddhist learning in Thailand and offers meditation instruction in English for interested visitors. The temple is open everyday and admission is free.
2. WAT PHO ( TEMPLES OF RECLINING BUDDHA)
Neighboring the Grand Palace enclave, this temple is considered the largest in Bangkok. the famous Reclining Buddha, constructed in 1832, is enshrined in this temple . This 46 metre long and 15 metre high gold plated Reclining Buddha, the eyes and feet inlaid with mother -of -pearl brings to mind the Lord Buddha's entry into Nirvana. The sole also shows 108 auspicious characteristics of the true
" Buddha".
Wat Pho was also the first centre of public education in the Kingdom. Nowadays , it is an important centre for the teaching and administering of traditional Thai massage. Wat Pho is open everyday from 8.30am to 5pm. Modest attire is required. www.watpho.com
3. WAT ARUN ( THE TEMPLE OF DAWN)
This famous Bangkok landmark is on the Thon Buri side of the Chao Phraya River, directly opposite the Grand Palace complex and easily accessible by boat from the Bangkok side. The temple dates back to the Ayuttaya period and was enlarged by King Rama III. Renovations were completed in the reign of King RAMA IV. The Emerald Buddha was enshrined in this temple for a brief period before King Rama i built the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo on the Bangkok side.
The landmark of this temple is a 79 meter tall massive central pagoda, " Phra Prang", and 4 smaller ones at each corner. The ornamentation of the central pagoda consists of encrusted pieces of porcelain which sparkle in the sun. Despite its name, the best photographic opportunities are in the late afternoon with the sun setting in the red sky behind the temple.
To visit the temple,shuttle boats from the Tha Tian Pier at the south west side of the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo area are provided regularly. The Chao Phraya Express Boat stops at the Tha Tian Pier and there are several Thon Buri canal tours, which include the temple. The temple is is open from 7.30am to 5.30am .www.watarun.org
4. WAT TRAIMITR ( TEMPLE OF THE GOLDEN BUDDHA)
Located at the end of Chinatown's Yaowarat Road, this temple houses the extraordinary 700 year old golden Buddha image, a seated figure composed entirely of five and a half tons of gold. Previously it had been covered with plaster and once broken off, the true treasure beneath was suddenly revealed- the figure was found to be composed entirely of gold. It is now an important and sacred Buddha imge of unique beauty . The temple is open everyday from 8am to 5pm .
Website: www.wattraimitrwithayaram.com
5. WAT BENCHAMABOPHIT ( THE MARBLE TEMPLE)
Situated on Si Ayutthaya Road, near the intersection with Rama V Road, this unique marble temple was constructed during the reign of King Chulangkorn ( 1868- 1910A.D.) . Its proportions are classically beautiful , with European influences evident in its stained glass windows and the use of Carrara marble . The temple houses a superb cloister collection of bronze Buddha images and many reckon the temple to be one of finest in the world as far as its craftsmanship and architectural splendour are concerned.
It attracts large numbers of visitors every year. The temple is open everyday from 9am to 5pm.
website: www. watbencha.com
6. WAT SUTHAT
Located on Bamrung Mueang Road, the temple is renowned for its superb murals and elaborate woodcarving door panels created during the reign of King Rama II. The preaching hall contains a collection of gilded Buddha images. the temple was constructed in the early 19th century and there are 4 smaller chapels constructed on each of its corners.
The main Buddha image, Phra Si Sakayamuni was originally cast in the Sukhothai period ( 1238-1438 A.D.) Eight meter tall, on a six meter pedestal, the image is the largest bronze -cast one in the kingdom and considered one of the most beautiful Buddha images in Thailand. The cloisters within the complex are pleasantly quiet and contain many Buddha images.The temple is open everyday from 8.30 am to 9 pm.
7. WAT RATCHABOPHIT
South of Wat Suthat is the impressive Wat Ratchabophit, built in the reign of King RAMA V ( 1868-1910 A.D.) Its most striking features are the 5 colour porcelain mosaics encrusted in the main stupa. The architecture of the main chapel is in Thai style , while its interior decorations reflect a European influence with some Gothic details. Visitors will particularly be impressed with the delicate mother-of -pearl inlays and the exquisite bas- reliefs on the window and door panels of the main chapel. The temple is open everyday from 9 am to 5 pm .Admission is free.
8. WAT SAKET(THE GOLDEN MOUNT)
Located near Ratchadamnoen Avenue, this temple houses a 58 meter high stupa surmounted by a golden cupola. The relic of the Lord Buddha is enshrined here. Visitors can climb the 318 steps to the cupola. before entering the cupola area, however it is interesting to see Thais placing flowers , lighting candles and paying homage to Buddha images. This room beneath the cupola is redolent of sandalwood and incense attracts many Thai visitors. The Climb to the top gradually reveals views of the temple below and the panorama of Bangkok . At the top of the edifice, the visitors can see the golden cupola entirely covered with small golden squares. these reflect the sun which give the building its name the Golden Mount.
On each side of the square enclosure, a panoramic view of Bangkok is offered, especially of the Rattanakosinarea, the enclave which houses the Grand Palace and other historic buildings. The Golden Mount understandably attracts many visitors. It is an unusual and pleasant experience to enjoy the silence of the cupola area in this bustling city . The temple is open daily from 7.30 am to 5.30 am and admission fee is 10 baht. website : www.watsraket.com
9. WAT RATCHANATDARAM
Located behind the King Rama III Memorial Statue on Ratchadamnoen Avenue, this temple is considered one of the most original temples in Bangkok. It was constructed during the reign of King Rama III. The temple contains a pyramid shaped Loha Prasat ( metal -spired Pagoda) inspired by the one in Sri Langka. The Loha Prasat stands 36 metres high with 37 surrounding spires, the only one of its kind left in the world. In front of this temple, there is a memorial statue of King Rama III and a Pavillion " Maha Chetsadabodin:, which us used for performing an official welcoming ceremony to the visit of Heads of States. On the opposite side of the temple, there is Mahakan Fortres, which is a part of an ancient city wall. The temple is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Admission is FREE.
10. WAT INDHARA WIHAN
On Wisutkasat Road, visitors will enjoy a visit to this temple with its impressive 32 metre high standing Buddha image and other buildings within its complex which are well worth seeing. The temple is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm and there is no charge for admission.
www. watindharaviharn.org
11. WAT SI SUDARAM or WAT CHI PA KHAO
The temple was built during the Ayutthaya period and renovated by King Rama I. The interesting buildings including Tam Nak Daeng ( a pavilion ) , Sala Kan Parian ( a sermon hall) and the residence of Sunthon Phu ( the greatest port of the Rattanakoson period, designated by UNESCO as a classic poet of the world), are located within the temple compound . Moreover, visitors can enjoy feeding a number of freshwater fish here.
12. WAT CHALO
Located on Khlong Bangkok Noi in Nonthaburi province, this temple is assumed to have been constructed during the Sukhothau period as some Buddha images in the Sukhothai style were found in front of ubosot ( assembly hall). Open everyday from 9am to 4pm
13. WAT PHO BANG - O
Constructed during the reign of King Rama III, this temple has a chapel with a wooden roof and is famous for its mural inside the chapel. The mural was painted several centuries ago. Open everyday from 9 am to 4 pm.
14.WAT BANG OI CHANG
This temple houses a 200 year old Buddha footprint , which found by Phra Khru Nawa Kam Koson ( the first abbot of this temple ) while travelling in Phitsanulok province during 1986. the temple is open everyday from 9 am to 4 pm and admission is free.
15. WAT SUWANNARAM
Visitors will be fascinated with the murals depicting the life of the Lord Buddha and the Buddha image of Subduing Mara ( the Buddhist devil) inside the main chapel of this large royal temple. The temple was constructed during the reign of King RAMA I and subsequently renovated during the reign of King Rama III. These works of art from the early Rattanakosin period ( 19th century) are considered some of the best surviving mural paintings in Bangkok.
16. WAT KAEO FA
This ancient temple is located in an open area next to Khlong Bangkok Noi. According to archaeologists , many buildings and art objects here were constructed in the Ayutthaya style; for example , the Ubosot, the Buddha image, the boundary stones, the boundary wall, the stupa behind the Ubosot and the stupa with the 12 sided pillars. The temple was later renovated during the Rattanakosin period. The temple is open everyday from 9am to 4pm and admission is free.
17. WAT PRASAT
Built during the late Ayutthaya period, the temple is well known for its gable made of carved timber and well preserved mural painting made by artisans of the Nonthaburi School of Painting. Visitors who arrive by boat have to walk about 2 kilometers through orchards from the pier. Open everyday from 9am to 4pm.
18. WAT AMPHAWAN
constructed during the late Ayutthaya period, this temple houses Ho Trai ( a magnificent Thai - style wooden scripture hall) which is situated in the middle of a pond. Open everyday from 9 am to 4 pm.
Located across the street from Wat Phra Kaeo on the west side of Sanam Luang, Wat Mahathat, known as the Temple of the Great Relic, is the national centre for the Mahanikai Monastic sect. The temple houses Mahachulongkorn Buddhist University, one of two highest seats of Buddhist learning in Thailand and offers meditation instruction in English for interested visitors. The temple is open everyday and admission is free.
2. WAT PHO ( TEMPLES OF RECLINING BUDDHA)
Neighboring the Grand Palace enclave, this temple is considered the largest in Bangkok. the famous Reclining Buddha, constructed in 1832, is enshrined in this temple . This 46 metre long and 15 metre high gold plated Reclining Buddha, the eyes and feet inlaid with mother -of -pearl brings to mind the Lord Buddha's entry into Nirvana. The sole also shows 108 auspicious characteristics of the true
" Buddha".
Wat Pho was also the first centre of public education in the Kingdom. Nowadays , it is an important centre for the teaching and administering of traditional Thai massage. Wat Pho is open everyday from 8.30am to 5pm. Modest attire is required. www.watpho.com
3. WAT ARUN ( THE TEMPLE OF DAWN)
This famous Bangkok landmark is on the Thon Buri side of the Chao Phraya River, directly opposite the Grand Palace complex and easily accessible by boat from the Bangkok side. The temple dates back to the Ayuttaya period and was enlarged by King Rama III. Renovations were completed in the reign of King RAMA IV. The Emerald Buddha was enshrined in this temple for a brief period before King Rama i built the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo on the Bangkok side.
The landmark of this temple is a 79 meter tall massive central pagoda, " Phra Prang", and 4 smaller ones at each corner. The ornamentation of the central pagoda consists of encrusted pieces of porcelain which sparkle in the sun. Despite its name, the best photographic opportunities are in the late afternoon with the sun setting in the red sky behind the temple.
To visit the temple,shuttle boats from the Tha Tian Pier at the south west side of the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo area are provided regularly. The Chao Phraya Express Boat stops at the Tha Tian Pier and there are several Thon Buri canal tours, which include the temple. The temple is is open from 7.30am to 5.30am .www.watarun.org
4. WAT TRAIMITR ( TEMPLE OF THE GOLDEN BUDDHA)
Located at the end of Chinatown's Yaowarat Road, this temple houses the extraordinary 700 year old golden Buddha image, a seated figure composed entirely of five and a half tons of gold. Previously it had been covered with plaster and once broken off, the true treasure beneath was suddenly revealed- the figure was found to be composed entirely of gold. It is now an important and sacred Buddha imge of unique beauty . The temple is open everyday from 8am to 5pm .
Website: www.wattraimitrwithayaram.com
5. WAT BENCHAMABOPHIT ( THE MARBLE TEMPLE)
Situated on Si Ayutthaya Road, near the intersection with Rama V Road, this unique marble temple was constructed during the reign of King Chulangkorn ( 1868- 1910A.D.) . Its proportions are classically beautiful , with European influences evident in its stained glass windows and the use of Carrara marble . The temple houses a superb cloister collection of bronze Buddha images and many reckon the temple to be one of finest in the world as far as its craftsmanship and architectural splendour are concerned.
It attracts large numbers of visitors every year. The temple is open everyday from 9am to 5pm.
website: www. watbencha.com
6. WAT SUTHAT
Located on Bamrung Mueang Road, the temple is renowned for its superb murals and elaborate woodcarving door panels created during the reign of King Rama II. The preaching hall contains a collection of gilded Buddha images. the temple was constructed in the early 19th century and there are 4 smaller chapels constructed on each of its corners.
The main Buddha image, Phra Si Sakayamuni was originally cast in the Sukhothai period ( 1238-1438 A.D.) Eight meter tall, on a six meter pedestal, the image is the largest bronze -cast one in the kingdom and considered one of the most beautiful Buddha images in Thailand. The cloisters within the complex are pleasantly quiet and contain many Buddha images.The temple is open everyday from 8.30 am to 9 pm.
7. WAT RATCHABOPHIT
South of Wat Suthat is the impressive Wat Ratchabophit, built in the reign of King RAMA V ( 1868-1910 A.D.) Its most striking features are the 5 colour porcelain mosaics encrusted in the main stupa. The architecture of the main chapel is in Thai style , while its interior decorations reflect a European influence with some Gothic details. Visitors will particularly be impressed with the delicate mother-of -pearl inlays and the exquisite bas- reliefs on the window and door panels of the main chapel. The temple is open everyday from 9 am to 5 pm .Admission is free.
8. WAT SAKET(THE GOLDEN MOUNT)
Located near Ratchadamnoen Avenue, this temple houses a 58 meter high stupa surmounted by a golden cupola. The relic of the Lord Buddha is enshrined here. Visitors can climb the 318 steps to the cupola. before entering the cupola area, however it is interesting to see Thais placing flowers , lighting candles and paying homage to Buddha images. This room beneath the cupola is redolent of sandalwood and incense attracts many Thai visitors. The Climb to the top gradually reveals views of the temple below and the panorama of Bangkok . At the top of the edifice, the visitors can see the golden cupola entirely covered with small golden squares. these reflect the sun which give the building its name the Golden Mount.
On each side of the square enclosure, a panoramic view of Bangkok is offered, especially of the Rattanakosinarea, the enclave which houses the Grand Palace and other historic buildings. The Golden Mount understandably attracts many visitors. It is an unusual and pleasant experience to enjoy the silence of the cupola area in this bustling city . The temple is open daily from 7.30 am to 5.30 am and admission fee is 10 baht. website : www.watsraket.com
9. WAT RATCHANATDARAM
Located behind the King Rama III Memorial Statue on Ratchadamnoen Avenue, this temple is considered one of the most original temples in Bangkok. It was constructed during the reign of King Rama III. The temple contains a pyramid shaped Loha Prasat ( metal -spired Pagoda) inspired by the one in Sri Langka. The Loha Prasat stands 36 metres high with 37 surrounding spires, the only one of its kind left in the world. In front of this temple, there is a memorial statue of King Rama III and a Pavillion " Maha Chetsadabodin:, which us used for performing an official welcoming ceremony to the visit of Heads of States. On the opposite side of the temple, there is Mahakan Fortres, which is a part of an ancient city wall. The temple is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Admission is FREE.
10. WAT INDHARA WIHAN
On Wisutkasat Road, visitors will enjoy a visit to this temple with its impressive 32 metre high standing Buddha image and other buildings within its complex which are well worth seeing. The temple is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm and there is no charge for admission.
www. watindharaviharn.org
11. WAT SI SUDARAM or WAT CHI PA KHAO
The temple was built during the Ayutthaya period and renovated by King Rama I. The interesting buildings including Tam Nak Daeng ( a pavilion ) , Sala Kan Parian ( a sermon hall) and the residence of Sunthon Phu ( the greatest port of the Rattanakoson period, designated by UNESCO as a classic poet of the world), are located within the temple compound . Moreover, visitors can enjoy feeding a number of freshwater fish here.
12. WAT CHALO
Located on Khlong Bangkok Noi in Nonthaburi province, this temple is assumed to have been constructed during the Sukhothau period as some Buddha images in the Sukhothai style were found in front of ubosot ( assembly hall). Open everyday from 9am to 4pm
13. WAT PHO BANG - O
Constructed during the reign of King Rama III, this temple has a chapel with a wooden roof and is famous for its mural inside the chapel. The mural was painted several centuries ago. Open everyday from 9 am to 4 pm.
14.WAT BANG OI CHANG
This temple houses a 200 year old Buddha footprint , which found by Phra Khru Nawa Kam Koson ( the first abbot of this temple ) while travelling in Phitsanulok province during 1986. the temple is open everyday from 9 am to 4 pm and admission is free.
15. WAT SUWANNARAM
Visitors will be fascinated with the murals depicting the life of the Lord Buddha and the Buddha image of Subduing Mara ( the Buddhist devil) inside the main chapel of this large royal temple. The temple was constructed during the reign of King RAMA I and subsequently renovated during the reign of King Rama III. These works of art from the early Rattanakosin period ( 19th century) are considered some of the best surviving mural paintings in Bangkok.
16. WAT KAEO FA
This ancient temple is located in an open area next to Khlong Bangkok Noi. According to archaeologists , many buildings and art objects here were constructed in the Ayutthaya style; for example , the Ubosot, the Buddha image, the boundary stones, the boundary wall, the stupa behind the Ubosot and the stupa with the 12 sided pillars. The temple was later renovated during the Rattanakosin period. The temple is open everyday from 9am to 4pm and admission is free.
17. WAT PRASAT
Built during the late Ayutthaya period, the temple is well known for its gable made of carved timber and well preserved mural painting made by artisans of the Nonthaburi School of Painting. Visitors who arrive by boat have to walk about 2 kilometers through orchards from the pier. Open everyday from 9am to 4pm.
18. WAT AMPHAWAN
constructed during the late Ayutthaya period, this temple houses Ho Trai ( a magnificent Thai - style wooden scripture hall) which is situated in the middle of a pond. Open everyday from 9 am to 4 pm.
