1. The Grand Palace and The Temple of the Emerald Buddha
The Grand Palace and The Temple of the Emerald Buddha were established in King Rama I era when Bangkok was appointed as Thailand’s new capital. The Grand Palace’s contemporary architecture finely integrates Thai and western style into a wonder that captures the heart of both Thais and foreigners. On the other hand, The Temple of the Emerald Buddha’s architecture is an authentic traditional Thai style that represents Thailand identity. Ramakien murals which can be found in the walls surrounding the temple and palace are the second most important highlight to check, following closely after the Emerald Buddha.
Open hours: Daily 08.30 a.m. – 03.30 p.m.
Address: Na Phra Lan Rd., Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/fqD6BFrbHoFNZgWK7
2. Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan (Wat Pho)
Wat Pho is another popular temple that foreign tourists like to visit as the second stop after visiting the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Wat Pho is well-known for the third largest reclining Buddha image in Thailand. The soles of the feet of the Buddha are inlaid with mother-of-pearl images that symbolize 108 lokshans (successful signs). Wat Pho is also well-known as the pioneer of Thai traditional massage and medicine. A unique collection of 1,431 stone inscriptions recording Thai medication knowledge can be found all around the temple. After looking around, don’t forget to enjoy a relaxing massage!
Open hours: Daily 08.00 a.m. – 06.30 p.m.
Address: 2 Sanam Chai Rd., Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JH78z91CCvR5fQVi9
3. Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan (the Temple of Dawn)
Wat Arun is an old temple dated back to the Ayutthaya era. The main Phra Prang’s (stupa) stunning decoration of colorful porcelain shards is the highlight that every visitor must see. During the sunset, the Prang reflects the sunlight and sparkles gorgeously with the Chao Phraya River in the background. Taking pictures of the said scenery from a boat is a must-do activity for social media enthusiasts. If you are not in a hurry, take a break and enjoy the cool (pun intended) 3D ice cream inspired by the temple tiles.
Open hours: Daily 08.00 a.m. – 06.00 p.m.
Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10600
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gNCQ4xMuyc4LczWH6
4. Wat Saket (the Golden Mount Temple)
Wat Saket is located in Pom Prap Sattru Phai District. The temple dates back to the Ayutthaya era used to be called Wat Sa Kae. Later on, It was renovated in the King Rama I era and given a new name “Wat Saket” by His Majesty the King to commemorate his ascension to the throne. Wat Saket is very well-known for the Golden Mountain (Phukhao Thong). After climbing the 344 steps of stairs, you will arrive in a hall that enshrines various sacred Buddha images. Situated at the top is the golden pagoda, a great spot to sightsee suburban Bangkok from above.
Open hours: Daily 07.00 a.m. – 07.00 p.m.
Address: 344 Thanon Chakkraphatdi Phong, Ban Bat, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok 10100
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Q8u2VtTPNxRAF4Lw7
5. Wat Traimit Withayaram Worawihan (the Temple of Golden Buddha)
Wat Traimit is located at the famous Chinatown district on Yaowarat Road which is a large Chinese community in Bangkok. Dating back as old as the community itself or more, the temple is the spiritual anchor of both Thai and Chinese Buddhist. Wat Traimit is very well-known for the 5-tons Golden Buddha statue made of pure gold, certified by the Guinness World Records™ as the largest solid gold statue in the world. Originally, the Golden Buddha was a stucco statue. However, it was damaged during transportation from Sukhothai to Bangkok and the gold was revealed. Apart from the Golden Buddha, Wat Traimit also has an exhibition telling the history of the Chinese community in the area.
Open hours: Daily 08.00 a.m. – 05.00 p.m.
Address: 661 Charoen Krung Road, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CxH7ThHcUW7v1FdQ6
