Bangkok Temples & Shrines

Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)
Wat Phra KaewInside the walls of the Grand Palace, this Rattanakosin-era temple houses Thailand's most-cherished symbol, the emerald Buddha, and colorful murals depicting scenes from the "Ramakian" (the Thai version of the Indian epic, "Ramayana"). The Grand Palace, built in 1782 by King Rama I, is currently used by His Majesty the King on certain ceremonial occasions. This palace complex is open to the public every day from 8:30 a.m. to 12 moon and 1:00-3:30 p.m. The admission fee of 100 bahe includes entry to the Royal Thai Decorations and Coins Pavilion, which is located in the same compound, and to the Vimanmek Teak Mansion. Only visitors in proper attire are allowed entry. No shorts or sleeveless tops are permitted.

Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Located near the Grand Palace and approximately 500 meters from the City Pillar, Wat Pho or Wat Phra Chetuphon is one of Thailand's oldest and largest temples. Built in the Ayutthaya Period and renovated by King Rama I in 1789, the temple was the Kingdom's earliest centre of public education. The temple features Thailand's largest Reclining Buddha (in the state of ultimate Nirvana) and houses the largest collection of Buddha images in the country. Wat Pho also is regarded as the national centre for the teaching and preservation of traditional Thai medicine, including traditional Thai massage. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) : This 82-metre (280-foot) Khmer-style shrine with pagoda rises peacefully over the Thon Buri side of the Chao Phya River. Built in the early 19th century by Kings Rama II and Rama III, the temple features a mix of architectural designs of many styles, from typical Khmer, distinctive 'Thai to colorful Chinese. Also well worth a visit is the interior of the "Ubosot" (Chapel) where there are interesting murals dating to the reign of King Rama V. A walk up the structure's steep steps affords spectacular river views. The temple also looks impressive from the Bangkok side of the Chao Phya at dusk.

Wat Suthat
The construction of this temple was begun by King Rama I and finished 27 years later by King Rama III during the 19th century. Wat Suthat houses a splendid collection of Buddha images. Also of interest is the Giant Swing, which in ancient times was the centre of a Brahman festival held in celebration of the Bod Siva's annual visit to earth.

Wat Saket (Wat Phu Khao Thong)
Also known as the Temple of the Golden Mount, this temple was built during the reign of King Rama I and houses relics of Lord Buddha. To reach the top of the man-made hill on which the pagoda housing the relics is located, you must climb 318 steps. But the arduous trip is worth it because once you reach the top; you'll have a panoramic view of Bangkok.

Wat Mahatat
This temple on Maharat Road is the site of Mahachulalongkorn Buddhist University, one of the two highest seats of Buddhist learning in the country. The best time to visit Wat Mahathat is on Buddhist holy days when a thriving open-air market is set up in the grounds.

Wat Benchamabophit
This unique temple is located on Sri Ayutthaya Road near Chitrlada Palace, the official residence of the present monarch and his family. Known as the Marble Temple because it is made mostly from Carrera marble, this temple was built in 1899 by King Rama V and is today one of the finest examples of Thai architecture. The temple's main Buddha image, "Phra Buddha Chinnaraj", is said to be the most beautiful. The temple's interior is magnificently decorated with crossbeams of lacquer and gold, and a large collection of bronze Buddha images line the walls of the sqaciour inner courtyard. The best time to visit Wat Benchamabophit is in the early morning when the monks who reside in the temple are most active.

Wat Traimit
Located at the end of Yaowaraj Road, this temple is renowned for its huge Golden Buddha. The impressive image, made of 75% gold, is three meters tall and weighs 5 1/2 tones. This Golden Buddha is believed to have been built during the Sukhothai Period, more than 700 years ago, while the temple is said to have been constructed in the early 13th century. The Erawan Shrine (San Phra Phrom) : Originally built to ward off bad luck during the construction of the first Erawan Hotel decades ago, this shrine dedicated to the Hindu God of Creation (Brahma) is respected by worshippers in Thailand and the region. It is believed that worshipping this shrine brings good luck and prosperity.

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