Bangkok is a city steeped in history and culture, and this is reflected in its many temples and shrines. From the grand Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Arun to the more secluded Wat Benchamabophit, there are temples of all shapes and sizes to explore.
Whether you’re interested in learning more about Buddhism or Hinduism, or simply want to admire some of Bangkok’s most beautiful architecture, be sure to add these temple sites to your itinerary.
Check this list of 17 Hindu temples and Buddhist shrines in Bangkok and get information about how to visit them, popular day tours, working hours, entrance fees, how to get there and other important details for travelers.
1. Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)
Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is one of the most important and sacred temples in all of Thailand. The temple is located within the grounds of the Grand Palace in Bangkok and houses the highly revered Emerald Buddha statue. Wat Phra Kaew is a must-visit for anyone interested in Thai culture and history.
The temple complex is made up of several buildings, each with their own unique architecture and features. The main building is home to the Emerald Buddha statue, which is considered to be the most important religious artifact in all of Thailand. If you’re visiting this place on weekend, don’t miss a chance to visit Chatuchak market (30 min by car or 2 hours walking distance).
- Address: QF2V+M34 ถนน หน้าพระลาน Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, กรุงเทพมหานคร 10200, Thailand
- Hours: 8:30am – 3:30pm
- Admission: 500 THB (approx. 16 USD) per person
- On the map: link.
- Official website: https://www.royalgrandpalace.th/en/home
2. Wat Pho
Wat Pho or Wat Phra Chetuphon, located in the Phra Nakhon district of Bangkok, is one of the largest and oldest temples in the city. The temple complex covers an area of approximately 80,000 square meters and is home to more than 1,000 Buddha images. Wat Pho is also known for its massive reclining Buddha image, which is 46 meters long and 15 meters high. The temple grounds also house a school of Thai medicine and massage, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. To take the most of your day, visit Taling Chan Floating Market, located just 10km away from this temple.
Wat Pho is not only a popular tourist destination for its size and age, but also because it houses a school of Thai medicine and massage. The temple offers courses in Thai massage, as well as other traditional Thai healing practices.
- Address: 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
- Working Hours: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Admission: 100 THB for foreigners (300 THB for package including Wat Pho and the Grand Palace)
- On the map: link.
- Official website: http://www.watpho.com/
- Phone number: +66830577100
Reclining Buddha Temple in Bangkok Walkthrough Video
3. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Wat Arun is one of the most popular temples in Bangkok. It is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River and is easily recognizable thanks to its towering spire. The temple was built in the 17th century and is a great example of Thai architecture. Visitors can climb to the top of the spire for a panoramic view of Bangkok. After visiting this temple take a taxi and go directly to Damnoen Saduak market.
Wat Arun is a temple of great beauty and is definitely worth a visit when in Bangkok.
- Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
- Opening hours: 8:30am – 6:00pm
- Admission: 100 THB
- On the map: link.
- Official website: https://www.watarun1.com/
- Phone number: +6628912185
4. Wat Saket (The Golden Mount)
Wat Saket is a popular Buddhist temple in Bangkok, Thailand. The temple is located on top of a man-made hill, and features a massive gold-plated chedi (stupa). Wat Saket is also known as the “Temple of the Golden Mount”, and is one of the city’s most important religious sites.
The temple was built in the early 19th century by King Rama I, and originally housed a relic of the Buddha. However, the chedi collapsed shortly after its construction, and was rebuilt in the early 20th century. Today, Wat Saket is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over Thailand.
Visitors to Wat Saket can climb to the top of the hill for panoramic views of Bangkok. The temple complex also features a number of buddhas, as well as a museum with exhibits on the history of Wat Saket and Thai Buddhism.
- Address: 344 Thanon Chakkraphatdi Phong, Ban Bat, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok 10100, Thailand
- Monday–Sunday: 8:00AM–5:00PM
- Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
- On the map: link.
- Phone number: +66620195959
5. Wat Benchamabophit
Wat Benchamabophit is one of the top temples in Bangkok and it is a must-visit for anyone who is interested in Thai culture and history. The temple was built in 1899 and it is a beautiful example of Thai architecture.
The main attraction of the temple is the five-tiered white marble pagoda which contains a relic of Buddha. Wat Benchamabophit is also known as the “Marble Temple” because of this pagoda. In addition to the pagoda, there are several other shrines and statues on the temple grounds that are worth seeing. The temple is open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and there is no admission fee.
- Address: วัดเบญจมบพิตร Khwaeng Dusit, Dusit District, Bangkok 10300, Thailand
- Open daily from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm;
- Admission is free.
- On the map: link.
6. Wat Traimit in Bangkok
Wat Traimit, or the Temple of the Golden Buddha, is one of the most popular temples in Bangkok. The temple houses a large gold statue of Buddha that is over five meters tall and weighs in at over five tonnes. The statue is covered in gold leaf and is truly a sight to behold.
Wat Traimit is also a great place to learn about Thai culture and history, as there are many informative displays and exhibits located within the temple complex. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Thai dance performances and music concerts that are often held within the temple grounds.
- Address: 661 Charoen Krung Rd, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100, Thailand
- Opening hours: 8.00am – 5.00pm
- Admission: ฿100 for foreigners, ฿40 for Thais
- On the map: link.
- Phone number: +66890022700
7. Wat Suthat
Wat Suthat is one of the top temples in Bangkok and it is a must-visit for any tourist. The temple was built in 1847 and it houses the world’s largest sitting Buddha.
Wat Suthat is also home to many other important Buddhist artifacts and it is a popular spot for monks to meditate. If you are looking to experience some authentic Thai culture, then Wat Suthat is the perfect place for you.
- Address: 146 Bamrung Mueang Rd, Wat Ratchabophit, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
- Working Hours: 8.30am – 9pm
- Admission: Free.
- On the map: link.
- Phone number: +6626222819
8. Wat Mangkon Kamalawat
Wat Mangkon Kamalawat is a top Buddhist temple in Bangkok and is also one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The temple was built in 1871 and is located in Chinatown.
Wat Mangkon Kamalawat is known for its unique architecture and beautiful sculptures and paintings. The temple is also home to a large number of monks and is a popular place for meditation and prayer.
- Address: 423 Charoen Krung Rd, Pom Prap, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok 10100, Thailand
- Working Hours: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Free admission
- On the map: link.
- Phone number: +6622223975
9. Wat Prayoon Temple in Bangkok
Wat Prayun is one of the top temples in Bangkok. It is a beautiful temple with a unique design. The temple is built in the shape of a octagon and has three levels. There are many stairs leading up to the top level, where you can enjoy a stunning view of the city.
The temple is surrounded by a pond, which is said to represent the ocean. Wat Prayun is a popular temple for tourists and locals alike. If you are looking for a peaceful and serene place to visit, then this is the perfect place for you.
- Address: 24 Prajadhipok Rd, Wat Kanlaya, Thon Buri, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
- Working Hours: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Free admission
- On the map: link.
- Official website: http://www.watprayoon.com/
- Phone number: +6624661693
10. Wat Chana Songhram Temple
Situated in the Bangkok Yai district, Wat Chana Songkhram Temple is one of the top temples in Bangkok. The temple was built in 1857 by King Rama IV and is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture, with its ornate facade and golden spire.
Inside, the temple is decorated with intricate paintings and sculptures. Visitors can also explore the temple’s grounds, which include a pond and a garden.
- Address: Chakrabongse Rd, Chana Songkhram, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
- Working hours: Mon to Sun – 8:00am to 5:00pm
- Free admission
- On the map: link.
- Phone number: +66931264000
11. Sri Maha Mariamman Temple (Wat Khaek)
Sri Maha Mariamman Temple is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hinduism or Thai culture. It is located on Silom Road in the heart of the city. The temple was built in 1879 by Indian immigrants who came to work in the city.
The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mariamman, who is worshipped as the goddess of protection and healing. The temple is a popular place of worship for Hindus and tourists alike. Visitors can see the beautiful architecture and sculptures of the temple, as well as the many Hindu deities that are worshipped here.
- Address: 2 Pan Rd, Khwaeng Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand
- Opening hours: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu 6am-8pm, Fri 6am-9pm, Sat, Sun – 6am-8.30pm
- Admission: free
- On the map: link.
- Phone number: +66973159569
12. Dev Mandir Temple
Dev Mandir is one of the top Hindu temples in Bangkok. It is located on Soi Kasemsan 2, right next to National Stadium BTS station. The temple was built in 2006 and it is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The main shrine features a statue of Lord Shiva in his Nataraja form.
There are also shrines for Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman, and other Hindu deities. The temple is popular among Hindus and tourists alike. It is a beautiful example of Hindu architecture and it is definitely worth a visit if you are in Bangkok.
- Address: 136, สำราญราษฎร์ 1-2 Siri Phong Rd, Sao Chingcha, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
- Opening hours: Mon to Sat 8:00 am to 6:30 pm, Sun – 8am – 5pm
- Admission: Free
- On the map: link.
- Official website: http://www.devmandirbangkok.com/
- Phone number: +6622238494
13. Devasathan Brahmin Shrines
Devasathan is a Hindu temple located on Rama I Road in Bangkok, Thailand. The temple is dedicated to the god Brahma, and is one of the most important Hindu temples in Bangkok. The temple was built in 1832 by King Rama III, and is one of the oldest temples in the city.
The temple is also home to a number of shrines and statues of Hindu gods and goddesses. The temple is open to the public from 6am to 6pm, and is a popular spot for tourists and worshippers alike.
- Address: 268 Dinso Rd, Sao Chingcha, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
- Phone: +6622226951
- Official website: http://www.devasthan.org/
- Working Hours: Monday to Sunday 6:00AM–6:00PM
- Ticketing: Free admission
- On the map: link.
14. Vishnu Temple in Bangkok
Vishnu Temple is one of the top temples in Bangkok for Hindus. The temple is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver god in Hinduism. The temple was built in 1809 and features a beautiful golden statue of Lord Vishnu.
Visitors to the temple can also enjoy the stunning views of the river and the city from the temple grounds and learn more about the history and culture of the temple at the on-site museum. The temple is a popular tourist spot and a great place to learn about Hinduism and Thai culture.
- Address: ซอย ถนน เจริญราษฎร์ Thung Wat Don, Sathon, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 6am–12pm, 3pm–8.30pm
- Admission: Free
- On the map: link.
- Phone number: +6622113840
15. Wat Mahathat
Wat Mahathat is one of the top temples in Bangkok, Thailand. It is a Buddhist temple that was built in 1383. The temple is known for its grandeur and size, as well as its beautiful architecture. Wat Mahathat is home to many important Buddhist relics, including a tooth of the Buddha. The temple is also a popular spot for tourists, as it is one of the most beautiful and photogenic temples in Bangkok.
- Address: 3 ถนน ท่าพระจันทร์ Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
- Opening hours: 7.30am-6pm
- Admission: Free
- On the map: link.
- Official website: http://www.watmahathat.com/
- Phone number: +6622226011
16. Wat Suwannaram Temple
Wat Suwannaram is a top temple in Bangkok that was built in the Ayutthaya period. It is a beautiful temple with intricate designs and sculptures. The main hall houses a large statue of Buddha, and there are many smaller buddha statues in the temple grounds. The temple is also home to a number of hindu deities, and there is a small shrine to Lord Shiva in the temple complex. Wat Suwannaram is a popular place of worship for both Hindus and Buddhists, and it is one of the most important temples in Bangkok.
- Address: QF7G+8PG ซอย จรัญสนิทวงศ์ 32 Siri Rat, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
- Opening hours: 8am to 5pm
- Admission: Free
- On the map: link.
17. Wat Bowonniwet Vihara
Wat Bowonniwet Vihara is one of the top temples in Bangkok and it is a popular destination for both local and international tourists. The temple was built in 1829 by King Rama III and it is a beautiful example of Thai Buddhist architecture. The temple grounds are home to several important buddhist artifacts and architecture including a large chedi, or stupa, which contains the ashes of King Rama III.
Wat Bowonniwet Vihara is also an important center of Theravada Buddhism in Thailand and it is one of the largest monasteries in Bangkok. If you are interested in learning more about Buddhism or seeing some beautiful Thai architecture, then Wat Bowonniwet Vihara is definitely worth a visit. You can combine your visit to this temple with Bang Nam Pheung Floating Market, it is located 24km away from this place.
- Address: 248 Phra Sumen Rd, Wat Bowon Niwet, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
- Working hours: The temple is open daily from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
- Admission to the temple is free, but donations are welcome.
- On the map: link.
- Phone number: +6626295854
If you’re looking to experience some of the best temples Bangkok has to offer, then you won’t be disappointed with the selection on this list. From top-rated Buddhist temples like Wat Pho and Wat Arun, to beautiful Hindu temples like Sri Mariamman Temple and Brahma Shrine, there’s something for everyone.
18. Wat Bua Kaew
If you would like just to enjoy beautiful murals that depict heaven and hell scenes, this Buddhist temple in Bangkok is worth visiting. This place can become your stop after visiting Safari World park, which is about 6km away from the temple.
So whether you’re a religious person or not, make sure to add these amazing temples to your Bangkok itinerary.
Bangkok Temples FAQ
According to the data from Wikipedia there are more than 41.000 temples on the territory of Thailand now. 400 of them are located in Bangkok.
Wat Pho temple, also known as Temple of Reclining Buddha, is considered as one of the biggest temples in Bangkok. It occupies the territory of 80000 square metres. This temple is known for the huge numbers of Buddha images, which exceeds 1000.
There are many beautiful temples in Bangkok, each of them has its own charm. But tourists mostly name Wat Arun as the most popular and greatest temple you should visit. This temple was built in 17th century and has very long and quite difficult name, so its mostly known as Temple of the Dawn. Keep in mind that this is really hot tourist spot, if you would like to enjoy it, its better to come here very early in the morning.
Except of being very popular tourist places, temples in Bangkok are sacred places for Thais, so appropriate dress code is a must. Yes, you can wear shorts while visiting temples, but they must be below the knees. Also, you should remember that its required for women to cover their shoulders.
Yes. But please choose the classic, modest options and avoid any type of ripped jeans.
Wat Pho, also known as Reclining Buddha, was established in 16th century, during the time when Bangok was not Thailand’s capital.
Don’t forget to dress accordingly once you’ve decided to visit one of Bangkok’s temples. Visitors are allowed to enter the temples with covered knees and shoulders, this rule applies for both women and men. At the gate of some temples you can find a person that will provide you a scarf or other piece of clothes for covering for small additional fee.
Temples play important role in the life of each Thai. Someone goes there to pray, others can find there a shelter. Religion and respect to Buddhism brought up in the inhabitants of Thailand from birth.
