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A Guide to the Must-See Temples in Thailand

Trazy Crew

Buddhism is a national religion in Thailand. And without a doubt, Buddhism plays a big role in Thai culture, which is why we can see many temples, where Thais often give their spiritual blessings and pay their respects to Buddha. So, when visiting Thailand, one place you shouldn’t miss out on going is to the temples. Visit some of the must-see temples in Thailand to delve deep into Thai culture and learn about their beliefs in different provinces.

  1. Bangkok
  2. Ayutthaya
  3. Phitsanulok
  4. Chiang Mai
  5. Chiang Rai
  6. Krabi

1. Bangkok

To kick off our list of must-see temples in Thailand, we’ll begin with Bangkok. You may not have thought there would be many temples in Bangkok because it is a bustling place as the capital city of Thailand. On the contrary, there are hundreds of temples, most of which are quite old, known to have existed in the Rattanakosin era. (circa 17th century)

1) Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of Emerald Buddha) – located in the precincts of the Grand Palace. Specifically in the Outer Court of the Grand Palace; the historic center of Bangkok, where the Emerald Buddha can be seen. Speaking of the Emerald Buddha, people in Thailand believe that the Emerald Buddha brings prosperity to the country and protects people.

2) Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) – a Buddhist temple located on the riverside of Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. This place is well known for its stunning architectural design and decorations of the temple reaching 70m high.

3) Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) – a first-class royal temple and monastery, which is situated in the south of the Grand Palace. In this place, you can see the largest reclining Buddha and an extensive collection of the Buddha’s images in Thailand.

4) Wat Traimit – a temple housing hidden Golden Buddha, plastered for protection from 18th century Burmese attack.

5) Wat Benchamabophit – a temple built with Italian fine marble, influenced by European architectural style.

6) Wat Mahannapharam – a historic and revered Buddhist temple located in the heart of Bangkok, known for its serene ambiance and beautiful architecture.

7) Wat Prayurawongsawat – Also known as Wat Prayoon, it’s a significant and historical Buddhist temple located on the western side of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok.

Check out these temples with our guided tours!

2. Ayutthaya

From 1351 to 1767, this province was the greatest kingdom of Siam called ‘Ayutthaya Kingdom’. Hence, there are many must-see temples, ancient palaces, monasteries, and statues in Thailand.

1) Wat Yai Chaimongkhon – meaning ‘The Great Monastery of Auspicious Victory’, was built in the 16th century. This place has a reclining Buddha statue, and the tallest Chedi situated in the middle of the temple, at 72 m tall and visible to all who approach the city from the east. Also, it’s surrounded by hundreds of seated statues of Buddha himself, making it one of the absolute must-see temples in Thailand.

2) Wat Mahathat – has been the epicenter of Ayutthaya since the 14th century. The prangs (tall tower-like spires) in Wat Mahatat are the first to be built during the Ayutthaya kingdom. One of the attractions of this unique temple is the carving of the Head of Buddha embedded in a tree. This head was cut off by invaders during the reign of the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

3) Wat Chaiwatthanaram – Once a beautiful and majestic temple, this place had been deserted for deterioration after the siege on the Ayutthaya Kingdom by the Burmese in 1767, until it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. The place contained various works of art that portrayed Buddha and many Buddha statues painted in gold and black.

4) Wat Phra Si Sanphet – a historical royal temple in Ayutthaya, known for its iconic trio of restored stupas and its significance as the spiritual and ceremonial center of the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

5) Wat Mongkhon Bophit – a revered temple in Ayutthaya, famous for housing one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the country.

6) Wat Lokkayasutha – an ancient temple in Ayutthaya, renowned for its massive reclining Buddha statue, which measures approximately 42 meters in length.

Check out these temples with our guided tours!

3. Phitsanulok

Another historic province located in the lower northern region of Thailand, stretching all the way to the Laotian border. This province is also one of the oldest cities in Thailand which was founded over 600 years ago.

1) Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat – can be said to be the most famous temple in Phitsanulok. The reason for its reputation is because ‘Phra Phuttha Chinnarat’, the gold-covered statue of Buddha that sits inside the temple is considered to be one of the most beautiful Buddha figures in Thailand.

4. Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a culturally rich city in northern Thailand, known for its historic temples, vibrant night markets, lush mountainous scenery, and as a hub for Thai arts, crafts, and cuisine.

1) Wat Phra That Doi Suthep – a holy temple located on the hillside, Doi Suthep is in the northwest of Chiang Mai. Phaya Naga, a mythical creature that resembles a serpent, decorates the 300 steps up to the temple. Gold Chedi, golden statues of Buddha, an emerald Buddha, a statue of the Hindu god Ganesha, and many charming bells lay at the heart of this temple. 

2) Wat Pha Lat Temple – a serene and hidden temple in Chiang Mai, nestled in the forest on the slopes of Doi Suthep, known for its tranquil ambiance and stunning natural surroundings.

Check out these temples with our guided tours!

5. Chiang Rai

Yet another famous province in the north, well known as the northernmost part of Thailand. Chiang Rai is a city renowned for its unique temples, including the dazzling White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the intricate Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), as well as its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes.

1) The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) – designed by a very famous artist in Thailand, Dr.  Chalermchai Kositpipat. The intricate and ornate sculptures and architecture resemble Buddist teachings. The highlight of this place is the bridge of “the cycle of rebirth”, an icon of the temple. In the sunlight, the temple’s glass decorations shimmer, creating a fabulous view for all its visitors. The White Temple still constantly undergoing new additions to give you the best experience. 

2) The Black House (Baan Dam) – a collection of more than 40 houses in black color and various shapes. This place is a museum, art studio, and traditional house at the same time.

3) The Blue Temple (Wat Rong Sear Tean) – a blue-colored temple, with both beautiful interiors and exteriors. Here, you will feel mesmerized by the amazingly detailed structures with the use of blue and gold.

Check out these temples with our guided tours!

6. Krabi

Krabi, located on Thailand’s southwestern coast, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, characterized by limestone cliffs, clear waters, and lush mangrove forests.

1) Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) – one of Krabi’s most famous and spiritually significant landmarks, located about 5 kilometers from Krabi Town. It’s a must-visit for those seeking both cultural and physical adventure. The temple complex is adorned with various Buddha statues and religious symbols, contributing to its spiritual ambiance.

Check out these temples with our guided tours!

Now, do you have an idea of what temples to visit when going on a vacation to Thailand? If you still want to visit other places not mentioned, check out Trazy.com, Your Travel Shop for Asia!

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