Thailand is dotted and famous for its many temples and each has its own unique story to tell.
Wat Pak Nam Bangkok
As the sun rises over the Chao Phraya River, the River of Kings that runs through the heart of Bangkok, you’ll glimpse the new 64 meter giant buddha towering over the temple – Wat Pak Nam. You can venture here on a traditional long tail boat tour
Wat Arun Bangkok
Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, also comes to life on the city’s riverside in a dazzling display of golden spires and intricate mosaics. Named after the Indian god of dawn, Arun, the temple was built in the 19th century by King Rama 2. You can climb to the top of this riverside temple for a panoramic view of Bangkok’s skyline, and witness the beauty of a new day dawning.
Temple of the Emerald Buddha Bangkok
Not far away alongside the river, is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, a sacred site that houses one of the most revered statues in Thailand. It’s sits within Bangkok’s famous Grand Palace and is a must see for any visitor to the city.
Carved from a single piece of jade, the Emerald Buddha symbolizes peace and enlightenment, drawing pilgrims from far and wide to pay their respects.
Wat Po Bangkok
A short journey South of the Grand Palace is the Buddhist temple complex of Wat Po.The temple complex houses the largest collection of Buddha images in Thailand, including the famous 46 meter long reclining Buddha.
Wat Saket Bangkok
Wat Saket or the Temple of the Golden Mount is also another Bangkok masterpiece that is perched on Rattanakosin Island in the city heart. Construction of The Golden Mount chedi began during the reign of King Rama 4 in the 19th century.
320 stairs will take you to the top.
Wat Sam Phran Nakhon Pathom
Just over an hour from Bangkok is the unique Wat Sam Phran, aptly named the Dragon Temple. A massive dragon sculpture wraps itself around the temple, symbolizing protection and power. Visitors can climb to the top of the dragon for a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
Wat Ratcha-burana Ayuthaya
Our journey continues to the ancient city of Ayuthaya – the former 14th century capital of the Kingdom of Siam. The ruins of Wat Ratcha-burana stand as a reminder of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Explore the intricate carvings and towering spires of this ancient temple, and immerse yourself in the grandeur of a bygone era.
Sukhothai
The ancient city of Sukhothai was the capital of the first Thai Kingdom in the 13th century and amongst its crumbling ruins you’ll find the remains of numerous Chedis and temples.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai in Thailand’s north is known for its misty mountains and back to nature pursuits.
A must visit here is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a sacred temple that sits atop a mountain overlooking the city of Chiang Mai. Legend has it that the temple was built to enshrine a piece of the Buddha’s shoulder bone, and pilgrims come from far and wide to pay their respects and soak in the spiritual energy of this holy site.
Asorm Phrom Thada Chiang Mai
If meditation or contemplation are your pursuits you might want to visit the White Pagoda at Asorm Phrom Thada, 65 kilometers south of Chiang Mai. This is a centre for meditation and Buddhist teaching. It is the only wat in the north of Thailand built in Nepalese style. Set on a hill, surrounded by rice paddies, the ashram is a calming experience.
Wat Rong Suea Ten Chiang Rai
On-wards in the northern province of Chiang Rai, the Blue Temple of Wat Rong Suea Ten stands out as a dazzling masterpiece of art and architecture.
White Temple Chiang Rai
Not to be outdone by the White Temple in Chiang Rai, a modern marvel that captivates visitors with its ethereal beauty and intricate details. Designed by artist Chalerm-chai Kosit-pipat, this temple is a dazzling fusion of traditional Thai motifs and contemporary artistry.
Chedi Phak Di Pra Kard Hua Hin
Our journey then turns south.
Not far from the coastal city of Hua Hin, deep in the heart of the jungle, Chedi Phak Di Pra Kard beckons travelers to discover its hidden beauty and spiritual significance.
This temple is a haven for those seeking a connection to nature and the divine.
Chalong Temple Phuket
Reaching the island of Phuket our journey arrives in Chalong, which is home to the beautiful Chalong Temple. During the 19th century, two revered monks both tended to the wounded during the rebellion against Chinese tin miners. The temple served as a haven for those injured and seeking refuge. It remains a haven of peace and altruism.
Wat Kitthi Sankaram Phuket
From here your eyes might be drawn upwards to the magnificent Big Buddha, which sits within Wat Kitthi Sankaram temple, and gazes out over the sea.
This is a true treasure of Thailand’s south and seems the perfect place to end our exploration of Thailand’s unforgettable temples.
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