The Temples

The temples
The temple are an absolute must! Bangkok's dazzling temples are a unique part of the capital's heart and soul. A visit to Bangkok would not be complete without seeing at least two of them- the architecture is inspiring and the glittering decoration is quite stunning. Thousands of pieces of coloured glass and pottery adorn fantastic structures gilded in gold. Quite unlike anything else.

The best time to visit most temples is in the early morning. It's cooler, and generally less crowded. The temples (or 'Wats') are not just tourist attractions but also play an important part in Buddhist traditions. Monks live in the temple complexes, wake up around 04:00, attend to prayers and duties and then collect food and necessities from ordinary people on the streets. If you are up very early in Bangkok you will see monks walking around, dressed in saffron coloured robes. This daily alms ritual (called 'tam bun') takes place all over Thailand and is part of the Buddhist philosophy of giving and making merit to attain a better life beyond this one.

There are so many temples, all of them unique. It's daunting to visit all the temples, so we've listed in the following sections those in the 'must- visit' category, according to their beauty, cultural significance and high regard in Buddhism. Most temples are not open after 18:00.

Dress Code - Thai temples are sacred places so you must dress appropriately. No shorts or revealing tops, otherwise you simply won't be allowed in. This applies particularly to Wat Phra Kaeo (inside the Grand Palace.)