19 Best Temples in Thailand, If you have a keen interest in exploring various world religions, Thailand is the perfect destination for you. This country is brimming with awe-inspiring Buddhist temples, some of which have a rich history spanning centuries, while others are relatively new. These temples in Thailand are constructed using diverse materials such as wood, stone, and even recycled beer bottles. However, regardless of their construction, each temple exudes a tranquil ambiance that brings solace to all its visitors. If you happen to visit during a religious service, consider yourself exceptionally fortunate.
Wat Arun is one of the 19 Best Temples in Thailand
The Temple of Dawn, also known as Wat Arun, could equally be referred to as the Temple of Splendor. Situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, this temple is truly awe-inspiring when illuminated against the darkened sky. As one of Thailand’s iconic landmarks, it remains equally breathtaking when bathed in the gentle rays of the morning sun. The tower, designed in the Khmer style and adorned with vibrant porcelain, gleams brilliantly in the sunlight. The neighboring structures are adorned with seashells and additional porcelain, adding to the overall grandeur.
Wat Chaiwatthanaram[SEE MAP]
Wat Chaiwatthanaram stands as a remarkable temple complex situated in Ayutthaya, a historical capital of Thailand. Constructed as a tribute to a monarch’s mother, this temple holds the distinction of being the most frequented destination in Ayutthaya. Positioned along the Chao Phraya River, although the river offers picturesque views, it pales in comparison to the grandeur of the temple itself. The architectural arrangement of this 17th-century temple adheres to the conventional Buddhist belief system, where each temple represents mountains, continents, seas, and human abodes.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep[SEE MAP]
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is an essential destination when exploring Chiang Mai. As one of the holiest temples in northern Thailand, it is often referred to as Doi Suthep, which is actually the name of the mountain it stands on. Constructed in the 14th century, this active Buddhist monastery is located approximately 15 km (10 miles) from Chiang Mai. The pinnacle of the temple is adorned with a magnificent golden spire, complemented by shrines and murals. Additionally, a replica of the revered Emerald Buddha is proudly exhibited within its premises.
Temple of the Reclining Buddha[SEE MAP]
Bangkok’s Temple of the Reclining Buddha boasts over 1,000 images, making it the largest collection of Buddhas in Thailand. Among these is a remarkable reclining Buddha that stretches an impressive 45 meters (150 feet) in length. Situated on an island near the Grand Palace, this temple complex is widely regarded as the pinnacle of royal temples. Wat Pho, one of Bangkok’s oldest temples, holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Thai massage. It also served as an early hub for public education, with its walls adorned with inscriptions on a wide range of subjects.
White Temple[SEE MAP]
The White Temple, also known as Wat Rong Khun, is a stunning architectural masterpiece that stands out as one of Thailand’s most recent temples, having been constructed in 1997. Resembling a magical castle adorned with snow, this temple’s sculptures exude a fierce and intimidating presence, almost as if it were the dwelling place of an ogre. One of the main attractions within this privately owned temple is the “cycle of rebirth” bridge, where hands reaching towards the sky symbolize the journey of life and death. Beyond the bridge lies the Gate of Heaven, where two mystical creatures hold the power to determine the destiny of the departed souls.
Sanctuary of Truth[SEE MAP]
The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya redefines the term “awe-inspiring.” Elaborate carvings adorn every surface of the wooden edifice, showcasing traditional Buddhist and Hindu embellishments. This temple, still under construction, commenced in 1981 and is projected to reach completion by 2050. Its purpose is to pay homage to the timeless principles of the past, encompassing earth, wisdom, and Eastern philosophy. Through its teachings, it imparts knowledge about human accountability, contemplation, the circle of life, and the interconnectedness between existence and the cosmos.
Wat Phra That Lampang Luang[SEE MAP]
Wat Phra That Lampang Luang is renowned as one of Thailand’s holiest temples, housing a precious relic of Buddha’s hair. Additionally, it stands as a remarkable testament to the exquisite Lanna architectural style. Dating back to the 13th century, this temple boasts a towering conical spire, or stupa, reaching an impressive height of over 400 meters (125 feet). Unlike many other temples that have undergone modernization, Wat Phra That Lampang Luang has been meticulously restored to its original grandeur.
Temple of a Million Bottles[SEE MAP]
The Temple of a Million Bottles (Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew) stands out from other Buddhist temples, as it is truly one of a kind in Thailand. This extraordinary complex showcases a remarkable design that incorporates approximately 1.5 million recycled glass bottles. Even the toilets within the temple are constructed using glass bottles. The majority of these bottles are green Heineken and brown Chang bottles, while the bottle caps are ingeniously utilized to create stunning mosaics. Within the complex, you will discover around 20 buildings, encompassing prayer rooms and a water tower.
Temple of the Emerald Buddha[SEE MAP]
The name of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) may be misleading as the Buddha statue is not actually made of emerald, but rather of jasper or jade with a green color. Despite this, the 66-centimeters (26-inch) high Buddha statue is highly revered and occupies a prominent position in the temple located on the grounds of the Grand Palace. The statue, adorned in gold, is believed to have originated from the 15th century and has been moved to different temples across Thailand before finally being brought to Bangkok in 1784.
Wat Mahathat, Sukhothai[SEE MAP]
Wat Mahathat is an ancient temple situated in Sukhothai Historical Park in northern Thailand. It is regarded as the most significant and remarkable temple in the park. The main stupa, which houses Buddha’s relics, is adorned with 168 sculptures of Buddhist disciples with clasped hands. The temple’s name, “temple of the Great Relic,” is appropriate given its purpose. The Orientation Hall houses a large seated Buddha, while a towering standing Buddha is located nearby.
