5 must visit buddhism temples in Bangkok
The Reclining Buddha
The Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho in Bangkok is one of Thailand’s most iconic landmarks. This massive statue is 46 meters long and 15 meters high, covered in gold leaf, and depicts Buddha in a resting, nirvana-achieving position.
Key Features:
Feet Details: The soles of the Buddha’s feet are inlaid with mother-of-pearl, showcasing 108 auspicious symbols.
Surrounding Temple: Wat Pho is also famous for being the birthplace of Thai massage, and you can experience a traditional massage on-site.
Offerings: Visitors can drop coins into 108 bronze bowls along the hall for good fortune. It’s located near the Grand Palace and is a must-visit when in Bangkok.
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Wat Kanlayanamit Woramahawihan
Wat Kanlayanamit Woramahawihan is a historic temple on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, known for its massive seated Buddha statue and deep connections to Thai-Chinese culture.
Highlights:
Phra Buddha Trai Rattananayok: A giant golden Buddha (over 15 meters high), sitting in the subduing Mara posture.
Giant Bell: It houses one of Thailand’s largest bells, which people ring for blessings and good fortune.
Chinese-Thai Fusion: The temple’s architecture blends Thai Buddhist and Chinese influences, as it was built by a wealthy Chinese-Thai trader in the early 19th century.
Scenic Location: Located near the Memorial Bridge, with stunning riverside views. It’s less crowded than Wat Pho but still holds strong cultural and historical significance.
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Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen
Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen is a stunning Buddhist temple in Bangkok, famous for its huge golden Buddha statue, its intricate stupa, and its connection to meditation practices.
Highlights:
Phra Buddha Dhammakaya Thepmongkol: A 69-meter-tall golden Buddha statue, one of the largest in Bangkok, completed in 2021.
Crystal Stupa: Inside the temple is a breathtaking green glass stupa under a dome with cosmic murals, symbolizing enlightenment and the universe.
Meditation Center: Wat Paknam is well-known for its focus on Vipassana meditation, and many monks train here.
Historical Significance: It was founded in the 17th century but gained prominence in the 20th century thanks to the meditation master Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro.
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Wat Sutthiwararam
My favorite because it has Buddhism art in the temple.
Wat Sutthiwararam is a lesser-known but historically significant temple in Bangkok, located near the Chao Phraya River. It dates back to the Rattanakosin era and is known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful Thai architecture.
Highlights:
Buddhism Art: Visitors to the temple can explore an extensive collection of Buddhist-themed art, including statues, paintings, textiles, and architectural features. Notably, the temple houses a beautifully rendered set of 38 auspicious Buddhist symbols, accompanied by a chart with English translations explaining their meanings.
Elegant Architecture: Traditional Thai-style buildings with intricate carvings and gold embellishments.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Unlike the more tourist-heavy temples, it offers a quiet space formeditation and reflection.
It may not be as famous as Wat Pho or Wat Paknam, but its tranquility and cultural value make it a unique stop.
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Wat Bukkhalo
Wat Bukkhalo is a riverside temple in Bangkok’s Thonburi district, known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic views of the Chao Phraya River.
Highlights:
Scenic Sunset Views: The temple’s riverside location makes it a great spot to watch the sun set over Bangkok.
Local Community Focus: Unlike the more tourist-heavy temples, it is mainly visited by locals for prayer and merit-making.
Buddha Statues & Shrines: Features several Buddha images, including a standing Buddha and a shrine dedicated to King Taksin.
Relaxed Vibes: A great place for quiet meditation or just to experience local Buddhist culture away from the crowds.
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