Top 3 Temples in Bangkok You Can’t Miss!
Did you know Bangkok is the most visited city in the world? This Thailand city is full of hustle and bustle and absolutely stunning temples. Most people only spend a couple of days in Bangkok before making their way over to the islands like Krabi, or Northern Thailand such as Chiang Mai. So if you pass through Bangkok, make sure you visit these 3 temples!
If this is your first time in Thailand, check out the 15 things you should know before visiting Thailand!
Spending more time in Bangkok? Check out this 3-day Bangkok Itinerary!
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Grand Palace
The Grand Palace is undoubtedly the most famous temple to visit in Thailand and we totally get why. The complex includes the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and several courts of absolutely stunning architecture and colors.
It’s hands down the most popular and crowded temple, but still, a must-see temple to visit in Bangkok! The cost is $500 bht, which is the most you will pay to enter any temple.
See also: Overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Tips Before Visiting The Grand Palace
- The dress code is extremely strict! Both men and women need to have their shoulders and knees covered. You will find vendors selling pants across the street that are extremely over-priced since so many tourists make this mistake!
- Go early. This place will be packed at any time of the day, but the earlier you go the better.
Visit this temple first. It’s a good starting point that is close to the rest of the temples! - Beware of scammers! As one of the largest tourist attractions, scammers lurk by. True Story – We had a man standing at the side of the temple (seemed like a worker) tell us the temple was closed. He tried to sell us on taking a tuk-tuk ride to several other places until the temple reopened later in the day. When we said no, they seemed to get angry that we didn’t want to take this “amazing deal” they offered. We continued to decline as they yelled, “there is nothing to see!” if we continued to walk. We did anyway and once we walked around to the front, the temple was most certainly open!
- Bargain with all tuk-tuk drivers and vendors outside the temple. It’s essential to do all over Thailand as a matter of fact! I must mention, however, to be fair with the price you offer.
- The best time to visit Bangkok is usually between November – March, however (in general) expect hot humid weather. Make sure to stay hydrated and use sunscreen. Consider bringing a reusable filtered water bottle such as Lifestraw to reduce plastic waste and coral safe sunscreen such as Juice Beauty SPF 30 Sport Moisturizer which I bring both on all my trips! In general, it’s best to bring your own sunscreen since it’s almost impossible to find sunscreen in Thailand that doesn’t have whitening agents in it! For the full Thailand Packing Guide, click here!
Address: Na Phra Lan Rd, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand
Wat Pho – Temple of the Reclining Buddha
In walking distance from the Grand Palace is Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. This complex is not as crowded as the Grand Palace and is equally as beautiful making it another top Bangkok temple!
Take your time exploring the complex or even getting a Thai massage! The dress code is also not as strict as the Grand Palace so long shorts are ok, but shoulders must still be covered. The cost at this temple is $100 bht and free water is offered.
Tip: There are tons of places to eat in Bangkok, but one of our favorites was at Ama Art and Eatery, which is close to the river taxi. The spring rolls, fried rice, and ice coffee are amazing! It’s worth the wait if there’s a crowd!
Address: 210-208 Thai Wang Alley, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand
Wat Arun (Wat Chaeng) Temple of the Dawn
Last but not least, is the stunning temple Wat Arun. Wat Arun is easily one of the top temples in Bangkok and is my favorite. We didn’t get to walk inside/up it since it was closed for a ceremony, but I could imagine it’s even more beautiful more up close!
From Wat Pho, walk, or take a tuk-tuk to the river taxi to cross over the Chao Phraya River. From there you are just steps away from the pearly white Wat Arun.
If you only have time to see one temple in Bangkok, let it be this one! Wat Arun is super unique and you won’t find another temple like this in all of Thailand! Cost is $ 100 bht.
Bangkok Top Temples Review
This covers the top 3 temples to see in Bangkok all of which can be seen in just 1 day in Bangkok! If you have more time in Bangkok, I would suggest checking out tours of the best things to do in Bangkok or get a true Thai experience and learning how to cook like a local with one of many Thai Cooking Classes!
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Such a great guide Sam! I went to Thailand years ago, but only visited one of the temples on your list. Can’t wait to go back someday and see the rest!
Thanks so much, girl! Which temples did you visit!? I want to go back as well! Thailand has so much to offer!
Ironic you mention if time is issue then pick Wat Arun as that’s the one I liked from this post. Terrific post Samantha! 🙂
Thank you so much Mike! I am so glad you enjoyed the post!