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 for some, it can even feel overwhelming. Bangkok also has 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!
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How Many Days Do You Need to Visit These Bangkok Temples
If you’re only spending a day or two in Bangkok, don’t worry, because you can easily see all 3 of these major Bangkok temples in 1 day – or even in a half day.
The Grand Palace
The Grand Palace is undoubtedly the most famous temple to visit in Thailand and rightfully so. The complex includes the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and several courts of absolutely stunning architecture and colors.
Due to its popularity, this temple also gets very crowded – but still, a must-see temple to visit in Bangkok! The cost is around 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
Dress Code
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 overpriced since so many tourists make this mistake!
When to Visit
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!
Scammers
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!
Bargining
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.
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 about 100 bht and free water is offered.
Bangkok 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 overall one of the best things to do in Bangkok. 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 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! The cost is about 100 bht.
Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
When to Visit Bangkok
The best time to visit Bangkok is usually between November – March, however (in general) expect hot humid weather. We last visited in May and it was definitely hot, and muggy, but still nice nonetheless.
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 many sunscreens in Thailand have whitening agents in it!
For the full Thailand Packing Guide, click here!
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!
Spending more time in Bangkok? Check out this 3-day Bangkok Itinerary.
Other guides you might enjoy:
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!