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Temples in Thailand

Among the temples in Thailand, Wat Phra Kaew is regarded to be the most important Buddhist temple in the country. A statue of Buddha sitting in meditation posture and cast out of Emerald stones is a unique attraction of this Thailand temple.

This temple dates back to the 15th century and has been constructed on a raised platform. The important ritual of changing of robes of this statue is performed only by the King. The balcony of this temple is lined by murals of Ramayana, a sight that is likely to leave you awestruck.

Location: Na Phralan, Phra Nakorn, Old City (Rattanakosin).

Timings: 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM.

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Wat Pho is one of the oldest temples in Thailand. It was later expanded during the rule of King Phetracha during 1688-1703. The temple has more than a thousand images of Buddha which lend an aesthetic look to the temple.

Wat Pho is also famous for the largest single Buddha image which stands 150 feet in height. The architectural beauty of the temple is enhanced by its 91 small stupas or chedis, 2 belfries, viharas or halls and temple museum which showcases the artifacts related to the temple.

Location: Maharat Road, Old City (Rattanakosin).

Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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The backdrop of Chao Phraya River and the shining spires of the Wat Arun temple create such a magical effect that people visiting Wat Arun are often left spellbound. Build during the 17th century, Wat Arun is considered among Thailand ancient temples and can be accessed through ferries which travel through the Chao Phraya River.

During Kathina (Buddhist festival) which is held on the culmination of the rainy season, the King of Thailand travels in a procession to this Thailand temple and presents robes to the monks.

Location: Located on the west side of Chao Phraya River.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

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Dating back to the Ayutthaya Era (1350-1767), Wat Saket is considered among Thailand ancient temples. The gleaming gold chedi gives a unique look to the temple and hence it has been aptly named as “Temple of the Golden Mount”.

This golden chedi is also a sacred pilgrimage site and devotees throng the place during annual temple fair which is held during the month of November. The main chapel, ordination hall and a library having a good collection of Buddhist literature are other worth visiting places in Wat Saket.

Location: Between Boriphat Road and Lan Lunag Road, off the Ratchadamnoen Klang Road.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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Among popular temples in Thailand is Wat Chalong located in Phuket. The temple features many important Buddhist statues including Poh Than Jao Wat and Luang Pho Cham. Lord Buddha’s life story is depicted in the pagoda here.

The serene and calm location of this Thailand temple is another crowd pulling feature here which attracts a large number of visitors to the place. The antique Thai furniture and Thai porcelain designed in five colours is a unique attraction at Wat Chalong.

Location: 70/6 Chao Fah Tawan Tok Road, Chalong, Phuket.

Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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The golden sitting image of Lord Buddha on the Khao Rang hill slope adds to the mystique of the charming Phuket town. Not to miss are the intricate traditional carvings done on the door and roof of the Wat Khao Rang which make it one of the most visited temples in Thailand.

The art forms including a statue of Lord of Death or Yamaraj in the Hindu mythology also adds to the beauty of the temple complex. Equally aesthetic are the images of monks sitting in a row. These monks passed over a period of time and were highly revered in the region.

Location: Khao Rang Hill, Phuket.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

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Another of the oldest temple in Thailand is Jui Tui Shrine in Phuket. This Chinese temple features three large altars having statues of Chinese Gods. The temple is popular among the locals here as they come to celebrate their birthdays, weddings and birth of new babies in the temple.

Visitors to the temple can also know their fortune by shaking the bamboo cup here. This cup has sticks which are known as fortune sticks and have a number inscribed on them. On shaking, when the sticks drop, the particular stick is picked up by the devotee and handed over to the fortune teller in the temple. The fortune-teller than dictates the fortune of the person from a paper slip having the same number as the fortune stick handed over to him.

Location: Near Put Jaw Chinese Temple, Soi Phuthorn, Ranong Road, Phuket.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 8:30 PM.

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The oldest temple in Thailand located in Phuket is Wat Phra Thong.  The temple is popular for its half-buried golden statue of Buddha which is known by the name of Luang Pho Phra. It is said that any person who tried to dig this statue completely had to face a curse.

The temple was eventually built around this half-buried golden statue. Visitors to the temple complex can also head to the museum within the complex. This museum has numerous items on display including Chinese dowry basket, tin mining paraphernalia and daggers of different kinds.

Location: 20 Km North of Phuket, Near Thalang District Office.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

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The temple is located on the eastern side of the Pa Sak River in Pattaya. It is among Thailand's ancient temples and is said to be built by U Thong for the monks who came back from Sri Lanka. The chedi and the viharn are worth visiting places in the Wat Chaimongkon.

The serene calmness that one experiences at the central stupa are beyond words. The magical spell that row of Buddha images cast over the visitors is unique indeed. The temple also has a reclining Buddha image which has been colorfully decorated by the temple authorities.

Location: South Pattaya Road, Pattaya, Thailand.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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Wat Khao Chee Chan is a popular giant sculptural image of Lord Buddha. This has been inscribed on a big rock and was built after Supreme Patriarch took the initiative of carving out of this image on the cliff as it was cut out half already.

This image cut out was designed as an honor to King Bhumibol on his golden jubilee. The Buddha image is 109 meters tall and 70 meters wide. There is a big field in front of this mountain which has a lake containing water lilies and a stone garden, adding to the elegance of the place.

Location: Na Jomtien, Pattaya.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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This is an all-wood building that has a collection of sculptures that are based on Hindu and Buddhist motifs. It also contains artifacts based on religious themes. Thai businessman Lek Viriyaphan initiated the construction of this sanctuary in 1981 and the same is to be completed by the year 2050.

Thai architecture from the Ayutthayan period forms the core of this sanctuary and it contains an exclusive collection of sculptures that draw inspiration from artistic traditions namely Chinese, Thai, Dravidian, Srivijayan and Mon Dvaravati.

Location: 206/2 Pattaya Nakula, Bang Lamung District, Pattaya, Thailand.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

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Wat Khao Din is a Thailand temple located on a hilltop. It is also home to 9 monks and one child monk who learn the basics of Buddhism while being in the temple. Dozens of different kinds of bells are present in the temple which is used by the monks as a reminder bell for different kinds of activities they are expected to perform.

The temple has drawings that illustrate different events of Lord Buddha’s life. A 20 meter wide, 27 meter long and 39 meter tall pagoda was built in 1997 here.

Location: Tambon Khao Din, Amphoe Bang Pakong, Changwat Chachoengsao, Pattaya, Thailand.

Timings: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

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A flight of 1237 steps takes you to the Tiger Cave Temple or Wat Tham Sua and once you are at the top, the view of gorgeous Krabi’s limestone cliffs and the rain forest below is breathtaking. The large golden Buddha statue is located here at a height of 270 meters.

The temple complex was built in the year 1975 and it is said that a tiger used to roam in this region and a monk meditated here. The place thus was evolved as a tiger cave temple or Wat Tham Sua.

Location: Krabi Noi, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi, Thailand.

Timings: Monday to Friday- 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM Saturday to Sunday- 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

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 This temple is considered to be the biggest and most important temple in Krabi. The colorful frescoes having stories inscribed from Buddha’s life are a specialty of this temple. The temple has been painted white from the outside and the entire ambiance of the place is simply awesome.

The temple dates back to the year 1887 with the ordination rooms featuring wall paintings, Buddha statue and some relics of Buddha. A souvenir shop is also operational on the terrace of the temple where you can purchase different souvenirs including miniature temple replica and Buddha paintings.

Location: Pak Nam, Mueang, Krabi District, Krabi, Thailand.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Monday).

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Among temples in Thailand, Wat Klong Thom in Krabi is worth mentioning. The temple complex also houses a museum that contains many antique items like coins, pottery fragments, and stone tools. The museum also has a collection of beads which dates back from the 4th to 9th century.

The museum was opened in the year 1992 by Princess Sirindhorn.  The temple complex is located on the outskirts of Krabi town with walls and doors having Buddha inscriptions done elegantly.

Location: Thanon Phet Kasem, Tambon Khlong Thom Tai, Amphoe Khlong Thom, Karbi, Thailand.

Timings: The museum operates from Tuesday to Thursday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
                Temple Timings: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (daily).

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Wat Sai Thai is among the temples in Thailand that have a reclining Buddha statue. This is a large statue and attracts the attention of every visitor who comes to Wat Sai Thai. This temple is a great place to get an insight to the lifestyle of monks.

The ancient brass bell here is also a source of attraction to the visitors who feel blessed by ringing the bell. Located in the hills of Karbi, the temple also has an operational crematorium where the death rituals of people living in the vicinity are performed.

Location: Sai Thai, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi, Thailand.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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The 18 meters tall Buddha statue gleams up from the trees and gives the impression that Lord Buddha is blessing his devotees. The statue is a part of the Wat Phra Yai temple which lies on the top of Pratumnak Hill between Jomtien and Pattaya beach.

An interesting feature of the Wat Phra Yai temple is that you will come across many people who sell caged birds. The devotees buy these caged birds and set them free. It is said that this helps them in adding to their good karma.

Location: Pratumnak Hill, Koh Samui.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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Wat Plai Laem is another of the popular temples in Thailand. The temple has an 18 arm image of Guanyin who is considered to be the Goddess of Compassion and Mercy. This towering image is the center of attraction of the temple and adds to the serenity of the temple.

Equally attractive are the colorful murals and frescoes that are inscribed on the walls of two halls that line this statue of Guanyin. A white laughing Buddha statue and teak entry doors of the temple also add to the beauty of the temple complex.

Location: Wat Plai Laem, Road 4171, Koh Samui.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM.

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The large decorated gate of Wat Samret gives the temple a unique look. The offbeat and tranquil location of the temple also makes it a must-visit destination for anyone who loves to be one with nature. The idol of Lord Buddha carved out of a single rock is the major attraction of Wat Samret.

The façade has some intricately detailed work and with its stunning blend of colors, the temple is simply exquisite and thus attracts a large number of visitors.

Location: Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani.

Timings: 8:00AM to 5:00 PM.

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A traditional Buddhist temple on the outskirts of Koi Samui, Wat Khiri Wongkaram is popular among tourists and devotees alike as it has the mummified body of Buddhist monk Loung Por Ruam that has been kept in a glass case.

The exquisite artwork and unique architecture of this temple is a big draw for tourists who come here in large numbers. The roof made out of red, green and yellow tiles also adds to the beauty of the temple complex.  Equally attractive is the small Buddha statue in the sitting position at the entrance of the temple.

Location: Koh Samui, Surat Thani, Thailand.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

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 Guan Yu Shrine is known for its exclusive display of traditional Chinese artifacts. The statues in the shrine are definitely a crowd puller and these include of Big Buddha Statue which is 12 meters in height and Guan statue which is 4 meters tall.

The shrine also contains a Chinese tea room. A glimpse of the Chinese Samui heritage can also be seen in the numerous photographs that adorn the walls of the Guan Yu shrine. Religious functions and weddings are also held in the shrine, providing an opportunity for the visitors to get a glimpse of the cultural heritage of the region.

Location: Koh Samui, Surat Thani, Thailand.

Timings: Monday to Friday: 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM Saturday to Sunday: 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM.

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A temple famous for its Chinese rituals and traditions, the Hainan temple is also dedicated to Guan Yu, the mighty warrior who served in Eastern Han dynasty under Liu Bei, the famous warlord. The two gold plated lions line the entrance to this temple as if greeting the visitors who come here in large numbers. The vivid impression that the temple leaves on the mind of the visitors is something which makes it unique to the core.

Location: Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

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The pristine trail to the Hin Lad waterfall temple passes through evergreen tropical forests. On the way to the temple, a Buddha image greets the visitors, as if blessing those who choose to head to the temple located amidst deep woods. Self-healing is something which you can do at the Hin lad Waterfall temple and you will always find monks and nuns meditating at the temple. The garden in the temple also adds to its exclusive beauty.

Location: Lipa Yai, South of Nathon town.

Timings: The temple is accessible only day hours.

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A sacred site for Thai people, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep is named after the mountain on which it is situated. This temple was founded in the year 1383 with the first stupa being built. The walls of the temple have been designed in such a manner that the columns slant inwards.

The walls on the inner side have inscriptions of murals of Lord Buddha which detail the different aspects of his life. The statue of Emerald Buddha and Lord Ganesha add to the aesthetic value of the temple complex

Location: Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

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The Buddha image and giant gum tree at the entrance of Wat Chedi Luang seem to be a landmark for the temple and also lend an aesthetic look to the same. The evening candle procession taken out on the occasion of festivals like Visakha Buja is also a source of attraction for the visitors. 

Incidentally, the Chedi (pagoda) built between 1385 and 1402 is still the tallest structure in the town. The staircase around the chedi has also been impressively designed with elephant statues adorning the walls of the chedi.

Location: Phrapokklao Road, Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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This is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai and was built in the year 1296. The elephant chedi in the temple has been designed in a manner that it sits on the square base and is surrounded by replicas of 15 elephants that seem to emerge from it.  You can see a mix of Lanna and Singhalese styles in the statues at Wat Chiang Man.

Wood carvings in gold and ochre color adorn the front walls of the large Viharns. The smaller Viharns has been built in Lanna style and the stairs to the same are guarded by Nagas which is a mythical snake. 

Location: 171 Ratchapakhinai Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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Unlike other temples in the region that are decorated in the Lanna-Thai style, the Wat Huai Pla Kang is based on the Lanna-Chinese style. Located on a mountain in Muang county, the serenity of the temple is enhanced by many creatively designed statues which adorn the 24,000 square meter complex of the temple. A unique aspect of this temple is 9 storied chedi which becomes more evident during evening hours when the entire complex is lit up.

Location: 553, Area 3, Rim Kok District, Muang County, Chiang Rai Province.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

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Richly decorated, Wat Klang Wiang dates back to the 15th century. The chedi on the temple’s courtyard has been set on a square platform. The chedi with three levels has images of Lord Buddha enshrined in them. The viharn of the halls in Wat Klang Wiang have three-tiered roofs with the red columns of the façade decorated in golden colour.

Large pictures of celestial beings decorate the walls of Wat Klang Wiang. Another interesting aspect of the Wat Klang Wiang is the ubosot where monks get oriented. It gives the appearance of a Hindu temple rather than a Thai Lanna temple.

Location: Uttarakit, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai, Thailand.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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This is a privately owned art exhibit that has been designed in the form of a Thai Buddhist temple. The bridge of “cycle of rebirth” is the way to the main building which can be reached by crossing a bridge. By crossing the bridge it is believed that greed and temptation go away.

Ubosot is the main white building with its mirrored glass images give a unique impression. The three-tiered roof and Naga serpent designs also add to the beauty of the White temple. Colorful murals with orange flames and demon faces adorn the walls of Ubosot making it a unique presentation indeed.

Location: Pa O Don Chai, Chaing Rai, Thailand.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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