5 Famous & Ancient Thai Temple Architectures
1. Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
Constructed: 1782
Visiting Hours: Daily from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Wat Phra Kaew, located within the Grand Palace in Bangkok, is one of the most revered temples in Thailand. It houses the Emerald Buddha, a highly sacred statue carved from a single piece of jade. This temple, established in 1782, is not only an architectural marvel but also a center of Thai royal religious practices. The temple is a prime example of classic Thai architecture, with intricate decorations, gold leaf, and mythical creatures adorning its walls and structures.
2. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
Constructed: 16th Century (renovated in 1781)
Visiting Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Wat Pho is one of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok, known for its massive statue of the Reclining Buddha, which is 46 meters long and 15 meters high. Originally built in the 16th century and later renovated by King Rama I in the 18th century, Wat Pho is not only a significant religious site but also the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. The temple complex houses over a thousand Buddha images and is a renowned center for Buddhist learning and meditation.
3. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
Constructed: 17th Century (restored in 19th Century)
Visiting Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Wat Arun, or the Temple of Dawn, is one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks. Its central prang (tower) stands at 79 meters tall and is decorated with porcelain and colorful glass, which sparkles in the sunlight. The temple is situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, and its stunning design represents Mount Meru, the center of the Buddhist universe. Although the temple’s origins date back to the 17th century, it was extensively renovated during the reign of King Rama II in the early 19th century.
4. Wat Si Chum
Location: Sukhothai, Thailand
Constructed: 14th Century
Visiting Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Wat Si Chum is one of the most important temples in the Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient temple is famous for its enormous Buddha image, which sits within a small, walled hall. The image, called the “Phra Achana Buddha,” measures 15 meters tall and represents a moment of enlightenment. Built in the 14th century during the reign of King Phra Ruang, the temple reflects the sophisticated Sukhothai style, with its harmonious proportions and serene design.
5. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Location: Chiang Mai, Thailand
Constructed: 1383
Visiting Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in northern Thailand. Located on Doi Suthep mountain, it offers stunning views of Chiang Mai city. The temple was built in 1383, and it is believed to house a relic of the Buddha. Visitors can reach the temple by ascending a staircase with over 300 steps or by taking a cable car. The temple’s golden chedi (stupa) is its most iconic feature, gleaming in the sun and surrounded by smaller shrines and bells.