With picture-perfect landscapes and mouthwatering cuisine, it’s no surprise that Thailand is a popular tourist destination. But while many come for summer getaways, the country also boasts a rich spiritual culture beyond its natural beauty. If you're still planning your itinerary, try including some of the country’s breathtaking temples.
Thailand’s temples or “wats” are more than just religious landmarks; they’re living museums of Thai history, craftsmanship, and spirituality. From the shimmering pagodas of Bangkok to the mountain-top sanctuaries of Chiang Mai, these sacred sites reveal centuries of devotion and artistry.
Here’s a guide to 12 must-visit temples in Thailand, listed by region, so you can easily plan your route through the Land of Smiles.
Bangkok Temples
1. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Wat Arun’s stunning silhouette against Bangkok’s golden sky
Standing proudly on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun, or the Temple of Dawn, is one of Bangkok’s most iconic and beloved landmarks. Its central prang (Khmer-style spire) rises over 70 meters, decorated with millions of colored porcelain and seashells that sparkle under the sun.
Visitors can climb up its steep stairs for panoramic views of the river and the Grand Palace across the water. The temple looks especially magical at sunrise and sunset, when its spires reflect the golden sunlight.
You can visit this temple as part of a Wat Pho and Wat Arun walking tour or a romantic sunset cruise to capture its beauty from the water.
2. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
A close-up view of the 46-meter reclining Buddha at Wat Pho
Wat Pho, a.k.a. The Temple of the Reclining Buddha houses a 46-meter-long reclining Buddha that represents the entry of Buddha into Nirvana.
The temple was first ordered for construction by King Rama I, making it one of the oldest temples in Bangkok. It’s also the first of the six temples classed as the highest grade of the first-class royal temples in the country, and this is proof of how impressive this monument really is.
Beyond its famous statue, it’s also the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, and visitors can still enjoy authentic treatments from the temple’s massage school.
3. Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)
Fun fact: the Emerald Green Buddha is said to bring prosperity to all those who possess it. Credits to srongkrod on Adobe Stock
Located right in the heart of Bangkok, there’s no reason not to pay a visit to Wat Phra Kaew; after all, it’s one of the most famous temples in Thailand. The temple is found within the Grand Palace and is the venue for important state and royal ceremonies.
It also houses the Emerald Green Buddha, a revered meditating Gautama Buddha seated in the lotus position, all carved from a single block of jade. The statue is 26 inches tall, clothed in glittering gold, and is considered Thailand’s sacred palladium.
4. Wat Suthat
The Giant Swing is 20 meters high and was historically used in ceremonies. Credits to wirojsid on Adobe Stock
Less crowded but just as impressive, Wat Suthat is one of Bangkok’s oldest temples. Commissioned by King Rama I and completed by King Rama III, it features sweeping multi-tiered roofs, intricate murals, and one of Thailand’s largest bronze Buddha statues.
There are 28 intricately designed Chinese pagodas, symbolizing the 28 Buddhas born on earth. And just outside, you’ll find the Giant Swing, one of the most popular attractions in Bangkok.
5. Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen
Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen’s towering golden Buddha as seen from a nearby canal
Hidden in Bangkok’s Thonburi district, Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen is a modern marvel that’s quickly become a local favorite. The temple’s star attraction is its five-story stupa (Buddhist shrine), which houses a mesmerizing glass pagoda surrounded by ceiling murals that resemble the cosmos.
It’s also become increasingly well-known for its 69-meter-tall golden Buddha statue, visible from miles away. Despite its contemporary look, Wat Paknam has deep roots in Thai Buddhism and remains a hub for Buddhist study today.
Central Thailand Temples
6. Wat Chaiwatthanaram (Ayutthaya)
Wat Chaiwatthanaram will have you ‘ooh-ing’ and ‘ahh-ing’ every step of the way. Credits to Hongbin on Unsplash
Similar to Wat Arun, Wat Chaiwatthanaram is located right by the Chao Phraya River. The temple is currently part of Ayutthaya Historical Park, and for good reason. It was the first temple constructed by King Prasat Thong in 1630 (modeled after Cambodia’s Angkor Wat) and served as the place for the king’s religious ceremonies!
Wat Chaiwatthanaram’s impressive structure—a 35-meter-high central prang surrounded by eight chapels—is meant to represent the different facets of the world according to Buddhist views.
7. Wat Mahathat (Temple of the Relic, Ayutthaya)
The photos just don’t do Wat Mahathat justice. Credits to powerbeephoto on Adobe Stock
Also known as the Temple of the Relic, Wat Mahathat is one of the most treasured temples in Thailand. It’s one of Ayutthaya’s oldest temples and is especially important because it used to house the Buddha’s holy relic!
These days, it’s the headquarters of Thailand’s largest monastic order and a meditation center. The most captivating feature of Wat Mahathat is the Buddha head entwined in the roots of a Bodhi tree, which looks similar to the tree where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment.
8. Wat Saman Rattanaram (Pink Ganesh Temple, Chachoengsao)
The bright pink Ganesha statue at Wat Saman Rattanaram
Wat Saman Rattanaram is home to the world’s largest reclining pink Ganesha statue, stretching an incredible 16 meters high and 22 meters long. The Hindu god of success and remover of obstacles is surrounded by smaller deities and shrines devoted to prosperity, health, and love.
The temple blends Buddhist, Hindu, and Taoist elements in one vibrant complex filled with markets, offerings, and family-friendly activities. Locals visit regularly to seek blessings for business ventures and new beginnings.
It’s an easy 2-hour day trip from Bangkok, especially when paired with nearby floating markets on a Bangkok landmarks day tour.
Northern Thailand Temples
9. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (Chiang Mai)
This temple is the definition of grandiose. Credits to Cozyta on Adobe Stock
Perched atop Doi Suthep Mountain, this temple offers stunning panoramic views of Chiang Mai. Legend says a white elephant carried a relic to this very spot and died there, marking it as one of the holiest sites in Northern Thailand.
Visitors can climb the 306-step Naga staircase, guarded by colorful serpent balustrades, or take a tram to reach the temple.
10. Wat Rong Khun (White Temple, Chiang Rai)
A stunning view of Wat Rong Khun’s beautiful white exterior
Wat Rong Khun is one of the unique temples in Thailand because it’s not technically a temple. Designed by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, it’s actually an art gallery built in the style of a Buddhist temple.
It boasts a sparkling all-white exterior that sets it apart from others. The temple follows a white color scheme to signify the purity of the Buddha, while the glass mirrors that surround the structure represent the wisdom of the Buddha.
Southern Thailand Temple
11. Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple, Krabi)
It’s hard not to feel relaxed in such a serene environment. Credits to Serenity-H on Adobe Stock
Set among Krabi’s lush limestone cliffs, Wat Tham Suea, or the Tiger Cave Temple, is a spiritual retreat perfect for reflection. Its name comes from the tiger paw prints said to have been found in the cave where monks once meditated.
The temple is famous for its 1,260-step climb to the summit, where a golden Buddha statue overlooks panoramic views of the Andaman coastline and surrounding rainforests. The climb is challenging but rewarding, and locals often make it as an act of devotion.
Eastern Thailand Temple
12. Sanctuary of Truth (Pattaya)
Marvel at the craftsmanship of the Sanctuary of Truth. Credits to Norbert Braun on Unsplash
The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya is the largest wooden building in Thailand and an architectural masterpiece. Construction first began in 1981, but is only estimated to be completed by 2025.
The temple was based on the concept of impermanence, and so, it was—and is being built following historical building techniques using hand-hewn woodworking skills. There are ornate wood carvings to represent the philosophy of life all around the temple’s four wings; each wing has been dedicated to Thai, Khmer, Chinese, and Indian religious symbols.
Plan your Thai temple run with Klook
Ready to explore? Klook makes it easy to book temple tours across Bangkok, discover Ayutthaya’s ruins, or take a scenic Chiang Rai day trip. Save time, skip queues, and uncover Thailand’s spiritual wonders with expert local guides at your side.
FAQs
What are Thai temples called?
They’re called “wats”, derived from the Pali-Sanskrit word meaning “enclosure.” A wat typically includes shrines, stupas, meditation halls, and monk residences, serving as both spiritual and community centers.
Which temple is Thailand famous for?
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) in Bangkok is Thailand’s most sacred temple and a must-visit for any traveler.
What are the three must-see temples in Bangkok?
You can’t miss Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and Wat Phra Kaew; they’re the crown jewels of Bangkok’s temple scene. Explore them easily on a Bangkok temple day tour.
Are jeans allowed in Thai temples?
Yes, jeans are fine as long as they’re modest. Avoid ripped or overly tight ones, and always cover your shoulders and knees. Remember to remove your shoes before entering temple halls.
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Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
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