Top 10 Temples in Bangkok 2025

Where to soak in spiritual vibes, admire jaw-dropping architecture, and experience Thailand’s rich culture

Looking to temple-hop your way through Bangkok? With more than 400 wats (temples) spread across the city, you’re spoiled for choice! From golden giants and reclining Buddhas to tranquil hills and riverside stupas, these sacred spots are more than just Instagram-worthy, they’re full of history, mystery, and spiritual charm.

We’ve narrowed it down to the 10 absolute best temples in Bangkok for 2025. Whether you’re in it for the culture, the architecture, or just the peace and quiet, these are the temples you don’t want to miss. (Plus, scroll to the bottom for a cool bonus spot you’ve probably never heard of.)

10. Wat Ratchanatdaram (Loha Prasat)

The Metal Castle – Bangkok’s hidden architectural gem

Tucked away from the crowds, Wat Ratchanatdaram is one of Bangkok’s most underrated temples, and one of the most unique. Nicknamed the “Metal Castle”, this angular masterpiece features 37 metal spires representing the 37 virtues of enlightenment. It’s unlike any other temple in the city and offers rooftop views over the old town.

Architecture lovers and spiritual seekers alike will appreciate the serene vibe here, far from the usual temple chaos.

✅ 20THB entry
🕒 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📍Ratchadamnoen Klang Road, Phra Nakhon
📌 View on Google Maps

9. Wat Kalayanamit

A hidden riverside gem with Thailand’s biggest temple bell

Sitting quietly on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Kalayanamit is a peaceful local temple rarely crowded with tourists. It’s home to one of Bangkok’s largest seated Buddha statues and the largest bronze bell in Thailand, ring it for good luck. With its mix of Thai and Chinese design, this temple feels both grand and intimate, especially around sunset.

✅ Free entry
🕒 Open daily, 8:00–17:00 | 💵 Free entry
📍 Thonburi Side
📌 View on Google Maps

8. Wat Mangkon Kamalawat

The most important Chinese temple in Bangkok

In the heart of Chinatown lies a striking blend of Thai and Chinese architecture: Wat Mangkon Kamalawat. This Taoist-Buddhist temple bursts with red lanterns, incense smoke, and dragon motifs. During major Chinese festivals, it’s alive with color and ritual.

Don’t miss the chance to soak in the rich cultural fusion—plus, the scent of incense here is unforgettable.

✅ Free entry
📍Chinatown, Charoen Krung Road
🕒 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
📌 View on Google Maps

7. Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen

The latest addition to the Bangkok skyline, a massive golden Buddha statue.

Wat Paknam is an awe-inspiring temple located along a quiet canal in the Thonburi side of Bangkok, but its massive 69-meter-tall golden standing Buddha, officially named Phra Buddha Dhammakaya Thepmongkhon, is anything but subtle. Towering above the local skyline, it’s visible from miles away and quickly becoming an iconic symbol of modern Thai Buddhism.

✅ Free entry
🕒 Open Daily: 08:00 – 18:00 Hrs
📍 Location: 300 Ratchamongkol Prasat Alley, Phasi Charoen, Bangkok
📌 Google Maps

6. Wat Traimit

This one’s pure gold, literally.

Hidden under layers of plaster for centuries, this 5.5-tonne golden Buddha was rediscovered in the 1950s when it was accidentally dropped. Today, Wat Traimit is one of Bangkok’s most visited temples and also features a small museum about the statue’s mysterious past and Chinatown’s history.

✅ 50THB entry
🕒 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📍661 Charoen Krung Road, Chinatown
📌 View on Google Maps

5. Wat Saket (The Golden Mount)

This is one of Bangkok’s oldest temples and an ideal spot for photos or catching your breath, both literally and spiritually.

Built atop a manmade hill, Wat Saket offers sweeping views of old Bangkok. But first, you’ll have to climb 344 spiraling steps to reach the gleaming golden chedi at the top. Along the way, pass waterfalls, bells, and shady alcoves that make the walk surprisingly peaceful.

✅ 100THB entry
🕒 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📍344 Chakkraphatdi Phong Road, Pom Prap
📌 View on Google Maps

4. Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple)

Bangkok’s most elegant temple – it’s even on the 5-baht coin!

With its pristine white marble walls, elegant gabled roofs, and tranquil courtyard, Wat Benchamabophit is a feast for the eyes. Also known as The Marble Temple, it blends European influences with traditional Thai design. Inside, you’ll find stunning stained glass and a collection of 50 Buddha images.

This is one of the most photogenic temples in Bangkok, and a peaceful escape from the city’s chaos.

✅ 50THB entry
🕒 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
📍69 Rama V Road, Dusit
📌 View on Google Maps

3. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Probably the most iconic temple when you think of Bangkok, Thailand.

Wat Arun is an icon of Bangkok’s skyline. Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, its central stupa sparkles with pieces of porcelain, seashells, and Benjarong ceramics. Climb the steep stairs if you’re brave, the views are 100% worth it.
Climb the glittering spire for epic river views.

Go early in the morning or at golden hour for magical lighting that lives up to the temple’s name: Temple of Dawn.

✅ Free entry
🕒 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
📍34 Arun Amarin Road, Bangkok Yai
📌 View on Google Maps

2. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)

This temple is much more than just the reclining Buddha.

Wat Pho is a must-see. Period. It’s home to the iconic 46-meter-long reclining Buddha, gold-leaf-covered and utterly relaxed. His feet alone are inlaid with ancient inscriptions a sight to behold.

This temple is also the birthplace of Thai massage, get a traditional treatment while you’re here. Plus, don’t miss the serene cloisters and colorful pagodas surrounding the main hall. There is much more to see than just the reclining Buddha.

✅ Check ticket prices
🕒 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM
📍2 Sanam Chai Road, Phra Nakhon
📌 View on Google Maps

1. Wat Phra Kaew & The Grand Palace

The holiest temple in Thailand, the one and only.

Topping our list is Wat Phra Kaew, located inside the Grand Palace complex. It’s the spiritual heart of Thailand, housing the revered Emerald Buddha, carved from a single block of jade (not emerald, despite the name!).

Every surface glitters with gold, jewels, and intricate murals. This is the most sacred temple in Bangkok, and it shows. Come early to avoid crowds, and prepare to be blown away.

✅ Check ticket prices
🕒 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
📍Na Phra Lan Road, Phra Nakhon
📌 View on Google Maps

Honorable Mention: Ancient City (Muang Boran)

Not technically a temple, but hear us out. Ancient City is like Thailand in miniature, with dozens of full-scale temple replicas from across the country. And the best thing is, you can rent a golf cart and explore serene landscapes, floating pavilions, and historical monuments all in one place. It’s the perfect temple-hopping day trip with 100’s of photo spots without the foot blisters.

✅ Check ticket prices
📍Bang Pu Mai, Samut Prakan (about 45 min from Bangkok)
📌 View on Google Maps