In Bangkok, Wat Pho is not the only temple on your list. Wat Arun, located just across the river, stands as a prime example of Buddhist religious art. Reaching 85 meters at the peak of its central Prang, the trident of Shiva watches over the temple and the Chao Phraya river. Following renovations in 2017, the site remains in excellent condition.
After the capital moved in 1767, Wat Pho earned the title of royal monastery. Significant expansions followed in 1939, growing the site to over 20 acres and housing the iconic Reclining Buddha. Today, 12,000 daily visitors explore the intricate tilework, friezes, and the resident school of traditional medicine and massage in Bangkok.
The Emerald Buddha Temple, or Wat Phra Kaeo, is the most sacred site in Bangkok. Built by Rama I in 1782 within the royal palace grounds, it was originally restricted to the royal family. Since 1784, it has housed the Emerald Buddha, a statue revered nationwide, where locals gather for regular prayers and national rituals.
Wat Arun temple is a must-see in Bangkok. We hadn't done it yet, and it really is a visit you shouldn't miss. The architecture is magnificent, different from the other temples, and the atmosphere at s…
Wat Arun temple is a must-see in Bangkok. We hadn't done it yet, and it really is a visit you shouldn't miss. The architecture is magnificent, different from the other temples, and the atmosphere at sunset is incredible. Getting there by boat on the Chao Phraya adds even more to the charm of the experience. Very photogenic and a nice change of scenery, I highly recommend it. Personally, I loved every temple visit. The kids were getting a bit tired of yet another temple to visit, but the boat arrival added a fun element for them.
The Emerald Buddha Temple is absolutely grand, a breathtaking place. The interior is so impressive that it is hard to find the right words to describe it. Just know that taking photos inside the room…
The Emerald Buddha Temple is absolutely grand, a breathtaking place. The interior is so impressive that it is hard to find the right words to describe it. Just know that taking photos inside the room where the Emerald Buddha is located is forbidden, but you can capture the exterior, which is just as magnificent.
Wat Arun temple is absolutely magnificent and grand, a real jewel by the river. It is a place that is truly worth the trip during a stay in Bangkok.
Of course, there are a lot of people, but that is…
Wat Arun temple is absolutely magnificent and grand, a real jewel by the river. It is a place that is truly worth the trip during a stay in Bangkok.
Of course, there are a lot of people, but that is inevitable and ultimately normal. We are part of those visitors who came to admire this exceptional site ourselves. The atmosphere remains pleasant despite the crowds.
To fully enjoy the experience, I recommend going in the morning. The light is superb and the place is a bit quieter, which lets you appreciate the beauty of the site even more.
The temple housing the famous reclining Buddha is simply a must-see in Bangkok. The statue is huge and impressive.
Beyond this majestic work, wandering around the temple grounds is a real pleasure. Y…
The temple housing the famous reclining Buddha is simply a must-see in Bangkok. The statue is huge and impressive.
Beyond this majestic work, wandering around the temple grounds is a real pleasure. You discover superb architectural details, inner courtyards, and a surprisingly peaceful atmosphere despite the daily crowds of visitors.
A visit not to be missed.
Another beautiful, must-see Buddhist temple in Bangkok! Wat Arun is located on the other side of the Chao Phraya River from Wat Pho. With its characteristic spire shape, it has a lot of charm, too. Th…
Another beautiful, must-see Buddhist temple in Bangkok! Wat Arun is located on the other side of the Chao Phraya River from Wat Pho. With its characteristic spire shape, it has a lot of charm, too. The river boat drops you off right in front, but you can save on the admission fee by just admiring it from your boat. It is particularly photogenic during sunset boat rides or in the evening when it is illuminated.
Wat Pho is certainly the most famous temple in Bangkok, Thailand. It is best known for its huge reclining Buddha, which measures 46 meters long (and 15 meters high, no less). I found it even more impr…
Wat Pho is certainly the most famous temple in Bangkok, Thailand. It is best known for its huge reclining Buddha, which measures 46 meters long (and 15 meters high, no less). I found it even more impressive in person than in photos. I have to say, it does not even fit in the frame! But that is not the only draw of this temple. It is worth walking around for at least two hours. Every sculpture is perfectly well maintained. You can also book a massage or take massage classes at the school right next door.
Definitely don't listen to the tuk-tuk drivers who tell you it's closed. It's almost certainly open, and it's free too. The temple is very beautiful, both the Reclining Buddha inside and the site outs…
Definitely don't listen to the tuk-tuk drivers who tell you it's closed. It's almost certainly open, and it's free too. The temple is very beautiful, both the Reclining Buddha inside and the site outside. It's a must-see in Bangkok, and it's near other attractions so it's easy to visit without going too far out of your way!
I went there in November 2015, and despite the construction and scaffolding, the visit is worth it. You get there by taking a ferry that costs almost nothing from the bank right across the way. It is…
I went there in November 2015, and despite the construction and scaffolding, the visit is worth it. You get there by taking a ferry that costs almost nothing from the bank right across the way. It is really beautiful, especially the patterns and paintings that make up the temple! It is different from all the temples I had seen in Asia up until then!
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