Stunning natural scenery, picture-perfect beaches, and wild nightlife — that must be what Thailand is all famous for. Wrong. Thai temples prove there is more to Thailand than meets the eye. Even if you are not religious, you cannot help but be drawn in and amazed by these magnificent temples due to their one-of-a-kind architecture and placement in breathtaking settings such as atop hills or by the water. Do I still need to convince you? Relax, start scrolling, and get ready to explore a side of Thailand that you have probably never heard of before. If you are planning a trip to Asia, be sure to include these best temples in Thailand on your schedule!
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Best Temples In Thailand For Witnessing Divinity & Creativity
Thailand’s sacred sites provide a window to another world. Given that Thailand is home to around 40,000 temples, you can find a detailed list of the top temples in this Thailand travel guide, each of which is a cultural and architectural treasure. In this spiritual vacation guide to Thailand, you will learn about some of the country’s most revered and best temples in Thailand.
1. Wat Arun
Wat Arun, located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, is Thailand’s most famous temple and is also known by a different name, the Temple of the Dawn. You should not miss this opportunity because it involves visiting one of the country’s most significant landmarks.
Opening hours: Every day from 8 am to 5:30 pm.
Location: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Khwaeng Wat Arun, Khet Bangkok Yai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600, Thailand.
Wat Arun Activities & Tours:
2. Sanctuary Of Truth
This temple is constructed completely out of wood and features carvings so detailed that they will astound you. It is a must-see when visiting Thailand due to its unique beauty and design.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8 am to 6 pm.
Location: 206/2, 5 Na Kluea 12 Alley, Chang Wat Chon Buri 20150, Thailand.
Tours: Click here to discover the best activities around the Sanctuary of Truth
3. Wat Pa Phu Kon
Wat Pa Phu Kon is considered one of the most beautifully built temples in Thailand, and visiting Thailand would not be complete without seeing it. The sight of the reclining Buddha statue in white marble and the aqua-blue roof will leave you gasping for air. Its perch on a hill only adds to its picturesque setting.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.
Location: Ban Kong, Na Yung District, Udon Thani 41380, Thailand
4. Tiger Cave Temple
The tiger footprints on the rocks of the temple’s caverns are the inspiration for the name of the temple. Indeed, it is one of the most well-known Buddhist temples in all of Thailand. After a strenuous ascent of 1,272 stairs, you will enjoy breathtaking panoramas over Thailand and the Andaman Sea.
Opening hours: Every day from 6:15 am to 6:30 pm.
Location: Krabi Noi, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand
Tiger Cave Activities & Tours:
5. Wat Phra Kaew
Wat Phra Kaew is a big Thai Buddhist temple, and it is right in the middle of Bangkok. It is surrounded by bright buildings and within is a stunning statue of Buddha in Emerald Green. Do not leave Thailand without visiting this amazing Buddha temple in the heart of Bangkok.
Opening hours: Every day from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm.
Location: 2 Na Phra Lan Rd, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand
Tickets and prices: here
6. Wat Pho
Wat Pho, which has the 46-meter-long reclining statue of Buddha, is not only one of the best temples in Thailand but also the oldest temple in Thailand. Your mind will be blown by the sheer size of the statue. Also, it houses the biggest number of Buddha statues in the world. This temple visit is definitely a must when in Thailand.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8 am to 5 pm.
Location: 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand
Tickets and prices: here
7. The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
Depending on your point of view, the White Temple is either evocative of a fairy tale, a mashup of many mythical universes, or a carbon copy of the land of Narnia. There can be no doubt that this is one of the most impressive temples in all of Thailand. If you want to do something truly unique, visit this temple.
Opening hours: Every day from 6:30 am – 6:00 pm
Location: Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
Wat Rong Khun Activities & Tours:
8. Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Prao
You will not believe your eyes until night falls. Fluorescent colors were used to create this temple, which is illuminated at night and makes for a stunning spectacle. Also, it enjoys a prime location atop a hill with breathtaking panoramas. What else could you possibly want on vacation?
Location: Chong Mek, Sirindhorn District, Ubon Ratchathani 34350, Thailand
9. Wat Benchamabophit
Wat Ben, as it is known, is one of the most stunning Buddhist temples in all of Thailand. Its unusual design and white marble construction make it stand out. Its architecture is a unique blend of Thai and European styles, making it a must-see for anybody visiting Thailand.
Opening hours: 8 am to 6:30 pm.
Location: 69 Thanon Si Ayutthaya, Khwaeng Dusit, Khet Dusit, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10300
10. Wat Chai Watthanaram
The majestic Wat Chai Watthanaram is one of Thailand’s most revered ancient sites. Situated in a historically significant area, it is made up of many buildings that stand for various aspects of the world in Buddhist thought.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8 am to 6 pm.
Location: Ban Pom, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
Tickets and prices: here
11. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
This temple in Chiang Mai is one of the most well-known and best temples in Thailand. Its 17-meter-tall Buddha statue draws visitors from all over the world. The magnificent mountain scenery may be seen from its elevated position. A visit to the temple is recommended, however, as it represents Buddhism at its finest and is a model tourist destination for the country.
Opening hours: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm
Location: Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Tickets and prices: here
12. Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew
Even though it is a well-known Thai Buddhist temple, you will not find anything quite like it at a place of worship. Its greenish tint comes from over 1.5 million recycled glass bottles. This temple offers a unique experience that you will not find anywhere else. Do not forget to include it on your Thailand bucket list.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8 am to 5 pm
Location: Ban Don Mu 2, Tambon Non Sung, Sisaket, Thailand
Best temples in Thailand – Conclusion
Thailand is a deeply religious nation, and the country’s many temples serve as living monuments to its long and illustrious history and unique culture. Whether you are looking for a quiet place to meditate or a cultural experience with Thai art and architecture, you will find what you are looking for here. The spiritual experience you will have at these temples is worth the trip to Asia alone.
Trying to figure out how to dress in the temples? Read my post about what to wear in Thailand Temples.
