Asia is the world’s largest continent and home to vast culturally diverse nations—especially the South Asian nations. Thailand, being one of them, is a culturally, historically, and spiritually rich nation.
Thailand is one of the world’s most desired holiday destinations. Apart from being affordable, this country offers some of the most beautiful serenity one desires on a vacation. Thailand has world-renowned temples, which function as hubs for cultural events, community meetings, and places of prayer. A trip to Thailand is incomplete if you miss out on these things in the temples of Thailand.
In this travel guide, we shall take a look into some of Thailand’s significant temples, explain why you must visit them, and explain their significance. They are relevant.
Bangkok: A Modern City Filled with Temples
When you say Thailand, Bangkok is the first place that comes to mind. Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, is a busy metropolis where modern skyscrapers and equally holds graver place of ancient temples within its vicinity. These temples provide a window into the spirituality and culture of Thailand. Without further ado, let’s learn a little about them.
1. The Emerald Buddha Temple OR The Wat Phra Kaew
One of Thailand’s most essential and significant temples is the Emerald Buddha Temple of Wat Phra Kaew which is situated on the grounds of the Grand Palace. It is home to the pious Emerald Buddha statue carved from a single jade block. The temple is a must-see for Bangkok because of its elaborate decorations and magnificent architecture. The catch here is that since this temple is one of Thailand’s holiest locations, people visiting the temple should note the type of clothes that are relevant to wear to the temple.
2. The Temple of the Reclining Buddha, or Wat Pho
Another important temple in the city is the massive 46-meter-long and 15-meter-tall Reclining Buddha statue of Wat Pho. It lies close to the Grand Palace. The Buddha’s feet have elaborate mother-of-pearl decorations and are coated with gold leaf.
When you visit Wat Pho, its not only the spiritual importance of the place, but you also get to experience the world-renowned Thai massage culture. You can also have a massage on the temple’s premises, and experience an even better and wholesome visit to the place.
3. The Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun
The Temple of Dawn or the Wat Arun, is a beautiful temple along the river Chao Phraya. The Wat is well-known for its prang, or spire, decorated with seashells & vibrant tiles. And the best part is that from the ascending the steep steps of Wat Arun’s central prang,you can see the entire city of Bangkok.
Chiang Mai: Northern Thailand’s Spiritual Capital
It’s not only Bangkok that has famous temples in Thailand. There are many more places that hold significant value for their spiritual history. So, here’s the next one- Chiang Mai.
Popularly known as the “Rose of the North,” the Chiang Mai is home to some of Thailand’s most tranquil and revered temples. Let’s check them out one by one.
1. Doi Suthep Wat Phra That
One of the most well-known temples worth visiting in Northern Thailand is the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, located on a mountain from where Chiang Mai is visible. Tourists visit there to pray because it is said to contain a relic of Buddha.
Though a tram is provided for those who would rather not walk, tourists must climb a 300-step staircase adorned with statues of nagas (serpents) to access the temple. The temple’s summit provides impressive views of Chiang Mai and the surrounding area.
2. The Chedi Luang Wat
Situated in the center of Chiang Mai’s Old City, the Chedi Laung Wat is well-known for its chedi i.e., stupa. Despite being damaged at the time of an earthquake, it continues to be a significant spiritual hub and a striking spectacle for tourists from all around the world.
Wat Chedi Luang also houses the City Pillar, a highly regarded representation of the city’s power and prosperity. You can also indulge yourself in the “monk chat” program, where you can to talk with monks about Buddhism, Thai culture, or life in general.
3. Phra Singh Wat
Another hidden gem is the Wat Phra Singh, known for its Phra Singh Buddha and traditional Lanna-style architecture. The temple is bustling during the Songkran Festival (Thai New Year) when locals and visitors assemble to bathe the Buddha statues in water as a blessing.
The city of Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya, a UNESCO Heritage Site, is known to be the capital of the Kingdom of Siam. But today it is more relevant as ruins of ancient temples. Let us check them one by one.
1. Wat Mahathat
Wat Mahathat is one of the most well-known temples in Ayutthaya. It is well-known for its Buddha head embedded in the roots of a banyan tree. People visit here to witness the archaeological wonder of the ancient times. This temple was formerly the kingdom’s worship center.
2. Wat Phra Si Sanphet
Next up in line are the three soaring chedis that crown this temple. They served as the royal residence of the ancient Ayutthaya kings. The grandiose chedis, which held the kings of Ayutthaya’s ashes, symbolize the temple’s significance during the city’s prosperity.
3. Wat Chaiwatthanaram
One of the best-preserved temples in Ayutthaya is Wat Chaiwatthanaram, situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Angkor Wat in Cambodia is similar to this temple’s symmetrical architecture and enormous central prang. Because of its riverfront location, it is a serene spot to explore, especially at dusk.
So, if you are lately planning a trip to Thailand, make sure to add these destinations to your travel list. And if it’s more than the temples you like to explore, stay tuned with us as we are just near in dropping few more tourism attractions in Thailand for your convenience.
