Phra Phuttha Maha Suwana Patimakon, commonly referred to as Bangkok Gold Buddha, is one of Thailand’s most cherished treasures. Located in Wat Traimit, this 5.5-ton solid gold statue is a symbol of the country’s rich Buddhist heritage. Its grandeur and spiritual importance are appreciated by visitors from all over the world. This concise guide will educate you on the stores and centers for this statue. This will enable you to canvas its cultural and religious importance during your trip.
Location
Photo: Photo Dharma / Wikimedia Commons
Wat Traimit, a Chinatown district temple of Bangkok, Thailand holds the Bangkok Gold Buddha inside. The temple itself is located near the end of Yaowarat Road and just about in the middle of Hua Lamphong Railway Station. It is located in easy reach from different areas of the city. The exact address is Wat Traimit 661 Charoen Krung Road, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok, Thailand.
How To Reach
Photo: LBM1948 / Wikimedia Commons
By BTS Skytrain: Take the BTS to Hua Lamphong Station, then a short walk to Wat Traimit.
By Taxi / Tuk-Tuk: Taxis and tuk-tuks are an easy option, but you may have to bargain a bit for the fare.
By Bus: There are several local buses along Yaowarat Road making it a cheap option for travelling.
Things To Do
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There is an exhibition hall on the history of the Gold Buddha and its discovery on display on the Wat Traimit premises. Discover where the statue came from and its journey from a buried treasure to a national symbol. It is a mesmerising experience to stand before the Golden Buddha. The golden surface of its statue, and intricate facial expressions; coupled with its serene posture allow people to surrender to that peace and divinity. The fine craftsmanship can be viewed and visitors can use the opportunity to reflect on the spiritual meaning of the statue.
Places To Visit Near Bangkok Gold Buddha
Here are the best places to visit near Nagkok Gold Buddha in order to elevate the experiences you have during the trip:
1. Wat Mangkon
Photo: Supanut Arunoprayote / Wikimedia Commons
Wat Mangkon Kamalawat is Bangkok’s largest Chinese Buddhist temple and is only a short distance away from Wat Traimit. The temple has stunning architecture and beautiful dragon motifs while the place is quiet. Chinese Buddhist traditions are particularly well experienced when in China during Chinese New Year. Wat Traimit’s golden grandeur differs from the temple’s incense filled halls and colourful decorations as a contrast. This serene space also allows visitors to light incense sticks, make wishes, observe Buddhist rituals, and more.
Entry Fees: Free
Distance: 1.5 km away
Best Time To Visit: Morning or early evening
2. Chinatown (Yaowarat Road)
Photo: Marcin Konsek / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Bangkok’s Chinatown is known to be a vibrant neighbourhood with lively markets, delectable street food and an air of rich cultural heritage. This area is a short walk from Wat Traimit. It comes to life at night with street vendors selling food from everything to seafood to desserts. It allows visitors to walk around traditional Chinese medicine shops, gold markets, and historic shrines. Popular dishes to try include roast duck, dim sum, and mango sticky rice.
Entry Fees: Free
Distance: 500 meters away
Best Time To Visit: Evening for street food experience
3. Sampeng Market
Photo: Jorge Láscar / Wikimedia Commons
Chinatown’s Sampeng Market is one of the main wholesale markets, famous for its cheap goods and abundance of merchandise. Textiles, accessories, souvenirs, traditional Thai products and more can be found here. Picking up unique items and at the same time witnessing the local shopping culture is a great experience. The narrow alleys of the market are filled with vendors, inducing a lively and energetic shopping experience. Get ready to be in for bargaining here because that is quite common.
Entry Fees: Free
Distance: 2 km away
Best Time To Visit: Morning or afternoon
Where To Stay
Photo: Kgbo / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are a few accommodation options near Bangkok Gold Buddha which will be convenient and comfortable to stay in. The Shanghai Mansion Bangkok is a stylish boutique hotel in Chinatown with Chinese inspired décor and a serene atmosphere. Room amenities including an appointment desk extension, desk, safe, and iPod docking station are other amenities that Prime Hotel Central Station Bangkok provides. The Hotel Royal Bangkok in Chinatown has stunning city views and a rooftop pool.
Where To Eat
Photo: Marcin Konsek / Wikimedia Commons
Bangkok Gold Buddha offers a variety of delicious Thai and Chinese cuisine in the area. Chinatown’s T&K Seafood is a gastronomic legend, famous for its fresh seafood and authentic flavours. Michelin recognised Thai rice porridge from Jok Prince is good for a comforting meal. Crispy pork, flavourful noodle soups are the specialty of Nai Ek Roll Noodles. Chinatown’s street food stalls are also highly recommended to be explored.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons
From November to February, the cool season, temperatures are more comfortable, making it the best time to visit Bangkok Gold Buddha. Visiting the temple early in the morning allows you to make the temple a peaceful place before the crowd arrives. It is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. It is not open during weekends and Thai holidays.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons
- Cover shoulders and knees by dressing modestly.
- Enjoy the experience in the morning for it to be the most peaceful.
- Do not make loud conversation inside the temple or display disrespect towards local customs.
- Small purchases at nearby markets will require you to carry cash.
- To know more about the temple’s history, you may take a guided tour.
Bangkok Gold Buddha is a must visit landmark that showcases Thailand’s spiritual and artistic heritage. It is an unforgettable experience to witness that sirinee and the statue’s grandeur within the temple’s serene atmosphere. Come plan your visit to discover this magnificent golden icon, experience Thai culture and more. Plan your visit with TripXL to explore this magnificent golden icon and immerse yourself in Thai culture.
Cover Photo: Photo Dharma / Wikimedia Commons