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Thailand temples, known as “wats,” are the country’s spiritual heart, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage and Buddhist traditions. These architectural marvels range from ancient ruins to contemporary masterpieces, each telling a unique story of faith and artistry. Adorned with intricate carvings, glittering mosaics, and towering spires, Thailand temples are not just places of worship but also centres of community life and learning. From the bustling capital of Bangkok to the serene mountains of Chiang Mai, exploring Thailand’s temples provides an unforgettable journey through the kingdom’s history, art, and spirituality.
10 Best Thailand Temples
We’ve gathered a list of the 10 best temples in Thailand for when you decide to take a trip to this marvellous country.
1. Sanctuary Of Truth
Photo: Rolf Heinrich, Köln / Wikimedia Commons
The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya is the largest wood building in Thailand and an architectural masterpiece. The temple was based on the concept of impermanence, and so, it was and still is being built following historical building techniques using hand-hewn woodworking skills. There are ornate wood carvings to represent the philosophy of life all around the temple’s four wings; each wind has been dedicated to Thai, Khmer, Chinese, and Indian religious symbols.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Location: 206/2, 5 Na Kluea 12 Alley, Chang Wat Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
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2. Tiger Cave Temple
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
For those who love immersing themselves in nature, Tiger Cave Temple is the perfect temple in Thailand for meditation. The temple’s name comes from the caves it possesses, which contain footprints of tigers, as well as an opening that resembles a tiger’s paw. Visitors can also climb to the top of the temple for an unparalleled view of the Andaman Sea and the town of Krabi.
Timings: 6:15 AM – 6:30 PM
Location: Krabi Noi, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand
3. Wat Pho
Photo: Preecha.MJ / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Wat Pho, also known as The Temple of the Reclining Buddha, houses a 46-meter-long reclining Buddha that represents the entry of Buddha into Nirvana. The temple was first ordered for construction by King Rama I, which makes it one of the oldest temples in Bangkok. It’s also the first of the six temples classed as the highest grade of the first-class royal temples in the country, and this is proof of how impressive this monument is.
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Location: 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand
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4. Wat Chaiwatthanaram
Photo: Evilarry / Wikimedia Commons
Similar to Wat Arun, Wat Chaiwatthanaram Is located right by the Chao Phraya river. The temple is currently part of Ayutthaya Historical Park and for good reason. It was the first temple constructed by King Prasat Thong in 1630 and served as the place for the king’s religious ceremonies. Wat Chaiwatthanaram’s impressive structure, a 35-meter high central prang surrounded by eight chapels, is meant to represent the eightfold path of Buddha.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Location: Ban Pom, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
5. Wat Rong Khun
Photo: An-d / Wikimedia Commons
Often referred to as the White Temple, Wat Rong Khun is a contemporary Buddhist temple that stands out for its unconventional design. Additionally, the temple’s striking white exterior, adorned with intricate mirror mosaics, symbolizes the purity of the Buddha. Wat Rong Khun’s unique blend of traditional Thai architecture and contemporary art makes it a must-visit destination. Moreover, the temple complex also includes an art gallery showcasing Chalermchai’s paintings, providing insight into the artist’s vision.
Timings: 6:30 AM – 6 PM
Location: Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
Suggested Read: The Ultimate List Of The Top Things To Do In Thailand
6. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Photo: Tevaprapas / Wikimedia Commons
Perched atop Doi Suthep mountain, this 14th-century temple offers breathtaking views of Chiang Mai city. The temple’s golden chedi (stupa) is said to contain a relic of the Buddha and is considered one of the most sacred sites in northern Thailand. Moreover, the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is not just a tourist attraction but an active place of worship. Additionally, the temple’s museum also houses a collection of Buddhist artefacts and tells the story of the temple’s legendary founding.
Timing: 8 AM – 5 PM
Location: Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
7. Wat Mahathat
Photo: Supanut Arunoprayote / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the ancient city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Wat Mahathat is famous for its Buddha head entwined in tree roots. Built in the 14th century, Wat Mahathat was one of the most important temples of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. The temple complex includes numerous prang (reliquary towers), Buddha statues, and crumbling chedis. Exploring Wat Mahathat offers insight into Ayutthaya’s rich history and architectural style. The site is particularly atmospheric at sunrise or sunset when the warm light bathes the ancient stones.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Location: Tha Wa Su Kri, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
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8. Wat Arun
Photo: BerryJ / Wikimedia Commons
Situated on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is one of Bangkok’s most recognizable landmarks. Its central prang, reaching 70 meters high, is adorned with colourful porcelain and seashells, creating a dazzling effect in the sunlight. The temple’s design is unique among Bangkok temples, showing Khmer influence in its elongated, corn-cob-shaped central tower. The base of the prang is surrounded by four smaller prangs, each dedicated to the wind god Phra Phai. Inside, visitors can admire murals depicting the life of the Buddha and various aspects of Buddhist cosmology.
Timings: 8 AM – 5:30 PM
Location: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Khwaeng Wat Arun, Khet Bangkok Yai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600, Thailand
9. Wat Phra Singh
Photo: Stefan Fussan / Wikimedia Commons
Wat Phra Singh is renowned for its elegant Lanna (northern Thai) architecture and its revered Buddha image, the Phra Buddha Sihing. Built in the 14th century, the temple has been expanded and renovated over the centuries, resulting in a harmonious blend of architectural styles. The temple complex includes several structures, including the main prayer hall (wihan) with its three-tiered roof, a golden chedi containing Buddha relics, and the exquisitely decorated Lai Kam assembly hall. The latter houses the Phra Buddha Sihing statue and features some of the finest examples of Lanna-style murals.
Timing: 8 AM – 5:30 PM
Location: 2 Samlarn Rd, Phra Sing, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50280, Thailand
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10. Wat Phumin
Photo: Ellnik / Wikimedia Commons
Phumin is a hidden gem that’s often overlooked by international tourists. This unique cruciform temple is famous for its exquisite murals that depict scenes from Buddhist Jataka tales, local legends, and everyday life in 19th-century Nan. The temple’s most famous mural, known as “The Whisper of Love,” shows a man whispering to a woman, capturing a moment of intimacy rarely seen in traditional Thai religious art. Additionally, The murals provide a fascinating glimpse into the local culture, fashion, and daily life of the time.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Location: Tambon Nai Wiang, Amphoe Mueang Nan, Chang Wat Nan 55000, Thailand
Now that you know some of the best temples in Thailand, you can prep for your Thai trips and book your tickets in advance! We also recommend taking note of each temple’s respective clothing guidelines when visiting as a sign of respect for the culture you’re getting to know. As you plan your next trip here, let TripXL shoulder the burden of bookings and the best deals.
Cover Photo: Nawit science / Wikimedia Commons
