With over 40,000 temples in Thailand, it can be tough to decide which ones to visit while you’re there. The author visited Thailand multiple times, first for 10 days and then 14 days and every time she was there she was only able to visit a handful of temples.
Which is why she teamed up with other travel bloggers to share with you the ultimate guide to all the best temples in Thailand. She grouped them by region so that you can decide which temples to visit in each part of Thailand, and included useful information like how to get there, entry fee if there is any, a bit of history and more.
Temple of the Emerald Buddha in the Royal Palace, Bangkok
Emerald Buddha temple in the Royal Palace of Bangkok, photo by Knycx Journeying
“Traffic in Bangkok can be quite hectic at times, and back in the day the Bangkok subway could not reach its old town. So, it is not a bad idea to explore this part of Bangkok by the Chao Phraya Tourist Hop-on-hop-off boat. The route covers most of Bangkok’s main landmarks from Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, the Flower Market and China Town.
Among these historic monuments, Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) is probably one of the most featured temples in Bangkok. The temple is located within the grounds of the Grand Palace. What impressed me the most is the Ubosot – it is a perfect example of the Rattanakosin architectural style: The exterior of the building is surrounded by statues of Garuda and Naga, paved by golden embellishments and covered by blue and orange mosaic tiles; don’t miss out the frescoes inside that depict the life journey of the Buddha.” – by Kenny, author of Knycx Journeying
Wat Prah Yai, Pattaya
The big buddha in Pattaya, photo by Small Footprints Big Adventures
“Wat Prah Yai is Pattaya’s Big Buddha Temple, which is 18 meters high and on the top of Pratumnak Hill. Surrounding the big Buddha are many smaller statues of him in various stages of enlightenment, and at the base of the hill there’s a Chinese temple, too. It is a lovely complex to explore to learn about Buddha, make offerings, and see magnificent views of the township below.
Wat Prah Yai is also an operational temple attended by monks each day. My family and I loved chatting to a monk and learning how to make our offerings properly, and he also taught us about our birth years by the Chinese animal calendar. Even though it was busy with locals and tourists, the temple was peaceful and quiet, and many butterflies and dragonflies hovered around the beautiful natural setting. We all agreed it was one of our favourite activities in Pattaya with kids, and one of the best temples we’ve visited.
There is no entry fee but it is kind to make a donation or offering while you’re there.” – by Emma, author of Small Footprints, Big Adventures
Phanomrung Temple (Buriram)
Buriram Phanom Rung, photo by Live Less Ordinary
“Due to its expansive size and lack of tourist-friendly transport, the region of Isaan (Northeastern Thailand) is rarely explored by traditional tourists and travellers in Thailand. Meaning that temples and attractions feel much more off-the-beaten-path. A good start would have to be in Buriram Province, with the ancient Khmer temple complex of Phanomrung Historical Park.
Phanomrung Temple, along with the ancient ruins of Prasat Muang Tam, are the more spectacular sites along the ancient Khmer Highway leading from better-known temples such as Angkor in Cambodia. If you can, I recommend visiting during the annual Phanomrung Festival, when the temple becomes the backdrop of a rather fascinating cultural festival with parades and historical enactments throughout the ancient Khmer temple compound. Otherwise it is a must-see attraction year-round for the more adventurous travelle. I recommend basing yourself for tours in the near-ish town of Nang Rong. Entrance Fee is 100 THB.” – by Allan, author of Live Less Ordinary
Sukothai
Sukhothai, photo by Go Live Young
“Sukhothai, the first capital city of the kingdom of Siam, dates back to the mid-thirteenth century. The city flourished for over a hundred years and this period is often referred to as the golden age of Thai civilisation. The remains of the kingdom, a UNESCO World Heritage Site are amongst Thailand’s most important historical ruins. For lovers of history and culture Sukhothai is a must visit and we’d encourage everyone to add the ancient city to any Thailand itinerary. There are many temples within the ancient city.
Sukhothai is located a six hour drive or a short one hour flight from Bangkok. Many people choose to break up the journey north to the cities of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai at Sukhothai.
The best way to explore the ancient city of Sukhothai is by bicycle. Bikes are cheap and easy to rent, at one of the many bike shops at the park gate. The Sukhothai Historical Park is worth at least half a day of exploration. The best time to visit is in the morning before it gets too hot or in the cooler late afternoon. Water, hats and sunscreen are needed whatever time of day you choose to visit. There are 45 square kilometres of ruins to explore but most people concentrate on the central and northern regions. Cycling around the ancient city is safe and easy. You simply cycle from ruin to ruin stopping to wander amongst the ruins or giant Buddha’s.” – by Nicky, author of Go Live Young