Thailand plays a significant role in shaping daily life, with thousands of temples, or "wats," scattered throughout the country.

Bangkok, known as the City of Angels (or Krung Thep Maha Nakhon in Thai), boasts many magnificent temples, especially in Rattanakosin, the city's historic Old Town.

Key temples to visit in Bangkok include Wat Phra Kaew (The Temple of the Emerald Buddha), located within the Grand Palace, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), famous for its striking riverside position and towering spire, and Wat Pho (The Temple of the Reclining Buddha), home to a massive reclining Buddha and a traditional Thai massage school.

1. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Wat Arun, located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Thonburi, Bangkok’s historic neighborhood and former capital, is famously known as the Temple of Dawn. Dating back to the Ayutthaya period, this temple is steeped in history and legend. It is believed that when Ayutthaya was invaded by the Burmese, King Taksin encountered the temple at dawn, giving it its name.

Wat Arun once housed the revered Emerald Buddha, which was brought from Vientiane, Laos, during King Taksin's reign. However, after King Rama moved the capital to Bangkok, the Emerald Buddha was relocated to Wat Phra Kaew in 1784. Today, Wat Arun remains one of Bangkok's most popular landmarks and a symbol of the city's rich cultural heritage.

2. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)

Wat Pho, also known as Wat Phra Chetuphon, is renowned for its massive Reclining Buddha, one of Bangkok's most iconic sights. Built during the reign of King Rama, the temple houses the Reclining Buddha statue, which is 46 meters long and 15 meters high, with soles inlaid with mother-of-pearl depicting 108 auspicious images.

Wat Pho is also home to Thailand’s largest collection of over 1,000 Buddha images. King Rama transformed the temple into Thailand’s first university, which included the establishment of a school for traditional Thai medical practices and massage. The Wat Pho Thai Traditional Medical and Massage School, founded during his reign, continues to operate today, preserving these ancient practices.

3. Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)

Wat Phra Kaew, one of Bangkok's most revered temples, is home to the Emerald Buddha, an intricately carved jade statue with great cultural significance. Originally located in Chiang Mai, the statue was moved to Vientiane, Laos in 1560 and then later returned to Thailand in 1779 during King Rama reign.

In 1784, the Emerald Buddha found its permanent home in Wat Phra Kaew, where it symbolizes Thailand’s sovereignty and spirituality. Adjacent to the temple is the Grand Palace, commissioned by King Rama in 1782. This stunning palace served as the royal residence for Thai kings and continues to be used for important ceremonies.

4. Wat Saket (Temple of the Golden Mount)

Wat Saket, also known as the Temple of the Golden Mount, is a standout landmark in Bangkok’s Old Town, near the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew. Dating back to the Ayutthaya period, the temple is famous for its golden chedi, which crowns a 77-meter.

At the summit, sacred relics are enshrined, making this a revered site. Every year during the Loy Krathong Festival, devotees climb the 344 steps to the top to wrap a red cloth around the chedi in a gesture of respect.

The climb offers spectacular views of Old Bangkok, including the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and the modern city skyline. Wat Saket provides a peaceful retreat amidst Bangkok’s bustling urban landscape, preserving the country’s rich architectural legacy while offering a spiritual experience.

5. Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple)

Wat Benchamabophit, commonly known as the Marble Temple, is a stunning example of Bangkok’s architectural grandeur. Completed in 1911 during the reign of King Rama, it is renowned for its use of imported Italian marble, which gives the temple a radiant and elegant appearance.

These five temples in Bangkok each offer a unique glimpse into Thailand’s rich cultural and architectural heritage!