TEMPLE HOPPING IN BANGKOK
Bangkok is home to over 400 stunning temples with unique design and architecture. Often referred to as a ‘wat,’ Bangkok’s temples are scattered around the city and can often be seen playing hide and seek behind other more modern buildings. While you may not want to visit all of the temples in Bangkok, there are a three noteworthy temples located near The Ember Hotel that we recommend you explore.
1. WAT PHRA KAEW - TEMPLE OF THE EMERALD BUDDHA
Wat Phra Kaew is Thailand’s most sacred Buddhist temple. Located in a small hall within the Grand Palace grounds, Wat Phra Kaew houses a small statue of an Emerald Buddha. It is not possible to take photographs inside Wat Phra Kaew, but you may visit and pay your respects to the Emerald Buddha.
If you are not in a rush, we recommend you explore the massive grounds of the Grand Palace as the complex is absolutely magnificent.
Wat Phra Kaew is located approximately 1.2 km from The Ember Hotel.
2. WAT PHO - TEMPLE OF THE RECLINING BUDDHA
Wat Pho is a must visit temple in Bangkok. Known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho has 91 stupas scattered around its temple grounds, but the highlight is inside where you will find the enormous 46 meter long reclining Buddha.
Interestingly, Wat Pho also houses a school of Thai medicine and is known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. Massage is still taught and practiced at the temple, which covers a massive area of 50 rai.
Wat Pho is located approximately 1.8 km from The Ember Hotel.
3. WAT ARUN - TEMPLE OF DAWN
Located on the western side of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is a sight to behold. The details on Wat Arun are absolutely stunning. The entire temple is covered with porcelain patterns that are intricately aligned. If you are looking for a temple for your Instagram feed, Wat Arun is definitely it!
Plus, the views from Wat Arun are amazing. Climb the different sets of steep stairs to see a full panoramic view of the Chao Phraya River dotted with longtail boats and barges, as well as the stilt structures across the river which are homes, restaurants and ferry landings.
Wat Arun is approximately 2.4 km from The Ember Hotel.
OTHER TEMPLES OF INTEREST IN THE AREA WORTH VISITING IF YOU’D LIKE TO SEE MORE INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
- Wat Bowonniwet
- Wat Chana Songkhram
- Wat Ratchanatda – Loha Prasat
- Wat Suthat Thepwararam
- Wat Mahathat Royal Palace
- Wat Saket – Phu Khao Thong
- Wat Ratchabophit
OTHER TEMPLES OF INTEREST IN THE AREA WORTH VISITING IF YOU’D LIKE TO SEE MORE INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
Visiting temples in Bangkok is exciting, but please note that there are a few rules to follow when doing so. The most important thing we can share with you is that before you go off to visit any temple in the city, make sure you are dressed modestly. For men, you should wear long pants and shirts with sleeves. For women, make sure that you wear long pants or skirts that cover your knees, shoulders should be covered and no sleeveless tops or see-through clothing, or tight leggings, should be worn. Temples are sacred in Thailand, so please dress appropriately so you don’t offend a local who has come to the temple to make merit or pray.
A few other rules for visiting temples include remembering to take your shoes off when visiting a temple. There is usually a sign that will indicate in what areas of the temple you need to take off your shoes. Always keep your head lower than the image of Buddha or any monks in the temple. Please do not point your feet at any Buddha images or monks, do not sit on platforms or seats reserved for monks, and remember to talk quietly.
Public displays of affection inside the temple are not allowed, and it goes without saying, but please do not smoke cigarettes or bring alcohol onto the temple grounds.