The 10 most amazing temples to visit when in Thailand

Thailand,  the “Land of Smiles”, a country that mesmerises tourists and captivates photographers from around the world. The exotic and decades of historic artefacts creates a paradise for travellers. Thailand has a mixture of places from beaches to temples, it’s an all in one destination for tourists to relax and take in the scenic country.

The main religion practiced in Thailand is  Buddhism. So, if you happen to be on a journey in Thailand, do not be surprised by the many temples that you see there. These temples can be perceived by tourists and religious people differently as they appear to be amazing photo scenic views but at the same time play a vital role in daily lives of the religious Thai people. Here are the temples you shouldn’t miss out on!

Prasat Sajja Tham - Sanctuary of Truth

Standing 105 metres and covering an area of more than two rai, this unfinished wooden construction is filled with traditional Buddhist and Hindu motifs. Located in one of the closest beaches to Bangkok, the temple in Pattaya is a work in progress, that began in 1981 and is to be completed in another 30 years. The temple aims to honour the traditional customs and values of earth, knowledge and eastern philosophy, by educating on the responsibilities as a human-being, the cycle of life, and how life is related with the universe. These teachings are all mirrored in Buddhism and Hinduism, which the temple portrays with its beautiful sculptures.

Wat Phra That Lampang Luang – The Grand Temple of Lampang

One of the most sacred temples of the Lanna style Buddhist architecture of the highest preservation, where details tracing back to the 13th century can be evidently seen. A conical spire, also known as a stupa that exceeds more than 400 metres high, are one of the scenic beauties that captures attention. While other temples have been modernised, this temple has been returned to its original, thus still having the awe of what the 13th century era cherished.

Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew - Temple of a Million Bottles

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This is one of the most unique temples visitors come across, as it isn’t your normal Buddhist temple. Just by the name, this complex temple has about 1.5 million recycled glass bottles of mainly green Heineken and brown Chang bottles. The bottle caps are used to create capturing mosaics. This complex has about 20 buildings that make up this astonishing landmark, and all this started in the 1980s, where Buddhist monks started collecting empty beer bottles. This temple also is a showcase of what beautiful creations can become of recycled goods, and not just only glass.

Wat Phra Kaew - Temple of the Emerald Buddha

The 66 centimetres high Buddha occupies the place of honour in this temple, which is said to be dated back to the 15th century. It has moved to various temples around Thailand over a few centuries and ended up n Bangkok in 1784. Considered as one of the holiest temples in Thailand as it resides in the Grand Palace grounds. The entrance of the temple is guarded by a pair of Yakshis statues, who were mythical giants that stood 5 metres tall.

Wat Mahathat, Sukhothai – Temple of the Great Relic

An ancient temple, that was the largest and most important during of the Sukhothai Kingdom.  Historians believe the temple to date back to the 13th century, which is justifiable by the great ruins and paths. In the Orientation Hall, a large sitting Buddha can be found, and near to this a standing Buddha. With over 168 sculptures of the Buddhist disciples with their hands clasped can be seen at the base of the main stupa.

Wat Arun – Temple of Dawn

A breath-taking scenery, where the temple rises above the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, which radiates colours of magnificence when lit up in the night sky. One of Thailand’s landmarks, the temple is a major sightseeing destination for tourists, as it is in the city centre. Dating back to the Ayutthaya period, received its famous characteristics from the 82 metres high Khmer style tower, and the main Buddha image is said to be designed by King Rama II, himself. Ferries are one of the most common transports to get to the Temple of Dawn.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

One of Ayutthaya period’s most impressive temples, which was built to honour a king’s mother. Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, with the scenic view of the river adds it’s capturing complex and makes it one of the most visited temples in Ayutthaya. The design of the temple portrays the traditional view of the world through the eyes of Buddhists, where relations to mountains, continents, seas and human habitats can be observed within this famous temple.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

One of the must-see temples in Chiang Mai, located on the top of the mountain on the outskirts of the city. This prepares you for a memorable sight at the brisk of dawn or moment before the sunsets. It’s a Buddhist monastery, built in the 14th century, which is surrounded by shrines and murals. An Emerald Buddha replica is on display for tourists to engulf in the historic construct of this intriguing temple designs.

Wat Pho - Temple of the Reclining Buddha

The only temple that hosts the largest number of the Buddha collections in Thailand. A reclining Buddha that is 45 metres long, is the main attraction and is where the temple gets its name. Residing on an island that is close to the Grand Palace, it is one of the best designed royal temples. The Thai massage was born from here and is also considered to be one o the oldest temples out of all. Not only is it a religious place, but also an education for the public, where the walls are  decorated  with inscriptions on various subjects.

Wat Rong Khun - White Temple

A beautiful creation, which is one if the newest temples in Thailand that was built in 1997. A photographic area, with many scenic designs, the temple reminisces a castle cover with snow. This privately-owned temple has different structures and symbolisms, such as the bridge of the “cycle of rebirth,” where hands stretch out to reach the sky. Another structure is the “Gate of Heaven”, which is showcased by two creatures that decide the fate of the dead

Those are the top 10 temples to visit in Thailand, and to ensure your trip goes without any “hiccups” prior appointments for travel vaccinations are always a good idea. You can never be too cautious when traveling to countries you have never been. Vaccinations will help provide your body with the immunity you need to enjoy the trip. A couple of routine Thailand vaccinations you’ll need to update if children will be traveling with you. Refer to Travelvax for details and advice. Having a map and contact details of travel doctors or travel clinics in Thailand will help in the case of any emergency.

Author’s Bio

Thank you to Guest Writer Kym Wallis for this informative guide to Temples of Thailand.

Kym Wallis, the founding director of  Higher Ranking  has over 15 years of advertising sales, digital strategy, and business development experience. He is currently working as Digital Adviser for   TravelVax