Joanna James
Buddhist temples in Thailand are known as wats. With a population that's over 90% Buddhist the capital Bangkok has many shrines both big and small to explore. Some are revered for their historical significance and others elaborate structures. Here are the must see temples of Bangkok.
This revered shrine located on the western banks of the mighty Chao Phraya River is featured on the 10 baht coin of Thailand. The place is known as the temple of dawn and is indeed one of the best places in the city to witness a magical sunrise. The temples towers, phra prang, are covered in little pieces of colourful Chinese ceramic and took the reign of two kings to complete. The Wat Arun was started by King Rama II and completed by King Rama III. This is a photographer's perfect location, home to not only the artistic towers but windy lanes, shrines, ponds and decorative buildings. Its easy to tour Bangkok temples when you book a city hotel. Some like Pathumwan Princess Hotel caters to family visitors. Ideal if you are on the lookout for a spacious family room hotel, Bangkok has to offer.
Located within the grounds of the Grand Palace, the Wat Phra Kaew is probably the most revered shrine in Thailand. This temple which was once for the royal family to worship in is home to the Emerald Buddha. The nations sacred artefact was discovered during a storm, the legend of which makes quite a fascinating story. The Emerald Buddha is so revered that visitors are not allowed into the chambers its located; instead, you must make do with a postcard picture of the statue.
Wat Pho is located across the road from the Grand Palace. This temple is home to a giant statue of the reclining Buddha. The statue is covered in gold leaf and has feet inset with mother of pearl and encrusted with precious gems. Shown on the feet are 108 lucky symbols of the Buddha. The huge statue is 46 metres long. Located at Wat Pho is the lauded Thai massage school which has trained Thai masseurs since 1955.
The English name for this shrine is the Marble Temple, which is, in fact, a royal monastery. The place is an architectural masterpiece which focuses on Thai architectural skills. The design is a fine amalgamation of European Neo-classical styles while Italian marble was used for its construction. The temple was initiated by King Rama V; who's ashes are buried inside.
This temple is not as beautiful as the others. But it is one of the most sacred in Thailand. This wat is one of the six royal temples and was built during the Ayutthaya period. It was a focal point for hosting royal festivities when Bangkok was first set up as the capital.
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