Taking in the Temples of Bangkok
Unravel Thailand's Spiritual Side
Bangkok, the vibrant and bustling capital of Thailand, is home to a rich blend of cultural treasures, and its many temples, or “wats” in Thai, stand as some of the most iconic and spiritually significant landmarks in the city. These temples are not just architectural marvels but also repositories of Thailand’s deep-rooted religious and cultural heritage. From the resplendent Grand Palace complex to the serene Wat Pho, with its reclining Buddha, and the gleaming spires of Wat Arun by the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok’s temples offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of the country.
Wat Pho | img via wikipedia commons
Wat Pho
Wat Pho, the oldest Buddhist temple in Bangkok, is renowned for its colossal Reclining Buddha statue and its role as a traditional massage school. Visitors flock to this destination to experience an authentic Thai massage, making it a popular choice among travellers, such as those staying at the Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok.
Wat Arun
Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is an iconic symbol of Bangkok, featuring a distinctive Khmer-style tower soaring to a remarkable height of 104 meters. Adorned with a myriad of porcelain fragments, the temple boasts a one-of-a-kind visual allure and makes for a great addition to any activity near a Bangkok city hotel.
Wat Kanyalanamit
Wat Kanlayanamit is a cherished temple often overlooked by tourists but embraced by the local community. Originally constructed by a Chinese trader and subsequently bestowed upon King Rama III, this temple is graced by a colossal seated Buddha statue and a massive bronze bell that visitors have the privilege of ringing
Wat Rakhang
Wat Rakhang, a riverside temple with origins dating back to the Ayutthaya period, is affectionately referred to as the “Temple of the Bell” in Thai. This distinction arises from the presence of a grand golden bell in the temple’s front courtyard. Wat Rakhang holds the esteemed title of a royal temple, serving as the residence for Luang Poh Phra Somdej, the first Supreme Patriarch.
