Joanna James
The bustling city of Bangkok has a range of pleasant surprises in store for travel enthusiasts. Among the city's many cultural attractions, scenic landscapes and natural sites, temples play a unique part in the city's irresistible allure. Not only are these temples incredibly beautiful but they are also an idyllic place for you to soak in the spirituality of the city.
Being one of the must-visit temples in Bangkok, Wat Pho shelters a 15-meter high, 43-meter long reclining Buddha statue adorned with gold lead, mother of pearls and engraved with holy signs. The temple is a must-visit for those exploring the bustling Bangkok city for the first time. Interestingly, the temple is also home to one thousand Buddha images, and 91 chedis (stupas), of which four chedis are devoted to four Chakri kings. The place is also identified as the leading school of massage in Thai, so there is nowhere better to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul with a traditional Thai massage.
Perched on the west bank of the Chao Phraya river, Wat Arun is a remarkable temple in Bangkok for its unique riverside location and distinct design. Also titled the Temple of Dawn, the temple comprises colourfully beautified spires and rises graciously over water. The temple is also ideally located in front of the famous Wat Pho, so you can easily combine two trips. Hop on board a riverboat from Saphan Taksin boat pier and get off at Pier 8. From there onwards you can hitch a ride on a small shuttle boat that will take you from one corner of the river to the other.
Perched on the summit of an artificial hill, Wat Saket or the temple of Golden Mount is one of the most well-known temples in the metropolis. The interiors of this serene temple are decorated with Buddhist paintings that are worth catching a glimpse of. Those heading to this famed temple can also explore the chapel and library located on the historic grounds itself. Interestingly, the temple is only a short drive away from a serviced apartment in Bangkok Sukhumvit such as the Somerset Maison Asoke, so you can easily arrange a tour without any hassle.
Tucked away in Chinatown, Wat Traimit temple shelters the world's largest statue of Buddha. The statue is crafted in gold and measures up to 5 meters in height and five and a half tons in weight. The current value of the temple is estimated to be more than $250 million and also houses a museum on its 3rd floor where you can unveil the history of the Golden Buddha.
Popularly known as the Metal castle, Loha Prasat temple is situated on the grounds of Wat Ratchanatdaram. This 36-meter-tall, the multi-tiered structure exhibits 37 metal spires resembling the 37 virtues toward enlightenment in Buddhist belief. Interestingly, it is also the only building in the world in which the roof is covered with bronze tiles. With the King Rama II memorial plaza also situated adjacent to the temple, you can easily plump for a tour around the place in no time.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
