Discover Bangkok's Most Dazzling Temples: Where history whispers and gold gleams

Within the gilded walls of the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, or "The Temple of the Emerald Buddha," awaits, a jewel-toned sanctuary. This isn't your average emerald, though. Imagine a captivating 66 cm tall statue carved from a single block of jade, radiating an aura of serenity and reverence. Discovered in 1464, this highly revered icon has journeyed across Thailand, finally finding its permanent home within the hallowed halls of Wat Phra Kaew. As you enter the temple, the intricate murals depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology transport you back in time. Guests staying at some of the best hotels in Bangkok, Thailand, offered by the renowned hotel chain Avani Hotels & Resorts, can reach the temple via an easy drive. 

Across the shimmering Chao Phraya River, on the Thonburi side, stands Wat Arun, a temple that captures the essence of its name – "The Temple of the Dawn." As the first rays of sunlight kiss the horizon, the temple's distinctive silhouette comes alive. The central prang, a Khmer-style spire, pierces the sky, surrounded by four smaller towers, each adorned with a mesmerising mosaic of colourful porcelain fragments. Climbing the steep stairs to the balcony might test your legs, but the panoramic view of the city bathed in the golden light of dawn is an experience worth the effort. 

Wat Pho, also known as "The Temple of the Reclining Buddha," is a testament to the enduring legacy of Buddhism in Thailand. Step inside and prepare to be awestruck by the sheer size of the reclining Buddha statue – a behemoth measuring 15 meters high and 43 meters long. Covered in gold leaf, with mother-of-pearl adorning its feet, this magnificent statue embodies tranquility and spiritual peace. But Wat Pho offers much more than just a giant Buddha. With over 1,000 Buddha images and 91 chedis (stupas), it's a treasure trove of Buddhist art and history. 

Nestled amidst the bustling streets of Chinatown lies Wat Traimit, an elegant, multi-tiered temple with a secret waiting to be discovered. While the temple's architecture is undeniably beautiful, its true treasure lies within. Hidden for centuries beneath a layer of stucco was a colossal Buddha statue, crafted entirely from solid gold! This breathtaking image, the largest of its kind in the world, weighs a staggering 5.5 tons. The discovery of the golden Buddha is a fascinating story in itself, and as you stand before this magnificent statue, you can't help but marvel at the craftsmanship and devotion it represents. 

For a panoramic view of Bangkok and a dose of spiritual tranquility, head to Wat Saket, also known as the "Temple of the Golden Mountain." Atop a man-made hill sits the unmistakable golden chedi of Phu Khao Thong, a beacon that can be spotted from afar. Climbing the 300 steps leading to the top is an exercise in perseverance, but the reward is an unforgettable vista of the city sprawled beneath you. The chedi itself is a symbol of resilience, having been rebuilt after a failed initial attempt due to unstable ground. King Rama IV and King Rama V oversaw the successful construction you see today, which was built upon the remains of the original chedi. 

While Bangkok's temples often boast dazzling displays of gold, Loha Prasat, also known as the "Metal Castle," takes a unique approach. This temple, situated within the grounds of Wat Ratchanaddaram, stands out with its distinctive architecture – an ode to iron and bronze. Imagine a structure where shimmering tiles, crafted from these metals, create a mesmerising facade that gleams in the sunlight. Loha Prasat's history is as intriguing as its design. Built in the 17th century, it was originally intended to house relics brought from Sri Lanka. Though its purpose may have shifted over time, the temple's unique metallic exterior continues to captivate visitors.