Joanna James
Although iconic temples the likes of Wat Arun and Wat Pho, are on every tourist’s sightseeing itinerary, Bangkok’s finest temples also include a few hidden gems that are often ignored by the travelling masses. Here are 6 off-the-beaten-path temples that are well worth the visit.
Occupying pride of place in Bangkok’s Thonburi district, Wat Suwannaram is an ancient temple that dates back to Thailand’s illustrious Ayutthaya era. Housing an impressive collection of religious and artistic relics, this charming place of worship contains some of the best mural paintings in all of Bangkok. Painted by celebrated local artists Phra Acharn Nor and Krua In Khong, these murals are deemed the pinnacle of Thai spiritual expression and artistry. The wooden buildings of the temple also retain much of their original craftsmanship, with exquisitely carved columns and eaves showcasing the resplendence of the Ayutthaya period.
Travellers based at Maitria Residence Rama 9 Bangkok, or any similar service apartment in Bangkok close to the heart of the city, must also pay a visit to this hidden gem of a temple. While it may not be Bangkok’s largest temple, Wat Ratchapradit is a royal temple with a rich legacy that dates back to the reign of King Rama IV. Built in 1864, the temple’s architectural and aesthetic beauty also makes it a unique landmark in the Thai capital, as few other temples in the city feature hand-painted tiles or such an extensive collection of Buddha images.
Although Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen is situated on the banks of the Chao Praya River, this 17th-century temple is often ignored in favour of some of the city’s more renowned religious landmarks by most visitors. Built during the 17th century and later abandoned, Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen is now a thriving spiritual epicentre that attracts local pilgrims and promotes Buddhist educational programs across the city. The newly installed 69-metre-high golden Buddha statue is another draw for local devotees who count it among Bangkok’s best-kept secrets.
Located in the Phra Nakhon district, Wat Ratchabophit is another lesser-known temple in Bangkok that was commissioned to be built by none other than King Rama V. Standing out among the city’s temple structures for its unusual architecture, this cultural point of interest is also a unique combination of European and Thai building styles. The temple’s exquisitely designed ordination hall and its elaborate murals depicting scenes from the Buddhist cosmology will also impress visitors, while its central but peaceful location also makes Wat Ratchabophi one of Bangkok’s most accessible attractions.
As a temple that’s intimately connected with the country’s literary heritage, it is easy to see why this Phra Nakhon district temple is often overlooked during sightseeing tours around Bangkok. Having served as the residence of Thailand’s greatest poet, Sunthorn Phu, Wat Theptidaram can justifiably be called the home of the country’s very own Shakespeare. Apart from its literary history, Wat Theptidaram is a must-visit temple highlight for its striking stuccos and murals and the in-house museum, which boasts manuscripts and relics connected to Sunthorn Phu’s life and times.
Wat Khun Chan, which is officially called Wat Waramartaya Punthasatharam, is another “water temple” visitors will find occupying the canals of the Chao Praya River. Constructed during the beginning of the 19th century, this ornate temple features a singular Buddha sculpture which depicts the spiritual leader seated atop elephants, lions, tigers, and other wild beasts contrary to popular convention.
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.
