20 of the most beautiful temples in Thailand

Wat Arun is a temple in Bangkok, located in the Bangkok Yai district, on the right bank of the Chao Phraya River. Built during the Ayutthaya period, between 1778 and 1784 it housed the Emerald Buddha seized in Vientiane. The view from the top is just sublime.

Located 13 km south of Chiang Rai, Wat Rong Khun is commonly referred to as the White Temple. It was built by Chalermchai Kositpipat, a renowned Thai artist who wanted to create a lasting tribute to Rama IX, current King of Thailand, and also honor his hometown.

Wat Phra Kaeo, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha , is undoubtedly one of the holiest places in Bangkok. This temple houses a Buddha statue (in dark green jadeite) which measures about 60 centimeters.

Wat Suthat Thepwararam in Bangkok is one of the six royal temples in Thailand. Its construction was started by King Rama I in 1807 and continued, with the first poses of decorations, by King Rama II. The temple was completed during the reign of Rama III in 1847.

Located in the heart of the city, this temple is considered significant for being the place where relics of Buddha were kept. It is the most important building in the historical park.

The Tam Pan Thourat temple or Temple of the Monkeys, located at the entrance to the village of Klong Sok, is known for its monkeys but also its caves which shelter monks and/or Buddhist statues.

Wat Dokeung is adorned with bright colors, statues, and architectural details.

This temple is often referred to as Doi Suthep although that is actually the name of the mountain it sits on. From the temple, there is an impressive view of the city of Chiang Mai.

The Silver Temple, or its real name Wat Sri Suphan, is located south of the old town of Chiang Mai, along Saturday Market Street (Walai Road). It has the particularity of being covered with silver panels. The temple hosts a school to train young people in this art.

The Sanctuary of Truth is not a temple but, as its name suggests, a sanctuary of religious synthesis located at “Soi 12” on Pattaya-Naklua Road. It is an all-wooden architecture about 80 meters high decorated in Burmese, Cambodian, Indian and Thai styles.

A little out of the way, Wat Ched Yot dates from the 15th century and has never been restored. We appreciate its green and relaxing setting. It has an old chedî with seven points which symbolize the seven weeks that Buddha spent under a fig tree, before his Illumination.

Wat Chai Watthanaram is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in the historic city of Ayutthaya. The first temple erected during the reign of Prasat Thong, it was built in 1630 as a tribute to the king’s mother.