Temples of Bangkok: 48 hours in the Big Mango
En route to Malaysia I spent a couple of days in Bangkok. For anyone who should find themselves on a flying visit to Thailand's capital, this post is a little guide to some of the beautiful temples of Bangkok.
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| Wat Arun |
Bangkok is known most famously for its vibrant street life and ornate shrines and temples. So when in Bangkok for a night or two it's simple - a temple-tour and sampling plenty of street food!
In terms of temple trips when you are short on time, I'd recommend Wat Arun and Wat Pho, as they are just across the river from one another. Pay a small fee for a quick river crossing and you are there (the pier is located very close to the temples, click here for the location).
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| Wat Arun |
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| Wat Arun |
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| Wat Arun |
Wat Arun means Temple of Dawn, and it is situated on the Chao Phraya River. Visually it is quite different to many of the other temples in Bangkok. The walls are adorned with tiny pieces of coloured glass, Chinese porcelain and seashells.
Across the river, on the East side, is the temple called Wat Pho. Wat Pho is most famous for having a 46 metre long reclining Buddha that is covered in gold leaf (it was immensely tricky to get it all in a photo).
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| Wat Pho |
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| Wat Pho |
A few years ago I also visited Wat Phra Kaew, which is also worth going to, particularly if you can tie it in with a visit to the nearby Grand Palace. I should note that there are many other temples to see in this city, and indeed all over Thailand!
In regards to temple etiquette, you should:
- Remove your shoes and/or hat
- Cover yourself (where a long dress, trousers and cover your shoulders)
- Do not point (this is considered rude)
- Check first before taking photos.
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| Wat Pho |
In my opinion it is best to visit these temples in the morning (unless you enjoy being a sweaty mess) as this is when they are least crowded and it is a cooler part of the day. Alternatively, you could visit the temples in the late afternoon/ early evening just before they close. Then from the opposite side of the river to Wat Arun, watch the view as the sunset makes the magnificent temple glow.