Touring all of Thailand's temples could take years, but make sure to save time for the museums, theaters, parks and natural wonders, too.
Bangkok's most important and most beautiful temples.
Bangkok’s iconic temple, also known as the Temple of Dawn, just across the river from the Grand Palace, is a sight to behold. The corn cob prangs and Khmer-style architecture set it apart from other wats and many consider the most beautiful temples in the city.
In between Central World Plaza and Siam Paragon Mall is this lovely temple complex surrounded by lush green trees. Wat Pathum Wanaran is a royal temple but aside from its interest surroundings and lovely architecture, also offers meditations and talks for visitors. Wander the grounds and read the sometimes perplexing notes hanging from the trees.
Wat Traimit, just a few minutes walk from Hua Lumpong station, is most well known because of the image it houses, a massive 15-foot golden Buddha, said to be made of solid gold. That claim is most likely untrue but Wat Traimit just underwent a major renovation and it’s worth a visit just to see this stunning white marble temple in Bangkok's Chinatown.
Wat Saket, also known as the Golden Mount, is a temple built atop a bill in the old part of Bangkok. The enormous golden chedi can be seen from miles away but the best view is from atop. As you climb the 300 or so steps to the entrance, take a look at the objects plastered into the hill.
Thailand's most sacred temple is on the grounds of the Grand Palace and is home to the Emerald Buddha. According to legend, this small Buddha image, made from green jade, was carved more than 2,000 years ago and came under the guardianship of Thai kings after various adventures. Unlike most wats in Thailand, there are no resident monks here, just the spectacularly decorated structures of …
Just next to the Grand Palace is the Wat Pho complex, housing an array of small chedi and interesting stonework. The main attraction here, however, is the massive golden sleeping Buddha.
Thailand is full of sights to see and things to do, from ancient temples to stunning beaches. Here are some of the best sights and attractions in Thailand.
Pattaya’s beaches are abundant but aren’t as clean or quiet as the beaches in other parts of the country. They do offer great value and are very convenient if you’re coming from Bangkok. If you’re heading to Pattaya but want a quiet beach to relax on, the best bet is one of the resorts between Pattaya Beach and Jomtien Beach. Many of these have their own private beaches.
The island of Koh Samui is ringed with beaches. Which ones should you visit? Use this guide to pick the best Koh Samui beach for you.
There are hundreds of interesting Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai. Some are historically significant, some contain beautiful artwork, some are popular with local Buddhists and some offer foreigners a chance to learn about Buddhism. Here are five worth a visit.
Free museums, beaches, temples and other activities in Thailand.
These five places are the country’s top destinations if you’re interested in delving into Thailand’s history while you sightsee.
You don't have to spend a lot to enjoy this popular city in Northern Thailand. Here five free activities in Chiang Mai.
Where to travel to escape the crowds.
If you’re traveling on a tight budget, enjoy some of the best museums, activities and sights Bangkok has to offer, all for free!
Find out what's going on in Thailand right now on this frequently updated government website.
Find out about all of Thailand’s nearly 150 national parks - when to visit, how to get there, what you'll see and how to make reservations for camping or bungalows.
Look for PADI-certified scuba diving companies across Thailand.
