Officially known as the Kingdom of Thailand, this Southeast Asian country predominantly practices Theravada Buddhism.
The Buddhist temples in Thailand are called ‘Wats’, originating from the Pāli word vāta, which translates to ‘an enclosure’.
The ‘Wats’ are one of the most pristine works of Thailand’s architecture reflecting its culture and religious beliefs.
These ornate shrines is what Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is famously known for.
Wat Mahathat
Royal ceremonies are conducted here and it is one of the 10 royal temples of the highest rank in Bangkok.
One of Thailand’s oldest higher education institutes imparting knowledge of Buddhism and meditation for Buddhist monks is located on the temple grounds.
Wat Phra Kaew
The temple has an Emerald statue of Buddha that was carved from a 66cm tall block of jade.
You can take a stroll along the gallery displaying intricate mural paintings portraying various scenes from the ancient story of Ramayana.
Wat Traimit
This multi-storey white and gold temple is beautiful inside- out with a pure gold 5.5 ton Buddha idol.
Wat Pho
This one, named after an Indian Monastery, where Buddha was believed to have resided, is famous for its gigantic gold leaf covered reclining Buddha.
Within its premises is the first Thai Massage School that teaches the Thai massage technique.
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Wat Intharawihan
The temple has a humongous, over 104 feet high, standing Buddha statuette decorated in glass mosaics and 24-carat gold.
The interiors of the prayer room are adorned with images of Buddha, elevated murals and opulent window shutters.
Wat Arun
The temple takes its name after the Hindu god Aruna, often personified as the radiations of the rising sun. This is because first rays of daylight reflect off the surface of the temple.
It comprises of a central prang (Khmer-style tower) bordered by 4 smaller towers, that are decorated with sea shells and porcelain.
Wat Suthat
One of the oldest temples, Wat Suthat is famous for its red Giant Swing situated at its entrance.
It has an elegant chapel decked with beautiful wall murals with hand carved teakwood door panels.
Wat Benjamabhopit
The exteriors of the temple are covered with Marble walls that were imported from Italy.
The temple is embossed on the 5 baht coins.
Loha Prasat
The name translates to ‘Iron castle’ and was modeled after the one in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
Owing to its historical significance, it was submitted to UNESCO in 2005 to become a World Heritage site.
Wat Prayoon
This 19th century built temple’s main stupa contains the relics of Buddha.
It also has a pond, where visitors can feed the turtles.