Bangkok has over 400 temples, but these are the ones worth your time:
The Big Three
Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) — inside the Grand Palace complex. The most sacred temple in Thailand. The Emerald Buddha is surprisingly small but the surrounding architecture is breathtaking. Entry: 500 THB. Dress code strictly enforced (long pants, covered shoulders). Go early morning to beat crowds.
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) — home to the enormous 46-meter gold reclining Buddha. Also the birthplace of traditional Thai massage — you can get one on-site for 260 THB (30 min). Entry: 200 THB.
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) — the iconic spire on the Chao Phraya river. Climb the steep stairs for panoramic views. Best photographed at sunset from the Wat Pho side of the river. Entry: 100 THB.
Beyond the tourist circuit
Wat Saket (Golden Mount) — climb 344 steps for 360-degree views of old Bangkok. Peaceful and far less crowded than the big three. Entry: 50 THB.
Wat Suthat — massive, beautiful, and almost tourist-free. Features the Giant Swing outside. One of Bangkok’s most important royal temples.
