In Thailand, temples aren’t just places of worship — they are living pieces of history, stunning works of art, and windows into the country’s rich culture and spirituality. Each one has its own unique story, intricate architecture, and serene atmosphere that captivates every visitor. With Hanoi Voyages, we’ve handpicked 10 must-visit temples in Thailand that you simply can’t miss on your journey.
Thailand is a land where tradition meets spirituality, and its temples are the perfect reflection of this harmony. These sacred sites are more than just places to pray — they’re breathtaking landmarks filled with history, intricate architecture, and peaceful energy that draws travelers from all around the world.
From majestic golden spires to hidden jungle sanctuaries, each temple tells a story of faith, culture, and artistry. Whether you’re seeking spiritual connection, stunning photography spots, or simply a deeper understanding of Thai heritage, these sites promise an unforgettable experience.
With Hanoi Voyages as your guide, we’ve curated a list of the 10 must-visit temples in Thailand that deserve a spot on your travel itinerary. Get ready to wander through ancient halls, marvel at ornate details, and soak in the magical beauty that makes these temples truly extraordinary.
Wat Phra Kaew
Wat Phra Kaew
Address: Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand
Opening hours: daily 8.30am - 11.30am and 1.30pm - 3.30pm
Entrance fees: 200 baht (~$6)
Located in the historic heart of Bangkok’s Phra Nakhon district, Wat Phra Kaew is the most famous and beautiful temple in Thailand within the grounds of the Grand Palace complex. Its construction began in 1785 when King Rama I moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok .
As the most significant and revered temple in Thailand, Wat Phra Kaew serves as the royal temple and stands out for its grandeur, covering an expansive area of 945,000 square meters with over 100 towering structures. The temple is renowned not only for its unique Thai temple architecture but also for housing the most sacred Emerald Buddha, regarded as the holiest among countless Buddha statues across the kingdom.
Wat Arun
Wat Arun temple
Address: 158 Wang Doem Road, Wat Arun, Bangkokyai, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
Opening hours: 8 AM - 6 PM daily
Entrance fees: 200 baht (~$6)
Wat Arun temple, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is located right next to the Chao Phraya River. This temple is one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks, not only for its rich history and cultural heritages, but also for its beauty and the amazing landscapes, making it a must-visit on any Thailand holiday .
Standing at 81.85 meters, this stunning temple is adorned with Chinese porcelain and seashells, creating a dazzling effect in the sunlight. Visitors can climb its steep prang for impressive views of the Chao Phraya River, especially at sunset. Surrounding the main prang are four smaller prangs, symbolizing the four elements - Fire, Water, Earth and Air - each intricately decorated with mythical figures. For history and art enthusiasts, the temple’s museum houses ancient Buddha images, ceramics and religious texts, offering deeper insights into its cultural significance.
Wat Pho
Wat Pho temple
Address: 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thái Lan
Opening hours: 8 AM - 6.30 PM daily
Entrance fees: 300 baht (~$9)
Wat Pho is one of the must-visit temples in Thailand, rich in history and cultural significance. Dating back to the 16th century, this temple is located in the historic Rattanakosin island district, just across from the Grand Palace. It is widely recognized as a leading center for Thai medicine and the birthplace of traditional Thai massage .
The temple complex offers a peaceful retreat, featuring over 100 intricately designed chedis (stupas), a central bot (shrine), numerous viharas, serene gardens and a small museum showcasing historical artifacts.
A visit to Wat Pho isn’t complete without experiencing an authentic Thai massage at its renowned massage school. Open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM, these high-quality massages provide the perfect way to relax after exploring this iconic temple.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Address: Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Opening hours: 6 AM - 8 PM daily
Entrance fees: 50 baht (~$1.5)
If you have the chance to visit Chiang Mai , it could be complete with a trip to one of the city’s most sacred temples - Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Built in 1383, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is an important pilgrimage site for Thai Buddhists and a must-visit destination for travelers.
The temple is best known for its golden stupa, which glows beautifully under the sunlight and its intricately designed shrines, statues and murals depicting Buddhist stories. To reach the temple, visitors must climb a 306-step staircase guarded by impressive Naga serpent sculptures, symbolizing protection and spiritual ascent. Beyond its religious importance, the temple provides a peaceful atmosphere, allowing visitors to admire its rich Lanna-style architecture and soak in the spiritual energy of the surroundings.
Wat Rong Khun
Wat Rong Khun
Address: Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai 57000, Thái Lan
Opening hours: 8 AM - 5 PM daily
Entrance fees: 100 baht (~$3)
Wat Rong Khun, also known as The White temple in Chiang Rai , is one of the best temples to visit in Thailand. Designed by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, the temple's pure white color symbolizes purity and enlightenment, with intricate mirror details reflecting wisdom. Visitors cross a bridge over outstretched hands, representing human desires, before reaching the main hall. Inside the temple, the murals feature a mix of Buddhist imagery and pop culture icons. Uniquely, the temple’s restroom building is covered in gold, contrasting with the temple's white color. It symbolizes material wealth, reminding visitors of the impermanence of worldly possessions.
Wat Prah Singh
Wat Prah Singh
Address: Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Opening hours: 9 AM - 6.30 PM daily
Entrance fees: Free
Wat Phra Singh, located in the heart of Chiang Mai’s Old City, is one of the must-visit temples in Thailand. Built in the 14th century, this temple is home to the Phra Singh Buddha, a highly venerated image that draws pilgrims from across the country. Its traditional Lanna-style architecture, intricate wood carvings and beautifully decorated viharn showcase the rich cultural heritage of Northern Thailand. Visitors can explore the temple’s peaceful courtyards, admire the detailed murals representing ancient stories and experience the spiritual ambiance. Discover the wonders of Thailand’s heritage on Thailand tour 14 days from Northern to Southern Charms
Wat Phra That Lampang Luang
Wat Phra That Lampang Luang
Address: Tambon Lampang Luang, Amphoe Ko Kha, Chang Wat Lampang 52130, Thái Lan
Opening hours: 7.30 AM - 5 PM daily
Entrance fees: Free
Wat Phra That Lampang Luang temple is one of the historical temples in Thailand, attracting lots of locals and visitors annually. As one of the most must-visit temples in Lampang Luang, it is known for its stunning wooden architecture, ancient murals and sacred relics. Unlike many modernized temples, Wat Phra That Lampang Luang retains its original charm, offering visitors a glimpse into Thailand’s historical and spiritual past.
Wat Phu Khao Thong
Wat Phu Khao Thong
Address: Phu Khao Thong, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thái Lan
Opening hours: 8.30 AM - 5 PM daily
Entrance fees: Free
Wat Phu Khao Thong, or the "Golden Mountain Temple", is a striking historical site in Ayutthaya , known for its towering white chedi with a gleaming golden spire. Visitors can climb the steep steps to the upper terrace for panoramic views of Ayutthaya’s serene countryside. The temple complex also features a grand seated Buddha statue, peaceful grounds with ancient architectural influences and a rich cultural atmosphere where monks still reside. Less crowded than other sites, it offers a tranquil yet powerful glimpse into Thailand’s past, making it one of the must-visit temples in Thailand for history and culture lovers alike.
Wat Sri Sawai
Wat Sri Sawai
Address: Tambon Mueang Kao, Amphoe Mueang Sukhothai, Chang Wat Sukhothai 64210, Thái Lan
Opening hours: 6 AM - 9 PM daily
Entrance fees: 100 baht (~$3)
Wat Sri Sawai, one of the oldest and most unique temples in Sukhothai , stands as a remarkable fusion of Khmer and Thai architectural influences. Originally built in the late 12th or early 13th century as a Hindu shrine under the Khmer Empire, the temple was later converted into a Buddhist site during the Sukhothai Kingdom. Its most striking feature is the three towering prangs, adorned with intricate carvings of deities and floral motifs, reflecting its Hindu origins. When visiting this temple, visitors can explore the temple’s serene courtyard, admire the ancient sandstone Buddha images and witness the blend of cultures that shaped Thailand’s early history.
Wat Chalong
Wat Chalong
Address: Chao Fah Tawan Tok Rd, Chalong, Muang, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Opening hours: 7 AM - 5 PM daily
Entrance fee: Free
Wat Chalong, officially known as Wat Chaiyathararam, is the largest and most visited temple in Phuket. Built in the early 19th century, this revered site attracts both locals and Thai tourists who come to offer prayers and pay tribute to the resident Buddhist monks. The temple’s most striking feature is its 60-meter-tall Chedi, which enshrines a sacred relic - a fragment of Buddha’s bone. Inside, visitors can admire intricate murals illustrating Buddha’s life and golden statues, while the upper levels of the Chedi offer panoramic views of Phuket .
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