Did you know Thailand has over 40,000 Buddhist temples? From golden spires in Bangkok to cave temples in the north, Buddhism shapes daily life across the country. Many temples are centuries old and still active places of worship.
If you’ve already visited Bangkok’s most famous temples like Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and Wat Phra Kaew, it’s time to go beyond the guidebooks. This weekend, explore the city’s lesser-known but equally fascinating temples—peaceful, historical, and full of local stories that reveal the city’s spiritual side.
Whether you’re seeking quiet reflection, hidden art, or unique architecture, here’s your Bangkok temple-hopping guide to 20 underrated temples worth adding to your list.
1. Wat Ratchanatdaram Woravihara (Loha Prasat)
Known as the “Metal Castle,” this temple features 37 spires representing the virtues toward enlightenment. The layered structure is rare and beautifully symmetrical.
📍 Near Democracy Monument.
2. Wat Thepthidaram Woravihara
Built during King Rama III’s reign, this temple once housed Sunthorn Phu, Thailand’s national poet, as a monk. Its calm courtyard is perfect for quiet reflection.
📍 Near Wat Ratchanatdaram.
3. Wat Ratchaburana (Wat Liap)
A royal temple known for its intricate roof and detailed murals. Despite being near busy areas, it remains blissfully quiet.
📍 Across from Wat Suthat.
4. Wat Suthat Thepwararam
Often overlooked by tourists, this temple houses some of the city’s finest murals and the impressive Giant Swing landmark just outside.
📍 Bamrung Muang Road.
5. Wat Bowonniwet Vihara
A royal temple where many Thai kings, including King Rama IX, were ordained. Peaceful, sacred, and steeped in history.
📍 Phra Sumen Road, near Khao San.
6. Wat Prayoon (Wat Rua Lek)
A serene temple on the Thonburi side featuring a white stupa and turtle pond for merit-making. It’s beautiful at sunset by the river.
📍 Near Memorial Bridge.
7. Wat Kalayanamit
Home to one of Bangkok’s largest seated Buddha statues. Locals visit here to make merit and seek blessings for family harmony.
📍 By the Chao Phraya River, near Wat Arun.
8. Wat Rakhang Kositaram
Known as the “Temple of the Bells,” this riverside temple invites visitors to ring bells for good fortune.
📍 Opposite Thammasat University.
9. Wat Khun Chan
An almost surreal temple complex filled with giant Buddha figures and colorful sculptures—ideal for photographers.
📍 Thonburi, near Wat Paknam.
10. Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen
Recently made famous by its 150-foot-tall Buddha and glass stupa filled with light. A mix of old serenity and modern grandeur.
📍 Phasi Charoen District.
11. Wat Pathum Wanaram
Tucked quietly between Siam Paragon and CentralWorld, this temple offers an oasis of calm amid Bangkok’s busiest shopping area.
📍 Pathumwan District.
12. Wat Hua Lamphong
Often called the “charity temple,” where locals donate coffins for the unclaimed deceased — a profound act of compassion.
📍 Rama IV Road, near Sam Yan MRT.
13. Wat Borom Niwat Ratchaworawihan
Admire the murals by Khrua In Khong, Thailand’s pioneer of Western-style perspective painting.
📍 Near Ratchathewi BTS.
14. Wat Intharawihan
Home to a 32-meter standing Buddha, one of Bangkok’s tallest. Despite its grandeur, it remains a peaceful, local worship site.
📍 Bang Khun Phrom.
15. Wat Benchamabophit (Marble Temple)
Famous for its white marble and elegant architecture — it’s quieter in the early morning and perfect for photography.
📍 Dusit District.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Temples
16. Wat Ratchasittharam Worawihan
A hidden gem in Thonburi, featuring an ancient stupa and centuries-old murals rarely seen by tourists.
📍 Thonburi side.
17. Wat Tri Thotsathep Worawihan
Small but beautifully detailed, this royal temple was built by King Rama IV for his son.
📍 Phra Nakhon area.
18. Wat Yannawa
Known as the “Boat Temple” for its Chinese junk-shaped architecture, symbolizing good fortune and smooth sailing in life.
📍 Sathon, near BTS Saphan Taksin.
19. Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit
One of Bangkok’s oldest temples, home to a Vipassana meditation center open to both Thais and foreigners.
📍 Na Phra That Road, near Sanam Luang.
20. Wat Ratchabophit Sathitmahasimaram
A magnificent temple with intricate Italian-style interiors mixed with Thai design — one of Bangkok’s most stunning hidden sanctuaries.
📍 Phra Nakhon.
Bangkok Temple-Hopping Tips
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Start early to enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds.
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Dress modestly – cover shoulders and knees.
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Bring small offerings like incense or flowers for merit-making.
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Use the river ferries or MRT for a scenic and efficient temple route.
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Stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes — many temple grounds are spacious.
Experience Bangkok’s Spiritual Side
Temple hopping in Bangkok is more than sightseeing — it’s a cultural journey through time, art, and faith. Each wat tells a story of devotion and craftsmanship, offering a glimpse into Thailand’s deep-rooted spirituality.
So this weekend, slow down, light a candle, and let the soft temple bells guide you through the hidden spiritual heart of Bangkok.