Attraction Category: Places of Worship

Majestically towering at the top of the Nakkerd Hills, the Phuket Big Buddha is one of the most visited and most revered tourist destinations in all of Thailand. This statue is a testament to the importance of Buddhism in Thai history, even in Thai daily life. This gigantic symbol of man-made artistry was built in 2004 and stands proudly at 45 metres in stature. Known among the Thais as the Phra Puttamingmongkol Akenakkiri Buddha, this magnificent spectacle is layered with immaculate Burmese white jade marble that both the sun and night lights amplify at any given time. Interestingly, this is also one of the few tourist spots in Thai where you won’t hear the noise of commotion, only the soft dharma music and the sounds of nature – a truly refreshing and awe-inspiring destination.

 

Location

The Phuket Big Buddha is located in Soi Yot Sane 1, Chaofa West Rd., Chalong, Phuket Town, Phuket 83100, Thailand.

 

Opening Days and Hours

The Phuket Big Buddha is open daily from 8:00 to 19:30.

 

Entry Fee and Bookings

Entrance to the Phuket Big Buddha is completely free both for local and foreign visitors.

 

How to Get There

  • Fly from Bangkok to Phuket via AirAsia.
  • From the airport, board a taxi to city centre.
  • From the city centre, you can board a songthaew or a taxi to the Soi Dog Foundation.

 

Suggested For

  • Solo travellers/backpackers
  • Couples
  • Family
  • Groups

 

Time to Spend

Suggested duration in this attraction is 1 to 2 hours.

 

Popularity and Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Phuket Big Buddha is during the morning, preferably 8:00 to 10:00, and around 17:00 when you can see stunning sunset views.

 

Food

The White Tree Restaurant, The Old Maikhao Restaurant, Sand Box Restaurant and Bar, Somerset Restaurant, Sunshine’s Steak, and NooNit Kitchen are just some of the dining options to try near Phuket Big Buddha.

 

Nearby Attractions

  • Patong
  • Karon Beach
  • Phuket FantaSea
  • Big Buddha Phuket

 

Stay

For accommodations, you can check out Ritsurin Boutique Hotel, Xinlor House, Eat n Sleep, Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel, Karnvela Phuket, The Besavana Hotel, and Vapa Hotel. Rates range from USD 30 to USD 75.

The first must-see in Wat Plai Laem is the Guayin – it is believed that her arms are an illustration of how she can reach out and help those in need. At the same time, she is seen as the goddess of fertility for those who want to conceive or have healthy children. Some also believe that she is a protector of the sailors. Other attractions include the laughing Buddha, which represents prosperity and wealth together with the magnificent ceremonial hall set at the centre of a man-made lake. Buddha images and murals depicting scenes in the life of the holy man can be seen all over the place.

Aside from all these amazing features, you can also pray and meditate or feed the fish in the lake.

 

Location

Wat Plai Laem is located in Road 4171, Koh Samui, Thailand.

 

Opening Days and Hours

The place is open daily, 24 hours a day. However, visitors are only entertained until the early evening.

 

Entry Fee and Bookings

Entrance to this attraction is completely free.

 

How to Get There

  • Fly from Bangkok to Surat Thani via AirAsia.
  • Board a ferry to Koh Samui.
  • Rent a car, or charter a taxi to Wat Plai Laem.

 

Suggested For

  • Solo travelers/backpackers
  • Couples
  • Groups
  • Families

 

Time to Spend

Suggested duration in this attraction is one hour only.

 

Popularity and Best Time to Go

The best time to visit this attraction is during Chinese festivals.

 

Food

Shambala Restaurant, Khao Hom, The Shakespeare Pub, Supattra Thai Dining, Spaghetti Cove, and Casa Luna are just some of the options to try while in Wat Plai Laem.

 

 

Nearby Attractions

  • Lamai Beach
  • Wat Phra Yai
  • Chaweng Beach

 

Stay

Hotels in Koh Samui town proper include Dasiri Unique, Coco Palm Beach Resort, Ibis Samui Bophut, OZO Chaweng Samui, Samui Blue Orchid Resort, and Amari Koh Samui. Rates range from USD 25 to USD 200.

The intricately and exquisitely constructed Wat Khao Sanam Chai features beautiful, immaculate, white temple buildings, gold ornaments, and colourful flags and bells. The atmosphere is extremely reverent and serene as emphasised by the religious buildings and prayer halls around the temple complex. But the highlights do not stop there. With its elevated landscape, the Wat Khao Sanam Chai offers the most spectacular panoramic views of the hillsides and the coastlines of Hua Hin. The spectacle becomes breathtaking at sunset.

 

Location

69/7 Phet Kasem Road, Hua Hin, Amphoe Hua Hin, Chang Wat Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand.

 

Opening Days and Hours

Opens from 8:00 to 17:00 every day.

 

Entry Fee and Bookings

This attraction has no entrance fees.

 

How to Get There

  • Fly to Bangkok.
  • Go to Hua Lamphong or Bang Sue Railway Stations.
  • Ride a train to Hua Hin and for 4 to 5 hours.
  • Grab a taxi and mention Wat Khao Sanam Chai at Phet Kasem Road.
  • Hike the challenging climb and voila.

 

Suggested For

  • Solo travelers/backpackers
  • Couples
  • Families
  • Groups

 

Time to Spend

30-minutes to an hour is enough to enjoy the place’s beauty.

 

Popularity and Best Time to Go

This place has few visitors most of the time. You are sure to enjoy the place as long as it’s open, but the best time to appreciate the views is during sunset.

 

Food

A number of restaurants can be found near the Wat Khao Sanam Chai, including Makham Restaurant and Pom Pom Restaurant. The place is also near the sea and as such, seaside restaurants are aplenty, such as Pa Sao Seafood Restaurant, Air Space Hua Hin, and Three Chefs Restaurant.

 

 

Nearby Attractions

A considerable distance away from the temple are a number of popular tourist spots such as Cicada Market, Vana Nava Hua Hin Water Jungle, and Wat Khao Krailart.

 

Stay

Nearby accommodations include Banyan The Resort, Hua Hin that charges around USD120 to 160 per night, and DASIRI Lakefront Villa priced at USD 235 to 300 per night. On the other hand, more affordable seaside accommodations that are located a bit further away include Long Stay at Hua Hin: Baan Peang Ploen priced at USD 30 to 45 per night, Sea Harmony Hua Hin Guesthouse, Bed and Breakfast at USD 50 to 60 per night, and Supatra Hua Hin Resort that’s USD 75 to 80 per night.

Wat Phra That Doi treats its guest to both architectural and natural beauty. From the top of the hill, you will get a glimpse of both the city and the rolling mountains of Doi Pui. Intricate details fill this religious edifice – details that tell a story about Buddhism. Make sure to come physically prepared – you will have to take 300-steps to get to the top of the temple. While on the way up, you will enjoy the mind-boggling details in the staircase – the giant napa stake sculpture is just one.

The temple also observes a modest dress code – avoid wearing clothing that does not cover the shoulders and knees as a sign of respect to the monks and to the temple. You can always rent a scarf if you came unprepared.

 

Location

Wat Phra That Doi Kham is located in Mae Hia District, Chiang Mai, Thailand.

 

Opening Days and Hours

This attraction is open daily from 6:00 to 17:00.

 

Entry Fee and Bookings

Entrance to Wat Phra That Doi Kham is USD 1. The fee is used to improve tourism efforts in the place.

 

How to Get There

  • Fly to Chiang Mai via AirAsia.
  • Transportation options around the area are limited so it’s highly suggested for visitors to book a roundtrip taxi service from the city.

 

Suggested For

  • Solo travelers/backpackers
  • Couples
  • Families
  • Groups

 

Time to Spend

Suggested duration in this attraction is one hour.

 

Popularity and Best Time to Go

The best time to visit this attraction is on the afternoon – not only will you be spared from the heat, but the temple also looks more majestic during the sunset.

 

Food

Fern Forest Cafe, Why Ribs and Rumps, Goodsouls Kitchen, Coffee Corner Kitchen, and Bird’s Nest Cafe are some of the dining options near Wat Phra That Doi Kha.

 

 

Nearby Attractions

  • Wat Chedi Luang
  • Doi Suthep
  • Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

 

Stay

Duangtawan Hotel, Furama, Dusit Princess, U Nimman and De Lanna Hotel are some of the accommodations to choose from while in Chiang Mai. Rates range from USD 30 to USD 80.

As the temple was built for a long time, most of its original structure has already been renovated and changed into silver and in 2008 the process of completely covering the building with silver began. The renovation turned its roofs, walls, and detailed carvings of Buddhism legends entirely into silver. The interior of the place is also impressive with its silver decor, wide mirrors, and bright colours. Unfortunately, Buddhist rules only allow men to enter the temple – women must stay outside.

It is also the only temple who offers monk chat for visitors every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday night from 17:30-19:00 and then until 21:00. There is no fixed fee but donations are welcome.

 

Location

Wat Sri Suphan is located at 100 Wulai Road, a short distance away from Wualai Saturday Walking Street Market.

 

Opening Days and Hours

The wat is open to visitors daily from 6:00 to 21:00.

 

Entry Fee and Bookings

A visit to this famous Chiang Mai attraction is completely free.

 

How to Get There

  • Fly to Chiang Mai via AirAsia.
  • At Chiang Mai, take a taxi or tuktuk to Wat Sri Suphan.

 

Suggested For

  • Solo travelers/backpackers
  • Families
  • Groups

 

Time to Spend

One hour is enough to explore the place. If you’re planning to converse with the monks, you can stay for another hour or two.

 

Popularity and Best Time to Go

If you want to avoid large crowds, visit during the day. However, if you want to spend time with the monks, visit between 18:00 and 20:00.

 

Food

Siam Tulip Restaurant, Bi Hiang Phochana, Caramellow, Fuji Japanese Restaurant, Yoyoi, and Shabu Shi are just some of the dining places near Wat Sri Suphan.

 

 

Nearby Attractions

  • Aromdii Cooking School
  • Old Chiang Mai Cultural Centre
  • Kuan Im Chokchai

 

Stay

Samsibsan Hotel, The Imperial Mae Ping Hotel, Teeraya Boutique Hostel, Cloud Hotel, Dusit Princess, and The Empress Chiang Mai Hotel are some of the nearby accommodations available. Rates range from USD 30 to USD 65.

The complex also features two other smaller temples – Ubosot and Phrathatluang. This attraction is also known as “The Monastery of the Lion Buddha,” as its intricately designed lion statue stands out from the rest. As the temple’s popularity is felt across the globe, a lot of tourist and devotees visit the place every day. In the main entrance, there are shops that sell food, souvenirs, and clothing to the guests. Once you enter the monastery, Buddhist influences can be seen – their presence become more evident as you get closer to the temple proper. The temple is a majestic sight to behold – everything seems to gleam under the sun thanks to the gold details that can be seen all over the religious site.

 

Location

Wat Phra Singh is located in Chiang Mai, inside the old city wall, on the western side of Ratchamadoen Road.

 

Opening Days and Hours

This temple is open from 6:00 to 17:00.

 

Entry Fee and Bookings

Entrance fee is around USD 75.

 

How to Get There

  • Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai via Air Asia.
  • From the city centre, board a taxi or a tuk-tuk to Wat Phra Singh.

 

Suggested For

  • Solo travelers/backpackers
  • Couples
  • Families
  • Groups

 

Time to Spend

Suggested duration in this attraction is one hour. However, you can linger a little more if you want to interact with the locals.

 

Popularity and Best Time to Go

The best time to visit this attraction is on the afternoon – not only will you be spared from the heat, the temple looks beautiful during sunset, too.

 

Food

Fern Forest Cafe, Why Ribs and Rumps, Goodsouls Kitchen, Coffee Corner Kitchen, and Bird’s Nest Cafe are some of the dining options near Wat Phra Singh.

 

 

Nearby Attractions

  • Wat Chedi Luang
  • Doi Suthep
  • Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

 

Stay

Duangtawan Hotel, Furama, Dusit Princess, U Nimman and De Lanna Hotel are some of the accommodations to choose from while in Chiang Mai. Rates range from USD 30 to USD 80.

This towering chedi – standing at about 60 metres in height and 44 metres wide is an attraction of intricate beauty. On its four sides, there are monumental stairways that are guarded by stone nagas with five elephant structures guarding the midway and the platform. Dipterocarp trees –  a tree revered to be the protector of the city – surrounds this place. As you go around the complex, you will see two large viharas built years after the chedi was constructed. One of the viharas houses the Phra Chao Attarot – more commonly known as the standing Buddha. Other structures in the temple grounds include the small building containing the reclining Buddha, the bell tower, and another temple known as Wat Phan Tao.

 

Location

Wat Chedi Luang is located in 103 Phra Pok Klao Road | Phra Singh, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand.

 

Opening Days and Hours

The place is open daily from 6:30 to 18:00.

 

Entry Fee and Bookings

Admission fee is USD 1.20.

 

How to Get There

  • Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai via AirAsia.
  • Book a taxi to Wat Chedi Luang.

 

Suggested For

  • Solo travelers/backpackers
  • Couples
  • Groups
  • Families

 

Time to Spend

Suggested duration in this attraction is one hour.

 

Popularity and Best Time to Go

The best time to visit this attraction is between 7:00 and 9:00. The place is not yet crowded around this time.

 

Food

The 3 Sis Cafe and Restaurant, Poppy’s Kitchen, Healthy Veggie, Allway Cafe, Freshtime, and La Fourchette are some of the restaurants to try near Wat Chedi Luang.

 

 

Nearby Attractions

  • Wat Phra Sing
  • Wat Chedi Luang
  • Wat Suan Dok
  • Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

 

Stay

Duangtawan Hotel, Furama, Dusit Princess, U Nimman and De Lanna Hotel are some of the accommodations to choose from while in Chiang Mai. Rates range from USD 30 to USD 80.

The temple is surrounded by cast iron and the exterior of the building is all painted in white. Upon entering you’ll see a large chedi that houses the holy relics, a statue of Buddha, and murals depicting his life and jatakas. They also have a museum that displays the relics found when the temple was restored last 2012.

Aside from the temple, the place has an artificial hill where you can find another chedi and a small chapel. There is a pool full of tortoises and a well-maintained garden at the base of the hill that gives you a sense of peacefulness while you feed the animals.

A great place to visit if you want to meditate and relax.

 

Location

Wat Prayurawongsawat is located in Prachathipok Road, Wat Kallaya, Thonburi, Bangkok.

 

Opening Days and Hours

The Wat is open from 6:00 to 17:30. Come early if you want to interact with locals.

 

Entry Fee and Bookings

Entrance is around BHT 100 or USD 3.

 

How to Get There

  • Fly to Bangkok via AirAsia.
  • From the city centre, board a bus from lines 73 or 73 n to Saphan Phut Bus Terminal.
  • From the terminal, take a short walk to Wat Prayurawongsawat.

 

Suggested For

  • Solo travelers/backpackers
  • Couples
  • Families
  • Groups

 

Time to Spend

Suggested duration is 1 to 2 hours.

 

Popularity and Best Time to Go

Wat Prayurawongsawat is not that popular among tourists – you’ll mostly find locals here. You can visit anytime you want.

 

Food

Bangkok Bistro Riverfront, Tealicious, Tony’s, Steve Cafe and Cuisine, Indian Hut, and Thiptara are some of the food options around the area. Most restaurants serve both Western and local food.

 

 

Nearby Attractions

  • The Grand Palace
  • Khaosan Road
  • Wat Arun
  • Wat Phra Kaew

 

Stay

Prince Palace Hotel, Thong Ta Resort, Solitaire Bangkok, Beat Hotel Bangkok, Ambassador Hotel, Cubic Pratunam, and Centara Grand at Central Plaza are some of the accommodation options you can choose from. Rates range from USD 25 to USD 80.

This iconic structure may be known as the Temple of Dawn but its full beauty can be seen during the sunset when the golden lights go up and the temple’s reflection dazzle in the nearby river. The temple’s spire is a towering 70-metre high fix and is one of Thailand’s most iconic symbols. Inside, you will find equally impressive paintings depicting the religious beliefs of Thai Buddhists. Although Wat Arun is a famous tourist attraction, it’s still a very important religious centre for locals, so make sure you’re dressed appropriately.

 

Location

Wat Arun is located in Bangkok, Thailand, west of Chao Phraya river.

 

Opening Days and Hours

Opens from 8:00 to 17:30, daily.

 

Entry Fee and Bookings

Entrance to this famous attraction is USD 1.60.

 

How to Get There

  • Fly to Bangkok via AirAsia.
  • From the city centre, board a BTS Sky Train to Saphan Taksin Station.
  • Board a Chao Phraya express boat to Thien Pier.
  • Board a cross-river ferry to Wat Arun.

 

Suggested For

  • Solo travelers/backpackers
  • Couples
  • Families
  • Groups

 

Time to Spend

Suggested duration in this attraction is one hour.

 

Popularity and Best Time to Go

Wat Arun is one of the top attractions in Bangkok. If you want a peaceful tour, visit as early as 8:00.

 

Food

Khao Moo Tood Wat Arun, Kannam, Kinnom Cafe, and A Day in Summer are just some of the dining spots to try while visiting Wat Arun.

 

 

Nearby Attractions

  • Temple of Reclining Buddha
  • Temple of Emerald Buddha
  • The Golden Palace

 

Stay

The Greenery Hotel, Sleep Whale Express, JP Mansion Melody Bar, City Hotel, and the Malika Hotel offer accommodations at rates ranging from USD 18 to USD 70.

One of the largest temple complexes in Thailand, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha or Wat Pho contains numerous exquisite architectures and sculptures – 4 chapels containing 394 gilded Buddha images, intricate murals and artworks, and the famous 46-metre long, golden leaf-covered reclining Buddha which is a truly impressive sight to behold. Inside, Thai massage is offered after touring the place at the forefront. Dropping coins in the bronze bowls lining the walls is believed to bring fortune. While in location, you can join an English-led tour, or wander on your own.

 

Location

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha is located along Maharat road, close to the river near the Old City.

 

Opening Days and Hours

The place is open from 8:00 to 17:00.

 

Entry Fee and Bookings

Entrance to this attraction is USD 3.

 

How to Get There

  • Board a flight to Bangkok via Thai Airways or Air Asia.
  • From the city centre, board the sky train to Sapin Takphan Station.
  • Take a ferry boat to Tien Pier.
  • After alighting, walk the short distance to the reclining Buddha.

 

Suggested For

  • Solo travelers/ backpackers
  • Couples
  • Families
  • Groups of friends

 

Time to Spend

Spend at least two hours exploring this attraction.

 

Popularity and Best Time to Go

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha is always a busy attraction. If you want to take great photos, visit at the earliest time.

 

Food

Inn a Day, Khana Khazana, Home Cafe Tha Tien, and Salathip are some of the dining spots offering both local and Western dishes.

 

 

Nearby Attractions

  • The Grand Palace
  • The Temple of Emerald Buddha

 

Stay

The Greenery Hotel, Sleep Whale Express, JP Mansion Melody Bar, City Hotel, and the Malika Hotel offer accommodations at rates ranging from USD 18 to USD 70.