Wat Phra Kaew : A Complete Travel Guide
Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is one of the most important and revered temples in Thailand. Located within the grounds of the Grand Palace, it is a must-visit for tourists interested in Thai history, culture, and spirituality. It also houses the Emerald Buddha, a statue that holds significant religious importance in Thai Buddhism. Before visiting this magnificent landmark, here's everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
A Brief History of Wat Phra Kaew
Wat Phra Kaew was built in 1782, the same year King Rama I established Bangkok as the capital of Thailand. It was designed to be the royal chapel and the spiritual heart of Thailand. The Emerald Buddha, which is actually made of jade, was enshrined here and is regarded as a symbol of prosperity and protection for the nation.
How to Get There
Wat Phra Kaew is located within the Grand Palace complex in the heart of Bangkok’s Rattanakosin Island, or Bangkok Old Town.
By MRT
To reach the temple, take Sanam Chai Station Exit 1 and walk about 900 meters.
By boat
From Sathorn Pier, take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Tha Chang Pier, from where it’s a short walk to the temple.
By taxi or tuk-tuk
Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Bangkok.
Entry Fees and Ticket Information
To enter Wat Phra Kaew, tourists need to purchase a ticket, which also grants access to the Grand Palace.
Ticket Price
500 THB (approximately $15 USD).
What’s Included
Access to the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and the Royal Thai Decorations & Coins Pavilion.
Validity
The ticket is valid for a single day.
Dress Code: What to Wear
As Wat Phra Kaew is one of the most sacred sites in Thailand, there is a strict dress code for visitors. All tourists are expected to dress modestly. Visitors who arrive improperly dressed can rent clothing items (such as sarongs) near the entrance.
Men
Must wear long pants and shirts with sleeves. No tank tops or sleeveless shirts.
Women
Should wear long skirts or trousers and cover their shoulders.
Shoes
You’ll need to remove your shoes before entering certain areas, so it’s advisable to wear easy-to-remove footwear.
Wat Phra Kaew is located in Bangkok Old Town.
Best Time to Visit
The temple is busiest during the late morning and early afternoon. To avoid large crowds and the midday heat, it’s best to visit early in the morning. The cooler weather makes the visit more comfortable, and you’ll have a better chance to enjoy the temple grounds peacefully.
Tip: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends or holidays, so plan your visit accordingly.
Temple Etiquette
When visiting Wat Phra Kaew, it’s important to follow these basic rules of etiquette:
Be respectful: Wat Phra Kaew is an active place of worship, so maintain a respectful demeanor at all times.
No photography inside the temple where the Emerald Buddha is enshrined: In this area, photography is strictly prohibited. However, you can take pictures anywhere else.
Remove shoes: Always take off your shoes before entering the temple buildings.
No touching Buddha statues: Avoid touching or sitting near Buddha statues, as it is considered disrespectful.
A breathtaking view of the temple.
The Emerald Buddha
The Emerald Buddha, despite its name, is actually carved from jade. Measuring about 66 centimeters in height, it is believed to have originated in India or Sri Lanka before making its way to Thailand in the 15th century. The statue has been a symbol of the Thai monarchy and is believed to bring prosperity and protection to the nation. The Emerald Buddha is dressed in three different sets of royal robes corresponding to the summer, rainy, and winter seasons. The King of Thailand personally performs the changing of the robes during a special ceremony.
The Emerald Buddha dressed in the winter attire.
What to See Inside Wat Phra Kaew
Wat Phra Kaew is located within the Grand Palace complex in the heart of Bangkok’s Rattanakosin Island, or Bangkok Old Town.
1. Phra Si Rattana Chedi
This golden stupa is one of the most striking features of the temple. It houses relics of the Buddha and is a popular photo spot for visitors.
2. The Demon Guardians (Yaksha)
At the entrance to Wat Phra Kaew, you’ll notice towering, intricately decorated demon statues guarding the temple. These Yaksha are symbolic protectors and are a distinctive feature of the temple.
3. The Mural Paintings
Murals covering the temple walls depict scenes from the Ramakien, the Thai version of the Ramayana epic. These paintings are rich in color and are one of the highlights of a visit to Wat Phra Kaew.
The Demon Guardians at the entrance.
The mural paintings on the temple walls.
Other Attractions Nearby
The Grand Palace
After exploring Wat Phra Kaew, make sure to visit the Grand Palace, which is just a short walk away. The palace complex is home to the royal family’s ceremonial buildings and beautiful gardens.
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Located just a 10-minute walk from Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho is another must-see temple in Bangkok. It houses a massive reclining Buddha statue and is the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
The Grand Palace is located in the same walking area.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Here are some tips before you visit Wat Phra Kaew:
Bring sunscreen and water: Bangkok can be extremely hot, and there’s little shade in the temple grounds.
No drones: Drones are not allowed in the temple complex.
Keep an eye on your belongings: Like any tourist site, be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Plan for at least two hours: Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace can take time to explore, so allocate enough time in your itinerary.
