Publish On December 19, 2024

Everytime we hear about a trip to Thailand, the first thing that comes to our minds are the crazy party culture of the country, vibrant urban life and the full moon party which is considered to be the most famous attraction among youngsters, but there’s more, along with its vibrancy. Thailand is a country which has a very rich cultural heritage and is home to a very large number of temples that define the rich history of the country. With their intricate designs, historical presence and spiritual aura these ancient temples in Thailand serve as the bridge between past and present of this country.

Each of these temples in Thailand has their own unique story that blends the magnificence and artistic brilliance of the country. Many of these temples have now become the ancient ruins in Thailand where travelers visit and explore how the country’s religious diversity has shaped its cultural landscapes.

Top Temples in Thailand You Can’t Miss Out On

Here are the top temples in Thailand that will help you understand and learn more about the spiritual history of the country.

Wat Phra Kaew

The Wat Phra Kaew temple is located in the Grand Palace Complex of Bangkok, which is also known as the temple of the Emerald Budhha. This temple was commissioned by King Rama 1 and was completed in the 18th century. This temple is known to be the beacon of spirituality and is a great example of traditional Thai architecture. This temple is one of the most famous temples in Thailand Bangkok. 

• Historical Context: Built by King Rama 1 in 1782.
• Architectural Style: Highly ornamental with intricate design and is a blend of Thai and Khmer styles.

Wat Arun

Wat Arun which is also known as the temple of Dawn is a Buddhist sacred site located in Bangkok, built by Taksin of the Thonburi kingdom which was later restored in the early 19th century. This temple is amongst some of the most famous Buddhist Temples in Thailand.

• Historical Context: Established during the Ayutthaya period and was later restored by King Rama II in the 19th century.
• Architectural Styles: Khmer-inspired prang with floral porcelain.

Wat Pho

The Wat Pho Temple is a Buddhist temple complex in Bangkok which is known for its large statue of reclining Buddha covered in gold leaf. This ancient temple in Thailand is considered to be the birthplace of the traditional Thai massage and public learning in the country and the temple also showcases ancient murals and sculptures representing the history and culture of the country.

• Historical Context: Founded in the 16th century and expanded under King Rama I.
• Architectural Styles: Traditional Thai architecture with elaborate mural paintings.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a Buddhist temple situated in Chiang Mai, Thailand. This temple offers spectacular views and also provides a glimpse into the region's spiritual practices. This temple is one of the most famous temples in Thailand, which is believed to house a sacred relic of the Buddha. 

• Historical Context: Built in 1383 with the other piece of bone tied to a White Elephant.
• Architectural Style: Lanna style with gold-plated stupa.

Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Chedi Luang is a Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, which was once the tallest structure in the ancient Lanna which has now been converted into partial ruins. This temple is known for its large Chedi and is one of the famous ancient ruins of Thailand that features the replica of the emerald Buddha.

• Historical Context: Built in the 14th century by King Saen Muang Ma.
• Architectural Style: Traditional Lanna with a large towering Chedi (Pagoda).

Wat Mahathat

The Wat Mahathat Temple is also known as the temple of the great relic is an ancient temple in Thailand’s Ayutthaya historical park and was once part of the Ayutthaya kingdom. This temple is famous for offering a great glimpse into the past of the country.

• Historical Context: Constructed in the 14th century as a royal monastery.
• Architectural Style: Khmer styled ruins with symbolic artifacts.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Wat Chaiwatthanaram is an ancient Buddhist temple in Ayutthaya which is a UNESCO world heritage site and is famous for showcasing the Khmer style architecture in Thailand and is also an emblem of the kingdom’s golden era. This temple has now become ancient ruins and are still admired for their symmetry and grandeur making it one of the best places to visit in Thailand.

• Historical Context: Built in 1630 under King Prasat Thong.
• Architectural Style: Khmer inspired with stunning prangs and galleries.

Wat Phra Singh

The Wat Phra Singh Temple is located in Chiang Mai is a classic example of the Lanna architecture that is a major cultural and religious center. This temple is considered home to the famous image of Phra Singh Buddha making it one of the most famous temples in Thailand.

• Historical Context: Built in 1345 by king Pha Yu.
• Architectural Style: Intricate wood carvings and gilded details.

Wat Rong Khun

Wat Rong Khun which is also known as the White temple is situated in Chiang Rai, Thailand. It is not a traditional Buddhist temple but is one of the famous Buddha temples in Thailand because of its modern Buddhist design and its white color that represents purity.

• Historical Context: Created by the famous artist Chalermchai Kositpipat in 1997.
• Architectural Style: Modern Buddhist design with mirrored mosaics.

Wat Phra That Phanom

Wat Phra That Phanom is a Buddhist temple and stupa in the northeastern Thailand that is believed to enshrine the relic of the Buddha. This temple is considered to be one of the oldest temples in Thailand, attracting pilgrims from all over the country.

• Historical Context: Dates back to the 1st century.
• Architectural Style: Traditional Isan with golden stupa.

Wat Ratchaburana

Wat Ratchaburana is a Buddhist temple and also a historical landmark which was built in the 15th century as a memorial of two brothers who died fighting for the throne. This temple is considered to be the most intriguing ancient ruins in Thailand because of its hidden crypts that contain relics and treasures.

• Historical Context: Built by King Borommarachathirat II in 1424.
• Architectural Style: Khmer-style architecture with hidden treasures.

Wat Suthat

Wat Suthat is a first-class royal temple in Bangkok, Thailand which is renowned for its red giant swing, many intricate murals and it also provides insights into the Thai culture making it one of the most famous temples in Thailand Bangkok.

• Historical Context: Built in the 19th century started by King Rama I and finished by King Rama III.
• Architectural Style: Thai architecture with an enormous ordination hall.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Wat Phra Si Sanphet is another significant historical and spiritual temple in Ayutthaya, once part of the royal complex of the city, this temple is a symbol of the kingdom's prosperity. The three long towering stupas of this temple makes it one of the most famous Buddha temples in Thailand and also a historical highlight.

• Historical Context: Built by King Borommatrailokkanat in the 15th century.
• Architectural Styles: Ayutthaya-style stupas all with symmetrical layouts.

Wat Umong

Wat Umong is a Buddhist temple in Thailand that is hidden in the lush green forests of Chiang Mai. This temple is widely known for its ancient tunnels with serene ambience. It is among the most unique ancient temples in Thailand, also making it a perfect place for people to meditate and reflect on their actions. 

• Historical Context: Established in the late 14th century by King Mengrai.
• Architectural Styles: Tunnel-style temple with many naturalistic elements.

Generally Thailand is a destination that is usually associated with couples and solo travelers but through after reading this blog we are sure that you do not think that Thailand is just a place with vibrant nightlife, but is also a place where you can visit with family through Thailand tour packages for families to explore these ancient temples that represents the rich cultural heritage combining with spiritual history of the country.

Tempted to explore these ancient temples in Thailand with family and do something that people generally do not think of doing in a Thailand tour.

So, pack your bags, board the flight and get ready to explore Thailand with Go4Explore with our handcrafted Thailand tour packages and itineraries you can experience a hassle free journey and also provide some unforgettable memories of the trip.