13 most sacred places of worship in Bangkok

Bangkok has some of Thailand’s most important Buddhist temples. Visit the three that are most favored by Thais—whether you’re praying for a blessing during the New Year or your birthday, or hoping for a spot of good luck.

 

Temple of the Emerald Buddha

 

Devotees seeking success, wisdom, and a prosperous life come to this famed temple within the grounds of The Grand Palace. Locally known as Wat Phra Kaew (its official name is Wat Phra Sri Rattana Sasadaram), the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is home to the country’s most revered jade image of the Enlightened One. 

This magnificent sanctum boasts the pinnacle of traditional Thai artistry. Highlights include the ordination hall, which features intricately fashioned golden elements, 12 gigantic yaksha (demon guardian) statues that loom over the entrance, and a fascinating mural based on the national epic Ramakien.

 

Wat Arun

Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan, or Wat Arun for short, is also called the Temple of Dawn for the Hindu god Aruna, who sometimes appears with a sun-like aura. Its name is also an auspicious symbol of new beginnings, which is what most visitors pray for.

One of the most frequented spots in Bangkok, the temple is located along the Chao Phraya River—you can easily hop on a boat from several piers including the one in Tha Tien. Wat Arun’s majestic appearance, recently renovated porcelain-covered pagodas, and intricate decor attracts worshippers, lovers of art, and curious tourists. There are also 120 Buddha images and yaksha statues that you can’t miss.

 

 

Wat Pho

Be transported back to ancient Thailand when you visit Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan or simply Wat Pho. Wat Pho is nicknamed Thailand’s first university as it was established by King Rama III in the mid-1800s to give the public open access to knowledge. You can still see inscriptions on the wall, from which students at the time learned about astrology, history, literature, and the intricacies of Thai massage (still taught in the temple today). Ninety-nine stupas (two of which house the remains of King Rama II and III) and Chinese guardian figures are also some of the temple’s more remarkable highlights. 

The expansive temple is home to the venerated Reclining Buddha. Made of brick and gilded plaster, the impressive statue measures 15 meters high and 46 meters long, marking it as one of the largest Buddha statues in the country. Rumor has it that the Reclining Buddha grants the wishes of those seeking love and their soulmate. Tuesdays are believed to be the best day for such a request!

Regardless of your faith, you can appreciate the architectural beauty of these incredible churches that are the spiritual home of Bangkok’s Christian community.

 

Assumption Cathedral

Light a candle before marveling at the grandeur of this Roman Catholic Church. Built during the reign of King Rama II in the early 1800s, Assumption Cathedral in Charoenkrung is the biggest and most spectacular Christian church in Thailand. 

The Renaissance-inspired structure features a 32-meter-tall belfry, vaulting columns, and beautiful stained glass windows, which were refurbished after the church was bombed during World War II.

Fun fact: The cathedral played host to the visits of Pope John Paul II in 1984 and Pope Francis in 2019.

 

Holy Rosary Church

This Talad Noi institution, also called Wat Kalawar, dates back to the 17th century when it was established by Portuguese settlers towards the end of the Ayutthaya kingdom. Its Thai name is speculated to have roots in the Portuguese word “calvario” or cavalry, while its English name signifies that it is home to a statue of the Our Lady of the Rosary. 

Built in a Gothic style, the Holy Rosary Church features striking elements like a towering spire, golden arches, and large stained glass windows. 

 

Saint Louis Church

Located within the premises of Saint Louis Hospital on Surasak Road, this church was established circa 1958 to pay homage to King  Louis IX of France.

The red brick structure features a gable roof, arched ceilings and windows through which natural light slips through. These elements, combined with minimalist interiors, give the church a welcoming and romantic feel, which is probably why it is a coveted venue for weddings. 

You can see the influence of the Chinese in many parts of Bangkok, particularly in Yaowarat or Chinatown, which is home to many sacred Chinese shrines.

 

Wat Mangkorn Kamalawat

Locals will tell you that Bangkok’s most sacred Chinese shrine is Wat Mangkorn Kamalawat or Wat Leng Noei Yi in Charoenkrung. Every day, the Teochew-influenced temple welcomes worshippers and visitors who offer prayers to the 58 Chinese gods within. These include the Chatulokkaban (The Four Heavenly Kings) at the entrance, Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy) in one of the rear pavilions, and a huge golden Buddha at the ordination hall.

 

Tiger God Shrine

When visiting Rattanakosin Island, this shrine is a must-visit along with Wat Pho, the Bangkok City Pillar Shrine, and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This Teochew joss house is home to five supreme beings: the Tiger God (Xuan Tian Shang Di), Lord Guan (God of Honesty), Caishen (God of Fortune), Dai Seng Ya (Monkey God), and Mazu (Goddess of the Sea).

Known to locals as San Chaopho Suea, it often sees the patronage of couples trying to conceive a child.

 

Rong Kuek Shrine

This relatively unknown shrine is tucked within the maze-like neighborhood of Talad Noi, hidden among old shophouses and hip cafés. Historically, Rong Kuek was built by the Hakka community, who were known for their steelworks, in particular horseshoes (“kuek ma” in Thai, hence the shrine’s name). 

A statue of Han Gao Zu, the first emperor of China’s Han dynasty, stands guard over the shrine together with Cai Shen, the God of Wealth. If it’s wealth and prosperity you’re looking for then you’ve come to the right place.

The Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Silom is the main place of worship for Hindus in Bangkok, but the religion’s most important gods also have shrines dedicated to them in Ratchaprasong.

 

Ganesh

Offer a prayer to this elephant-headed god to ask for wisdom and intelligence—the celebrated qualities of Ganesh. Ganesh’s shrine is located in front of centralwOrld, right next to the shrine to Trimurti. Feel free to bring fresh flower garlands, milk, and fruits to offer, just like devotees.

 

Trimurti

Right next to Ganesh’s shrine is the altar of Trimurti, the divine trinity of supreme gods in Hinduism.

Locals have long regarded it as the “love shrine” and if you come on a Thursday at 21:30, you’ll see believers clad in red offering nine roses, a red candle, and red fruit in hopes of being blessed with luck in love and relationships.

 

Lakshmi

If it’s luck in love you’re looking for, be sure to also visit the shrine of Lakshmi—the Goddess of Beauty and Wealth—on the fourth floor of Gaysorn Village. Followers come bearing lotuses, jasmine, and roses, as well as milk, yogurt, and sweets.

 

Brahma

Brahma or The Creator also has a shrine at the Ratchaprasong intersection. Known as the Erawan Shrine, this hallowed place has witnessed a string of supernatural mishaps, which locals have taken as proof of how sacred it is. Both Thais and tourists frequent this spot to pray for success in their business endeavors. Just so you know, the shrine has completely banned the use of lit incense sticks and candles for environmental purposes.

While Bangkok’s sacred spots offer comfort for your spiritual soul, you deserve a place to rest your physical body after a day of visiting the city’s temples, churches and shrines. Make your base at these convenient hotels located close to these sacred spots.  

For those looking to experience the best of both worlds—staying at a riverside location while having easy access to all the major historic prayer spots—look no further than Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotels & Towers. This long-standing five-star establishment stands tall on the left bank of the Chao Phraya River, right in the heart of the old merchant quarter of Charoenkrung. This prime location means that most sacred spots in Bangkok are easily within reach. The legendary hotel has recently introduced a new riverside dining experience inspired by nautical lifestyle, Siam Yacht Club, where you can savor fresh seafood and sea-inspired dishes after a day spent outdoors.

On the other side of downtown Bangkok is Bangkok Marriott The Surawongse, one of the highest city retreats in Charoenkrung that offers enriching hotel experiences from the excellent service team and the unparalleled ambience. Elite members of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program can access the hotel’s exclusive M Club lounge and have a memorable sky-high afternoon tea while enjoying stunning views of the city, plus the city’s top Asian-focused delicacies at Yao Restaurant and Praya Kitchen.

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