Temple of The Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew)

Hours (Open/Closed) Monday 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM Tuesday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM Wednesday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM Thursday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM Friday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM Saturday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM Sunday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM

📍 Location of Temple of The Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) 🚘 Directions to Temple of The Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew)

About Temple of The Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew)

Nestled within the grounds of the Grand Palace in Thailand, one can find a temple of great significance and beauty. This temple, regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in the country, houses the magnificent Emerald Buddha, a statue that dates back to the 14th century. The statue, carved from a single jade stone, stands tall and dark green, a sight to behold. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Thailand.

The Grand Palace itself is a marvel, with its beautiful buildings and intricate paintings. The temple is located in the heart of the palace, easily accessible to visitors. However, one must be wary of scams suggesting that the palace is closed or only for locals. Entry into the palace is straightforward, with security checks for backpacks. It is important to note that visitors must wear long trousers or rent them on-site for 300 bahts, as entry is not permitted otherwise.

Inside the temple, visitors are required to take off their shoes, a common practice in many temples. While photography is not allowed inside, visitors can sit and enjoy the statues and beautiful paintings for as long as they wish. The temple also provides a serene environment for those who wish to pray.

However, the temple can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season. Some visitors have described it as the busiest tourist attraction they have ever experienced, with people filing past the Buddha in large numbers. Despite the crowd, the beauty of the buildings, statues, surrounding grounds, and of course, the Emerald Buddha, is undeniable. It is recommended to visit early in the morning, around 08:30 am, before the arrival of tour buses, to avoid the crowd.

The temple is also a popular destination for local worshippers, especially on New Year's Day. Despite the crowd, the experience of worshipping and meditating alongside thousands of others near the Emerald Buddha is described as moving and meaningful. The temple houses incredible statues, artifacts, and holy objects, and carries the spirit and feel of millions of worshipers over time and history.

The temple is within a 10-minute walk from the Grand Palace, making it convenient for visitors to explore both in a day. Tickets can be purchased on the spot without any problems. The temple is a magnificent structure that needs to be witnessed in real life. The Buddha is said to be a lot bigger in real life than it looks in pictures, often leaving visitors in awe.

The temple, with its strict dress code, requires visitors to cover their shoulders and full legs. It is also mandatory to remove any shoes before entering the temple. Despite these rules, the temple is worth the visit, with its ornate interiors and spectacular splendor. Visitors are advised to wear or bring socks for comfort when walking barefoot inside the temple.

In conclusion, the temple housing the Emerald Buddha, located within the Grand Palace, is a must-visit destination in Thailand. Its historical significance, coupled with its stunning architecture and the magnificent Emerald Buddha, make it a memorable experience for all visitors.