Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) 

Temple in Bangkok

Wat Phra Kaew

Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is located within the grounds of the Royal Palace in Bangkok. It is the most revered Buddhist temple in Thailand, primarily due to housing the Emerald Buddha, a 2-foot-tall dark green statue considered sacred by the Thai people.

The origins of the Emerald Buddha are debated among historians. Some believe it was brought to Thailand from Sri Lanka, while others suggest it was crafted in the 14th century in Thailand. A famous legend tells that the statue was hidden inside a plaster-covered monument in Chiang Rai until 1434, when a lightning storm uncovered the Buddha image beneath the surface.

Throughout history, the Emerald Buddha has been the focal point of several conflicts. It was brought to Bangkok in 1782, and since then, it has been regarded as a powerful symbol and protector of Thailand. Together with the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha form one of Bangkok’s most iconic and awe-inspiring attractions.

Tips on visiting the Temple of the Emerald Buddha

  • Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds: To experience the temple without the crowds, it’s best to arrive right when the doors open at 8:30 AM. The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew are major tourist attractions, so visiting early will allow you to enjoy a more peaceful and less crowded experience
  • Dress Modestly and Respectfully: As a sacred religious site, Wat Phra Kaew has a strict dress code. Both men and women must wear long pants or skirts (covering the knees) and shirts with sleeves (no sleeveless tops). Avoid wearing sandals or open-toed shoes—closed-toe shoes are required. If you’re not dressed appropriately, you may be denied entry.
  • Combine Your Visit with the Grand Palace: Wat Phra Kaew is located within the grounds of the Royal Grand Palace, and the combined ticket for both attractions costs 500 Thai Baht. This ticket also includes access to a traditional Thai theater performance, making it a great value for those wanting to explore both the palace and temple in one visit.
  • Respect the Sacredness of the Site: The Emerald Buddha is a highly revered statue in Thai Buddhism, so it’s essential to maintain a respectful attitude while visiting. Refrain from touching the Buddha statue or any religious artifacts. Always be quiet and behave respectfully in the temple.
  • Bring Water and Stay Hydrated: The temple grounds can get hot, especially during midday, so it’s a good idea to bring a bottle of water. There are some drinking water stations around the complex, but it’s always best to carry your own to stay hydrated while you explore.

FAQs on the Temple of the Emerald Buddha

What is Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)?

Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is Thailand’s most revered Buddhist temple. Located within the grounds of the Royal Grand Palace in Bangkok, it houses the Emerald Buddha, a small but highly significant dark green statue that is considered the holiest object in Thai Buddhism.

Why is the Emerald Buddha so important?

The Emerald Buddha is believed to be a powerful spiritual symbol for Thailand, regarded as a protector of the nation. It is a revered relic and has a rich history, with some legends suggesting it was hidden for centuries before being uncovered in 1434. The statue has played a central role in Thai royal ceremonies and national events.

What are the opening hours of Wat Phra Kaew?

Wat Phra Kaew is open daily from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. To avoid large crowds, it is recommended to visit early in the morning, right when the temple opens.

Is there an entrance fee to visit Wat Phra Kaew?

Yes, the entrance fee to Wat Phra Kaew is included with the ticket to the Grand Palace. The combined entry fee for both sites is 500 Thai Baht, which also includes a ticket to a traditional Thai performance.

What should I wear when visiting Wat Phra Kaew?

Visitors must dress modestly to enter Wat Phra Kaew. Both men and women are required to wear long pants or skirts (covering the knees) and shirts with sleeves (no sleeveless tops). Sandals or open-toed shoes are not allowed; closed-toe shoes are recommended.

Why You Should Visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha

The Grand Palace is already a remarkable sight, and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is the perfect complement—like the cherry on top of a beautiful cake.


The Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)  appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bangkok!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Visiting Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) 

Address: Wat Phra Kaew, Na Phra Lan Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand
Powered by GetYourGuide

Nearby Attractions

Similar Blogs