Wat Saket (Temple of the Golden Mount) , Bangkok

Temple in Bangkok

CC BY-SA 4.0 / กสิณธร ราชโอรส

Rising above the low skyline of old Bangkok, Wat Saket—known locally as Phu Khao Thong, or the Golden Mount—is one of the must-see places in Bangkok for travelers seeking both beauty and peace. Its gleaming golden chedi perched atop a man-made hill offers not only a glimpse into the city's spiritual heritage but also one of the most stunning panoramic views of Bangkok. The gentle climb of more than 300 steps rewards visitors with breezy vantage points and a calm, reflective atmosphere far removed from the city's usual hustle.

A highlight of any walking tour of Bangkok, Wat Saket perfectly captures the balance between sacred space and scenic viewpoint. Whether you come for its ancient history, its famous annual festival, or simply to escape the chaos below, this temple is a journey—both physical and spiritual—that connects you to the soul of the city.

History and Significance of Wat Saket
Things to See and Do in Wat Saket
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting Wat Saket
Is Wat Saket Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Wat Saket
Nearby Attractions to Wat Saket

History and Significance of Wat Saket

Wat Saket dates back to the Ayutthaya period, when it was originally known as Wat Sakae. King Rama I later restored the temple and renamed it Wat Saket Ratcha Wora Maha Wihan as part of his efforts to consolidate Bangkok's royal temples. The Golden Mount, however, is a later addition, born out of both failure and ingenuity.

King Rama III initially attempted to build a grand chedi, but the structure collapsed due to Bangkok's soft soil. Instead of abandoning the idea, the debris was repurposed to form an artificial hill—Bangkok's first and only one. King Rama IV and King Rama V later completed the stupa that now crowns the mount, encasing relics of the Buddha within.

Wat Saket also has a poignant side to its history. During the 18th-century cholera epidemic, the area around the temple served as the city's main crematorium, and the ashes of plague victims were buried at the base of the hill. Despite these somber origins, Wat Saket has become a symbol of renewal and resilience, reminding visitors of the cyclical nature of life and death in Buddhist belief.

Things to See and Do in Wat Saket

The main attraction is, of course, the climb up the Golden Mount. The spiral staircase winds gently upward through shaded terraces and small shrines, accompanied by the rhythmic sound of temple bells and gongs. Along the way, you'll pass lush greenery, resting platforms, and viewpoints that offer glimpses of Bangkok's Old City below.

At the summit sits the golden chedi, glittering under the tropical sun. Inside, a relic of the Buddha is enshrined, and the viewing platform offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramas. From here, you can see the spires of Wat Arun across the Chao Phraya River, the Grand Palace complex, and the modern skyscrapers in the distance.

If you visit in November, the annual Loy Krathong festival transforms Wat Saket into a vibrant spectacle. During this week-long event, the chedi is wrapped in a red cloth, and devotees carry candles and flowers up the mount in a stunning candlelit procession. The surrounding grounds come alive with music, food stalls, and performances, making it one of the top attractions in Bangkok during festival season.

How to Get There

Wat Saket is located on Boriphat Road, near Ratchadamnoen Avenue, on the edge of Bangkok's Old City. The easiest way to reach it is via the MRT Blue Line to Sam Yot Station, followed by a short tuk-tuk or 15-minute walk. Alternatively, you can take a canal boat to the Phanfa Leelard Pier, which drops you just a few minutes from the temple entrance.

Practical Tips on Visiting Wat Saket

Best time to visit Wat Saket: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and softer light for photography.
Entrance fee in Thai Baht: Free for temple grounds; 100 THB for access to the Golden Mount.
Opening hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Official website: None; visitor details are listed on the Tourism Authority of Thailand site.
How long to spend: About 1 to 1.5 hours, including the climb and sightseeing.
Accessibility: The lower temple complex is accessible, but the climb involves over 300 steps.
Facilities: Restrooms, shaded resting spots, and small shops selling drinks and souvenirs.
Photography tip: Capture the golden chedi framed by prayer flags near sunset for beautiful lighting.
Guided tours: Frequently included in Old City temple tours or photography walks.
Nearby food options: Street vendors at the temple base serve refreshing coconut ice cream, fresh juice, and local snacks.

Is Wat Saket Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Wat Saket is one of the top sights in Bangkok for its combination of peaceful atmosphere, history, and unbeatable city views. Few places in Bangkok offer such a rich blend of spirituality and scenic beauty. The climb itself is gentle, meditative, and deeply rewarding—an experience that perfectly encapsulates Bangkok's ability to blend sacred tradition with urban life.

FAQs for Visiting Wat Saket

What is Wat Saket famous for?
Wat Saket is best known for the Golden Mount, a 60-meter-high hill crowned with a gleaming chedi offering panoramic views of Bangkok.

How many steps are there to the top?
There are approximately 344 steps, winding gently around the mount.

Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, entry to the temple grounds is free, while access to the Golden Mount costs 100 THB.

When is the Loy Krathong festival?
It takes place annually in November, featuring candlelit processions and temple fairs.

Can you visit Wat Saket at night?
The temple closes at 7:00 PM, but visiting around sunset provides the most beautiful experience.

Nearby Attractions to Wat Saket

Wat Ratchanatdaram – Home to the Loha Prasat, the world's only surviving iron spired temple.
Wat Thepthidaram – A literary landmark linked to Thailand's national poet, Sunthorn Phu.
The Giant Swing – Bangkok's bold red religious monument near Wat Suthat.
The National Museum Bangkok – Showcasing Thailand's rich cultural and historical heritage.
Sanam Luang – A vast royal field used for ceremonies and public festivals.

The Wat Saket (Temple of the Golden Mount) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bangkok!

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