Wat Saket (Temple of the Golden Mount)
Temple in Bangkok
Wat Saket, also known as the Temple of the Golden Mount, is one of Bangkok’s oldest and most iconic temples. Situated just outside the old Rattanakosin island, it dates back to the Ayutthaya period, originally called Wat Sakae. It was later restored and renamed by King Rama I, becoming Wat Saket Ratcha Wora Maha Wihan.
The temple’s distinctive feature is the 60-meter high Golden Mount (Phu Khao Thong), which holds the main gilded chedi (stupa). This artificial “mountain” was created from debris after a previous chedi commissioned by King Rama III collapsed due to unstable soil. Once the highest point in Bangkok, the Golden Mount today offers breathtaking views of the city after a climb of over 300 steps. Visitors can enjoy several resting spots along the way, each offering scenic viewpoints.
At the base of the mountain lies a peculiar cemetery, where the ashes of plague victims from the 18th century are interred. The site was once Bangkok’s primary crematorium and became known as “Ghost Gate.” The climb up the Golden Mount is not just a physical journey but also a historical one, with visitors walking through this somber past as they ascend.
Once at the summit, visitors are treated to a 360-degree view of Bangkok. To the west, you can see the Temple of the Emerald Buddha at the Grand Palace, while to the east, the towers of Bangkok’s business district come into view. The panoramic vistas make the climb well worth the effort.
Annual Loy Krathong Festival
An extraordinary time to visit Wat Saket is during the annual Loy Krathong festival in November. For a week during this festival, the temple hosts a vibrant candlelight procession, during which worshippers climb the Golden Mount while offering flowers and lighting candles. The chedi is draped in a bright red cloth, and the temple grounds come alive with food stalls, performances, and other festivities, making it a lively and atmospheric occasion.
Practical Information
- Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Admission: Free to the temple; 100 Baht for entry to the Golden Mount
- Dress Code: Respectful attire is required. Men should wear long pants and sleeves, while women must wear skirts or pants that cover the knee, and tops that cover the shoulders.
- Photography: Allowed throughout the temple complex.
Tips and FAQs
- Best Time to Visit: To avoid the heat and crowds, visit early in the morning. If visiting during hot and sunny days, consider wearing a hat or bringing a parasol, as you’ll be exposed to the sun during the climb.
- Things to Be Aware Of: During the Loy Krathong festival, the temple can get very crowded, so it’s best to plan ahead if you wish to experience the festivities.
- Why You Should Visit: Bangkok is a flat city, so the Golden Mount offers a rare opportunity to climb a hill and enjoy panoramic views of the city, all while experiencing the serenity and history of this revered temple.
The Wat Saket (Temple of the Golden Mount) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bangkok!
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Visiting Wat Saket (Temple of the Golden Mount)
9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
100 Baht for entry to the Golden Mount
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