Wat Arun

The Wat Arun temple, which is also known as The Temple Of The Dawn, is one of the 10 Royal temples in Thailand and one of the 23 Royal temples scattered through the country. It is one of the oldest temples, which building was actually started before Bangkok was founded. The temple was build for the loved King.

This beautiful temple is found on the West bank of the Chao Phraya River. It hosts a tower which stands over 80 meters so it can be seen from areas around the city. Inside there is a very steep staircase which leads to a balcony where there is a magnificent view of the river, especially at night! The stair case gets so narrow as you continue to go up it, that it is impossible to reach the top.

The temple is decorated with brightly painted pieces of porcelain, glass, many murals of King Chulalingkom and over 100 pictures of Buddha. The great King’s ashes are also buried at the temple.

Wat Phra Singh

Located in the old city Chiang Mai you will find the Wat Phra Singh temple which is also known as the Lion Buddha. It was originally built in 1345 and renovated in the 19th century keeping the history and style in place. It was renovated again in 2006. It is hard to miss as it has a large sanctuary, many coffees and food stands, and extremely well kept grounds.

On the grounds of the temple there are 3 main buildings. The most popular one is called the Lai Kam assembly hall which decorated with is decorated with murals of folklore tails, and other artistic items from Thailand and Sri Lanka. There is also a school and monastery which are currently active.

The Phra Singh statue you will see inside has been sort of a mystery in Thailand. There are 2 of these statues in Thailand and each one is claimed to be the original. The buddha is gold and is in a seated position, welcoming guests in for their blessings.

Wat Rong Khun

Wat Rong Khun is a privately owned temple which is better known to tourists and travelers as The White Temple as it is painted white. The temple was opened in 1997 by Chalermchai Kositpipat who did all the designing of the temple and the construction. The design is very modern and bold with so much detail that people travel from far away just to visit the temple.

As visitors walk up the path to get to the temple they will see statues of hands coming from the ground as well as little pieces of mirrors imbedded into the statues and buildings. When the sun hits, the reflection looks magical as it sparkles from the light.

There is a stone pathway through the grounds for visitors to see the statutes and take photos as well as a walk under a canopy filled with prayer plates. Prayer plates can be purchased and added to the canopy.

Wat Tham Pha Plong

This unique temple is located in the North in a city called Chaing Dao. What makes the Wat Tham Plong unique is the 500 stairs you walk, half way up the mountain to get to the temple. The temple was built on a large piece of limestone and part of the temple is part of a cave which was in the mountain.

The stairway is lined with positive quotes, sayings and teachings all the way up to the temple. Since it is so high up in the monition the area is surrounded by a lush forest and an incredible view. The grounds have shrines which you can access by walking on the path. The gardens are all attended to regularity leaving the grounds immaculate for visitors to enjoy. On the way down there are always venders selling cold lemonade or water to keep you hydrated.

Wat Suthat

Located in Bangkok this temple is one of the oldest temples in Thailand. This temple is known for the giant red swing that can be seen hanging outside. The swing is made from wood and stands 20m high. The huge red swing was once used during annual ceremonies and to give thanks to Shiva.

The buddha statue which can be clearly seen inside stands at 25 feet tall. The statue was found in an abandoned temple many years ago and was brought by boat to Thailand over 800 years ago and placed in The Wat Suthat temple. You will find hand carved doors and designs around the temple as well as over 150 hand painted pieces which explore the previous lives of Buddha.

The grounds of the temple are very peaceful as you walk around and enjoy the fascinating statues and art work. Many of the states were brought over from China centuries ago. There are benches for people to sit and relax on while meditating. Underneath some of the paintings it is know that there are ashes from 2 of the kinds buried.

When visiting one of the temples in Thailand it is important to remember that these are still in use and the living quarters for both monks and students. To respect their culture it is best to wear something that covers your arms and legs. Leave things as you found them and enjoy the serenity of being in a place that is flowing with energy and love.