This country located in Southeast Asia is a destination that blends a spirituality quite different from ours, the technological dynamism of Bangkok, and, of course, incredible cuisine.
Must-see cities on your first trip to Thailand.
If it’s your first time in Thailand, I recommend starting with these four cities that offer the best of the country: culture, gastronomy, temples, and landscapes.
Bangkok: The capital is intense, full of contrasts and unique experiences. Visit temples, floating markets, and experience Thai urban life with a chaotic touch.
Chiang Mai: Located in the north, it’s a more tranquil city, surrounded by mountains and spirituality. Ideal for those who enjoy culture, temples, and contact with nature.
Krabi: A perfect base for exploring paradisiacal beaches, such as Railay Beach and Hong Islands. Good infrastructure, good prices, and unforgettable landscapes.
Phi Phi Islands: Yes, they are very touristy, but they are also unforgettable. If well planned, you can enjoy the best of the islands, with crystal-clear waters, boat trips, and snorkeling.
6 must-see temples to visit
Temple of the Golden Buddha
It’s an elegant temple, nothing too large compared to other temples you’ll see on this list.
Decorated in shades of white and gold, it’s divided into floors, with a small museum exhibit on the second and third floors, and the Buddha on the fourth floor.
The Buddha inside is the main attraction of Wat Traimit: the immense solid gold Buddha, the largest of its kind in the world.
The Grand Palace, the temple of the Emerald Buddha
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha was built inside the Grand Palace, which was the residence of the Thai royal family.
The Grand Palace is divided into two parts: one dedicated to spirituality, where the Wat Phra Kaew Temple, which houses the famous Emerald Buddha, is located; and the other, more administrative part, where heads of state are still received by the Thai government and even stay overnight.
Emerald Buddha Temple
This is the most important and most visited temple in Bangkok.
The Emerald Buddha, carved from a single block of jade 66 cm high, is quite small and very difficult to see up close.
You’ll need patience to compete with the thousands of Chinese tourists who want to see the Buddha as close as possible.
Inside the temple, taking photos or filming is not allowed, but outside, they’ve left a window open so tourists can take a small souvenir home.
Temple of the Reclining Buddha
Wat Pho is one of Bangkok’s oldest and largest Buddhist temples, named after a monastery in India where Buddha is believed to have lived.
Known as “The Temple of the Reclining Buddha,” it houses an impressive 15-meter-high and 46-meter-long Buddha statue covered in gold leaf and with 4-meter-long feet decorated with mother-of-pearl.
Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn
Wat Arun is Bangkok’s most iconic temple and is located on the other side of the Chao Phraya River, almost opposite the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.
Built in the 17th century, its full name is ‘Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan’, good luck pronouncing that.
The easiest thing to know is that it’s better known as the ‘Temple of Dawn’.
The temple has a central prang, surrounded by four smaller towers, all inlaid with earthenware plates and ceramics.
Wat Saket, the Temple of the Golden Mountain
Wat Saket is one of Bangkok’s temples that attracts visitors primarily for its unique landmarks, especially the “Golden Mountain,” an artificial hill crowned by an imposing chedi that offers incredible views of Bangkok.
The temple itself, dating back to the Ayutthaya era, was restored during the reign of King Rama I.
The Golden Mountain hill was built during the reign of King Rama III, while the golden chedi was erected by Rama IV, with an addition made by Rama V, which remains to this day.
Inside, there is a revered image of Buddha, a gift from the British.