Wat Traimit, Bangkok: Explore the Temple of the Golden Buddha

• Golden Buddha statue

Known religiously as ‘Phra Phutta Maha Suwan Patimakron’, the golden Buddha statue nurtured by Wat Traimit was a symbol of political power during the reign of the erstwhile Sukhothai dynasty. The statue is special to the temple for so many beautiful reasons. It is almost five meters tall and weighs 5.5 tonnes. The main statue is especially impressive as it has been made out of pure gold, unlike the other statues which are either painted gold or have been gold-plated. It can be traced back to the thirteenth century and it is said that the statue has been sculpted in authentic Sukhothai style. 

• Learn history

The temple is a comprehensive multi-floored building that shows the cultural and historical significance of Wat Traimit. On the second floor, you can see 3D presentations that narrate the story of the advent of Chinese traders in Bangkok. Step up to the third floor to watch a video presentation that tells you a tale about the history of the Golden Buddha and why the temple came to be known as Wat Traimit. 

• Photography

Visitors to Wat Traimit are allowed to take photographs inside the temple premises. The Buddhist monument has aesthetically pleasing backgrounds that strike a perfect balance between religious and artistic aura. The temple is bathed in a white and gold color palette and the ordination walls have breathtaking murals that bring to life the elements significant to Buddhism in an elegant scenic style. 

• Pray and meditate

Take a break from the bustling city life outside when you enter the ornately designed interiors of Wat Traimit. The temple is a tranquil space for you to press pause, reminisce, and contemplate. You would be asked to remove your shoes and adhere to the dress code of the temple. If you are traveling as a history buff or a culture enthusiast, you will love a visit to this temple!

• The Golden Buddha, which makes Wat Traimit stand apart, is believed to be the largest gold image of Buddha in the whole world. The statue is shown to be embracing the mara (earth touching Mudra)
• It is a white and gold temple following traditional Buddhist architectural principles. It has ordination halls and Buddhist assembly halls that serve as a gateway into the Buddhist cultural lifestyle
• The first floor of the temple has in itself a heritage museum that has exhibits that feature and explain the myriad aspects of Chinatown. 

The temple is open on all days of the week from 8 A.M. in the morning until 5 P.M. in the evening. You can visit the golden Buddha statue during these hours. The museum, however, is closed on Mondays. It is open on the rest of the days from 8-5 again.

The entrance into the temple premises is free. But you will have to pay around 100 Baht for entry into the museum and 40 Baht to view the Buddha statue. Explore the vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and exotic cuisine with our exclusive Thailand packages from India, offering an unforgettable journey through this enchanting Southeast Asian destination.

Also Read: Best Temples in Thailand

From the Suvarnabhumi airport you could choose from these options to get to the Hualamphong railway station.

From the Hualamphong railway station you could choose to walk, drive or take the local bus which will take you about 6-8 minutes approximately.

• Chinatown

Welcome to the street food central of Bangkok! Enter the streets of Chinatown in Bangkok to feast from myriad South Asian cuisines. The place has as much history and culture to offer its visitors as it has a youthful energy. The brilliant hues of this part of the city coupled with the much happening nightlife bring a classic hippie vibe into your Thai holiday. 

• Kuan Yim Shrine

A part of Chinatown that must make it to your list of culture-rich stops in Bangkok, Thailand. An ancient Chinese temple that speaks volumes of the rich cultural history the Chinese traders brought with them to the island.

• Spas and bars

Once you are done with your historical exploration, soak your toes and get yourself a laid-back massage from one of the many authentic Thai spas along the streets of Chinatown. As the nightlife wakes up with glittering lights, check out the bars and pubs here to party til you drop!

Chinatown offers a culmination of Chinese history wrapped in Thai architecture. Check out the other Buddhist temples that are a must-visit to learn more about the Buddhist cultural history in Bangkok on the Pickyourtrail website. Customize your itinerary to quench your cultural thirst and plan the perfect vacation to Bangkok with activities picked out exclusively for you! Our travel concierge service ensures you enjoy a hassle-free holiday while you sit back and let your hair down. Visit our website for more information.

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