Wat Phra Kaew Guide : Visiting the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok

The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which is also called Wat Phra Kaew, is located within the Grand Palace of Bangkok in the district of Phra Nakhon. Established in 1782, under the patronage of King Rama I, this is a holy Buddhist temple in Thailand that has a 66-centimetre jade Buddha statue, wrapped in seasonal gold robes. Wat Phra Kaew does not have resident monks like other temples in Thailand, and is only an expression of royal service and national religious icon.

Key Fact: The Emerald Buddha isn't actually emerald; it's carved from green jade.

• National Symbol: The Emerald Buddha is considered Thailand's protective talisman
• Royal Connection: Thai kings personally change the statue's robes three times yearly
• Architectural Marvel: Features golden chedis, intricate murals, and Thai-European fusion buildings
• Historical Importance: Marks Bangkok's establishment as Siam's capital in 1782

• Admission Fee: 500 THB (covers Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew)
• Where to Buy: Main entrance gate or online via official channels
• Audio Guide: Available for rent at the entrance

Money-Saving Tip: A Combined ticket includes access to the Grand Palace complex, the Royal Thai Decorations Museum, and Wat Phra Kaew.

Sleeves should be completely covered. Therefore, no top is acceptable which reveals a sleeveless or tank top. Knees should be covered too, and it means that long pants or skirts covering below the knee are necessary. Clothes such as see-through clothing, ripped jeans or shorts are not allowed to be worn, and they are advised to wear close-toe shoes. In case you are not suitably dressed, you can rent sarongs and cover-ups at the entrance for a deposit.

• Recommended Route: Board the BTS to Saphan Taksin and board the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Tha Chang Pier (walk 5 minutes to the entrance of the Grand Palace).
• Scam Alert: Do not follow tuk-tuk drivers who tell you that the temple is closed today. It is a frequently used method to get you to the shops where they work on commission.

1. The Emerald Buddha (Phra Kaew Morakot)

The jade statue is 66cm in height, resting on a golden altar. No photography was allowed within the ordination hall. Be on time to have a tranquil viewing.

2. Phra Si Rattana Chedi (Golden Stupa)

Golden stupa with Buddha relics, the surface is gilded, which, in light of mid-morning, shines spectacularly.

3. Ramakien Murals (Thai Epic Wall Paintings)

The inner galleries of the temple are lined with 178 wall panels with the Thai epic Ramayana story.

4. Royal Pantheon (Prasat Phra Thep Bidon)

It has full-size statues of the kings of the Chakri Dynasty. Open only on Chakri Day (April 6).

5. Chakri Maha Prasat Hall (Hybrid Architecture)

Hybrid architecture combining Victorian and Thai traditional architecture palace structures with unusual three-tiered roofs.

6. Angkor Wat Model (Thai-Cambodian Relations)

Thai-Cambodian relations during the 19th century were represented in several forms as a scale replica.

7. Wat Phra Kaew Museum (Ceremonial & Historical Items)

Space with climate control and exhibition of ceremonial items, historical items and a detailed history of temples.

8. Mythical Guardian Statues (Yaksha & Kinnari Figures)

Entrances in the complex are guarded by giant yaksha demons and golden figures of kinnari.

• Temple Admission - 500THB
• Chao Phraya Ferry (round-trip) - 30THB
• Drinking Water - 20THB
• Sarong Rental (if needed) - 200THB deposit
• Audio Guide (optional) - 200THB
• Lunch Nearby - 150-300 
• Total Estimate - 700-1,250THB

What to Bring

• Passport/ID (sometimes checked)
• Modest clothing meets the dress code
• Sunscreen and hat (limited shade)
• Refillable water bottle
• Comfortable walking shoes

What NOT to Do

• Turn your back to the Buddha images
• Point feet toward sacred objects
• Touch murals or statues
• Wear shoes inside the main halls
• Disturb worshippers
• No photography inside the ordination hall, near the Emerald Buddha

Wat Phra Kaew is the temple found within the Grand Palace complex. Both are included in your admission ticket. The Grand Palace comprises throne halls, museums and buildings of the government, whereas Wat Phra Kaew is mentioned as the sacred temple area which has the Emerald Buddha.

Visiting Wat Phra Kaew is one of the best ways to experience Thailand’s royal history, sacred traditions, and stunning temple architecture. Arriving early, wearing the proper clothing, and following simple guidelines will make your visit smooth and memorable. You can combine your Grand Palace trip with Wat Pho and Wat Arun for a complete Bangkok temple tour, or simply spend the morning enjoying the calm and beauty of this sacred site. Before you go, check the official Grand Palace website for updated hours, ticket prices, and closures. For more cultural insights, explore our Thailand tour packages and Thailand adventure tour packages.