The Wat Phra Kaew (วัดพระแก้ว) or the "Temple of the Emerald Buddha," full official name Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram (วัดพระศรีรัตนศาสดาราม) is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple (wat) and pilgrimage in Thailand. It is located in the historic center of Bangkok, within the precincts of the Grand Palace. The temple is depicted on the back of the one baht coin.
The main attraction is the green jade or jasper Emerald Buddha statue in the central ubosot. The statue is quite small and mounted above head-height. Although photography is prohibited inside the ubosot, photos can be taken through the open window at the front of the building. Entrance to the temple and Grand Palace costs 500 baht and the dress code is strict. Pants and sarongs can be rented at the entrance.
The temple is on Rattanakosin Island and easily accessible by boat or bus. Take the Chao Phraya Express boat to Tha Chang pier or the 508 aircon bus from Sukhumvit, Ploenchit or Siam Square. It can be reached on foot from the Banglamphu area.
Updated: January 22, 2013.