Wat Phra Kaew (Emerald Buddha), Bangkok

History

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.

What to see

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.

Getting there

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.

Wat Phra Kaew Bangkok stupas

Wat Phra Kaew chedi, mondop and royal pantheon hall.

Wat Phra Kaew Bangkok yak

Wat Phra Kaew temple guardian (yak).

Wat Phra Kaew Bangkok Emerald Buddha

Wat Phra Kaew Emerald Buddha.

Wat Phra Kaew Bangkok mondop

Wat Phra Kaew mondop.

Wat Phra Kaew Bangkok Phra Viharn Yod

Wat Phra Kaew Phra Viharn Yod.

Wat Phra Kaew Bangkok illuminated

Wat Phra Kaew illuminated at night.

Wat Phra Kaew Bangkok Hanuman Ramakian mural

Wat Phra Kaew mural of Hanuman using his tail as a bridge in the Ramakian.

Wat Phra Kaew Bangkok illuminated

Wat Phra Kaew illuminated at night.