Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok is the most important Buddha temple in the country. Its official name is Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram. Those how can’t speak Thai is able to simply call it by the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. If you have interest in religious-themed tour in Thailand, you should not miss visiting Wat Phra. Importantly, the Wat Phra location is in the heart of Bangkok Old City district, makes it very reachable every time you come to the capital city
History of Wat Phra Kaew Temple
Temple of the Emerald Buddha Wat Phra Kaew was built in 1785, just three years after the construction of the Grand Palace. It was when King Rama sat on the reign and Thailand capital was moved from Thonburi to Bangkok. The temple could be completed in 1784. The current wat Phra in Bangkok still has the same look compared to its original construction, just some minor renovations made, mostly the paintings.
Wat Phra Kaew Facts
Do you want to visit Wat Phra Kaew? These facts will make you more appreciate the trip:
• The Emerald Buddha statue is housed in Ubosoth, the main building of the temple
• The image of the Emerald Buddha enshrined in Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok represents the journey of Lord Buddha from India to Nirvana 5 centuries ago.
• The Emerald Buddha transferring to Thailand was the sign of Charkri Dynasty power consolidation over the Thailand Kingdom.
• No one is allowed to touch the green emerald statue of the Emerald Buddha except the Thai kings.
• The temple of Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok was known as Wat Pa Yia or The Bamboo Forest Monastery.
• Wat Phra temple was constructed with Rattanakosin (old Bangkok) style and looking like the temple in the ancient capital of Ayudhya.
• When entering the temple, you will be welcomed with a pair of Yakshis, 5-meter mystical giant statues as the guardians.
• You must dress appropriately when going inside the temple. Like long pants and long-sleeved shirts for men, and also long skirts for women. If you are not ready with this such dress style, you can rent the clothing gear.
• Remove your shoes when entering the temple as the sign of respect to Buddha.
• You can also say prayers, but make sure to tuck your feet neatly.
Wat Phra Kaew Entrance Fee
This temple open from 8:30 am to until 3:30 pm every day. To get inside, you need to pay 500 Baht per person. To rent the clothing, it is available at ten entrance for 200 Baht per person.
How to Get To Wat Phra Kaew From Sukhumvit
If you want to reach Wat Phra Kaew from the airport, you can choose to land at Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok’s main international airport. Then, you continue the trip through the Airport Rail Link and stay along the Sukhumvit Line, or take a public bus and taxi as the options of transportation to Wat Phra Kaew. Go to Airpaz to find which airlines the best ticket deals with Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok.
