The Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Buddhist temple · Rattana Kosin

The Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Buddhist temple · Rattana Kosin

2

Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand

Photos

The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by Image by Noppawat Tom Charoensinphon / Getty Images
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha by null

Highlights

Sacred temple housing the revered Emerald Buddha, a jade masterpiece.  

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Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand Get directions

royalgrandpalace.th

Information

Static Map

Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand Get directions

royalgrandpalace.th

Features

restroom
wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance
wheelchair accessible restroom

Last updated

Aug 18, 2025

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20 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

"A highly venerated jasper Buddha image housed within a royal ceremonial complex; the statue is ritually dressed by the monarch three times a year, only the king may touch it, and photography is prohibited. Though smaller than many expect, its religious significance and ceremonial traditions make it a must-see." - Katie Jackson Katie Jackson Katie Jackson is a New York City-based writer who covers travel, food, and more. Her work has appeared in USA Today, The Sunday Times, Esquire, Outside, New York Post, and Travel + Leisure, among others. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-things-to-do-in-bangkok-7866839
View Postcard for The Temple of the Emerald Buddha
@afar

"Happy Buddha! Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is revered as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. The temple is located on the grounds of the Grand Palace at the historic center of Bangkok, and it is a highly important site to the Thai national identity. The Emerald Buddha itself is a 26-inch-high statue hewn from a single piece of deep-green jade stone, and no one but the Thai King is allowed to touch it. Visit the shrine to understand an intimate piece of Thai culture, but be sure to exercise the utmost respect! By Christina"

The Perfect Day in Bangkok
View Postcard for Temple of the Emerald Buddha - Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram / Wat Phra Kaew

M Farhan

Google
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, located within the Grand Palace complex, is one of the most beautiful and spiritually rich places in Bangkok. The entrance fee is 500 Baht, which gives access to both the temple and the Grand Palace — a fair price for the experience you get. The architecture is absolutely stunning, with intricate gold work, colorful murals, and traditional Thai design that reflects centuries of craftsmanship and devotion. The Emerald Buddha itself is quite small but deeply revered. Though photography is not allowed inside the hall, the spiritual atmosphere is strong and calming. The surrounding temple buildings and statues are equally impressive and worth exploring in detail. The entire area is clean, organized, and well-preserved. There’s a strict dress code, so make sure to wear long pants and sleeves, or you’ll have to rent clothes before entering. Despite the crowds, the management is efficient, and the visit feels peaceful. Plan to spend at least 1.5 to 2 hours here to take everything in. A must-visit landmark that beautifully blends history, religion, and royal heritage. Don’t leave Bangkok without seeing it!

naphak phiphatweerawat

Google
It’s a must for everyone to come and visit this historical temple. The architect is stunning. The parking for Temple can be found around the temple area you can Google search before you come. However , if you come here and don’t want to want to far then you can try the local transportation that would help reduce the walking length. When you enter the temple there maybe a short line. Inside the temple the walls are fully decorated with Thai drawing in gold plated. Take a walk around the temple. And it’s a must to visit the main building and pay respect to the green Buddha. After that you will find a big blow with merit water inside. You can use the Louise flower to take some flower and put on you head for a blessing. Please enjoy! I had a great time exploring here and hope you do so :)))

Daniyal Saleem

Google
A moment of awe in the heart of Bangkok. 🇹🇭✨ This temple is absolutely breathtaking — a masterpiece of architecture with intricate details, golden accents, and vibrant mosaics that make you feel like you’ve stepped into living history. Despite the crowds, the atmosphere remains peaceful and deeply respectful. The sheer scale of the main statue is mesmerizing, and every corner is bursting with rich symbolism and artistic beauty. Whether you’re drawn by culture, history, or just want to admire the craftsmanship, this place is a must-see. 💡 Travel Tips: ⏰ Go early to beat the crowds 🎨 Take your time to soak in the details 👕 Dress respectfully (no shorts or sleeveless tops) 🛍️ Don’t miss the nearby souvenir shops for affordable treasures A true highlight of Bangkok — one that leaves you calm, inspired, and in awe. 🌸✨

Lau Hui Hann

Google
Absolutely breathtaking! The architecture is stunning with so many intricate details, gold accents, and colorful mosaics — feels like stepping into a piece of history. The atmosphere is calm and respectful despite the crowds. If you visit, go early to avoid the crowds and take your time to really soak in the beauty. Definitely one of the highlights of Bangkok, and a place that leaves you feeling calm and amazed. Tip: Dress properly (no shorts, sleeveless tops)

Mack Benz

Google
Do not miss this. Words cannot describe the beauty and history, it's a must see. Lots of walking, lots of reading, lots to look at visually. Lots of places for A/C to cool down and lots to do. It's worth every penny.

Amandeep Kamboj

Google
A Breathtaking Masterpiece - The Heart of Thailand Visiting Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace complex is an absolute MUST in Bangkok. The sheer beauty and intricate detail of the temple buildings, covered in gold leaf, mosaics, and shimmering glass, are simply overwhelming. The Emerald Buddha itself, though smaller than expected, radiates an incredible sense of serenity and significance. Walking the grounds feels like stepping into a living museum of Thai art, history, and deep spirituality. It was incredibly crowded, but even that couldn't diminish the awe. Prepare for heat, strict dress code (cover shoulders & knees), and allow plenty of time. A truly unforgettable experience.

Darius Lahoutifard

Google
Beautiful site, part of the Royal Palace site, included in the same ticket. I wish photos of the Emerald Buddha would not be forbidden inside the temple. The site is a collection of over a dozen buildings and temples that are packed on a single site.

Suthin Soonthornnont

Google
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha: A Dazzling Jewel of Thailand’s Spiritual and Cultural Heritage Nestled within the grounds of Bangkok’s **Grand Palace**, the **Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)**, officially known as **Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram**, stands as one of Thailand’s most sacred and breathtaking landmarks. Built in 1782 by King Rama I, this temple was designed to enshrine the **Emerald Buddha (Phra Kaew Morakot), a revered figurine carved from a single block of **jade nephrite**, standing just 66 cm tall but radiating immense spiritual significance. Architectural Marvels & Must-See Highlights 1. The Ordination Hall (Ubosot) – The heart of the temple, this gilded structure houses the **Emerald Buddha**, perched high on a golden altar. The interior dazzles with intricate murals depicting scenes from the Ramakien (Thai Ramayana), while the exterior gleams with colored glass mosaics and golden spires. 2. The Galleries of Ramakien – Surrounding the Ubosot, 178 mural panels narrate the entire Ramakien epic, making it one of the most extensive and detailed Buddhist artworks in Thailand. 3. The Golden Stupa (Phra Si Rattana Chedi) – A stunning Sri Lankan-style stupa enshrining relics of the Buddha, covered in gold leaf and glittering tiles. 4. The Royal Pantheon (Prasat Phra Thep Bidon) – A majestic pavilion honoring past Chakri Dynasty kings, open to the public only on Chakri Day (April 6th). 5. The Giant Guardians (Yakshas) – Six mythical demon statues stand as fierce protectors at the temple gates, each with vibrant colors and symbolic meaning. Cultural & Religious Significance The Emerald Buddha is not just an icon of faith—it’s a national treasure. Three times a year, a grand royal ceremony changes its seasonal robes (summer, rainy season, winter), a tradition believed to bring prosperity to the kingdom. Visitor Tips - Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (last ticket sale at 3:30 PM) - Dress Code: Cover shoulders & knees (no shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing attire) - Entrance Fee: 500 THB (includes Grand Palace access for foreigners) - Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds and heat. Final Thoughts Wat Phra Kaew is more than a temple—it’s a **masterpiece of Thai art, devotion, and history**. Whether you seek spiritual solace or artistic inspiration, this sacred gem is a **must-visit** in Bangkok.