Joey N.
Google
I’ve visited Wat Bowonniwet Vihara many times before, but somehow this most recent visit opened my eyes to corners of the temple I’d never truly noticed. It felt like rediscovering a place I thought I already knew.
The quiet, serene atmosphere on that day invited me to slow down and truly observe the beauty around me — from the richly adorned ordination hall to the intricately carved details along the cloister walls. The sunlight filtering through the colored glass ceiling panels made everything glow with an almost sacred warmth, and for the first time, I felt I was experiencing the temple not just as a visitor, but as part of its living presence.
One of the highlights of this trip was finally making my way up to pay respects to Phra Phiraphinas, the revered Buddha image enshrined in the upper section of the chedi. I’d heard about it for years, but had never taken the steps up until now. The moment I entered that quiet, golden chamber, something shifted — the space was peaceful, timeless, and filled with a sense of stillness that stayed with me long after I left. People came and went in silence, offering prayers and simply sitting, as if they, too, felt something special up there.
Afterward, I took my time strolling around the temple grounds and capturing some lesser-seen corners with my camera. From Chinese-style archways to small white stupas tucked away behind the cloisters, and even shadows dancing off incense pots on the marble floor — every detail felt beautifully intentional. If you enjoy art, architecture, or photography, Wat Bowon offers more than just spiritual enrichment. It’s like an open-air museum that surprises you at every turn.
Getting there is fairly easy. If you’re lucky, you might find a parking spot inside the temple grounds, but if not, roadside parking is available — though you’ll need a bit of patience and local intuition! The surrounding area is a charming old neighborhood full of hidden gems and local food stalls, from hearty Thai dishes to trendy little cafés. It’s a great place to explore on foot, especially if you want to combine culture with culinary adventures.
Even after so many visits, this temple continues to reveal something new each time. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Bangkok or simply a beautiful spot to wander and reflect, Wat Bowonniwet has a quiet magic that lingers.
I know I’ll keep coming back — sometimes to make merit, sometimes to take photos, but always to reconnect with that stillness that’s becoming harder to find in the city. And if you haven’t been yet (or haven’t been in a while), maybe it’s time to let yourself see it with fresh eyes — you might just discover a hidden part of Bangkok that feels timeless, sacred, and deeply personal.
