Question 1

What should I wear when visiting temples in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

When visiting Thai temples you must cover your shoulders and knees. Sleeveless tops, shorts, and miniskirts are not permitted inside temple grounds. Most major temples like Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok offer sarong rentals at the entrance. Shoes must be removed before entering any temple building. Modest, loose-fitting clothing in neutral colours is ideal.

Question 2

What is the most famous temple in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) inside the Grand Palace complex in Bangkok is Thailand's most sacred temple, housing a revered jade Buddha image. Other iconic temples include Wat Pho (the Reclining Buddha), Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) in Bangkok, Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai, and Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) in Chiang Rai.

Question 3

Are Thailand temples free to enter?

Accepted Answer

Many community temples in Thailand are free to enter for worshippers. Major tourist temples charge entry fees: Wat Phra Kaew (Grand Palace) costs 500 THB, Wat Pho costs 200 THB, and Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai costs 50 THB. The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) in Chiang Rai charges 100 THB. Ayutthaya's historical temples charge 50 THB each or 220 THB for a combined pass.

Question 4

What is the difference between a wat and a chedi in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

A "wat" is a Thai Buddhist temple complex, which typically includes multiple buildings: a main ordination hall (ubosot), an assembly hall (viharn), monks' quarters, and one or more chedis. A "chedi" (also called stupa or prang) is a specific tower-like structure that enshrines sacred Buddhist relics. Most wats contain at least one chedi within their grounds.

Temples

Top Temple Destinations

Bangkok

Ayutthaya

Chiang Mai

Chiang Rai