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The Golden Temple in Thailand
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Explore the Golden Temple in Thailand - the most captivating tourist and spiritual destination in Bangkok @shutterstock
Insights into the Golden Buddha Temple in Thailand
The Golden Buddha Temple in Thailand
The name Golden Temple or Golden Buddha stems from its role as the guardian of the precious solid gold Buddha statue. The statue is enshrined in the main hall, allowing visitors to admire it up close.
The resplendent and solemn Golden Buddha Temple amidst the Bangkok skyline @shutterstock
The temple consists of two floors, with the first floor serving as a museum where visitors can learn about the history of Chinatown and the Chinese immigrants in Bangkok. The second floor showcases artworks and products related to the origin of the golden Buddha statue.
The Golden Buddha Temple in Thailand
History and origins of the Golden Buddha Temple and the golden Buddha statue
The Golden Buddha Temple was constructed during the 13th to 15th centuries, during the Sukhothai era. This was also a period of peak development for Thai Buddhism. When the Burmese army advanced towards the capital, the famous golden Buddha statue was covered with plaster to protect it from destruction. Due to the absolute secrecy required, those involved in this task were all killed after its completion.
The renowned golden Buddha statue of the temple @shutterstock
Before reaching its current state as Lan's Golden Temple, this revered statue has undergone several relocations. In 1955, during transportation to a temple in Bangkok, the statue slipped from the crane and fell into a muddy pit. It remained there for quite some time until a monk, inspired by a dream of the Buddha, found and raised the statue. Through the crack on the statue, the monk witnessed a golden ray of light, symbolizing the Buddha's rebirth. The mud also caused the outer layer of plaster to peel off, revealing the preciousness of the statue.
The Golden Buddha statue, known as Phra Phuttha Maha Suwana Patimakon, is believed to have been cast during the Sukhothai Kingdom (1238 – 1438). Standing at 3 meters tall, weighing 5.5 tons, and cast from solid gold, the statue represents power, authority, purity, and prosperity in Thai culture.
Details of the Golden Buddha Statue
In Thai folklore, the Golden Buddha statue represents strength, power, purity, and prosperity. Cast during the Sukhothai Kingdom, this 3-meter-tall, 5.5-ton statue stands as a symbol of reverence and cultural significance.
Close-up of the intricate details of the Golden Buddha statue, symbolizing strength, power, purity, and prosperity. Image courtesy of @shutterstock
Unique Architecture of the Golden Buddha Temple
The Golden Buddha Temple boasts a grand and opulent design reminiscent of an ancient castle. From the pillars to the walls and staircases, all are adorned with white marble. The entire roof is coated in shiny gold, making it even more eye-catching and prominent from afar.
Exquisite ornamental details adorning the temple architecture. Image courtesy of @shutterstock
Thai Golden Temple
5. Getting to the Golden Buddha Temple
The Golden Buddha Temple is located in the heart of China Town. If you're staying in this area, simply head out the main gate of the street to reach the temple. For those staying near Khaosan Road, take a boat from Pier 13 Phra Arthit, heading upstream to Pier 4 Marine Dept or Pier 5 Rajawongse. Pier 4 is about 800 meters from the Golden Temple, while Pier 5 is a bit further.
The Thai Golden Temple is situated near China Town and can be accessed via various transportation options. Image courtesy of @shutterstock
Thai Golden Temple
5.1 Public Bus
Public buses are the most convenient mode of transportation to China Town and the Golden Buddha Temple. There are several routes to choose from, including 1, 4, 25, 53, 73, 85, 159, 507, 508, and 529. Among them, route 159 follows a path through Khaosan Road, the Grand Palace, China Town, Phaya Thai, and Chatuchak Market.
Buses are a popular choice for reaching the Golden Buddha Temple. Image courtesy of @shutterstock
Thai Golden Temple
5.2 BTS Skytrain or MRT Subway
To reach the Golden Buddha Temple, you need to get to Hua Lamphong MRT Station, which is only about 300 meters from the temple. For added convenience, you can utilize both the BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway.
If you're in Asoke along Sukhumvit Road, take the MRT Subway from Sukhumvit Station straight to Hua Lamphong MRT Station. Guests staying in Pratunam can take the Airport Rail Link from Phaya Thai to Makkasan. Then, switch to the MRT Subway and travel from Phetchaburi Station to Hua Lamphong MRT Station.
MRT is a fast and cost-effective mode of transportation. Image courtesy of @shutterstock
Additionally, from Pratunam, you can take the BTS Skytrain from Phaya Thai Station to Sala Daeng Station, then transfer at Siam Station. From Sala Daeng BTS Station, it's just a 200-meter walk to Silom MRT Station, which will take you directly to Hua Lamphong MRT Station.
5.3 BTS Skytrain and Boat
Thai Golden Temple
5.4 Taxi or Tuk Tuk
Taxis and Tuk Tuks are suitable modes of transportation for large groups of passengers. With these two options, you won't need to worry about routes; just hop in and ask the driver to take you straight to the Golden Buddha Temple.
Taxis and Tuk Tuks are popular choices for transporting visitors to the Golden Buddha Temple. Image courtesy of @shutterstock
However, the cost will be slightly higher than other modes of transportation, typically under 100 Baht (~63,000 VND). If you're taking a taxi, request the driver to use the meter, and if you're using a Tuk Tuk, remember to negotiate the price upfront!
6. Best Time to Explore the Thai Golden Temple
The Golden Buddha Temple boasts stunning and mystical architecture. Therefore, exploring this temple at any time of the day is beautiful. However, to fully appreciate its beauty, it's best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon. Especially in the late afternoon, as the sunset begins to cast long rays of light onto the temple, creating a dazzling and surreal scene.
The temple is beautiful from every angle and at any time of the day. Image courtesy of @shutterstock
The temple is open to visitors from 9 am to 5 pm daily, but it gets busier in the late afternoon with tourists. Therefore, if you want to enjoy the scenery comfortably, you should choose the most suitable time to visit. Around 2 pm to 4 pm is an ideal time frame, as the temple is less crowded, and the sunlight is beautiful.
7. Travel Experience at the Thai Golden Buddha Temple – Memorable Moments
The Golden Buddha Temple is renowned for its sacredness, attracting countless tourists and locals every day. Visitors come here not only to sightsee but also to seek good luck and peace for themselves and their families.
Bell of Relationship Destiny at the Thai Golden Buddha Temple. Image courtesy of @shutterstock
Additionally, people also come to the temple to ring the Bell of Relationship Destiny, offer prayers to the Wish-Fulfilling Tree, or seek blessings from the monks. Moreover, the temple grounds and surrounding areas offer plenty of beautiful scenes for you to admire and capture as memories.
8. Attractions and Entertainment Around the Thai Golden Buddha Temple
The Golden Buddha Temple is just over 150 meters from China Town. Therefore, after visiting and paying respects to the Buddha at the temple, tourists can visit China Town for sightseeing and shopping. This is the living area of the Chinese community in Thailand, with many unique Chinese architectural structures and a diverse culinary scene. Don't miss out on this destination when visiting the Golden Buddha Temple!
China Town bustling with tourists for sightseeing and shopping at night. Image courtesy of @shutterstock
9. Hotels near the Thai Golden Temple
Great Value Hotels in Bangkok
10. Things to Note When Visiting the Thai Golden Buddha Temple
Thai Golden Buddha Temple
Visitors to the temple are required to dress modestly and respectfully. Image courtesy of @shutterstock
Another important note for you is that Thailand is a country that reveres Buddhism. Therefore, they have strict regulations for visitors when visiting and paying respects at temples. The first requirement is regarding attire; you should wear modest clothing, with trousers and skirts below the knees. Additionally, when entering the temple, visitors should not make noise and must remove their shoes or sandals outside.
With its long history, unique architecture, and mysterious stories, Thai Golden Buddha Temple has become the most attractive tourist destination in Bangkok. If you have the opportunity to visit the Land of Golden Temples, don't miss out on this famous temple! Mytour is pleased to accompany your journey with affordable flights, hotel rooms, and many enticing deals. A country with countless fascinating things called Thailand is waiting for you to explore, so book your tickets and fly now!
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