My Visit to Wat Bang Chak Temple
Bangkok is full of famous temples—but sometimes, the most meaningful experiences come from the places you don’t plan to visit.
That’s exactly how I discovered Wat Bang Chak—a quiet riverside temple in Nonthaburi that feels completely different from the usual tourist spots.
This temple is not a typical tourist attraction—it’s a local, authentic Thai temple located along the Chao Phraya River in Pak Kret, Nonthaburi, just outside Bangkok.
What makes it special is its mix of traditional spirituality + unusual artistic elements, giving it a very unique feel compared to famous Bangkok temples.
Built around 1822 by the Mon community who settled in the area
It reflects Mon-style Buddhist culture, which is slightly different from mainstream Thai temple architecture
The temple has remained more local-focused rather than tourist-heavy
👉 This is why it feels more “real” and less commercial.
A massive golden seated Buddha (~27 meters high) visible from far away
Known locally as Luang Pho To, one of the most respected Buddha images in Nonthaburi
Positioned beautifully by the river, creating a very calm and spiritual vibe
This temple is quite different from typical temples 👇
Three symbolic entrances under the Buddha (dragon, tiger, etc.)
Walk-through corridors filled with Buddha statues and spiritual imagery
Mythological and cultural sculptures (including Ramayana scenes)
Some unexpected statues (even modern/pop culture figures), which makes it quirky and memorable
Visiting Wat Phra Sri Mahathat Wora Maha Wiharn was a quiet and meaningful experience, far away from the usual crowded tourist spots in Bangkok. Located in the Bang Khen district, this temple offers not just spiritual peace but also a deep connection to Thailand’s modern history and identity. Unlike famous temples, this place feels more personal, calm, and authentic.
Wat Weru Wanaram Bangkok is a small, local Buddhist temple in Bangkok—much quieter and less touristy compared to famous temples like Wat Phra Kaew or Wat Pho.
Wat Prayong Kitti Wanaram is one of Bangkok’s lesser-known but very peaceful temples, located near the old city area. It’s not as crowded as the famous temples, which makes it a great place if you want a calm, local experience.
On Day 4 of our journey, we embarked on a half-day excursion to the illustrious Wat Arun Temple in Bangkok, Thailand, during July 2022. This iconic landmark, renowned for its stunning architecture and rich cultural significance, offered an enlightening glimpse into the country’s spiritual heritage. Our visit was marked by a profound appreciation for the intricate designs and serene ambiance that characterize this remarkable site. Overall, the experience was both enriching and memorable, contributing significantly to our understanding of Thailand’s historical and cultural landscape. In July 2022, I embarked on a half-day excursion to Wat Arun, the iconic “Temple of Dawn,” situated along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. Despite the sweltering heat, the temple’s intricate architecture and serene ambiance made the visit truly memorable.
Wat Arun, officially known as Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan, is a prominent Buddhist temple located in the Bangkok Yai district. The temple’s name is derived from Aruṇa, the Hindu god representing the radiations of the rising sun. Its central prang, symbolizing Mount Meru from Hindu cosmology, is flanked by satellite prangs dedicated to Phra Phai, the wind god.
29th November 2020 / I Visited Bang Peng Tai Temple. It’s located in Ramkhamhaeng soi 187, Min Buri, Bangkok 10510, Thailand.
Canalside sister temple to Wat Bam Phen Nuea, with a nearby floating market on weekends.
11th November 2019 / I visited Wat Saket Golden Mountain Temple (Phukhao Thong) in Bangkok, Thailand on the day of the Loy Krathong Festival. The nearest MRT station is “Samyot” just an 800-meter walking distance.
Loi Krathong takes place on the evening of the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar, thus the exact date of the festival changes every year. In the Western calendar, this usually falls in the month of November.
At Golden Mountain Temple
In a city known for dazzling skyscrapers and busy streets, sometimes the most meaningful experiences come from unexpected quiet corners. On one afternoon in Bangkok, I wandered into a place filled with vivid colors and deep spiritual energy — the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple. Tucked away in the Bangkapi neighborhood, this Hindu temple stands as a testament to the Indian community’s cultural roots in Thailand, offering both spiritual calm and architectural beauty
