Wat Pho is arguably the most impressive temple in Bangkok and is situated just across the road from the Grand Palace. It is thought to be one of the city’s oldest temples, dating back to the 16th century, and houses a massive reclining Buddha covered with gold leaf. The image is 46 metres long and 15 metres high and the posture is that of Buddha passing on to nirvana. The soles of the feet are beautifully decorated with mother-of-pearl inlay. The temple is also equally famous for its massage school.
Wat Arun or the Temple of the Golden Dawn is situated on the banks of the Chao Praya River and can be reached by boat. The 79 metre pagoda is decorated with fragments of porcelain plates and bowls. The temple is particularly beautiful at sunset or when viewed from the deck of an evening river cruise boat.
Wat Suthat is renowned for its superb 19th century murals in the main chapel. The main hall of the temple houses a beautiful 13th-century eight-metre bronze Buddha image. The ashes of King Rama VIII, brother of the current king, are contained in its base. A distinctive giant swing outside the temple was once used in Brahmanic ceremonies long since discontinued. Nearby shops stock a very comprehensive range of Buddhist religious supplies and it is a fascinating part of town to wander around. Located on Bamrung Muang Road.
Jim Thompson House is the stunningly beautiful former home of the late American silk trader. The house, which is now a museum, consists of several traditional teak houses brought together to make one splendid home. The rooms display the wide range of objects collected during his lifetime. The nearest BTS skytrain station is National Stadium.
