Thailand, the “Land of Smiles,” is also the land of splendorous temples. With over 40,000 Buddhist wats (temples) countrywide, each temple is a story of faith, history, and engineering magnificence.

From gold-dipped golden stupas to stylishly decorated facades, Thai temples are houses of worship in more than designation — they are national treasures crammed with the nation’s abounding spiritual riches.

To actually find Thailand’s prettiest temples, mobility during travel is imperative. While public transport may get you to the best spots, private transport is necessary for traveling to less-visited and distant temples.

Car rental is the best choice for visitors who prefer visiting at their convenience. Localrent, a car rental aggregator, is one of the convenient and economical car rental options in Thailand that can organize trips to distant temples.

The Most Stunning Temples of Thailand

Wat Arun – The Temple of Dawn (Bangkok)

Bangkok’s most recognizable landmark, Wat Arun, stands proudly on the Chao Phraya River. Its stunning prang (spire), covered in colorful porcelain tiles, shines beautifully in the sunlight, a photographer’s dream.

• Why Visit? The riverside location and elaborate mosaic architecture transform one of Thailand’s most stunning buildings.
• Best Time to Visit: At sunset with the temple glowing in the background against the silhouette of the sunset on the horizon.
• Tip: Use the stairs of the steep central prang for a bird’s eye view of the Bangkok cityscape.

Wat Phra Kaew – The Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Bangkok)

Becoming part of the Grand Palace grounds is Wat Phra Kaew, the most sacred Thai temple and residing place of the Emerald Buddha, a precious jade statue carved out of a single block of jade.

• Why Go? The gleaming golden accessories of the temple, the mural-ornamented walls, and the sanctity are sufficient reasons the temple finds a place on most tourist lists of sights to visit.
• Dress Code: Scowling dress code is mandatory — shorts, sleeveless, or body-hugging fashion are an absolute no-no.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning to miss the crowds and the midday sun.

Wat Rong Khun – The White Temple (Chiang Rai)

Contrary to all the other Thai temples, Wat Rong Khun is a fairytale-like ice palace. This new white temple, commissioned by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, is a blend of ancient Buddhist iconography and contemporary art.

• Why Go? The otherworldly temple design, complete with reflective mosaics and ornate carvings, renders this one of the strangest temples in the world.
• Don’t Miss: The “Cycle of Rebirth” bridge, which represents change from earthly agony to nirvana.
• Best Time to Go: Weekdays are less crowded, and the early morning light adds an added luster to the white color of the temple.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep – The Mountain Temple of Chiang Mai

Perched on top of the summit of Doi Suthep, with a view down over Chiang Mai, this sacred temple is one of the highest of Thailand’s sacred locations.

• Why Go? Buddha remains are reputed to be contained in the gold chedi (stupa) within the temple center. Panoramic views down over Chiang Mai from the temple top are impressive, too.
• Getting There: A 306-step stairway, flanked by mythological statues of naga serpent gods, leads the visitor to the temple.
• Tip: Rise early to hear monks chanting in the peaceful ambiance.

Wat Tham Sua – Tiger Cave Temple (Krabi)

For the adventure-seekers who also crave spirituality, Wat Tham Sua in Krabi is the ideal getaway. With the fame that comes with its 1,260-step hike to the top, the temple suggests visitors take a ride along the breathtaking topography of the Andaman Sea, rock cliffs, and forests.

• Why Go? The incline of the route makes climbing to the top where the golden Buddha statue rests an extremely rewarding experience.
• Best Time to Go: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the searing sun.
• Tip: Bring water and don’t rush — the hike is tough but rewarding.

Wat Pa Phu Kon – The Secret Forest Temple (Udon Thani)

Hidden behind the northeast of Thailand hills is the serene oasis that Wat Pa Phu Kon offers for its temple amidst highly busy popular attractions.

• Why Visit? The serene forest settings of the temple crowned by its stunning reclining white marble Buddha are a haven of inner peace.
• Best Time to Visit: Any time of the year as this temple is not as crowded as others situated in gigantic cities.
• Tip: Visit with a stop at the Mekong River viewpoints in Nong Khai for a leisurely outing.

Temple Etiquette: Showing Respect for Holy Places

When visiting temples in Thailand, one needs to possess proper etiquette to be respectful of such holy places.

Dress Respectfully: Dress in clothing that is below your knees and shoulders. Some temples offer sarongs for hire if necessary.

Take Off Your Shoes: Always take off your shoes before entering temple buildings.

Keep Your Voice Down: Temples are temples of worship, so keep quiet.

Do Not Point Your Feet towards Buddha Statues: Thai feet are the grimiest and lowest part of the body. Never sit with your feet facing front when inside a temple.

Ask Permission Before Taking Photographs: Some areas in temples, especially those containing holy relics, will be out of bounds for taking photographs.

A Journey Through Thailand’s Spiritual Heart

Thailand’s temples are more than engineering feats — they are portals to the spiritual and cultural heart of Thailand. From gazing upwards at Wat Arun’s gold spires, climbing to the summit of Wat Tham Sua, or standing in wonder at Wat Rong Khun’s breathtaking frescoes, a tour of all three is an introduction to Thailand’s vintage Buddhist heritage.

With temples aplenty dotting the nation’s skyline, the freedom to see at your own pace is most important. A Localrent car hire, which unites visitors with seasoned local car hire companies, promises autonomy and thorough research of Thailand’s temple topography.

Then, temple-hop and let Thailand’s heavenly marvels leave their permanent mark in your heart.