Bangkok Travel Advice: Temples Along Chao Phraya River

Chao Phraya is one of Thailand’s major rivers that runs through the heart of Bangkok. Dubbed as “Venice of the East”, it’s natural for first-timers to picture clean waters, a slow moving boat, and the serenade of romantic opera music in the background. But that’s not exactly what you’ll get. Take out the clean waters and the serenade and think Thailand culture in flesh. Raw. Real. The waters are not as clean but e river, eager to tell brimming stories of the past. Historically rich.

This boat is exclusive to guests staying at Mandarin Oriental, just one of the many 5-star hotels located along Chao Phraya.

If you plan to go temple-hopping the whole day, it would save you time and money if you buy the River All-Day Pass sold at 150Baht. The All-Day Pass can be used until 7PM on the date of purchase. You can buy the ticket at the Central Pier. (Reachable by train: Take BTS Sukhumvit line to Siam, Interchange to BTS Silom line, then to Saphan Taksin.)

At every dock awaits a story to be told. Here are some of the highlights.

Wat Pho's reclining Buddha

95% of Thailand's population is Buddhist. They don't see Buddha as a god but as a fellow human who saw the enlightenment through meditation. Thais pray to Buddha to promise Him that they will live a good life.

Thailand temples are known to foreigners for their impressive architecture and carved reliefs. But to the locals, this is a sacred place where they meditate and talk to Buddha. Hushed and serene. The smell of incense sticks. Even non-Buddhists are sure to take a quiet time for meditation.

When visiting temples, do not point your feet at Buddha images. If you're sitting right in front of it, cross your legs. Some temples with sacred Buddhas don't allow picture-taking.

Maharaj Pier

One of the must-see (and biggest in land area) temples in Bangkok, the Grand Palace used to be the official residence of the kings. The palace complex is also home to several other temples including the Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

The Grand Palace

Tha Tien Pier

Wat Pho is the home of the reclining Buddha. It is also said to be the birthplace of the traditional Thai massage. One of the oldest temples in Thailand, Wat Pho also houses over 1,000 Buddha images.



The Wat Arun, also called "Temple of the Dawn" is made of one major elongate prang topped with seven-pronged tridents. At sunrise, light reflects on the surface of the temple creating a very dramatic scenery.
When planning to go on a temple tour, be sure to wear appropriate clothes. Men are advised to wear long pants while sleeveless, shorts, and short skirts are strictly not allowed for women.