Temple of the Great Relic (Wat Mahathat)

The basics

Wat Mahathat was established to house a relic of the Buddha, and is one of the oldest temples in Bangkok, although it has been altered a lot over the centuries. It’s one of Bangkok’s handful of royal temples. It’s a large and busy place, and there are many components to check out, such as courtyards crowded with ornately decorated Buddha statues, and palm-tree-filled gardens.

Wat Mahathat is conveniently located between the Grand Palace and the National Museum, so can be visited on the same day. Many visitors join meditation classes, which are held three times a day, with English-speaking monks available to help.

Things to know before you go

• Meditation classes are free, but a generous donation is expected.
• Entrance to the temple is also free, but small donations are appreciated.
• As at all temples in Thailand, dress modestly by covering your shoulders, knees, and chest.

How to get there

Wat Mahathat is in the old Rattanakosin area of Bangkok, along with many other sites popular with travelers. This part of town is not well-connected to other parts of the city by rail, so the easiest way to get here is by taxi or express boat. The Tha Chang and Tha Prachan Nuea piers are closest to the temple.

When to get there

The temple is open from 7am until 5pm. Vipassana meditation classes last for three hours, and are held three times a day: once in the early morning, once in the early afternoon, and once in the evening. A large amulet market is held just outside the temple grounds every Sunday and is a fun place to browse or shop.

Take a Day Trip to Ayutthaya

One of the best day trips travelers can make from Bangkok is to Ayuttaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 50 miles (80 kilometers) away. The town was founded in the 14th century, and became the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, but was razed in the 18th century. Now, it’s chock full of Buddhist archaeological ruins and is a must-visit for anyone even slightly interested in Buddhism and Thai history.