Wat Suthat Thepwararam

The basics

Wat Suthat is a royal temple of the first grade, meaning it’s one of the most important Buddhist temples in Bangkok and the whole of Thailand. Construction on the temple started in the early 19th century. It is a very ornately decorated temple, with intricate carvings, many statues of Buddha and other figures, Chinese-style pagodas, and extensive murals--well worth checking out.

Many travelers visit Wat Suthat while touring the Old City area of Bangkok, and it’s easy to combine with visits to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. Some guided tours also include Wat Suthat. Bike tours, walking tours, tuk tuk tours, and private tours where you choose your own itinerary can all include Wat Suthat.

Things to know before you go

• Thais can enter Wat Suthat for free but foreigners must pay an entry fee.
• Dress modestly when visiting Wat Suthat (and all Thai temples); cover your shoulders, knees, and chest.
• Be prepared to remove your shoes and leave them outside the temple.

How to get there

Wat Suthat is opposite the Bangkok City Hall, which is a good point of reference. Taxi and tuk tuk drivers should know where to go, and this is the easiest way of reaching Wat Suthat from other parts of the city or from BTS or MRT stations.

When to get there

The temple is open daily from morning until late evening. During the Thai New Year period in April, many people believe it’s good luck to visit all of Bangkok’s nine royal temples in a single day; Wat Suthat can get very busy at this time, although travelers may enjoy visiting then for the festive and devout atmosphere.

Visit the Grand Palace

Wat Suthat is quite near Bangkok’s Grand Palace, so can be visited on the same day. The Grand Palace should not be missed while in Bangkok. There are many different components to the complex, all decorated in gold, mirrored mosaics, murals and other typically Thai designs. You could spend hours wandering around here. Go early in the day to avoid the heat and crowds.