Points of Interest & Landmarks • Religious Sites
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THE 10 BEST Bangkok Large Group Activities & Things to Do
Best Group Activities in Bangkok
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Aquariums
Siam
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Admission tickets from $52
Observation Decks & Towers
Ratchathewi
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Admission tickets from $15
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings
Silom
Admission tickets from $39
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings
Silom
Admission tickets from $50
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What travelers are saying
- Gustavo WoltmannLondon, UK29 contributionsOur family’s visit to Wat Phra Chetuphon, commonly known as Wat Pho, in Bangkok was one of the most enriching cultural experiences during our trip. Known for its enormous Reclining Buddha and its status as a center for traditional Thai massage, Wat Pho offered a fascinating blend of history, spirituality, and relaxation that made it a hit with everyone in the family.
First Impressions
As soon as we entered Wat Pho, we were struck by the sheer scale of the temple complex. It's one of the largest and oldest temples in Bangkok, and its sprawling grounds are filled with intricately decorated buildings, towering chedis (stupas), and peaceful courtyards. Unlike some of the more crowded tourist spots in Bangkok, Wat Pho felt more laid-back and open, making it a perfect place to explore with kids.
The Reclining Buddha
The main attraction at Wat Pho is, of course, the Reclining Buddha. This massive statue, measuring 46 meters long and 15 meters high, completely captivated my family. The kids were in awe of its sheer size, and we spent some time just walking along the length of the Buddha, marveling at its golden exterior and the intricate details of the feet, which are inlaid with mother-of-pearl designs.
It was a great teaching moment for the children as we explained the significance of the Reclining Buddha and how it represents the Buddha in his final moments of entering nirvana. The atmosphere inside the hall was serene, and although there were other visitors, it didn’t feel overly crowded.
Exploring the Temple Grounds
Wat Pho is more than just the Reclining Buddha. The entire complex is filled with beautiful, intricate murals, statues, and temples that are perfect for wandering around at a leisurely pace. We explored the various chedis, which are beautifully adorned with colorful tiles and floral motifs.
The kids were particularly intrigued by the rows of Buddha statues lining the temple walls, each one representing different periods of Thai art and culture. It was a great opportunity for us to discuss the history of Thailand and Buddhism with them, and they were surprisingly engaged.
Traditional Thai Massage Experience
Wat Pho is also home to Thailand’s most famous traditional massage school. After exploring the temple grounds, we treated ourselves to a traditional Thai massage, which was a relaxing way to end our visit. While the kids didn’t get massages, they enjoyed sitting in the peaceful courtyard and watching the world go by while we took turns having our treatments.
For adults, this was a fantastic addition to the visit. The massages are known for their therapeutic benefits, and being in the birthplace of Thai massage added to the authenticity of the experience.
Practical Tips for Families
Dress Code: As with other temples in Thailand, Wat Pho has a strict dress code requiring visitors to cover their shoulders and knees. We made sure to dress appropriately, and it’s always a good idea to bring extra coverings, especially for the kids.
Relaxed Atmosphere: Wat Pho felt more relaxed and less crowded than some of the other temples in Bangkok, making it a great option for families with younger children. The open spaces and courtyards allow kids to move around freely without feeling confined.
Thai Massage: For adults, the traditional Thai massage experience at Wat Pho is a must-try. It's best to reserve some time for it if you’re planning a visit. If traveling with kids, you can easily take turns getting a massage while the other parent watches the children.
Final Thoughts
Our family’s visit to Wat Phra Chetuphon was a truly memorable experience. The temple’s serene beauty, combined with the grandeur of the Reclining Buddha and the chance to enjoy an authentic Thai massage, made this a standout attraction during our Bangkok trip.
Wat Pho offers a unique blend of culture, history, and relaxation, and it’s an ideal spot for families looking to explore Thai heritage. The peaceful atmosphere and spacious grounds made it especially enjoyable for our kids, and we all left feeling both enlightened and relaxed.Written September 8, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - christine w8 contributionsHuge variety of things definitely a must see, from nik nacks to homewear and more. Great variety of clothes. Friendly vendorsWritten September 14, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- John F C3 contributionsSiam Paragon offers an exceptional shopping experience with luxury brands, great dining, and an impressive aquarium. A must-visit in Bangkok!Written September 15, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- COW6Y10London, UK120 contributionsThe grand palace and surrounding grounds are well worth a visit. Very beautiful and a great place to learn about Thai history and culture. The staff at the ticket desk could be more friendly.
Tip for visiting during hot weather: Make use of the AC underground tunnels. There are also free umbrellas for rental that can be returned upon exit. There are not many places to eat and places to buy drinks are few and far between so make sure to bring your own. Try and be indoors (perhaps at one of the museums) during the midday heat and be wary if you have small children.
Be aware of scammers nearby might tell you the place is closed. This is not the case. The place is always open so ignore the scammers and enjoy your visit!Written September 7, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Liu Q3 contributionsVery beautiful at sunset. And we went there by tourists boat. Express boat. Breathtaking view at sunset. We will come back.Written September 9, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Toru OSetagaya, Japan3,210 contributionsThe residence of the former Thai silk baron that now serves as a museum with a guided tour of the residence. Offers an insight on the life of the Thai silk brand’s founder and how he managed to create a world class brand. It also has an adjoining exhibit, a restaurant, and a gift shop.Written September 12, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Danielle G2 contributionsGood place to buy suitcase and get souvenirs and small tech stuff. Decent price, has air conditioning which is nice to escape heat.Written September 10, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Gus WoltmannParis, France45 contributionsVisiting the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) in Bangkok was one of the most enriching cultural experiences my family and I had during our trip to Thailand. As one of the most sacred and revered temples in the country, it provided not only a beautiful glimpse into Thai art and architecture but also an opportunity to learn about the deep spiritual traditions of the region.
Arrival and First Impressions
The entrance to Wat Phra Kaew is a grand sight in itself, with towering gates and richly adorned statues welcoming visitors. The temple is part of the Grand Palace complex, but it has its own distinct energy. From the moment we entered, the serenity and sense of reverence in the air made it clear we were in a very special place.
As we stepped into the temple grounds, we were greeted by intricate, colorful buildings covered in glass mosaics and golden embellishments that shimmered in the sunlight. My family, especially the kids, were immediately drawn to the towering structures and the vibrant statues of mythical creatures.
Seeing the Emerald Buddha
The highlight of our visit was, of course, the Emerald Buddha itself. Located inside the ordination hall (Ubosot), this revered statue sits high on a golden pedestal. While relatively small in size, the Emerald Buddha is incredibly striking and has an aura of mystery around it. The temple is quite crowded, but once inside, we all felt a sense of calm and reflection.
My children were fascinated by the stories surrounding the Emerald Buddha—how it has been moved several times throughout history and how it holds such great significance to the Thai people. The interior of the hall is beautifully decorated with murals depicting Buddhist cosmology, and we took some time to quietly observe the locals who came to offer prayers.
The Architecture and Atmosphere
The architecture of Wat Phra Kaew is nothing short of spectacular. Every building within the temple grounds is covered in elaborate gold leaf, mosaics, and finely carved statues. The craftsmanship is so detailed that it feels like each corner of the temple tells its own story.
Walking around with my family, we took in the intricate details of the golden stupas, the majestic Garuda statues, and the serene courtyards. While the temple can get busy with tourists, there are still moments of peace and quiet where you can sit and admire the spiritual beauty of the place.
Engaging the Kids
One of the things I appreciated most about our visit to Wat Phra Kaew was how engaging it was for the kids. They were mesmerized by the sparkling buildings, the mythical statues, and the rich storytelling. We explained the significance of Buddhism in Thai culture, and it sparked their curiosity about how other cultures view religion and spirituality.
There’s plenty of space to walk around, so my children never felt confined. And while there are many sacred spots where you need to be mindful of behavior, they found the experience fascinating rather than boring.
Practical Tips for Families
Dress Code: Like The Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew has a strict dress code. We made sure to wear clothes that covered our shoulders and knees. For families traveling with kids, it's important to prepare them for this ahead of time.
Respectful Behavior: This is a sacred site, so we had a conversation with the kids about being respectful and quiet, especially when inside the ordination hall.
Crowds: The temple is very popular, so it's best to visit early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds. We arrived early and were able to move around freely without too much congestion.
Final Thoughts
Our visit to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha was an unforgettable experience for the entire family. It offered a beautiful window into Thai spirituality and culture, all within an awe-inspiring setting. The dazzling architecture, rich history, and sacred atmosphere made this visit a highlight of our trip to Bangkok. If you’re visiting with family, especially with children, it’s an excellent opportunity to explore a different culture in a way that is both educational and visually captivating.Written September 8, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Htet Htlan HtaySingapore, Singapore15 contributionsMassive mall. Despite being an expert navigator and planner, I lost track of time and my sense of direction. However, being a big mall, it has so much to offer and you can spend an entire day there just shopping and eating many AUTHENTIC Thai food as well. Beware of the massive price inflation in this mall for everything as it is a tourist destination.Written July 1, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- TaherAlbaghliJulianKuwait City, Kuwait1,923 contributionsThis park close from my hotel InterContinental Bangkok. I visited this park in 11 August
2014 .It was cool place , I walk ,jog in the green area ,enjoy the lakeview ,peace and calm. the bad thing was the weather sunny and hot.Written August 26, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Shelley MAlbany, New Zealand905 contributionsIt is fun to go at least once, but if you visit at night it is very loud with all the bars music competing with each other which results in just noise. Load of bars and jump in one to sit and watch the crazy unfold. Tuk tuks around here will rip you off if you aren't careful. You will get offered bugs on sticks, tattoos, laughing gas every second step which gets really annoying, but it was a bit of fun for an hour or so then our eardrums needed a rest.Written April 19, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- AdityaDurgapur, India1 contributionWonderful and beautiful area of Bangkok country. This is a very nice place to visit. It is marvelous. I will be blessed. It is like OMG!Written September 7, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- contaakt33Honolulu, HI205 contributionsBangkok Chinatown. Go here for the sheer insanity of it! ‘No’ parking and zillions or people. Traffic, Tuk tuks, and honking everywhere. It’s amazing! Incredible food stalls! Prepare yourself…not for the timid. Unforgettable experience.Written July 23, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- HilsNZAuckland, New Zealand326 contributionsI went to this new shopping mall on a boat from our hotel with no expectations.
It has the wow factor, with all the designer stores, some medium shops and the markets/supermarket down underneath.
The only problem was I kept getting lost in the markets and couldn't find the wharf. I asked for directions but not many spoke English.Written September 9, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Denna2 contributionsBeen here 3 times. The vibe is nice, the view is nice, the environment is nice!
Just the food here is a little bit more expensive than normal night markets. thanks the ferry-wheel which has discounts for people over 60s so my mom could enjoy the views from above…Written September 14, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
