1. What is the dress code to visit Wat Phra Kaew?
There is no specific dress code to visit Wat Phra Kaew, but visitors are expected to dress modestly out of respect for the sacredness of the temple. This means covering your shoulders, chest, and knees while inside the temple. It is also recommended to wear comfortable shoes as there are a lot of stairs and walking involved in exploring the temple complex.
2. What are the best times to visit Wat Phra Kaew for a quieter experience?
The best times to visit Wat Phra Kaew for a quieter experience are typically early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The temple tends to be less crowded during these times, and the lighting is also ideal for taking photos. It is also recommended to avoid visiting on weekends and public holidays when it can get quite busy with crowds of tourists.
3. How can I purchase tickets to enter Wat Phra Kaew?
There are a few different options for purchasing tickets to enter Wat Phra Kaew.
1. Online: You can purchase tickets online through the official website of the Fine Arts Department of Thailand. This method allows you to buy tickets in advance and avoid long lines at the entrance.
2. At the ticket office: There is a ticket office located across from the entrance to Wat Phra Kaew, where you can purchase your tickets on site. The ticket office is open daily from 8:30am to 4:30pm.
3. At the Grand Palace: If you plan on visiting both Wat Phra Kaew and the nearby Grand Palace, you can purchase a combination ticket at the ticket office located at the entrance to the Grand Palace.
4. Through an organized tour: Many tour companies offer packages that include entry to Wat Phra Kaew and other popular attractions in Bangkok. This may be a more convenient option if you want to visit multiple sites in one day.
Note: Entry to Wat Phra Kaew is free for Thai citizens, but they still need to obtain a ticket at either of the above mentioned options.
4. Are there any special events or festivals held at Wat Phra Kaew throughout the year?
Yes, there are several special events and festivals that are held at Wat Phra Kaew throughout the year. These include:
1. Royal Ceremonies: Several ceremonies and rituals are held at Wat Phra Kaew throughout the year to honor and pay respect to the royal family. Some of these include the Royal Plowing Ceremony, Coronation Day, and Royal Birthdays.
2. Songkran Festival: This is the annual Thai New Year celebration which takes place in mid-April. At Wat Phra Kaew, there are traditional water-pouring ceremonies and merit-making activities held during this festival.
3. Loy Krathong Festival: Celebrated in November, Loy Krathong is one of Thailand’s most popular festivals. It involves releasing lotus-shaped rafts with candles and incense into water bodies as a way of paying respects to the water goddess.
4. Visakha Bucha Day: This is an important Buddhist holiday that commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha on a full moon day in May or June. On this day, devotees gather at Wat Phra Kaew for special prayers and offerings.
5. Kathina Ceremony: This is a ceremony where new robes are offered to monks at the end of the rainy season retreat in October or November. It is considered a highly auspicious event at Wat Phra Kaew.
5. Is photography allowed inside Wat Phra Kaew?
Photography is allowed outside in the courtyard of Wat Phra Kaew, but it is strictly prohibited inside the temple and around the Emerald Buddha. Visitors are also not allowed to take any photos while standing on the elevated platform surrounding the main shrine. Violators may be asked to delete their photos and could potentially face fines or other penalties. It is important to respect the rules and traditions of the temple and avoid taking any unauthorized photos.
6. Are there any rules or restrictions for visitors at Wat Phra Kaew?
Some common rules and restrictions for visitors at Wat Phra Kaew include:– Appropriate dress: Visitors must dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees. This means no shorts, tank tops, or revealing clothing allowed.
– No shoes allowed: Shoes and socks must be removed before entering the temple buildings. There are usually designated areas to leave your shoes before entering.
– No photography in certain areas: Photography is not allowed inside the main temple hall where the Emerald Buddha is housed. Other areas may also have restrictions on photography, so it’s best to ask beforehand.
– Active participation during ceremonies: Visitors are expected to participate respectfully in any ceremonies or rituals they encounter while visiting the temple.
– No touching of artifacts or statues: Many of the artifacts and statues within Wat Phra Kaew are considered sacred and should not be touched by visitors.
– Silence and respect for worshipers: Visitors should maintain a respectful level of volume while exploring the temple grounds, especially in areas where people may be praying or meditating.
– No smoking or littering: Smoking is prohibited within the temple grounds, and visitors should dispose of any trash properly.
It’s always a good idea to follow these rules and any other instructions given by staff or signage at Wat Phra Kaew to ensure a pleasant and respectful visit to this important religious site.
7. Can I hire a guide to learn more about the history and significance of Wat Phra Kaew?
Yes, most likely, you can hire a guide at Wat Phra Kaew to learn more about its history and significance. Many temples in Thailand offer guided tours, and Wat Phra Kaew is one of the most famous and important temples in the country, so it is likely that they will have guides available for hire. You can inquire about hiring a guide at the entrance or ask the staff at the information desk inside the temple grounds.
8. What kind of souvenirs can I purchase at or near Wat Phra Kaew?
At or near Wat Phra Kaew, visitors can purchase various souvenirs, including:
1. Buddhist amulets and pendants: These are small religious objects made of metal, wood, or other materials. They are believed to bring good luck and protection.
2. Traditional Thai crafts and handicrafts: These can include wooden carvings, lacquerware, silk products, ceramics, and more.
3. Replica Buddha statues: There are many miniature or larger replicas of the Emerald Buddha statue available for purchase.
4. Religious items: These may include prayer beads, incense sticks, and traditional Thai temple banners.
5. Postcards and prints: Visitors can find postcards and prints featuring images of Wat Phra Kaew or other popular landmarks in Bangkok.
6. T-shirts and clothing accessories: Many shops near Wat Phra Kaew sell T-shirts adorned with images of the temple or cultural designs.
7. Silver jewelry: Various jewelry items such as rings, earrings, bracelets, and pendants can be found in silver with traditional Thai designs.
8. Traditional Thai snacks and food items: Street vendors around the area sell a variety of local delicacies such as coconut cakes, preserved fruits, and spices that make great souvenirs to take back home.
9. Is it recommended to visit other temples in the area after visiting Wat Phra Kaew?
Yes, it is recommended to visit other temples in the area after visiting Wat Phra Kaew. The Grand Palace complex, where Wat Phra Kaew is located, is home to several other stunning temples such as Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) and Wat Mahathat Yuwarajarangsarit (Temple of Great Relic of the Most Sacred Marytion). These temples offer unique and beautiful architecture and cultural significance that are worth exploring. Additionally, there are also other nearby temples outside of the Grand Palace complex that are worth visiting, such as Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) and Wat Saket (Golden Mount Temple).
10. Are there any good restaurants or food stalls near Wat Phra Kaew for a post-visit meal?
Yes, there are many good restaurants and food stalls located near Wat Phra Kaew that offer delicious Thai cuisine at affordable prices. Some popular options include:
1. Thip Samai – This famous restaurant is known for its delicious pad thai and has been in business for over 50 years.
2. Jay Fai – A Michelin-starred street food stall that serves excellent crab omelettes and other seafood dishes.
3. Somtum Der – This cozy restaurant specializes in northeastern Thai cuisine, including the famous spicy papaya salad.
4. Krua Apsorn – A family-owned restaurant known for its authentic Thai dishes, especially their signature dish of stir-fried crab with yellow curry powder.
5. Mango Tree Restaurant – Located inside the Old Bangkok Inn, this restaurant offers a mix of traditional and modern Thai dishes in a beautiful setting.
6. Wat Arun Racha Phurho Thepha Ram – This small street food stall is a local favorite for its tasty boat noodles and grilled chicken.
7. Baan Suan Pai Restaurant – Set in a beautiful garden, this restaurant serves traditional Thai dishes as well as vegetarian options.
8. Khao Gaeng Jake Puey Restaurant- Famous for its fragrant curries and hearty soups, this casual restaurant is a hit among locals and tourists alike.
9. Bamee Slow Kitchen – A popular spot for lunch, this restaurant serves delicious noodle dishes such as pad thai, tom yum noodles, and wonton noodles.
10. Talad Kao Nham Night Market – Located just outside Wat Phra Kaew, this bustling night market offers a variety of affordable street food options including grilled meats, seafood, pad thai, and more.
11. How long does it typically take to explore all of Wat Phra Kaew’s temples and areas?
It can take anywhere from 1-2 hours to explore all of the temples and areas in Wat Phra Kaew, depending on how much time is spent at each site. Some people may spend longer, especially if they stop to take photos or learn about the history and significance of each temple. It is recommended to allocate at least half a day for a thorough exploration of the entire complex.
12. Is there an English audio tour available for non-Thai speakers at Wat Phra Kaew?
Yes, there is an English audio tour available for non-Thai speakers at Wat Phra Kaew. You can rent the audio guide at the entrance for a small fee and it will provide you with information about the history and significance of the temple and its various buildings and structures. Alternatively, you can also hire a private tour guide who can give you a personalized tour in English.
13. What transportation options are available for getting to and from Wat Phra Kaew?
There are several transportation options for getting to and from Wat Phra Kaew:1. Tuk-tuks: These colorful three-wheeled vehicles are a popular mode of transportation in Bangkok and can be found near major tourist attractions like Wat Phra Kaew. Negotiate the fare before getting in and beware of potential scams.
2. Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Bangkok and offer a more comfortable and air-conditioned option for getting to Wat Phra Kaew. Make sure the driver uses the meter or agree on a price before starting your journey.
3. BTS Skytrain: If you prefer to avoid traffic, taking the BTS Skytrain is a good option. The nearest station to Wat Phra Kaew is Saphan Taksin station, from there you can take a taxi or tuk-tuk to the temple.
4. Chao Phraya Express Boat: Another way to beat the traffic is by taking a Chao Phraya Express Boat to Tha Chang Pier, which is within walking distance of Wat Phra Kaew.
5. Walking: If you are staying near Khao San Road or Banglamphu area, it might be possible for you to walk to the temple as it’s within walking distance from there.
6. Private tour: You can also hire a private tour guide or join an organized tour that includes transport to and from Wat Phra Kaew.
7. Public buses: There are public buses that pass by Wat Phra Kaew, but they can be confusing for non-Thai speakers and may not be as convenient as other modes of transportation.
Note: Visitors should be aware that certain modes of transportation, such as tuk-tuks and taxis, may charge higher fares during peak hours or when traveling during rush hour.
14. Is it safe to wander around the surrounding area of Wat Phra kaew at night time?
As with any tourist destination in Thailand, it is generally safe to wander around the surrounding area of Wat Phra Kaew at night time. However, it is always wise to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and near major tourist attractions. It is also recommended to avoid dark and isolated areas, and to travel with a companion or join a group tour if possible. As with traveling anywhere, it’s important to use common sense and trust your instincts while exploring at night.
15. Can we see performances or traditional Thai dances at Wat Phra kaew? If so, how can we attend them?
Yes, performances and traditional Thai dances can often be seen at Wat Phra Kaew. These usually take place during special events or festivals such as Songkran (Thai New Year) or Loy Krathong (Festival of Lights).
To attend these performances, you can inquire at the temple’s information center or check their schedule of events. Alternatively, you can also ask a tour guide or travel agency for recommendations of performances to see at Wat Phra Kaew.
16. Is there an entrance fee for children?
The entrance fees for children vary depending on the location and type of event. Some events may offer discounted or free entrance for children under a certain age, while others may require the same entrance fee for all attendees regardless of age. It is best to check with the specific event or venue for their policies on children’s entrance fees.
17. How do I pay respect/offerings at the temple in a culturally appropriate way?
1. Dress modestly: When going to the temple, it is important to dress modestly as a sign of respect for the sacred space. This means covering your shoulders and legs, and avoiding revealing or tight clothing.
2. Remove your shoes: Most temples require visitors to remove their shoes before entering. Look out for signs or instructions on whether you should leave your shoes at the entrance or carry them with you.
3. Follow temple rules: Different temples may have different rules or customs, such as bowing before deities, taking off hats or covering your head in certain areas, not using cameras or phones inside, etc. Be observant and follow these rules respectfully.
4. Greet the deity: Before entering the inner sanctum of the temple where the main deity is housed, pause at the entrance and offer your respects with a prayer or a bow.
5. Offer flowers & fruits: It is a common practice to offer flowers and fruits as offerings at the temple. You can purchase these outside the temple or bring some from home.
6. Light incense & candles: In Hinduism, lighting incense and candles symbolizes spreading light and dispelling darkness, hence it is considered auspicious to light them in front of deities as an offering.
7. Donate money: It is customary to make a monetary donation at the temple as an act of devotion and gratitude towards the deity.
8. Participate in rituals: Many temples have daily rituals that devotees can participate in. These may include chanting mantras, offering prayers, or participating in puja (worship) ceremonies.
9. Take prasad: After offering prayers and making offerings, it is common for devotees to receive prasad (blessed food) from the priest as a token of divine blessings.
10.Order/arrange pooja on special occasions : Temples also offer pooja services on special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, and special events. You can make arrangements to perform a pooja in person or have it done on your behalf.
11. Respect others: In a temple, it is important to maintain silence and respect the space and presence of other visitors. Avoid speaking loudly or engaging in any disruptive behavior.
12. Recite mantras or prayers: Before leaving the temple, you can recite mantras or prayers as a final act of offering and expressing gratitude towards the deity.
13. Leave offerings at designated places: While some temples may have designated areas for offerings, others may not allow them at all. If you are unsure where to place your offerings, ask a priest or an attendant for guidance.
14. Do not touch sacred objects: Avoid touching sacred objects within the temple unless specifically allowed by a priest or attendant.
15. Take pradakshina (circumambulation): Taking pradakshina, which means walking around the main shrine in a clockwise direction, is considered an act of devotion and respect towards the deity.
16. Follow cleanliness & hygiene: It is important to maintain cleanliness and hygiene while visiting temples. Dispose off any waste properly and avoid littering.
17. Be mindful of photography: While some temples may allow photography, others may not permit it inside the inner sanctum or during ritual ceremonies out of respect for the deities and their devotees. Check with temple authorities before taking any photos/videos to avoid causing offence or disrespect.
18. Are there any guided tours available for exploring other nearby attractions besides the temple itself?
Yes, there are guided tours available for exploring other nearby attractions. Some popular options include:1. Chiang Mai City Highlights and Temples Tour: This tour takes you to explore the city of Chiang Mai and its famous temples like Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Suan Dok.
2. Small Group Doi Inthanon National Park Adventure: This tour takes you to Doi Inthanon National Park where you can see waterfalls, visit hill tribe villages, and hike to the highest peak in Thailand.
3. Mae Sa Valley Bike & Zipline Adventure: This adventurous tour takes you cycling through the beautiful Mae Sa valley and then zip lining through the treetops of the tropical forest.
4. Elephant Nature Park Day Visit: This ethical elephant sanctuary lets you interact with rescued elephants in their natural habitat and learn about their care and conservation efforts.
5. Chiang Rai Golden Triangle Full-Day Tour with Boat Ride: Explore the northernmost province of Thailand on this tour that takes you to visit the White Temple, Black House Museum, and a local market at the Thai-Myanmar border.
Note: Due to COVID-19, some of these tours may have limited availability or changes in schedule. It is recommended to check with your tour operator before booking.
19.Are there any recommended accommodations near Wat Pra karew that offer views of the temple?
Yes, here are three recommended accommodations near Wat Pra karew that offer views of the temple:
1. The Chill Resort & Spa, located just a 5-minute walk from Wat Pra karew, offers luxurious villas with private balconies overlooking the temple. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the temple and surrounding nature while relaxing in their own private pool or hot tub.
2. River Kwai Resotel, situated on the banks of Kwai Noi River, features individual bungalows with terraces facing Wat Pra karew. Guests can wake up to stunning views of the temple and enjoy peaceful walks around the resort’s beautiful gardens.
3. The FloatHouse River Kwai Resort is a unique floating hotel offering stunning views of Wat Pra karew from every room. Each floating villa comes with its own balcony where guests can relax and take in the picturesque scenery of the river and temple.
20.How early should I arrive if I want to see a specific ceremony or ritual held at Wat Pra karew?
It is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time of the ceremony or ritual to ensure a good viewing spot. However, for major ceremonies, it is advised to arrive even earlier as they can get very crowded.