Driving to 9 popular temples in Bangkok on a day trip

(Photo Credit: Freepik)

When driving around Bangkok, finding a parking spot is an essential part of planning for a trip. Without a parking spot, or if it is difficult to find one, your trip might be ruined. And if you park illegally, or in the wrong spot, your car might be towed away!  

Even driving to visit these 9 popular temples in Bangkok may be a hassle and pose a challenge, as some of them may not have parking available on-site and you will need to find parking in the vicinity of the temples instead. Where can you park?

(Photo Credit: Freepik)

Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)

Wat Phra Kaew is one of the most beautiful and popular temples in Bangkok, both for local visitors and foreigners. It is located within the Grand Palace, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the capital. The temple houses the Emerald Buddha, which is considered to be one of many national treasures of Thailand.  

Parking: You can park at the Royal Thai Navy Club or Tha Maharaja. Both carparks would be open from 6:00am to 10:00pm. They are approximately 500 metres from Wat Phra Kaew, or a 7-minute walk.

(Photo Credit: th.trip)

Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan (Wat Pho)

Wat Pho is located just a short walk from Wat Phra Kaew and is home to the Reclining Buddha, which is the third-largest Buddha statue in the heart of Thailand. This temple is also the official temple of King Rama I and is considered to be the first university in Thailand. Additionally, this place is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Parking: You can park inside Wat Pho or at the Royal Thai Navy Club and Tha Maharaj. You can park from 6:00am to 10:00pm. The distance between the temple and parking spots is about 700 metres, or a 9-minute walk.  

(Photo Credit: th.wikipedia)

Wat Chana Songkram Rajchaworamahavihan

King Rama I graciously ordered the construction of this temple to commemorate our victories over Cambodia on three occasions. It is believed that paying homage to the sacred relics at this temple will promote auspiciousness and help us overcome various obstacles and challenges.

Parking: You can park inside Wat Chanasongkram until 11:00 PM

(Photo Credit: th.wikipedia)

Wat Saket (Wat Phu Khao Thong)

Wat Phu Khao Thong, or Wat Saket Ratchaworawihan, is a popular destination for its panoramic views of Bangkok’s historic centre.

Parking: You can park within the temple grounds before 3:00 PM or at the temporary parking lots available on site of the Maem Sri Waterworks, which is about 450 metres away from the temple, or a 6-minute walk. 

(Photo Credit: thai.tourismthailand)

Wat Suthat Thepwararam 

Wat Suthat Thepwararam is currently a hot spot for people to pray for forgiveness due to broken vows. The fee is only 55 baht. Do note that if you choose to visit on a holiday, it will be very crowded. It is a good idea to bring an umbrella or other sun protection.

Parking: You can park on Siripong Road.

(Photo Credit: travel.kapook)

Wat Arun Ratchawararam 

Wat Arun Ratchawararam is known for its large, ornate prang, which is a landmark popular with photographers.. Visit in the evening for the best lighting. 

Parking: You may park in the area around Wat Arun, or at the Royal Navy Club opposite Wat Phra Kaew, then walk towards Tha Tien pier to take a ferry across the river from Tha Tien pier to Wat Arun. 

(Photo Credit: mthai)

Wat Kalayanmitra Woramahawihan

This temple is known for its good fortune and good friends. In its interior, it includes a large Buddha statue (Luang Pho To, or Sam Po Kong) for you to worship. There is also a large bell tower, which is believed that if one rings the bell here, they will become famous like the sound of the bell.  

Parking: One can opt to park in the front yard of this temple.   

(Photo Credit: thai.tourismthailand)

Wat Bowonniwet Vihara

Wat Bowonniwet Vihara (Wat Mai) enshrines the ashes of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. There are also two other important Buddha statues in here: Phra Buddha Suwannaket (Luang Pho To) and Phra Chinnaraj. 

Parking: On weekdays, you can park at the Bangkok parking building at Banglamphu Market. On Sundays, you can park on both sides of the road in front of the temple or in Wat Bowonniwet School.  

(Photo Credit: cbtthailand)

Wat Rakang Kositaram Woramahawihan 

This temple is located on the Chao Phraya River. Inside, there are beautiful murals depicting the story of Buddha. There is also Luang Pho Yim Ruea Fah, which is renowned for its beauty. After praying and making merit, you can visit Wang Lang market for delicious food.

Parking: You can park in the parking building within the temple’s complex.

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