Wat Pathum Wanaram Bangkok
A serene Buddhist temple offering a peaceful sanctuary amidst Bangkok's busiest shopping district, perfect for quiet reflection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the weekend crowds
Wat Pathum Wanaram Bangkok
Best Time
Escape the weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Buddhist temple offering a peaceful sanctuary amidst Bangkok's busiest shopping district, perfect for quiet reflection.
"Find peace between Siam Paragon & CentralWorld. A true escape from the urban bustle!"
🎯 Oasis in the City
Find peace between Siam Paragon & CentralWorld. A true escape from the urban bustle!
🙏 Dress Code is Key
Cover shoulders & knees. Show respect for this active place of worship.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tranquil Gardens
Temple Grounds
Find serenity amidst lush greenery and peaceful ponds, a stark contrast to the city's hustle.
Phra Serm Buddha Statue
Ubosot (Ordination Hall)
See one of the three revered Lan Chang-style Buddha statues, a significant spiritual artifact.
Reconstructed Crematorium
Temple Grounds
An interesting architectural piece, showcasing traditional Thai funerary practices.
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Mall Madness
Dress Respectfully
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Oasis in the City
Find peace between Siam Paragon & CentralWorld. A true escape from the urban bustle!
🙏 Dress Code is Key
Cover shoulders & knees. Show respect for this active place of worship.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture serene shots in the gardens and of the temple architecture.
🧘♀️ Meditative Vibes
Perfect spot for quiet reflection and prayer, away from the city noise.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Oasis in the City
Find peace between Siam Paragon & CentralWorld. A true escape from the urban bustle!
🙏 Dress Code is Key
Cover shoulders & knees. Show respect for this active place of worship.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture serene shots in the gardens and of the temple architecture.
🧘♀️ Meditative Vibes
Perfect spot for quiet reflection and prayer, away from the city noise.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wat Pathum Wanaram is a surprisingly peaceful Buddhist temple located in the heart of Bangkok's bustling Siam district, nestled between major shopping malls. Visitors praise its tranquil gardens and serene atmosphere as a welcome escape from the city's chaos. While it's an active place of worship, it's generally accessible for respectful visitors seeking a moment of calm.
"Beautiful temple situated in middle of chaos. Situated between Siam center and center world mall.
Very calm place and situated near shopping area so can visit anytime.
Free entry for tourist also.
Best place for meditate."
Sid's Location Lens
"The Three Holy Brothers: Phra Serm, Phra Suk, Phra Sai
Regarding the discovery of a Buddha statue on the Lao side, some have speculated that it is the “Phra Suk” that was lost in the Mekong River. However, this seems unlikely, as the artistic style and casting of the statue belong to a different era, and the locations along the Mekong River where these events occurred are far apart. Today, our news team takes you on a journey to trace the story of the three holy brothers: Phra Serm, Phra Suk, and Phra Sai.
Legend has it that the three daughters of the Lan Xang king commissioned the casting of three Buddha statues, each named after one of the princesses.
Brought from Lan Xang Across the Mekong to Siam
Originally, the three Buddha statues were enshrined in Vientiane. During the reign of King Rama III, in the campaign to suppress the Vientiane rebellion, Somdet Phra Bowornrajchao Mahasakdiphonsep, who led the campaign, reportedly brought the three statues from Buffalo Mountain, where the locals had hidden them. The statues were transported on bamboo rafts.
Phra Suk Sinks in the Mekong
During the first attempt, the bamboo raft broke, causing the pedestal of Phra Suk to sink into the Mekong, an area later called “Wern Thaen.” Later, while navigating the Mekong near the mouth of the Ngum River, opposite Ban Nong Kung, Phon Phisai District, Nong Khai Province, a storm caused the raft carrying Phra Suk to break apart. Phra Suk sank into the river, and the area became known as “Wern Suk.”
Phra Serm was enshrined at Wat Pho Chai, while Phra Sai was taken to Wat Ho Kong.
Brought to Bangkok
During the reign of King Rama IV, King Mongkut ordered Khun Worathani and Chao Men to bring Phra Serm and Phra Sai to Bangkok. However, the Brahmin responsible for transporting Phra Sai could not move the oxcart carrying it, and the cart eventually broke. After deliberation, it was decided to enshrine Phra Sai at Wat Pho Chai instead. Phra Serm, however, was successfully brought to Bangkok.
Originally, King Rama IV intended to install Phra Serm as the principal Buddha image at Wat Boworn Suthawas. However, upon seeing its magnificent appearance, he decided to place it on a white umbrella pedestal in the royal palace. After his passing, King Mongkut ordered Phra Serm to be enshrined as the principal image in the vihara of Wat Pathum Wanaram in Bangkok.
References: Somdet Krom Phraya Damrong Rajanubhab, article on “Legends of Important Buddha Statues” in Silpa Wattanatham Magazine, Phongsan Linganchanabut."
Nut Pongsakorn
"A beautiful temple located in the heart of Bangkok, known as Wat Pathum Wanaram (วัดปทุมวนาราม). I’ve visited this serene place many times to pray for good luck and enjoy its peaceful ambiance. The temple's stunning architecture and tranquil surroundings make it a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Whether you’re seeking spiritual blessings or just looking to appreciate its beauty and calm atmosphere, this temple is worth a visit. A hidden gem in the busy city that offers both cultural and spiritual experiences!"
SK Katair
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Pathum Wanaram is incredibly accessible. From Siam BTS station, it's a short walk. You can exit towards Siam Paragon or CentralWorld and follow the signs. It's literally nestled between these two major shopping malls, making it super convenient to reach. 
Yes, it's surprisingly easy to find! Look for the temple grounds situated directly between Siam Paragon and CentralWorld. The contrast between the bustling malls and the serene temple is quite striking.
Absolutely. Taxis and Grab are readily available in Bangkok. Simply tell your driver 'Wat Pathum Wanaram' or show them the address. It's a well-known landmark, so most drivers will know it.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Wat Pathum Wanaram is a functioning temple and generally has no entrance fee for visitors. Donations are always welcome to help with its upkeep, but entry is free.
While it's a place of worship, the temple grounds are typically open daily from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architecture and gardens. Specific hours can vary, but it's generally accessible throughout the day.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance. Wat Pathum Wanaram is an active temple, and entry is usually free and open to the public during its operating hours.
📸 📸 Photography & Etiquette
The tranquil gardens, the ornate architecture of the ordination hall (ubosot), and the serene ponds offer beautiful photo opportunities. The contrast between the temple and the surrounding modern buildings can also make for unique shots.
Photography inside the ordination hall may be restricted, especially when monks are present or during ceremonies. Always be respectful and check for any signage. It's generally best to focus your photography on the exterior and the temple grounds.
You must dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing clothing, tank tops, shorts, or short skirts. This is a sacred site, and respectful attire is mandatory.
It's generally considered disrespectful to take photos of monks without their explicit permission. If you wish to take a photo, ask politely first. Many monks may decline, and their wishes should be respected.
🎫 🧘♀️ Onsite Experience
Despite being in the heart of a bustling city, Wat Pathum Wanaram is known for its peaceful and serene atmosphere. It's a welcome escape from the noise and crowds of Bangkok's commercial areas. +1
The main attractions include its beautiful gardens, the ordination hall housing the Phra Serm Buddha statue, and a reconstructed crematorium. The overall tranquility of the temple compound is also a major draw.
Yes, it's highly recommended for meditation and quiet reflection. Its peaceful ambiance, away from the city's chaos, makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a moment of calm.
The Phra Serm is one of three revered Lan Chang-style Buddha statues enshrined within the ubosot. It holds significant religious importance for devotees.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Shoppers Seeking a Break
+1Spiritual Seekers & Meditators
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
An Urban Sanctuary: Wat Pathum Wanaram's Unique Location
+1 This juxtaposition creates a striking contrast, offering a pocket of profound peace and spiritual calm amidst the vibrant commercial energy of the Siam district. Many visitors are surprised to discover such a tranquil sanctuary tucked away in this high-traffic area, making it a popular spot for those seeking a moment of respite from the city's pace. +1The temple grounds themselves are designed to foster serenity. You'll find beautifully maintained gardens, tranquil ponds, and open pavilions that invite quiet contemplation. This deliberate design ensures that even with the surrounding urban activity, the temple remains a place of spiritual solace and reflection for both monks and visitors. It's a testament to how sacred spaces can coexist harmoniously with modern development.
Spiritual Significance and Key Artifacts
This sacred image is one of three revered Lan Chang-style Buddha statues, each holding deep religious importance for Buddhists. Devotees often visit to pay their respects and seek blessings. The presence of these revered statues underscores the temple's role as a vital center for religious practice in Bangkok. Beyond the main Buddha statue, the temple complex also features a reconstructed crematorium, offering insight into traditional Thai funerary practices. While not a typical tourist attraction, it adds another layer to the temple's cultural and historical context. The overall atmosphere of peace and devotion makes it a meaningful destination for those interested in Thai Buddhism and its cultural expressions.
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