Wat Rakhang Khositaram, Bangkok - Grand Palace, Bangkok, Thailand
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Wat Rakhang Khositaram Bangkok

4.7
·5k reviews·, Thailand

A serene riverside temple known for its large bells and the unique 'Smiling Buddha', offering an authentic Bangkok experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Wat Rakhang Khositaram, Bangkok - Grand Palace, Bangkok, Thailand

Wat Rakhang Khositaram Bangkok

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene riverside temple known for its large bells and the unique 'Smiling Buddha', offering an authentic Bangkok experience.

4.7
(5k reviews)

"Escape the crowds and find peace at this local gem, complete with a scenic ferry ride and lucky bells!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Ring the Bells! :bell:

Locals believe ringing the large bells brings good luck. Give it a try!

Boat Ride Adventure :ferry:

Take a ferry across the Chao Phraya River from Tha Chang pier for a scenic and authentic arrival.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Temple of Bells

The Temple of Bells

Chao Phraya River bank

Famous for its large, gilded bells. Ring them for good luck and soak in the serene atmosphere.

Phra Prathan Yim Rub Fah

Phra Prathan Yim Rub Fah

Main chapel (ubosot)

See the 'Smiling Buddha' statue, known for its serene and unique expression. A truly special sight.

Ornate Temples & Architecture

Ornate Temples & Architecture

Temple grounds

Admire the intricate details and vibrant colors of the temple buildings. A feast for the eyes.

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Heat

This temple is a local gem, often overlooked by tourists. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy a more peaceful experience. It's a great alternative to the more crowded major temples.

Getting There is Part of the Fun

Wat Rakhang is best accessed by boat! Take a Chao Phraya River express boat to the Tha Chang pier, then a short ferry ride across the river. This scenic journey is a highlight in itself.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light on bells
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Don’t leave Bangkok without visiting these 5 incredible spots! 💜 Wat Klang Khlong Watthana, the stunning “Purple Temple” in Ayutthaya 🌟 Magical Light Festival, NaSatta Park 🛕 Ancient City, the wo...
@twotravelingsmiles
46.7K likes • 1M views

Ring the Bells! :bell:

Locals believe ringing the large bells brings good luck. Give it a try!

Boat Ride Adventure :ferry:

Take a ferry across the Chao Phraya River from Tha Chang pier for a scenic and authentic arrival.

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@youxoparis
24.7K likes • 270.4K views
Wat Rakhang Khositaram Woramahawihan In Bangkok วัดระฆังโฆสิตาราม วรามหาวิหาร กรุงเทพมหานคร 🛕 ⛩️ 🙏 🌱 🌿 🌤️ #watrakhang #temple #bangkok #bkk #thailand #thailandtravel #bangkoktrip #bangkoktravel #วัด ...
bchoo___
0 likes • 1.3K views

Dress Respectfully :pray:

Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting this sacred Buddhist site.

Capture the 'Smiling Buddha' :camera_with_flash:

Don't miss the unique 'Phra Prathan Yim Rub Fah' statue inside the main chapel.

Wat Rakhang Khositaram, or Temple of the Bells, is located along the western banks of the Chao Praya River, in Bangkok, Thailand. The temple’s current name was adopted after the discovery of an ancien...
wisetcc.amulets
3 likes • 155 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Ring the Bells! :bell:

Locals believe ringing the large bells brings good luck. Give it a try!

Boat Ride Adventure :ferry:

Take a ferry across the Chao Phraya River from Tha Chang pier for a scenic and authentic arrival.

Dress Respectfully :pray:

Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting this sacred Buddhist site.

Capture the 'Smiling Buddha' :camera_with_flash:

Don't miss the unique 'Phra Prathan Yim Rub Fah' statue inside the main chapel.

What Travellers Say

4.7
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Wat Rakhang Khositaram is a serene Buddhist temple on the Chao Phraya River, cherished by locals for its peaceful atmosphere and unique 'Smiling Buddha'. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to ring the temple's namesake bells for good luck and enjoy the scenic ferry ride across the river, offering a more authentic experience away from the main tourist crowds.

"Hard to.drive , small streets, plenty parkings , enjoyable places, but hate sun shades so hot weather"

Daranmon Jirat

"This is a very peaceful, shady and beautiful temple, suitable for practicing Dhamma and relaxing the body and mind. It has beautiful architecture and a shady and cool riverside atmosphere, and you can walk to Wang Lang Market."

มนัสกวิญ ชางประยูร

"Very beautiful temple with peace of mind, eventhough it's crowded it gives calm atmosphere. So beautifully made especially the view from Chao phraya river so mezmerizing"

SAJ

What People Like

Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Unique 'Smiling Buddha' statue
Ringing the large bells for luck

What People Dislike

Can be challenging to find for first-time visitors
Limited food options directly at the temple

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most scenic way is by boat! Take the Chao Phraya River express boat to Tha Chang pier (N9). From there, hop on a short local ferry across the river directly to Wat Rakhang. It's a quick and affordable journey that offers great river views. Instagram+1

Yes, once you cross the river by ferry, Wat Rakhang is clearly visible and just a short walk from the pier. You can't miss its distinctive bells and architecture.

You can, but it's less recommended as traffic in Bangkok can be unpredictable. The boat journey is part of the experience and often faster. If you do take a taxi, ensure the driver knows it's on the Thonburi side of the river.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Wat Rakhang Khositaram is generally free to enter. Donations are always welcome to help with the upkeep of this beautiful temple.

The temple is 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 atmosphere. Instagram

No advance booking is necessary as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime during its opening hours.

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Don't miss the large, gilded bells that give the temple its name – ringing them is said to bring good luck! Also, seek out the 'Smiling Buddha' statue (Phra Prathan Yim Rub Fah) in the main chapel for its unique expression. Instagram+1

A visit to Wat Rakhang can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours. This allows time to explore the grounds, admire the architecture, ring the bells, and take photos without feeling rushed.

Absolutely! The ornate temples, gilded bells, and riverside location offer many beautiful photo opportunities. The 'Smiling Buddha' is also a popular subject. Instagram

The temple is named 'Wat Rakhang Khositaram' which translates to 'Temple of the Bell'. The large bells are a prominent feature and are rung by visitors for good fortune. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there aren't formal restaurants within the temple grounds, you can find local food stalls and small eateries near the ferry pier on the Thonburi side. It's a great place to try authentic Thai snacks.

Expect typical Thai street food like grilled skewers, noodle dishes, fresh fruit, and local sweets. It's a good opportunity to sample affordable and delicious local cuisine.

📸 📸 Photography

The area around the large bells, the intricate details of the temple roofs, the 'Smiling Buddha' statue, and the views of the Chao Phraya River from the temple grounds are all excellent for photography. Instagram

Generally, yes, but always be respectful. Avoid using flash photography directly on religious artifacts or statues, especially the Buddha images. Observe if locals are taking photos and follow suit.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Travelers Seeking Authenticity

If you're looking to step away from the typical tourist trail, Wat Rakhang is your spot. It's a favorite among locals and offers a genuine glimpse into Thai Buddhist culture without the overwhelming crowds. The ferry ride across the Chao Phraya River is a quintessential Bangkok experience that many tourists miss. TikTok

Photography Enthusiasts

The ornate architecture, the gleaming bells, and the riverside setting make Wat Rakhang a photographer's dream. The 'Smiling Buddha' offers a unique subject, and the golden hour light on the temple grounds is particularly stunning. Remember to be respectful when capturing images, especially inside the chapels. Instagram

Budget Travelers

Wat Rakhang is free to enter, making it an excellent budget-friendly activity. The cost of the ferry ride across the river is minimal, and you can find affordable local snacks nearby. It's a great way to experience a significant cultural site without spending a lot of money. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of the Temple of Bells

Wat Rakhang Khositaram, meaning 'Temple of the Bell', is a significant Buddhist complex nestled on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River. Its name comes from the discovery of a large, ancient bell within its grounds, which has since become a symbol of the temple. Visitors are encouraged to ring these large, gilded bells, a practice believed to bring good fortune and merit. This interactive element makes Wat Rakhang a unique and engaging experience, setting it apart from many other temples in Bangkok. Instagram+1

Discovering the 'Smiling Buddha'

One of the most revered attractions within Wat Rakhang is the 'Phra Prathan Yim Rub Fah', or 'The Smiling Buddha'. This distinctive Buddha statue is housed in the temple's main chapel (ubosot) and is known for its serene, almost smiling expression. The statue's unique countenance draws many visitors and devotees, offering a moment of quiet contemplation and admiration for its artistry and spiritual significance. Instagram

A Riverside Escape from the Bustle

Unlike the heavily touristed temples in the heart of Bangkok, Wat Rakhang offers a more tranquil and local atmosphere. Its location on the Chao Phraya River provides a peaceful backdrop, and the journey there by ferry is an experience in itself. This makes it an ideal spot for travelers looking to escape the city's hustle and bustle and experience a more authentic side of Bangkok's religious heritage. TikTokInstagram

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