Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, Bangkok - Grand Palace, Bangkok, Thailand
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Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen Bangkok

4.7
·10k reviews·, Thailand

A vast Buddhist temple complex in Bangkok, famous for its colossal Grand Buddha and a stunning, luminous glass dome inside its stupa.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Golden hour (late afternoon)

Sunlight creates a magical glow

CrowdMedium
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Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, Bangkok - Grand Palace, Bangkok, Thailand

Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen Bangkok

Best Time

Golden hour (late afternoon)

Sunlight creates a magical glow

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast Buddhist temple complex in Bangkok, famous for its colossal Grand Buddha and a stunning, luminous glass dome inside its stupa.

4.7
(10k reviews)

"This hidden gem offers a breathtaking visual experience with its massive Buddha and a unique, glowing glass dome."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Renovation Status

Scaffolding may still be present. Look for recent posts or reviews for the latest updates before you go.

Use MRT for Easy Access

MRT Bang Phai station is a common starting point. A short walk or quick taxi/tuk-tuk ride gets you there.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Buddha Statue

The Grand Buddha Statue

Main temple grounds

A colossal seated Buddha, a breathtaking sight even with ongoing restoration work. Its sheer scale is awe-inspiring.

The Luminous Glass Dome

The Luminous Glass Dome

Inside the stupa

Ascend to a mesmerizing, psychedelic meditation hall filled with intricate glass mosaics and celestial murals.

The Stupa's Upper Levels

The Stupa's Upper Levels

Inside the stupa

Explore the various floors of the stupa, each offering unique artistic displays and spiritual ambiance.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Grand Buddha

The massive Buddha statue at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen has undergone extensive renovations. While scaffolding is coming down, parts may still be covered. Check recent reviews or social media for the latest status before your visit.

Getting There Smartly

While taxis and tuk-tuks are options, public transport is often more efficient. The MRT Bang Phai station is a popular starting point, followed by a short walk or a quick taxi/tuk-tuk ride. Some suggest BTS Pho Nimit as well.

Best Times

When
Golden hour (late afternoon)
Why
Sunlight creates a magical glow
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍HƯỚNG DẪN CÁCH ĐI CHÙA WAT PAKNAM Thái Lan ( tính từ Siam Paragon) 👉Bolth/tuk-tuk: Giá khoảng 150 baht, đi bộ từ đường chính vào chùa khoảng 7phút 👉Bus: Bus số 75, khởi hành từ trạm BTS Siam Paragon,...
@iamkoohoanganh
112.7K likes • 2.7M views

Check Renovation Status

Scaffolding may still be present. Look for recent posts or reviews for the latest updates before you go. TikTokReddit

Use MRT for Easy Access

MRT Bang Phai station is a common starting point. A short walk or quick taxi/tuk-tuk ride gets you there. Instagram+1

Sólo duró como un año sin andamios y volvieron a taparlo para trabajos de acabado y limpieza. Estaba prevista la inauguración para el 2022 pero el covid retrasó todo 🤡🤡🤡 #tailandia #granbuda #viaje #v...
@anabelenfrausto
26.3K likes • 368.1K views
Cómo llegar al famoso Buda gigante de Bangkok (Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen) Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen es un impresionante templo que tiene una de las estatuas de Buda más grandes de Bangkok. Situado a so...
luisustarroz
1.5K likes • 82.7K views

Dress Respectfully

Cover shoulders and knees. This is a sacred place, so modest attire is essential. Reddit

Capture the Dome's Glow

The glass dome is stunning, especially with natural light. Golden hour offers a magical ambiance. Instagram

How go to Big Buddha from Bang Phai MRT station to Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, Bangkok by walk 🚶🚶‍♀️ #BigBuddha #Watpaknamphasicharoen #BangkokTravel #HiddenGemsBangkok #ExploreThailand #BangkokTempleTo...
visitbangkok_official
25 likes • 430 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Renovation Status

Scaffolding may still be present. Look for recent posts or reviews for the latest updates before you go. TikTokReddit

Use MRT for Easy Access

MRT Bang Phai station is a common starting point. A short walk or quick taxi/tuk-tuk ride gets you there. Instagram+1

Dress Respectfully

Cover shoulders and knees. This is a sacred place, so modest attire is essential. Reddit

Capture the Dome's Glow

The glass dome is stunning, especially with natural light. Golden hour offers a magical ambiance. Instagram

Explore the Stupa Levels

Don't just see the Buddha; take the elevator up to the unique meditation hall and other floors. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(10k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen is a stunning temple complex featuring a colossal Grand Buddha and a mesmerizing glass dome inside its stupa. While renovations may still be ongoing, visitors consistently praise its unique beauty and free entry. It's a highly recommended, less crowded alternative to some of Bangkok's more famous temples.

"The architecture of the pagoda is truly breathtaking, showcasing intricate details and stunning design. Its presence near the sky train makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists alike. The pagoda's serene atmosphere offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Experiencing this beautiful landmark is a must-do for anyone visiting Bangkok. Furthermore, this location provides unique photo opportunities."

Duy Ton

"Beautiful from afar and even more captivating up close. This temple isn’t merely a tourist attraction, it is at the centre of a thriving community. There is so much to see here, don’t miss the incredible pagoda and its interior including a museum of collected artefacts. Be aware that this is a working temple and be respectful."

Bear Chainikom

"I was here 9 years ago when the big Buddha was not there yet and just the base building existed as well as many of the current buildings, cafes, and pavilion “roof” did not exist. It was a very peaceful place to go and the pagoda one of my favourite places to go. Now it is more like Disney Buddhaland without the admission fee and can be very crowded full of very rude self-centered instagram people, the exact opposite of that the faith is about."

tara ntula

What People Like

Impressive Grand Buddha statue
Unique glass dome interior
Free entrance

What People Dislike

Ongoing renovation work
Parts of Buddha may be covered

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most recommended way is to take the MRT to Bang Phai station. From there, it's a short walk (about 7 minutes) or a quick taxi/tuk-tuk ride to the temple. Some also suggest BTS Pho Nimit followed by a taxi. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, it's quite accessible. Once you're near the MRT Bang Phai station, you can follow signs or ask locals. The sheer size of the Buddha statue can also be a landmark. Reddit

While not the primary method, some canals are nearby. However, public transport like the MRT is generally more direct and convenient for most visitors. Reddit

From Siam Paragon, you can take a taxi or tuk-tuk, which should cost around 150 baht. Alternatively, you can take bus number 75. TikTok

It's located on the outskirts of Bangkok, but easily reachable within 30-45 minutes by public transport from central areas like Siam. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen has free entrance, making it a fantastic budget-friendly attraction. Instagram

The temple complex is generally open daily from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check for specific hours closer to your visit, but typically from around 8 AM to 5 PM.

No advance booking is required as the entrance is free. You can visit anytime during opening hours. Instagram

The statue has been undergoing renovations. While scaffolding is being removed, parts may still be covered. It's advisable to check recent social media posts or reviews for the most up-to-date information. TikTokReddit

As it's a religious site, modest dress is required. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The glowing glass dome inside the stupa is a must-photograph spot. The exterior of the Grand Buddha statue and the surrounding temple grounds also offer great photo opportunities. Instagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the glass dome, but be respectful of other visitors and the sacred nature of the space. Instagram

Some iconic photos are taken from across the canal using telephoto lenses to make the Buddha appear larger. You can find viewpoints along the Bangkok Yai canal. Reddit

Golden hour, in the late afternoon, offers beautiful lighting that enhances the colors and atmosphere of the temple, especially the glass dome. Instagram

While generally permitted, avoid intrusive photography, especially in prayer areas. Always be mindful of other visitors and temple etiquette. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Inside the stupa, you'll find a stunning, brightly lit glass dome with intricate mosaic art and celestial murals, often described as a 'psychedelic' meditation space. There are also multiple levels to explore. InstagramReddit

You can see the main highlights, including the Grand Buddha and the glass dome, in about 1-2 hours. If you want to explore more thoroughly, allow up to 3 hours. TikTok

Yes, there is an elevator that allows you to ascend to the upper levels of the stupa, including the famous glass dome. Reddit

The primary attractions are the massive seated Grand Buddha statue and the intricately decorated glass dome inside the stupa. The temple complex itself is also quite expansive. TikTokInstagram

Yes, if you're short on time, you can focus on seeing the Grand Buddha from the outside and quickly visit the glass dome inside the stupa. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Budget Travelers

Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen is a fantastic destination for budget travelers as entrance is completely free. Instagram You can save money by utilizing Bangkok's efficient public transport system, particularly the MRT, to reach the temple. Pack some water and snacks to avoid purchasing them at inflated tourist prices within the temple grounds. The sheer visual spectacle of the Grand Buddha and the glass dome offers immense value without any cost.

Photographers

For photographers, Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen offers unique opportunities. The glowing glass dome inside the stupa is a must-capture subject, especially during golden hour when the sunlight creates a magical ambiance. Instagram Experiment with different angles and lighting to capture the intricate details of the mosaics and murals. While iconic shots of the Grand Buddha from across the canal are possible with a telephoto lens, don't overlook the architectural details and serene atmosphere within the temple complex itself. Reddit

Culture Enthusiasts

Immerse yourself in Thai Buddhist culture at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen. Beyond the impressive Grand Buddha statue, the temple complex offers a glimpse into religious practices and art. The glass dome's unique design is a testament to contemporary Buddhist artistry and its 'psychedelic' aesthetic is a fascinating aspect to explore. InstagramReddit Remember to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, to show reverence for this sacred site. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Grand Buddha: A Monumental Icon

The Grand Buddha at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen is a truly colossal seated statue, standing at an impressive height. While it has been a significant landmark for some time, it recently underwent extensive renovations, which meant parts of it were covered by scaffolding. Travelers have noted that progress has been slow, with scaffolding gradually being removed. It's always a good idea to check recent social media posts or reviews for the most current status of the statue's visibility before your visit. TikTokReddit Despite any ongoing work, its sheer size and presence are awe-inspiring, making it a must-see for many visitors to Bangkok. TikTok

Inside the Stupa: A Luminous World

Beyond the imposing exterior of the Grand Buddha, the real magic of Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen often lies within its central stupa. Visitors can take an elevator to ascend through its various levels. The highlight for many is the luminous glass dome, a breathtaking space adorned with intricate glass mosaics and celestial murals. This area is often described as having a 'psychedelic' or otherworldly feel, creating a unique and memorable meditation space. InstagramReddit The combination of light, color, and detailed artistry makes it a photographer's dream and a deeply spiritual experience for those seeking a moment of quiet contemplation. Instagram

Getting to Wat Paknam: Smart Travel Tips

Navigating Bangkok's transport can be daunting, but reaching Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen is made easier with a few key tips. The MRT Bang Phai station is frequently cited as the most convenient public transport hub. From there, it's a relatively short walk of about 7 minutes, or you can opt for a quick taxi or tuk-tuk ride to cover the remaining distance. Instagram+1 For those coming from further afield or specific landmarks like Siam Paragon, a taxi or tuk-tuk is a viable option, with fares estimated around 150 baht. TikTok Some travelers also mention using the BTS Pho Nimit station as an alternative. Regardless of your starting point, utilizing public transport like the MRT is often more efficient and cost-effective than relying solely on taxis. TikTokInstagram

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