1. Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan, Ayutthaya Province
Located in Khlong Suan Phlu subdistrict, on the banks of the Pa Sak River, this is a second-class royal monastery ("Worawihan") of the Mahanikai order. It was built before the establishment of Ayutthaya as the capital. The Northern Chronicles state that King Sai Nam Phueng, who ruled Ayodhaya, was the builder and named it Wat Chao Phra Nang Choeng. Furthermore, a Buddha image named Phra Chao Phanaeng Choeng was established in 1867 BE (Buddhist Era), 26 years before King U Thong established Ayutthaya, as narrated in the Royal Chronicles of Krung Kao, the version of Luang Prasoet Aksorn Nit.
The main point of interest within the temple is Phra Buddha Trai Rattananayok (Luang Pho To), a late U Thong-style Buddha image in the Mara Vichai posture, covered in gold leaf. It measures 14.20 meters across the lap and 19.20 meters in height. In front of it are a Talapatra (fan of rank) and images of the chief disciples, made of stucco and covered in gold leaf, placed on the left and right. Luang Pho To is an ancient Buddha image that has been a symbol of Ayutthaya since the city's founding, revered by the people of Ayutthaya and nearby provinces.
The Royal Chronicles of Krung Kao, the version of Luang Prasoet Aksorn Nit, states that Luang Pho To was built in 1867 BE, or during the reign of King Ramathibodee I, 26 years before he established Ayutthaya as the capital. When Ayutthaya was nearing its fall, the testimony of the people of Krung Kao mentions that tears flowed from the eyes of the great Buddha image at Wat Phanan Choeng, which was considered a miracle.
Luang Pho To is a Buddha image revered by people of Chinese descent, who call him "Sam Po Kong" in Chinese. Inside the main hall (Ubosot) are also enshrined three large Buddha images in the Mara Vichai posture: a golden Buddha image, a stucco Buddha image, and a Naga Buddha image.
⏰ Open daily from 08.00 a.m. - 05.00 p.m.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/Kb9ga8utTAE6i8Hi8
2. Wat Pa Lelai Worawihan, Suphan Buri Province
Located on Malaiman Road on the west bank of the Suphan Buri River, this ancient temple is commonly known as Wat Pa. This temple is a third-class royal monastery of the Worawihan level. The gable of the temple's vihara (main hall) bears the royal Maha Mongkut symbol between a pair of royal umbrellas. King Mongkut (Rama IV) visited this temple during his time as a monk. After ascending the throne, he had the temple restored.
This temple was built during the time when Suphan Buri was prosperous. The Northern Chronicles state that King Katae ordered the Mon people to restore Wat Pa Lelai after 1724 BE.
People commonly come to worship Luang Pho To, which is enshrined in the tall vihara and is visible from afar. It is a Buddha image in the Pa Lelai posture, in the U Thong Suphan Buri style, standing 23.46 meters tall with a circumference of 11.20 meters. Inside the Buddha image are enshrined 36 relics of the Buddha obtained from Phra Maha Thera Lailai. Luang Pho To is revered by people in Suphan Buri and nearby provinces. A celebration and worship festival for Luang Pho To at Wat Pa Lelai is held twice a year: during the 7th-9th waxing days of the 5th and 12th lunar months.
In addition, within the temple grounds is Khum Khun Chang, a large teak Thai house built according to the description of Khun Chang's house in the literary work Khun Chang Khun Phaen. Inside the Thai house, there are painted backdrops of Khun Chang for tourists to take photos as souvenirs. Each room has pictures depicting the story of Khun Chang Khun Phaen and displays various ancient utensils such as screens and dishes. There is also the "Must-See Market," a center for selling local products of Suphan Buri, such as Don Kamyan gourami fish, river fish, sun-dried fish, fruits, vegetables, and various types of chili paste.
⏰ Open daily from 08.00 a.m. - 05.00 p.m.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/WfXgMBbmbtQ4ckmq9
3. Lord Krishna and Radha Rani, Sao Chingcha (Giant Swing), Bangkok
This is another popular place for spiritual seekers in the Sao Chingcha (Giant Swing) area, as it is a place that gathers many Hindu deities. Lord Krishna is considered another deity that single people often come to pray to, due to the belief that when Lord Krishna incarnated and lived on Earth, even though he had as many as 10,000 consorts, he loved only Radha, a cowherd woman, his first love. It is said that if you come to worship and pray, you will find fulfillment and meet a good soulmate, have a happy love life, or you can also pray for a complete and harmonious family.
How to pray: Worship with flowers, pears, oranges, various fruits (no savory food or any kind of meat is allowed as offerings). The temple does not sell offerings; you must prepare them yourself. You can donate money according to your faith for the maintenance of the temple.
⏰ Open daily from 08.00 a.m. - 01.00 p.m. (Every Sunday there will be religious ceremonies for Hindu followers. You can still visit, but you must be respectful).
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/fsJje34dRfQ7JB5dA
4. Wat San Chao– Shrine of Sian Pae Rongsi, Pathum Thani Province
Wat San Chao is a temple where the ritual of drawing water from a sacred source is performed for the making of holy water (Abhisheka water) for the Royal Coronation Ceremony of King Rama X. It is also a place to pray to Sian Pae Rongsi, a famous Chinese lay sorcerer. It is believed that one should go there to pray for business, prosperity, and debt relief.
⏰ Open daily from 07.00 a.m. - 04.00 p.m.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/FF3anTuFJCFX6hcP6
5. Wat Phra Sri Maha Uma Devi (Wat Khaek Silom), Bangkok
"Wat Khaek," or also known as "Wat Phra Sri Maha Uma Devi," is one of the most popular places for single people to come and pray for stable and sincere love from Goddess Uma Devi, as it is believed that Goddess Uma Devi has unwavering love for Lord Shiva.
Inside the temple, there is a service selling offerings, sets priced from 60-100 baht. If anyone wants to find something special to add themselves, such as coconuts, bananas, or sweets (which can be bought outside the temple), they can do so as well. The money from the offerings purchased in the temple will be used for temple maintenance and for expenses during Wat Khaek's annual festival.
How to pray: Offer flowers, milk, fruits, and Indian sweets made from milk and sugar. No meat of any kind is allowed inside the temple grounds.
⏰ Open daily from 06.00 a.m. - 08.00 p.m.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/17FTjMQzteapkN767
6. Phra Trimurti (in front of centralwOrld), Bangkok
Phra Trimurti translates to "three forms," meaning the three forms of deities, which is the combined power of the three gods: Brahma, Ishvara (Shiva), and Vishnu (Narayana) as one. When these three powers combine, it represents the great power of God in all things.
Many people believe that worshiping Phra Trimurti will bring success and prosperity in life, in matters of career, finance, health, luck, including the famously sought-after "love."
The times when people commonly go to pray and find their wishes fulfilled are every Thursday at 09.30 a.m. and again at 09.30 p.m., It is said that praying on Thursday nights at 09.30 p.m. is especially sacred.
⏰ Open every day 24 hours.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/A4Kr9HRQhp28Qj1h8
7. San Lak Mueang, Bangkok (City Pillar Shrine)
Located near Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram (Wat Phra Kaew), it was built in 1782 AD (2325 BE) during the reign of King Rama I. The king ordered the Royal Ceremony of Raising the City Pillar, which was made of Chaiyapruek wood with sandalwood on the outside and a lotus bud-shaped top, on Sunday, April 21, 1782 AD (2325 BE) at the auspicious location in the center of the new capital city, which the King Rama I named "Krung Rattanakosin Inn Ayutthaya," or later known as "Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok)" .
Until the reign of King Rama IV, the king ordered the construction of a new city pillar to replace the original one, which had deteriorated over time. The new pillar was made of teak wood as the core, covered with Chaiyapruek wood, topped with a med-shaped finial, and a new horoscope of the city was cast so that the nation and all Thai people under his royal patronage would experience greater prosperity and lasting progress.
Currently, there is the Thepharaks Shrine, built to be the residence of the five guardian spirits: Phra Suea Mueang, Phra Song Mueang, Phra Kan Chai Si, Chao Chet Khup, and Chao Ho Klong, as well as a building housing Buddha images for worship.
⏰ Open daily from 06.30 a.m. - 06.00 p.m.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/Bf9omSSJyHBknNWP9
8. Wat Suthat Thepwararam, Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok
Located on Bamrung Mueang Road, King Rama I had the royal intention to build a Vihara (main hall) as large as the Vihara of Wat Phanan Choeng, to bring glory to the capital city. The king bestowed the name Wat Maha Sutthawat, but the construction was not completed before his passing. King Rama II continued the work and bestowed the name Wat Suthat Thepwararam. The construction was completed during the reign of King Rama III. Wat Suthat does not have a Chedi (stupa) like other temples because it has the Sattamahastana (seven important places related to the Buddha) as Udesika Chedi (commemorative objects related to the Buddha, represented by 7 important trees in Buddhism) instead.
Interesting things in the temple include:
Phra Sri Sakyamuni (Luang Pho To), the main Buddha image of the temple, which was brought from the main Vihara of Wat Mahathat in Sukhothai. And the Vihara's door panels, which are excellent examples of carving art from the Rattanakosin period, especially the pair carved by King Rama II himself, which are now kept in the National Museum, Bangkok.
The Giant Swing (Sao Chingcha) is located near Wat Suthat Thepwararam. The construction of the Giant Swing originates from the strong influence of Brahmanical beliefs on Thai culture. After the establishment of Bangkok, a Brahmin temple and the Giant Swing were built.
⏰ Open daily from 08.00 a.m. - 05.00 p.m.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/nMpViP4o1dVuWUT9A
9. Wat Phra Pathom Chedi Ratchaworamahawihan, Nakhon Pathom Province
Wat Phra Pathom Chedi Ratchaworamahawihan is a first-class royal monastery. Inside the temple is enshrined Phra Pathom Chedi, presumed to have been built during the reign of King Ashoka of India. It is the largest stupa in Thailand.
Interesting things inside the temple include Phra Ruang Rochanarit, a standing Buddha image in the posture of giving pardon, enshrined in the arched Vihara on the north side in front of Phra Pathom Chedi. It was built during the reign of King Rama VI, with the head, hands, and feet originating from Si Satchanalai, Sukhothai Province. The Wat Phra Pathom Chedi Museum is located on the east side, opposite the Ubosot (ordination hall). Inside, it houses artifacts excavated from various places in Nakhon Pathom Province, from the Ban Chiang and Dvaravati periods, such as Buddha images, stone Dharmachakras, grinding stones, rosary beads, pottery, bracelets, ancient coins, etc. It also houses the coffin of Ya Le and the altar used in Ya Le's funeral ceremony. In addition, from the 12th day of the waxing moon to the 5th day of the waning moon of the 12th lunar month (around November every year), a ceremony to pay homage to Phra Pathom Chedi is held.
⏰ Open daily Monday-Friday 06.00 a.m. - 07.00 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday 06.00 a.m. - 08.00 p.m.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/Tg3zdyjKgXi7wVgCA
10. Chao Por Suea Shrine (Tiger God Shrine)
One of the oldest and most famous Teochew Chinese shrines, known by the Chinese as "Tua Lao Yah." This shrine houses Heng Tian Xiang Di (Xuan Tian Shang Di), images of the Tiger God, Guan Yu, and Goddess Tubtim, highly revered by both Thai and Chinese people.
Every day, the Tiger God Shrine is crowded with people who come to pay homage to "enhance their power and prestige," using 18 incense sticks and a pair of red candles as offerings. The method of worship is to pay respect with 18 incense sticks, placing them in 6 incense burners, along with a pair of red candles and a garland. For worshiping the Tiger God specifically, offerings must be purchased, consisting of pork belly, fresh eggs, and sweet sticky rice.
⏰ Open daily from 08.00 a.m. - 05.00 p.m.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/8PTrUAqzS8uwu9Y7A
11. Wat Pa Kham Chanot, Udon Thani Province
Kham Chanot Forest or Wang Nakkhin has the characteristics of a floating island filled with Chanot trees. It is believed to be the residence of the Naga : Pho Pu Sri Suttho and Mae Ya Sri Pathumma. Within the area of Kham Chanot, there is a peaceful, shady atmosphere and cool air.
Wat Pa Kham Chanot is a place where you can pray for various things, especially for luck and fulfillment. Many people have had their wishes granted. However, there are important prohibitions that are requested of those with faith, as follows:
1. Do not light incense sticks or candles for worship in Kham Chanot Forest.
2. All Bai Sri offerings and other offerings must be taken back.
3. Do not throw coins into the sacred well.
4. Refrain from releasing fish into the water sources around Kham Chanot.
5. Do not tie seven-colored fabrics.
6. Do not apply powder or rub trees to ask for lottery numbers.
⏰ Open daily from 06.00 a.m. - 06.00 p.m.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/cLkwXhCMeVTpNEfY9
12. Thao Maha Phrom Erawan Shrine, Bangkok (Erawan Shrine)
One of the shrines of Thao Maha Phrom (Brahma), the great god who created the world and determines the destiny of all beings in the heart of Bangkok, has 4 faces and 8 arms, facing in all directions. Each arm holds weapons and sacred objects.
When worshiping Phra Phrom, you can pay homage to all four faces according to the four directions, starting from the first face and then moving clockwise (to the right of the worshiper), as follows:
- Face 1 (North): For worshiping and praying for career, studies, promotions, and power.
- Face 2 (East): For worshiping and praying for various assets such as houses, cars, land, including money or debts that people have borrowed and not returned.
- Face 3 (South): For worshiping and praying for family and health.
- Face 4 (West): For worshiping and praying for wealth, luck, gambling, and asking for children.
⏰ Open daily from 06.00 a.m. - 10.30 p.m.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/uoRFVskZsCMnN5Xo9
13. Wat Roi Phra Phutthabat Phu Manorom, Mukdahan Province (Phu Manorom Temple)
Wat Roi Phra Phutthabat Phu Manorom, or commonly known as Phu Manorom, is located on a hilltop. Inside the temple area, there is a replica of the Buddha's footprint for worship and a viewpoint where you can see the scenery of Mukdahan Province, the Mekong River, and Savannakhet Province in Laos.
In addition, within the temple area, there is also "Phra Chao Yai Kaew Mukda Si Trairat," a large white Buddha image in the Maravijaya posture, over 84 meters tall, enshrined on the hilltop, and "Phaya Sri Mukda Maha Muni Nilapala Nakharat," a large blue-green replica of a Naga that is up to 20 meters tall. You can pray for various things, including dispelling misfortune, extending life, protection from danger, good luck, wealth, freedom from disease, and a prosperous life.
⏰ Open daily from 07.00 a.m. - 05.00 p.m.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/DjojmYDgSCknaPqJ7
14. Luang Pho Tan Jai, Wat Phra That Doi Kham, Chiang Mai Province
An ancient temple with a history of over 1,300 years since the Hariphunchai period, located on a small hilltop in Mueang Chiang Mai District, is the site of a pagoda enshrining the relics of the Lord Buddha.
Luang Pho Tan Jai is another spot where tourists come to pray. According to Lanna beliefs, a Tan Jai Buddha image must be built within one day, so those who come to pray will have their wishes fulfilled quickly and instantly, just like the construction time. You can pray for various things such as career, finance, and various successes. If your wish is granted, you must return to make an offering of jasmine garlands.
⏰ Open daily from 08.00 a.m. - 05.00 p.m.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/yYiQWoj2fcraHPhE9
15. Ganesh Shrine at Isetan (CentralWorld), Bangkok
Phra Phikanet (Ganesh), the god of success and the god of arts and sciences according to Hindu beliefs, is considered a deity known and respected by many people. Many people, students, artists, celebrities, and business owners often go to pay homage and pray for work, asking for their hopes and intentions to be successfully fulfilled.
For worship, you can worship with 9 incense sticks, candles, fresh flowers, fresh milk, mildly sweet desserts, fruits, and various grains. However, it is forbidden to offer meat, sweets, or food containing eggs.
⏰ Open every day 24 hours.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/fXScHKZAcNzorfqz8
16. Wat Chedi, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province
Wat Chedi, also known as Wat Ai Khai, has the full name Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan (Wat Phra Borom That). It is famous for its sacredness and miraculous power, especially regarding "Ai Khai," who is believed to be the spirit of a 10-year-old boy, a disciple of Luang Pu Thuat, who guards the treasures and religious sites of this place.
People commonly come to pray for luck, trade, and career. Those whose wishes are granted often return to fulfill their vows with children's toys, military uniforms, fighting cock statues, and firecrackers.
⏰ Open daily from 08.00 a.m. - 05.00 p.m.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/8tXoBkYG6nWAfeFz9
17. Pradu Shrine, Yaowarat Old Market, Bangkok
An ancient Chinese shrine in the Yaowarat area where people regularly come to pray and pay homage. There are a total of 7 worship points within the shrine, with clear signs indicating the order of worship. Offerings such as incense, candles, lamp oil, and joss paper can be purchased at the shrine.
Pradu Shrine is renowned for granting wishes related to love and fertility. It is recommended to worship with 45 incense sticks, a pair of red candles, and 5 types of fruit (emphasizing sweet fruits, 1 pair of each).
⏰ Open daily from 07.00 a.m. - 04.00 p.m. (Closed on Sundays).
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/xBf3c9EvvBDepXXy6
18. Luang Pho Sothon, Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan, Chachoengsao Province
Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan, one of the most famous and renowned temples in eastern Thailand, is the home of Luang Pho Sothon, the revered Buddha image of Chachoengsao Province and one of the most important Buddha images in Thailand.
Those who venerate Luang Pho Sothon believe that paying homage to him will bring peace, happiness, and auspiciousness to their lives, along with fortune, wealth, and good health.
⏰ Open daily from 07.00 a.m. - 04.30 p.m.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/BNQLDUhJuMRaZt4u5
19. Mae Nak Phra Khanong Shrine, Wat Mahabut, Bangkok
Wat Mahabut is an ancient temple built in 1762 AD. The Mae Nak Shrine is located at the back of the temple. Many people commonly refer to Mae Nak as Ya Nak (Grandmother Nak) out of respect, as she is revered as an elder. Due to the great love story of Mae Nak and Pee Mak, many people come to pray for love. However, if you find a partner after praying here, there is a condition that you must respect and be faithful to each other.
Prohibitions when worshiping Mae Nak:
- Do not apply gold leaf to her face, eyes, or lips.
- Do not pour sandalwood oil on Mae Nak's figure; apply gold leaf to her palms when making a wish.
- Do not sprinkle or pour scented water on Mae Nak.
⏰ Open daily from 07.30 a.m. – 05.00 p.m.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/TEmtzVP3h5a9gUmT7
20. Wat Pho Chai (Luang Pho Phra Sai), Nong Khai Province
One of the famous and ancient temples of Nong Khai province, the main Buddha image, "Luang Pho Phra Sai," is enshrined within the main chapel (Ubosot) on the west side. On the north side, replicas of Phra Suk, Phra Serm, and Phra Sai, smaller than the actual images, are enshrined for Buddhists to pay homage.
Luang Pho Phra Sai is a beautiful bronze Buddha image in the Mara Vichai posture and is highly revered by the people of Nong Khai and neighboring provinces. Locals often pray for prosperous business, happiness,
⏰ Open daily from 06.00 a.m. - 07.00 p.m.
🌐 https://maps.app.goo.gl/FNcPU2TaUjoRxTSc6
