Golden Buddha Temple
Published on July 05, 2025
Bangkok, Thailand is famous for its vibrant street life, ornate temples, and deep spiritual culture. Among its many historical gems, the Golden Buddha Temple, locally known as Wat Traimit, stands out as a must-visit attraction. Home to the world’s largest solid gold Buddha statue, this temple is not just a religious landmark but also a fascinating historical and cultural treasure.
In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Golden Buddha Temple—its history, significance, architecture, timings, how to reach, and why it should be a part of your Bangkok itinerary.
Introduction to Golden Buddha Temple (Wat Traimit)
Wat Traimit Withayaram Worawihan, commonly referred to as the Golden Buddha Temple, is located at the end of Yaowarat Road near Bangkok’s Chinatown. It is most famous for housing the Phra Phuttha Maha Suwan Patimakon, the world’s largest solid gold Buddha statue.
The statue is a representation of Lord Buddha in the traditional Sukhothai style, symbolizing enlightenment, purity, and peace.
History of the Golden Buddha Statue
The story behind the Golden Buddha is as fascinating as the statue itself.
The statue is believed to be over 700 years old, dating back to the Sukhothai period (13th–14th century). To protect it from Burmese invaders, the statue was covered in plaster and stucco and remained hidden for centuries. In 1955, during the relocation of the statue to its present site at Wat Traimit, it was accidentally dropped, and the outer layer cracked—revealing the solid gold underneath.
This remarkable discovery not only revealed the statue’s true beauty but also made it a significant symbol of Thailand's cultural and religious heritage.
Specifications of the Golden Buddha Statue
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Height: Approximately 3 meters (9.8 feet)
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Weight: Around 5.5 tons (5,500 kilograms)
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Material: Solid 18-karat gold
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Estimated Value: Over 250 million USD
Its sheer size and purity make it a one-of-a-kind treasure that draws tourists, pilgrims, and art lovers from around the world.
Architectural Highlights of Wat Traimit
While the Golden Buddha is the star attraction, the temple complex itself is a beautiful piece of Thai architecture. Built-in a modern yet traditional Thai style, Wat Traimit is a four-story white and golden structure with:
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Intricate gold-tipped spires
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Lotus motifs and Buddhist iconography
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A tranquil prayer hall (ubosot)
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Marble steps and carvings
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Museum exhibits on the upper floors
The temple structure adds to the peaceful, sacred ambience that surrounds this holy site.
Museum and Exhibition Halls
Wat Traimit also houses two excellent museums worth visiting:
1. The Golden Buddha Museum
Located on the second floor, it narrates the incredible history of the Golden Buddha statue, its discovery, and the historical periods it passed through.
2. The Yaowarat Chinatown Heritage Center
Located on the third floor, this museum gives visitors insights into the history of Chinese immigration and cultural blending in Bangkok’s Chinatown area.
Both museums use interactive displays, audio guides, and historical exhibits to make the experience engaging and educational.
Religious and Cultural Significance
To Buddhists, the Golden Buddha is more than a statue—it is a symbol of spiritual purity and detachment from materialism. The fact that such an invaluable statue was hidden under humble plaster for centuries speaks to the Buddhist teachings on impermanence and inner beauty.
It has become a site of pilgrimage for Thai Buddhists and a peaceful sanctuary for meditation and prayer.
Golden Buddha Temple Timings and Entry Fee
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Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
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Best Time to Visit: Morning hours are ideal to avoid crowds and heat.
| Area | Entry Fee (in THB) |
|---|---|
| Golden Buddha Shrine | Free (donations accepted) |
| Golden Buddha Museum | 40 THB |
| Chinatown Heritage Museum | 100 THB |
Note: Dress modestly when visiting the temple. Sleeveless tops, shorts, and revealing outfits are discouraged.
How to Reach Golden Buddha Temple (Wat Traimit)
The temple is conveniently located near the Hua Lamphong MRT station.
By Metro (MRT):
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Get off at Hua Lamphong Station.
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Walk about 5–10 minutes to the temple.
By Taxi or Tuk-Tuk:
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Ask for Wat Traimit near Chinatown.
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It's a short drive from central Bangkok locations like Silom, Siam, or Sukhumvit.
By Bus:
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Several local buses pass through Yaowarat Road and the Chinatown area.
Nearby Attractions You Can Explore
After visiting the Golden Buddha Temple, you can explore other nearby attractions:
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Chinatown (Yaowarat Road): Street food, gold shops, and markets.
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Wat Mangkon Kamalawat: One of the largest Chinese Buddhist temples in Bangkok.
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River City Bangkok: Art galleries and riverside dining.
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Hua Lamphong Railway Station: A Historical train station with colonial architecture.
This makes Wat Traimit an excellent stop on a larger Bangkok city tour.
Tips for Visiting Golden Buddha Temple
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Visit Early: Mornings are quieter and cooler.
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Respect Local Customs: Remove shoes before entering the shrine. Stay quiet and respectful.
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Photography: Allowed, but be respectful while taking photos inside sacred areas.
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Donations Welcome: Though entry is free for the main shrine, small donations help with temple maintenance.
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Guided Tours Available: You can book Bangkok temple tours that include Wat Traimit, Wat Pho, and the Grand Palace.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Golden Buddha Temple
If you are visiting Bangkok, the Golden Buddha Temple is not just a tourist spot—it is a spiritual, historical, and artistic experience. It tells a story of resilience, faith, and beauty hidden beneath simplicity. Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, spirituality, or just looking to witness something unique, Wat Traimit offers a memorable experience.
The quiet, peaceful atmosphere combined with the awe-inspiring sight of the 5.5-ton golden Buddha leaves a lasting impression.
Final Thoughts
The Golden Buddha Temple is a shining example of Thailand's deep-rooted spiritual culture and historical richness. It represents more than wealth—it symbolises the power of faith, the beauty of simplicity, and the timeless message of Buddhism.
Don’t miss the chance to experience this glorious marvel of gold in the heart of Bangkok. Whether you're a culture enthusiast, a spiritual traveller, or a casual tourist, Wat Traimit deserves a place in your Bangkok itinerary.