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The predominant religion of Thailand is Buddhism and so one will find great numbers of temples or wats that bear the reflections of this religion. These are actually very beautiful and interesting. Some of the most important Buddhist Temples of Bangkok are listed below and these should feature in ones itinerary. The Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn is situated on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River. It was built in the 17th Century and it is attractive because of the pagoda type architectural design that is adorned with millions of pieces of Chinese porcelain. It is a 20 storey building and visitors can climb up to get a spectacular view of the Chao Phraya River and the surrounding areas. Wat Benchamabophit, the Marble Temple holds the relics of King
Rama V. This is considered to be one of the most modern feats in Thai religious architecture and it is famous for the peace and tranquility it exudes. The main chapel is built with Carara Italian marble and here the Phra Phutthachinnarat has been enshrined. Wat Traimit, Temple of the Gold Buddha- the most amazing feature of this temple is the fact that the 3 meter tall Buddha image is made up of 5.5 tons of solid gold. It was made about 700 years ago in the Sukhothai period but the image was covered in plaster in fear of the invading Burmese. It was rediscovered about 40 years ago. Besides these one should also visit the Wat Pho (Wat Phra Chetuphon or Temple of Reclining Buddha) Wat Suthat , Wat Ratchabophit, Wat Ratchanatdaram , Wat Thepthidaram , Wat Saket (The Golden Mount) , Wat Mahathat and the Wat Rakhangkositaram. There are a few things should be borne in mind while visiting a temple. One should not be disrespectful towards the religion, the monks or the temples or touch the monks. Revealing clothes should be avoided at all costs and shoes should be taken off before entering.
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