Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen
Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen is a large and deeply active Buddhist temple complex in the Phasi Charoen district of Bangkok, renowned for its towering 66-metre white Buddha statue and an 80-metre white pagoda — both visible from a considerable distance and free to enter. The temple draws genuine devotion from local worshippers, giving it an atmosphere that feels calm and authentic rather than tourist-facing, which sets it apart from more heavily visited temples in the city. Inside, the standout feature is an emerald-green glass pagoda housing a crystal Buddha, decorated with vibrant colours and extraordinary attention to detail. Visitors consistently describe the interior as unlike anything they have encountered elsewhere — the combination of intricate ornamentation, scale, and stillness creates a genuinely striking experience. The grounds are well-maintained and peaceful, making it a comfortable place to spend a quiet hour or more exploring the various shrines, sculptures, and architectural features spread across the complex. The temple is open every day from 06:00 to 20:00, with free admission throughout. As a functioning place of worship, visitors are expected to dress modestly — shoulders and knees should be covered, and shoes must be removed before entering certain buildings. Early mornings tend to offer the most peaceful experience, with monks conducting their routines and fewer visitors on the grounds. The temple is located in western Bangkok and is most easily reached by canal boat via the Phasi Charoen canal, which adds a scenic dimension to the journey.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
A stunning hidden gem: peaceful, awe-inspiring, and refreshingly free from the crowds you’ll find at more touristy temples in Bangkok. The atmosphere here feels calm and genuine, with local worshippers moving through the grounds and monks walking quietly between halls. The real highlight is the enormous seated Buddha statue — absolutely breathtaking, especially when viewed from the canal or nearby rooftops. But don’t miss the glass stupa inside the main pagoda — a surreal emerald-green structure surrounded by vivid cosmic murals. It’s like stepping into another world. ✨ Insider tips: – Entrance is completely free — no tickets, no lines, just walk in respectfully. – The temple complex is large, so give yourself time to wander slowly and take it in. – Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) — you’ll blend in better and show respect. – To get there, take a canal boat for a more scenic route — it’s quiet, local, and beautiful. It’s the perfect escape from the chaos of central Bangkok — peaceful, photogenic, and deeply spiritual. If you’ve already seen Wat Pho or Wat Arun and want something that still feels real… this is the one.
Wat Paknam (Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen) in Bangkok is a stunning temple, famous for its massive, gleaming white Buddha statue—one of the largest in the city. The temple grounds are peaceful and well-maintained, perfect for a calm stroll or quiet reflection. Sunsets here are especially beautiful, with the light casting a golden glow over the Buddha and surrounding gardens. Entry is free, making it accessible for everyone. One of the highlights is the glass relic chamber, which houses sacred Buddhist relics and is a must-see for visitors. Overall, it’s a serene, visually impressive spot that’s great for both spiritual visitors and tourists looking for a tranquil escape in Bangkok.
Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen is a stunning and peaceful temple that feels like a hidden gem in Bangkok. The massive emerald-green glass pagoda and the crystal Buddha inside are absolutely breathtaking—beautiful, modern, and very calming. Despite its popularity, the atmosphere is quiet and respectful, perfect for reflection or a short escape from the city. The grounds are clean, well maintained, and free to enter. Definitely worth visiting for both spiritual and architectural beauty
Location Info
300, Soi Ratchamongkhon Prasat, Khwaeng Pak Khlong Phasi Charoen, Khet Phasi Charoen, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10160, Thailand+66 2 467 0811www.facebook.com/WATPAKNAM.BKKVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (peak heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
25°C – 34°C(77°F – 93°F)
Crowds
Peak: December & January
Getting there
Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports serve Bangkok with direct flights from most major cities.
Getting around
- •BTS Skytrain (most central areas)
- •MRT Metro (underground)
- •Airport Rail Link (ARL)
- •Chao Phraya Express Boat
- •Grab (ride-hailing app)
- •Metered taxis — always use the meter
Where to stay near Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
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Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (peak heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
25°C – 34°C(77°F – 93°F)
Crowds
Peak: December & January
Getting there
Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports serve Bangkok with direct flights from most major cities.
Getting around
- •BTS Skytrain (most central areas)
- •MRT Metro (underground)
- •Airport Rail Link (ARL)
- •Chao Phraya Express Boat
- •Grab (ride-hailing app)
- •Metered taxis — always use the meter
Where to stay near Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen
Find hotels in Bangkok on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.