


Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan
Sitting on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River near the Chao Phraya Sky Park, Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan — commonly known as Wat Prayun — is a 19th-century Buddhist temple complex that draws both devoted worshippers and curious travellers seeking something beyond the well-trodden tourist circuit. Its centrepiece is a large, whitewashed stupa housing sacred relics, set within spacious, well-kept grounds that feel genuinely removed from the pace of the surrounding city. What sets this temple apart is its atmosphere of quiet authenticity. A small pond on the grounds is home to hundreds of resident tortoises, which local families visit to feed as an act of merit-making — a tradition that gives the site a warm, living character rarely found at busier landmarks. The complex is an active place of worship, and visitors will find it largely free of the crowds that descend on sites like Wat Arun or the Grand Palace, making it an appealing alternative for those wanting a more reflective experience. Note that some buildings are currently undergoing renovation. Entry is free, and the temple is open daily from 07:00 to 20:00, giving visitors flexibility to arrive in the cooler morning hours when the atmosphere is especially peaceful. As with all Thai temples, modest dress is expected — shoulders and knees should be covered. The site is conveniently accessible via the Chao Phraya River ferry network, making it easy to combine with other riverside stops.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
🏛️ Wat Prayurawongsawat: An Organized Sanctuary of Noble Kindness If you are tired of "tourist-centered" temples and seek something truly authentic, Wat Prayurawongsawat (Wat Prayun) is where you belong. This temple doesn't just show you art; it shows you the true soul of a Thai community. The "Noble Home" Vibe: What makes this place stand out is its incredible sense of organization. Entering here feels like being invited into the private estate of a wise, noble elder. Everything is meticulously kept, clean, and systematic. Yet, it never feels stiff or unwelcoming. Instead, it radiates a warm, "Metta" (loving-kindness) that makes you feel like an honored guest rather than just another tourist. Why this place is a "Hidden Treasure": No Commercialism: You won't find souvenir traps or aggressive sales here. The temple remains a temple—a place for prayer, education, and reflection. A Legacy of Giving: This temple is a pillar of the community. It has supported local schools for generations (including my own!) and continues to share wisdom through its Dhamma school. The Rare Turtle Pond & White Pagoda: Find peace by the pond feeding turtles or step inside the massive white chedi to see its hidden architectural beauty. 🐢✨ A Request for Our Guests: In a place so well-ordered and generous, we naturally ask ourselves: “How can I be a worthy guest?” Dress with Honor: To respect the spirit of this noble sanctuary, please ensure shoulders and knees are covered. 👗 Support the System: There is No Entrance Fee, which is rare for a place this beautiful. However, maintaining this level of cleanliness—including their wonderful air-conditioned restrooms ❄️—and caring for the animals requires resources. Donate with Gratitude: Please don't assume the temple is wealthy. A voluntary donation is a powerful way to say "Thank you" for the peace and education this temple provides to everyone. "Visit before 7:00 PM to explore inside the pagoda. Come as a guest, leave with a peaceful heart, and help us keep this organized oasis alive for the next generation." 🙏⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 💡 Hashtags: #WatPrayurawongsawat #BangkokHiddenGem #AuthenticThailand #SustainableTourism #RespectfulTravel #OldTownBangkok #TempleEtiquette #PeacefulOasis
Is an small Oasis of Nature in a bustling city! 100's of resident tortoises in the pond with counter point from sky by pigeons who in small numbers monitor the happenings below. Families come with children and buy food for tortoises which children gleefully feed. The type of trees are rare and their names in Thai and English mentioned. It helps humans to slowdown/ wind down in the speed based society. To allow thoughts amble and feelings grow like young blades of grass. But by the Chedi you have a marvelous Museum where I found some very rare and ancient pieces of Buddhist art. Go up the Chedi and perform the Parikrama to enjoy view of surroundings. I was in the main Wat where Lord Buddha is established and heard Pali recitation od Tripitika by monks and took photos of Jatak scenes painted on the walls. It is to fumigation the mind to remove the Vikaras ( distortions) that one must visit this serene Wat.
Beautiful Temple on large grounds located near the West end of the Chao Praya Sky Park. Entry is free, two buildings are currently under renovation. There is a garden park located on your right as you enter, with a large variety of plants, flowers, and a pond with countless turtles of various sizes and colours. You can purchase food for the turtles for 20 baht. The grounds are meticulously maintained, complete with sculptured plants along the entrance walls and inside the grounds.
Location Info
24 Thanon Prajadhipok, Khwaeng Wat Kanlaya, Khet Thon Buri, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10600, Thailand+66 2 466 1693www.watprayoon.com/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 Prayurawongsawas Worawihan
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We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
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 Prayurawongsawas Worawihan
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.