Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen Landmark
While exploring historic riverside temples or strolling along peaceful coastal beach paths offers a classic travel rhythm, visiting the Big Buddha in Bangkok (officially located at Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen) provides a truly awe-inspiring spiritual and architectural highlight. Officially completed in 2021, this colossal 64-meter-tall (210 feet) golden bronze statue of Gautama Buddha sits in a serene meditation pose, towering majestically above the Thonburi canal district and visible from miles away across the city.
If you are deciding whether a trip to Wat Paknam should be on your Bangkok itinerary, the answer is an absolute yes. Blending modern architectural grandeur with centuries-old Ayutthaya-era temple heritage, it is widely considered one of the most striking and photogenic cultural land activity spots in the capital.
Why People Visit
Marvel at Scale: Stand before the massive 64-meter golden bronze statue—the tallest sitting Buddha in Bangkok and one of the largest in Thailand.
The Emerald Stupa Glass Pagoda: Step inside the magnificent 80-meter-tall Mahatatchomchok Pra Prapathom Chedi to admire its mesmerizing, glowing emerald glass stupa beneath a hand-painted cosmic ceiling.
Scenic Canal Views: Capture iconic photos of the giant statue framed by traditional longtail boats traveling along the historic Khlong Dan canal network.
Serene Spiritual Atmosphere: Experience a deeply peaceful, active royal temple complex that offers a quiet sanctuary away from central Bangkok’s busy commercial districts.
What to Expect on Your Visit
The journey to Wat Paknam leads you into the quiet, historic Thonburi side of the city. As you approach the temple grounds through narrow neighborhood lanes or by longtail boat along the canals, the sheer size of the giant bronze Buddha comes into full view, creating an unforgettable first impression.
Inside the complex, the atmosphere is quiet and respectful. Beyond viewing the Big Buddha from the central courtyard, visitors can explore the multi-story museum and pagoda. The highlight inside is the fifth floor of the great stupa, where a glowing green glass stupa sits beneath a vibrant, hand-painted ceiling depicting the Buddhist cosmos in vivid greens, golds, and blues.
Fact sheet
Key Highlights & Information
Feature · Detail
Official Name
Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen (Phra Buddha Dhammakaya Thepmongkhon)
Height of Statue
64 meters (210 feet tall), equivalent to a 20-story building
Material
Solid bronze coated in gleaming gold leaf
Opening Hours
Daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entrance Fee
Free entry (donations for temple maintenance are welcomed)
Nearest Transport
MRT Blue Line to Bang Phai Station (Exit 1), then a short walk or motorbike taxi
Iconic Photo Spots & Viewing Points
To capture the best photos of the Big Buddha in Bangkok, explore these popular vantage points around the Thonburi district:
Soi Phet Kasem 26: A famous narrow residential alleyway that perfectly frames the giant golden Buddha towering directly over local traditional houses.
Khlong Dan Canal Bridge: Located just a short walk from the temple, this spot gives you a sweeping view of the statue overlooking the peaceful waterway.
Longtail Boat Canal Tour: Hiring a private longtail boat along the Thonburi canals allows you to photograph the Big Buddha rising above the palm trees and riverbanks directly from the water.
Best For
Photographers, culture lovers, history enthusiasts, families, and travelers seeking unique landmarks in Bangkok.
Maybe Skip It If
You have very limited time in Bangkok (under 24 hours) or strictly prefer fast-paced indoor entertainment centers over quiet cultural sites.
Essential Visitor & Dress Code Rules
Dress Modestly: Wat Paknam is an active royal temple. Shoulders and knees must be completely covered for both men and women (no tank tops, crop tops, or short shorts).
Remove Footwear: You must remove your shoes before entering the interior pagoda, museum floors, and sacred prayer halls.
Respectful Demeanor: Maintain a quiet voice, keep phone ringers on silent, and avoid touching sacred artifacts or posing disrespectfully in front of Buddha statues.
FAQ about the Big Buddha in Bangkok
How much does it cost to enter Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen?
Entry to the temple complex, the Big Buddha courtyard, and the glass pagoda museum is completely free for all visitors.
What is the best way to get to the Big Buddha?
The most convenient option is taking the MRT Underground to Bang Phai Station. From Exit 1, it is roughly a 10-to-15-minute walk or a quick 2-minute motorbike taxi ride to the temple entrance.
Can you go inside the Big Buddha statue itself?
No, visitors cannot go inside the hollow bronze Buddha statue. However, you can explore the 5-story museum pagoda located directly behind it.
