When people talk about the hustle and bustle of the city, Bangkok fits the description to a tee. The most populated city in Thailand, it welcomes approximately 22 million international tourists every year. While many people relish Bangkok for its on-the-go lifestyle, the city is also home to over 400 temples, imbuing this metropolis with spirituality.
Bangkok is home to the largest solid gold Buddha statue in the world at three metres tall. The Phra Phuttha Maha Suwana Patimakon is located in Wat Traimit, and is an example of the hundreds of enormous Buddha tributes. One such marvel is at Wat Pho on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. Here, a 46-metre Buddha bathed in gold leaf takes up a reclining pose, looking gently down at admirers. On the opposite bank of the Chao Phraya, the Wat Arun is one of the most frequented temples in Bangkok. The complex is decorated in an unusual material – thousands of pieces of broken porcelain dishes.
The rivers and canals form an essential part of Bangkok’s extensive market culture, with floating markets such as Damnoen Saduak providing an opportunity to experience authentic Thai food outside of the city. Hop in a paddle boat and make your way down the water to source groceries, meals, and even curios. For an alternate route through Bangkok, take the Chao Phraya Express Boat past the major attractions before moving to the heart of the city – the palace.
Once the home of the king, today the Grand Palace hosts royal ceremonies and dignitaries. Dating back to 1782, the complex architecture is adorned with gold and coloured glass. Inside the Wat Phra Kaew temple is widely considered one of the most revered figures. The Emerald Buddha sits at 66 centimetres tall, carved from semi-precious stone. Believed to provide protection to the nation and bring legitimacy to the king, this statuette is an icon in Buddhism.
In a city that’s always on the move, discover the space and time to be mindful. It’s easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of activity in Bangkok, but this capital provides endless opportunities to reflect on its true beauty.
