Top Sacred Places in Thailand for First-Time Visitors

Thailand has thousands of sacred sites. If it's your first trip, these iconic places offer stunning art, deep meaning and easy access.

Bangkok

• Wat Phra Kaew & the Grand Palace — home of the Emerald Buddha, the country's most revered image.
• Wat Pho — the giant Reclining Buddha and the birthplace of Thai massage.
• Wat Arun — the riverside "Temple of Dawn" with its striking spire.
• Erawan Shrine — a famous four-faced Brahma shrine downtown, popular for wishes.

Around Bangkok

• Ayutthaya — the UNESCO old capital, including the Buddha head in tree roots at Wat Mahathat.

The North

• Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (Chiang Mai) — a golden mountaintop chedi with sweeping views.
• Wat Rong Khun / White Temple (Chiang Rai) — a dazzling contemporary art temple.

The Northeast (Isan)

• Naga shrines along the Mekong — such as Kham Chanod and Phaya Sri Sattanakarat, heart of Thailand's naga faith.

The South

• Big Buddha & Wat Chalong (Phuket) — the island's most important temple and hilltop landmark.

Use the Map on Mujital to see all of these as pins, and build a Trip to plan your route.

Beliefs are personal — please use your own discretion.