Temple Hopping in Thailand: Must Do's!

Wat: a term given to Buddhist or Hindu temples in Thailand, and other parts of Southeast Asia.

Thailand has an abundance of wats (with all respect and for scaling purposes only, one may refer to them as the Starbucks of Thailand). Many of them are "must-sees" for their ornate architecture and more so, for their highly coveted sightings of monks in orange robes. But it can be tricky to pick and choose which of the many wats are worth visiting, especially if you're a backpacker on a tight schedule.

So, here is a list of must-see wats that I compiled after my two week visit to Thailand. (*Indicates those which are easiest accessible via boats on the Chao Phraya River.)

1) *Wat Arun, Bangkok

Also known as the Temple of Dawn, it is situated on the Chao Phraya River and has recently undergone a restoration. It is suggested that you visit at sunset at which time the sun perfectly illuminates the spires of the temple. Wat Arun is not as large as many of the other wats in Bangkok, and is less ornate, but as a result, it is worth seeing for it's unique architecture.

Quick Tip: Visit at midday to avoid hoards of tourists, and grab a cold coconut at the entrance.

2) *Wat Pho, Bangkok

Located near Wat Arun, on the opposite bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Pho is one of the busier temples, but for good reason. It is located on large grounds and characterized by its stunning red, green and gold spires. It is most well-known for its 46-meter long Reclining Buddha covered in gold leaf. You will be one of hundreds of tourists lining up to see the Buddha, but it's worth the wait; you can only truly appreciate the enormity of the Buddha when you are standing next to it. After you've walked around the temple, and your feet are aching, visit the massage school next to the temple where you can get the BEST Thai massage for less then $3USD.

Quick Tip: Take off your shoes before you enter the temple, and be aware of your belongings in these crowded spaces.

3) *Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai

Say that three times fast! Located at the very top of Doi Suthep (Mount Suthep) in Chiang Mai, this wat is worth visiting if even only for the breathtaking views of the city. You can get to it via a tuk-tuk at the bottom of the mountain, in front of the Chiang Mai zoo (be prepared for a 20-25 minute, winding drive). When you've walked around the temple, climb down the 306 step staircase with impressive railings of naga (mythical serpent).

Quick Tip: If you are prone to car-sickness, you can access the temple by walking up the 306 stairs. Good luck!

4) Ayutthaya, Bangkok

Ayutthaya is an ancient temple city situated 100km away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok's city centre. It will likely require an entire day to visit, and is accessible via train, taxi or mini-van. There are multiple red stone temples still standing; remnants of Thailand's former capital, and many of them have stairs with access to the very top. Ayutthaya is unlike any of the temples listed above, and should be thought of as ruins (a much smaller scale Angkor Wat). For me, this was the most special of the temples in Thailand, and an absolute must-do!

Quick Tip: Try the coconut ice-cream outside the temple; it's got chunks of glorious coconut hidden inside.