I had heard whispers about a towering golden Buddha in a quiet Bangkok neighborhood, but nothing prepared me for the awe I felt the moment I saw it. Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, nestled in the old district of Thonburi, isn’t the most famous temple in the city—yet in many ways, it turned out to be the most powerful spiritual experience I had in Thailand.
Let me take you through my journey.
Discovering the Temple
My visit started with a boat ride along the peaceful canals of western Bangkok. As the city’s chaotic rhythm faded behind me, the waterway led me to a more serene, almost forgotten side of the city. Traditional wooden houses lined the canals, and birds danced across the sky.
As I approached Wat Paknam, the first thing that caught my eye wasn’t the temple itself—it was the enormous golden Buddha that rose above the trees and rooftops like a celestial guardian. Its sheer size was overwhelming, but instead of feeling imposing, it seemed to radiate calmness. Even from a distance, the Buddha’s face glowed with compassion.
When I stepped onto the temple grounds, everything felt incredibly peaceful. There were no massive crowds or noisy tour buses. Just the sound of monks chanting in the distance and the soft rustling of trees. I already felt like I had entered a sacred space.
The Giant Buddha: A Modern Marvel with Ancient Grace
Standing in front of the golden Buddha, I was struck speechless. This statue is massive—so tall that it seems to kiss the sky. Its surface gleamed under the sunlight, and from every angle, it looked magnificent. But beyond its physical grandeur, there was something gentle about its presence. I stood there for a long time, just taking it in. People around me whispered prayers, bowed their heads, or simply looked up in silence, like me.
There was a moment when I looked up at the Buddha’s face, and for a few seconds, I forgot everything else. I didn’t think about my phone, my schedule, or even my next destination. I was just present. Completely. And that, to me, is the magic of this place.
Exploring the Temple Grounds
Wat Paknam is much more than its giant Buddha. The temple complex is spacious, clean, and full of small surprises.
I wandered through the pathways and gardens, admiring the intricate statues, shrines, and colorful murals. Everywhere I turned, there was beauty—whether it was a lotus blooming in a pond, the sound of wind chimes, or a monk slowly sweeping the ground. It was like time had slowed down.
Inside one of the main buildings, I removed my shoes and stepped onto cool marble floors. The scent of incense filled the air. People were kneeling before golden Buddha statues, some in prayer, others just sitting quietly. I did the same. I sat cross-legged and breathed deeply. It didn’t matter that I didn’t know the prayers or understand the rituals. I felt welcome. I felt at peace.
The Stupa and the Glass Pagoda
One of the most unexpected treasures at Wat Paknam is the large white stupa rising behind the golden Buddha. It’s a towering, modern structure, yet it blends perfectly into the traditional atmosphere of the temple.
Inside the stupa, I discovered something extraordinary: a glowing emerald-green glass pagoda sitting under a dome painted with cosmic artwork. The ceiling looked like a galaxy—blue and violet swirls dotted with stars, surrounding the central pagoda like a universe revolving around truth. It took my breath away.
This room felt sacred in a different way. It was vibrant, modern, and almost mystical. I could have stayed for hours just staring up at the painted sky.
A Temple That Breathes
What I loved most about Wat Paknam was that it didn’t feel like a museum—it felt alive. It’s a working monastery, home to hundreds of monks and nuns. As I walked around, I saw monks studying, meditating, and offering blessings. I watched young novices being guided by older monks, their bright robes standing out against the temple walls.
There were also friendly dogs and cats lounging under the shade, and even temple volunteers watering the gardens. It felt like a real community, not just a tourist site.
Everyone I met was kind. A local woman offered me a lotus flower to place at a shrine. A monk smiled as I passed by. I didn’t feel like a stranger. I felt like a guest.
A Personal Moment of Stillness
After walking for a couple of hours, I sat beside the temple’s pond. The afternoon sun was softer now, casting golden light on the water. I watched koi fish swimming lazily and birds landing on nearby trees.
As I sat there, I realized how deeply Wat Paknam had affected me. This wasn’t just a beautiful place—it was a place of healing. In a world where we’re constantly rushing, checking our phones, and chasing something, Wat Paknam reminded me to slow down. To breathe. To look up. To be grateful.
I didn’t expect a temple to teach me that. But it did.
Practical Tips for Visiting
If you’re thinking of visiting Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, here are a few tips based on my experience:
- How to get there: The temple is in the Phasi Charoen district of Bangkok. I took the MRT to Bang Phai Station, then walked about 10 minutes. You can also arrive by canal boat for a more scenic route.
- Opening hours: Generally open from morning until late afternoon. I recommend going in the morning for softer light and fewer crowds.
- Dress respectfully: This is an active religious site. Cover your shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering temple buildings.
- Entry: Free of charge, though donations are welcome and appreciated.
- Time to spend: At least 1.5 to 2 hours if you want to see the giant Buddha, stupa, and walk the grounds.
Final Thoughts
Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen wasn’t just another stop on my travel itinerary—it became one of the highlights of my entire trip to Thailand.
In a city known for its energy, traffic, and nightlife, this temple offered me something rare: silence. Reflection. A chance to connect with something greater than myself. And though I’m not a Buddhist, I felt deeply moved and spiritually refreshed by my time there.
If you ever find yourself in Bangkok, do yourself a favor—visit Wat Paknam. Stand under the golden Buddha. Walk the quiet gardens. Sit beneath the stars painted on the stupa ceiling.
You won’t just be visiting a temple. You’ll be stepping into a moment of peace you might not even know you need.
