Exploring the three big temples in Bangkok on a low-budget.
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Bangkok is a city of contrasts — tuk-tuks racing past glittering shrines, skyscrapers towering over ancient temples, and a heat so heavy it seems to melt everything together. But tucked along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, three landmarks shine brighter than the rest: the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun.
I decided to dedicate a full day to exploring this golden triangle of Thai history and spirituality. It turned out to be one of the most magical days I’ve ever had in Bangkok. Now this particular itinerary was exploring Bangkok on a budget. Here are some insights into my one day itinerary in Bangkok.
Morning: The Grand Palace
The sun was already fierce when I stepped through the gates of the Grand Palace. Gold everywhere. Spires catching the light, walls glittering with mosaics, and courtyards echoing with footsteps. The heat pressed against me, but the sheer brilliance of the place made me forget it.
Inside Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, I felt the hush of reverence. The tiny yet powerful Emerald Buddha sat high on a golden throne, while outside, the Phra Si Rattana Chedi shimmered like a jewel against the sky. Wandering further, the grand halls of the Middle Court rose ahead, blending Thai and European influences in a way that felt both royal and surreal.
Everywhere I turned, the palace dazzled — too much to see in one visit, but impossible to look away.
Midday: Wat Pho and the Reclining Buddha
By late morning, I made my way to Wat Pho, just a short walk from the palace. The moment I stepped inside the Reclining Buddha Hall, I gasped. At 46 meters long, the golden Buddha seemed to stretch on forever, his serene smile filling the space with calm. The soles of his feet, inlaid with mother-of-pearl, told stories in symbols I couldn’t fully read but felt deeply.
Outside, the courtyards were alive with color — towering chedis covered in floral mosaics, rows of seated Buddhas glowing softly in the shade. The air carried the scent of incense, and the sound of coins dropping into donation bowls rang like a gentle rhythm through the temple.
I ended my visit with a stop at the traditional massage school. After hours of walking, lying down on a mat while students worked their hands into my tired muscles felt like the temple’s final blessing.
Afternoon: Across the River to Wat Arun
From Wat Pho, I hopped on a boat that ferried me across the Chao Phraya. The view alone was worth it — the water shimmering, boats weaving past each other, and ahead, the porcelain spires of Wat Arun rising into the sky.
Climbing the steep stairs of the central prang was both terrifying and thrilling. My hands clung to the railing, heart pounding, but at the top, the view took my breath away: the river winding below, the Grand Palace glittering in the distance, and Bangkok stretching endlessly around me.
Back on the ground, I wandered into the Ordination Hall, where a golden Buddha gleamed in quiet reverence. Outside, the smaller prangs and courtyards brimmed with statues, guardians, and floral porcelain details — like a storybook etched in stone and tile.
As the sun dipped lower, I sat by the river’s edge inside the temple grounds. The late light made the spires glow softly, and I could see the city shifting from day to night across the water.
A Day to Remember
By the time I left Wat Arun, the sky was painted in pinks and golds. The temples behind me weren’t just sights to check off a list — they were experiences that wrapped around all my senses: the heat on my skin, the scent of incense, the sound of monks chanting, the glitter of mosaics in the sun.
If you have only one day in Bangkok, make it this one:
1. Morning at the Grand Palace
2. Midday at Wat Pho
3. Afternoon at Wat Arun
Three temples. One river. A journey through centuries of Thai culture in a single unforgettable day—your one day itinerary in Bangkok.
Practical Tips for Visiting
🕒 Opening Hours
Grand Palace: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM (last entry 3:00 PM)
Wat Pho: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Wat Arun: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
🎟 Tickets
Grand Palace: 500 THB (includes entry to Wat Phra Kaew and some museums)
Wat Pho: 200 THB (includes a bottle of water)
Wat Arun: 100 THB
👗 Dress Code
All three sites require modest dress: no shorts, short skirts, sleeveless tops, or ripped clothing. Cover shoulders and knees. Sarongs can be rented or bought near entrances.
🚤 Getting Around
The Grand Palace and Wat Pho are walking distance from each other.
From Wat Pho, take the river ferry across to Wat Arun (3–5 THB, just a few minutes).
💡 Extra Tips
Go early to avoid crowds and the worst of the heat.
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat — shade is limited in courtyards.
Allow at least 1.5–2 hours for each site.
Don’t miss a Thai massage at Wat Pho — it’s the perfect break in your temple day.
