About Wat Saket
Wat Saket, also known as the Golden Mount Temple, is a historic Buddhist temple in Ban Bat, Pom Prap Sattru Phai District, Bangkok. Originally dating to the Ayutthaya period as Wat Sakae, it was restored under King Rama I. Its iconic artificial hill topped by a 58-meter golden chedi enshrining Buddha relics dominates the old city skyline and offers panoramic views of Bangkok.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore the temple grounds at the base and climb 344 steps winding around the man-made hill to the golden chedi at the summit. Along the ascent are bells, statues, waterfalls and shaded rest points. At the top, a gilded chedi enshrines Buddha relics, surrounded by a terrace with 360-degree views of Bangkok's old city, plus prayer halls, Buddha images and areas for merit-making.
Key highlights
- 01
Golden Mount (Phu Khao Thong) - 58-meter gilded chedi enshrining Buddha relics
- 02
344-step climb winding around the hill to the summit terrace
- 03
Panoramic 360-degree views over Bangkok's old city and skyline
- 04
Historic Ayutthaya-era temple restored in the Rattanakosin period
- 05
Annual temple fair during Loy Krathong festival in November
- 06
Bells, Buddha images and waterfall features along the ascent
History of Wat Saket
Originally built in the Ayutthaya period as Wat Sakae and renovated by King Rama I in 1782. The Golden Mount was initiated by King Rama III in the 1830s as a large chedi on an artificial hill, but collapsed due to soft ground. The present chedi was completed under King Rama IV and King Rama V, with Buddha relics enshrined inside. It served historically as a cremation site and landmark of the capital.
Culture & Context
Important Buddhist temple of the Rattanakosin period enshrining relics of the Buddha, serving as a pilgrimage site for merit-making. Known for its annual temple fair and candle procession during Loy Krathong in November, when devotees ascend the illuminated Golden Mount to worship the relics.
Route
| By air |
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