Bangkok's most sacred temple, home to Thailand's most revered Buddha image and part of the Grand Palace complex.
The Emerald Buddha (actually jade, not emerald) sits in the inner sanctum and is considered the protector of Thailand — only the King and high monks enter the innermost chamber.
Elaborate Thai architecture, golden stupas, detailed murals, and guards in traditional dress — it's crowded but unmissable.
Strict: shoulders and knees must be covered; no hats, sunglasses, or shoes once inside — consider a sarong rental (50 THB) if your clothes don't meet requirements.
Entry is 500 THB; go early (8–9 AM) to beat crowds; allow 1.5–2 hours inside.
The same ticket covers the Grand Palace complex and, in some ticket configurations, nearby royal museums — check current inclusions when buying, since the combined entry changes what else is worth adding to the visit.
Buying tickets from touts outside claiming the temple is closed is a well-known scam — tickets are only sold at the official entrance, and the temple is open daily unless posted otherwise on the official site.