If you’ve already visited the well-known temples of Bangkok such as Wat Po, Wat Arun and The Grand Palace, why not visit Wat Saket Temple – home to the famous hill known as The Golden Mount.
The views from the top of The Golden Mount are some of the best in Bangkok, and there’s a beautiful golden chedi at the top. Plus, the temple is stunning and far less crowded than many other spots in Bangkok!
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Wat Saket and The Golden Mount – a must-visit on any Bangkok itinerary! From opening times to entrance fees, how to get there and what to do when you get to Wat Saket: it’s all here!
What Is Wat Saket & The Golden Mount?
Wat Saket (full name: Wat Saket Ratchawora Mahawihan but mainly shortened to Wat Saket) is a Buddhist temple in Bangkok that is also known as the Golden Mount. It is one of the oldest temples in Bangkok.
The Golden Mount is actually just a part of Wat Saket: it is a man-made hill with 318 steps and topped with a golden chedi that houses a relic of Buddha.
The Golden Mount is 79 metres high and from the top you can get beautiful panoramic views looking out over Bangkok.
Where Is Wat Saket Located?
Wat Saket is located in the heart of Bangkok’s historic Old Town, in the Pom Prap Sattru Phai district which is right next to the famous Banglamphu district.
It’s in a very central location in Bangkok, with plenty of other tourist attractions nearby, such as several temples and the famous Khao San Road.
Here is the Google Maps location.
The easiest way to reach Wat Saket is by Grab Taxi. You can also get there by ferry – get off Panfa Leelard Pier and it’s just a short 2 minute walk to Wat Saket.
Wat Saket Opening Times & Entrance Fee
Wat Saket is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
The entrance fee to enter the grounds of Wat Saket is free, however if you wish to climb up to the top of The Golden Mount – which you definitely should, it costs 100 THB.
When Is The Best Time To Visit The Golden Mount?
Visiting in the early morning or later in the afternoon is a good time to visit to avoid the Bangkok heat. If you visit in the middle of the day like I did – you’ll get extremely hot and sweaty walking up the 318 steps to the top of The Golden Mount!
Early morning or even evening visits also mean there are less tourists so you can enjoy the temple almost to yourself. Plus you may be able to see a fantastic sunset from the top of The Golden Mount if you are here in the evening!
Alternatively, if you’ll be visiting Bangkok in November, visit Wat Saket during the Loy Krathong festival as there’s a wonderful atmosphere here during the festival!
What To Do & See At Wat Saket
Climb The Golden Mount
When visiting Wat Saket temple, the must-do activity is to climb the 318 steps to the top of the Golden Mount for breathtaking views of Bangkok. While 318 steps sounds a lot, it’s really not that bad! The steps are small steps and it’s a lovely walk outdoors.
The first half is mainly in the shade, lined with lush greenery featuring Buddha statues, mythical statues, little water features and exotic plants.
The second half of the walk has two sets of prayer bells – ring them all for the prayer ritual. The walk offers lovely views as you continue to climb to the top.
There’s also a cafe half way up the climb by the first set of bells, so you can stop for a sit down and cool drink – an absolute life-saver if you’re visiting when it’s hot!
When you reach the top, you’ll go inside a room that houses several Buddha statues. It’s a really nice and peaceful place.
It’s quiet apart from the sounds of the monk’s prayers and the bells blowing in the wind, and there are several seats here if you want to rest your legs for a bit!
See The Golden Chedi At The Top
From the room with all the Buddhas you can climb up a narrow staircase to reach the rooftop. Here you’ll find the golden chedi that enshrines a relic of the Buddha. Worshippers will circle it and bring offerings.
When I visited in May 2024 the golden chedi was covered in scaffolding but hopefully that will be finished by the time you visit! It looked very impressive up close, and I could still enjoy the fantastic 360 degree views looking out over all the roofs of Bangkok.
It’s such a great place to get away from the crowds and enjoy the views of the busy city below.
Explore The Temple Grounds
The temple grounds are really impressive and peaceful, there are several other really nice spots to visit once you’ve climbed The Golden Mount. To get back down The Golden Mount you go down a different set of stairs, and there are a couple of different paths you can take.
I loved seeing the Buddha statues surrounding the tree at the bottom, but you should also definitely take the time to explore the halls, as well as the cemetery here that was used for plague victims from the late 18th century.
There is also a coffee shop and restaurant within the temple grounds, as well as a Thai costume rental shop if you wish to dress up in a traditional Thai outfit!
What To Wear When Visiting Wat Saket Temple
Wat Saket is a holy place and a significant pilgrimage site, and therefore both males and females need to dress appropriately. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.
Other Places To Visit Nearby
Wat Ratchanatdaram
Just a 10 minute walk away is the beautiful Wat Ratchanatdaram, also known as Bangkok’s ‘Metal Castle’. This temple features the unique Loha Prasat, a multi-tiered structure with 37 metal spires and is definitely worth a visit. Plus, it rarely gets busy!
Wat Suthat
Also a short distance away is Wat Suthat – another beautiful temple that is famous for its giant swing outside and the beautiful murals.
Wat Benchambophit
Also known as ‘The Marble Temple’, Wat Benchambophit is another incredibly beautiful temple located a short taxi ride away that you must visit. It’s definitely one of the most Instagrammable spots in Bangkok.
Khao San Road
Love it or hate it, no trip to Bangkok is complete without a visit to Khao San Road. Khao San Road is a famous backpacker street known for its lively atmosphere, street food and nightlife, and is just a short tuk-tuk ride away.
Check out these awesome Bangkok quotes & captions to go with your photos for Instagram!
Summary
Wat Saket is a lovely temple that is really worth a visit when in Bangkok. With its stunning panoramic views, beautiful details and peaceful atmosphere, as well as its proximity to other notable temples and attractions, it makes it a very convenient stop for anyone exploring Bangkok!
Catrina McGrail is a Travel Writer and ex-Flight Attendant based in Sydney, Australia. She has visited 85 countries and lived in several – including Italy, Australia, United Arab Emirates and England. Her work has been featured in a variety of popular travel publications including Fodors, Escape, Australian Traveller and Bear Grylls, as well as several international aviation and travel companies. She only writes about places she has personally visited, and aims to give real, honest advice to help her readers.
