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Visiting Buddhist temples in Thailand is a must.
The geographical embodiment of Thai culture, these glorious architectural structures — usually styled in shiny gold with dramatic arched curves — tend to stand out, even in an already awe-inspiring landscape.
But there’s an old saying that gets thrown around, and it goes a little something like this:
“If you’ve seen one temple, you’ve seen them all.”
Now, I don’t fully agree with that rhetoric — but I get the sentiment.
That’s why I’ve done some digging, and found a place called The Dragon Temple… surely this can break the harsh stereotype that these stunning sites have unfortunately developed?
Well, come with me — and let’s find out together if all temples really are the same.
What is ‘The Dragon Temple’?
Also known by its official name, Wat Samphran, this Buddhist temple is one of the most interesting showcases of outrageous, out-there design choices you will ever see.
Standing at around 80 meters tall (approximately 260 feet), this already imposing, pink-painted structure is taken to another level by the decision to coil a massive dragon from tip to top — instantly adding some sense to its curious choice of namesake.
You won’t find anything else like it in the entire country, already throwing shade on that old adage:
“Seen one, seen them all.”
Why should you go?
I’ll get to some of the not-so-obvious major points in a second, but I have to start with the obvious.
Its uniqueness alone is enough to warrant a visit.
I mean, just look at this Instagram reel.
Where is it located?
Don’t let the title fool you — the location isn’t really that secret, I just wanted to make sure you opened this blog.
Wat Samphran is conveniently located just west of Bangkok, so if you have some time in Thailand’s capital and you’re feeling adventurous, allocate an afternoon to visit this deeply spiritual site.
You’ve made it this far, so thank you! Here is the Google Maps location:
How Do You Get There?
You have two clear options when it comes to getting to Wat Samphran:
- Taxi
Download Grab & Bolt and compare prices and wait times on both apps. This is a good option if you have numbers in your group.
Be warned though — As the traffic in Bangkok at times is no joke!
Cost: Asok area to Wat Samphran — $10–$15
- Train & Taxi
This is how I got there: I took the Blue MRT Train line down to Lak Song Station, headed down to Exit 1, and jumped into one of the many city taxis waiting outside.
Insider tip: Make sure you ask the driver to turn the meter on.
Cost: Asok area to Wat Samphran — $6.30–$9.60
I’d always recommend downloading Google Maps for all your location and travel needs.
I have a blog coming soon where I’ll dive into all things Bangkok travel — including the best tools to have and how to use them.
Click below and subscribe to my page so you don’t miss this, or any other travel-related hints & tips.
(I might even throw in the odd discount deal for good measure!)
What is it like?
Wat Samphran hosts the obvious centrepiece — its striking towering architecture and accompanying dragon.
But here are some things you might be surprised to see during your visit:
- You start your journey by walking into the mouth of a massive concrete turtle, leading to an underground passage.
- Exiting this passage sets you on a garden trail where you’ll encounter various animal statues and the ground uniquely decorated with hand and foot imprints set into the paving.
- If you’re lucky, you may receive a blessing from one of the resident Buddhist monks, which includes bamboo leaves, holy water, cotton bracelets — the whole nine yards.
Reaching the top of the tower will be the peak moment of your visit.
From there, you’ll enjoy great views and a peaceful, serene atmosphere — a welcome contrast to the organised chaos of Bangkok.
It’s also a perfect chance to see the dragon up close, its head arching over the centrepiece of the tower’s rooftop viewing platform.
Is this the most captivating temple in all of Bangkok? If you have any honourable mentions, let us know in the comments below!
Things to remember!
Things to know Before Visiting Wat Samphran:
- The cost to reach the top of the tower is 80 baht (around $2–$3).
- There’s an optional lift up for an extra 10 baht — but note that there are still a few small flights of stairs, which may be a challenge for those with limited mobility.
- Be respectful: don’t be obnoxious, follow signage, shoes off when required — etc.
- Aim for an early to mid-afternoon visit to enjoy the views as Bangkok eases into its infamous golden hour.
- Food options are limited — only snack and drink stalls by the entrance, so plan your meals accordingly.
- Slow down and walk the garden trail at your own pace — Wat Samphran isn’t made to be rushed.
Want more in-depth insights from the source? Follow Dragon Temple – Bangkok on Facebook — run by a monk from down under who resides on the tower’s rooftop.
Final thoughts…
I hope this has given you a different perspective or approach to visiting temples here in Thailand.
The old saying that “they’re all the same” just doesn’t hold up — not when places like Wat Samphran exist.
Thailand is full of temples that each carry their own unique charm — if you’re willing to slow down and explore, who knows what you might uncover.
Prices accurate at time of writing and are subject to change.
As this website grows, I promise to keep bringing you more interesting travel stories — away from the beaten track.
Make sure you subscribe to my blog below so we can find out together what else there is to discover.
Here are some links for my go-to apps and services that will help you navigate Thailand:
- 📱BNESIM – The future of mobile data roaming is here.
- 🚗 12Go Asia – My fave for booking travel across Thailand.
- 🔒 Surfshark – Stay protected online when travelling abroad.
- 🏥 SafetyWing – Top-Notch Travel Insurance Provider.
- 🏦 Wise – Fee free overseas transactions at great rates.
- 🏞️ Klook – Some of the best prices on tours, tickets and excursions.
- ✈️ Google Flights – Compare flights. Absolute game changer.
- 🏨 Agoda – Book hotels with free cancellation and watch for better deals.
- 🗺️ Google Maps – Keeps you in the know on where to go.
- 🛵 Bolt & Grab – The Uber of Thailand (availability varies by city)
- 🌐 Google Translate – Download the app and avoid the awkward silences.
- 🍜 Eatigo – Up to 50% off restaurant bookings.
