A guide to temples in Thailand

A temple is the first thing you photograph in Thailand and the first thing you tire of. The difference between the two is how many temples you saw that day.

This guide deals with two things: what sets the temples of the different regions apart, and how to visit them properly — because this is an active place of worship, not a tourist site.

Dress code and etiquette

The basic rule: shoulders and knees covered, for men and women alike. A vest top and shorts will not be accepted at the entrance to the main temples.

Shoes come off before entering the hall, so shoes that are easy to take off are worth more than anything else on a day of temples.

• Do not point the soles of your feet towards a Buddha statue: sit with your legs folded back.
• Women do not touch a monk and do not hand him an object directly.
• Take photos quietly, and do not strike poses in front of statues.
• Keep your voice low. This is a place where people pray.

Bangkok: the great temples

Bangkok is "a vibrant city of temples, markets and nightlife", and its temples are the largest and most ornate in the country.

This is also the place where it is easiest to burn out: three temples in a row in the hot hours of the day are a recipe for a wasted day. Two in the morning, and then something else.

The north: Lanna-style temples

We describe Chiang Mai as "rich northern culture, ancient temples and green mountains". The old city, surrounded by a wall and a moat, holds its historic temples.

Chiang Rai has the temples that look like nothing else in Thailand: Wat Rong Khun — the White Temple, with its mirror decorations; Wat Rong Suea Ten — the Blue Temple; and the Black House, Thawan Duchanee's art museum.

Pattaya: the Sanctuary of Truth

The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya is a special case: a building carved entirely from wood, which is not a classic place of worship but an architectural work. It has a full page on the site.

It is also the convenient option for anyone whose route does not reach the north and who still wants to see impressive Thai architecture.

How many temples a day

Two. Perhaps three if they are close together and the day is cool. Beyond that they start to merge into one another, and that is a shame for each of them.

The best way to fit them in is to spread them out: a temple in the morning, something else in the afternoon, and not a day made up entirely of temples.

Want us to put it together for you?

Tell us when you plan to fly, with whom, and how much time you have, and we will come back with an itinerary, hotels and attractions that fit exactly that — in Hebrew.