The Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) Bangkok

GRAND PALACE BANGKOK
Feb 10, 2018
2 min read

Updated: Sep 28

The Emerald Buddha – Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok

The Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) is one of the most sacred and most visited attractions in Bangkok. Located within the grounds of the Grand Palace Bangkok, this temple is considered the holiest Buddhist site in Thailand and a place of deep reverence for both the Thai people and the Royal Family.

A Sacred Statue of the Buddha

The Emerald Buddha is a statue of the meditating Buddha, carved from a single piece of green jade (often referred to as “emerald” for its colour). The image is clothed in seasonal robes made of gold, adorned with precious details, and cared for with the highest respect.

Every year, the King of Thailand personally conducts the robe-changing ceremony, a tradition marking the transition between the hot, rainy, and cool seasons. This ritual symbolises prosperity, protection, and blessings for the nation.

Spiritual Significance

Visitors often describe experiencing a profound sense of calm, peace, and devotion when in the presence of the Emerald Buddha. For centuries, it has been regarded as the most sacred religious icon in Thailand, symbolising national unity and Buddhist faith.

Its history is long and partly mysterious, with origins traced back to the 15th century before being enshrined at Wat Phra Kaew Bangkok in 1784 by King Rama I. Since then, it has remained at the spiritual heart of Thailand.

A National Treasure

The Emerald Buddha Temple Bangkok is not only a destination for travellers but also a living centre of faith. The statue is revered equally by the Royal Family and the Thai people as Thailand’s most priceless religious treasure.

For visitors, experiencing the Emerald Buddha is more than sightseeing — it is an opportunity to witness a profound symbol of spirituality, tradition, and national identity.