Temple Run: One Day in Thonburi’s Spiritual Side
If you’re the type who loves slow travel, vintage vibes, and a sprinkle of spiritual energy, this one’s for you. Pacific Leisure invites you to explore a hidden route in Thonburi where you can hit up 3 iconic temples in just one morning—each one with its own unique charm.
Stop 1: Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen
A legendary temple tucked between three canals—Khlong Dan, Khlong Phasi Charoen, and Khlong Bangkok Yai—Wat Paknam has been an anchor of spiritual life for generations. Even with Bangkok’s modern chaos, this place still feels timeless.
Must-see:
- The glass stupa (on the 5th floor—yes, it glows!)
The Emerald Stupa – Located on the 5th floor of the Grand Pagoda, this beautifully intricate stupa is a masterpiece of glass carving.
- The gigantic golden Buddha statue
Phra Phuttha Dhammakaya Thepmongkhon – A massive 69-meter-tall Buddha image, currently under renovation and about 90% complete.
- Wax figure of Luang Por Sodh (you’ll do a double take)
Wax Figure of Luang Por Sodh – A highly realistic sculpture honoring the revered monk.
- Relics, Buddhist art, and ancient monk utensils inside the pagoda
Principal Buddha Image inside the Ordination Hall – Housed in a historic ordination hall dating back to the Ayutthaya era.
Chinese tourists visiting the Grand Pagoda – A popular site among international travelers, especially for its Buddhist art.
Bonus tip: Locals still come here daily to pay respect to Luang Por Sodh’s preserved body upstairs in the sanctuary. It’s deeply moving even if you’re not Buddhist.
Short walk to...
Stop 2: Wat Apsornsawan (a.k.a. Wat Moo)
Don’t let the name fool you—this temple isn’t about pigs. It’s a mispronunciation of "Wat Ou," the name of the Chinese founder. What’s cool about this place? It has 28 Buddha statues all sitting in a line inside the ordination hall. It’s rare and impressive.
Twenty-Eight Seated Buddha Images in Maravijaya Posture – Found inside the ordination hall of Wat Apsonsawan, each represents one of the 28 Buddhas in Buddhist belief. Their names, such as Phra Phuttha Kodom and Phra Phuttha Kassapa, are engraved at the base.
The Prang (Khmer-style stupa) of Wat Apsonsawan Worawihan – A historical highlight of the temple.
Also worth checking out:
- The ancient wooden scripture library floating in a pond
The Wooden Library at Wat Apsonsawan – Floating on a pond, with the Grand Pagoda of Wat Paknam visible in the background to the left.
- A beautiful Mandapa with a Buddha eating berries (yes, you read that right)
Replica Buddha in “Berry-Eating” Posture – Enshrined in a mandapa at Wat Apsonsawan, this pose is a rare depiction in Thai temples.
Cross Khlong Tha Dan to...
Stop 3: Wat Khun Chan
Now this one’s a mix of mystery and “สายมู.” It’s famous for massive Buddha images and sacred deities like Ganesha, Rahu (people come here to wish for good fortune), and the towering Luang Por Toh statue that guards the temple grounds.
Phra Sangkajai (front) and Luang Por To (back) – Sacred statues at Wat Khun Chan.
Phra Rahu – A deity worshiped for protection and fortune, located at Wat Khun Chan.
Tao Wessuwan (Vaisravana) – Guardian deity at Wat Khun Chan, believed to ward off evil spirits.
Ganesha – The deity of wisdom and success, also enshrined at Wat Khun Chan.
Hidden Gem Alert:
Right on the bridge over Khlong Dan, you’ll catch a rare panoramic view—Wat Paknam on your left, Wat Khun Chan on the right, and Wat Apsorn’s spire straight ahead. It’s quiet, peaceful, and totally photo-worthy.
Panoramic View from the Tha Dan Canal Bridge – With Wat Paknam on the left, Wat Khun Chan on the right, and a canal in between; Wat Apsonsawan’s prang can also be seen in the distance.
Hungry after all that temple hopping?
You have to try Laddawan’s Wonton Noodles right outside Wat Paknam. Handmade noodles, tender BBQ pork, and that old-school Cantonese flavor. Locals swear it’s one of the best in the area. Finish it off with traditional Thai crispy pancakes from the cart next door. Chef’s kiss.
“Laddawan Wonton Noodles” – A legendary street-side noodle spot just outside Wat Paknam, known for handmade egg noodles and flavorful pork.
Shophouses in front of Wat Paknam – Home to cozy cafés, boat noodle shops, and dessert stalls. Laddawan Wonton Noodles is located at the far left.
Traditional Thai Crispy Pancakes (Khanom Buang) – A classic local dessert found near Wat Paknam.
Charoensri Market – An old-style market near Wat Paknam. Once bustling, it's now quieter but still has food stalls selling Thai dishes, Isaan food, and desserts during the day.
This little day trip is simple, spiritual, and unexpectedly soulful. Three temples, three vibes, zero stress. Whether you're snapping pics for the ‘Gram or taking time to reflect, Thonburi’s canal-side charm and Buddhist art will leave you feeling inspired.
Tag us @PacificLeisure if you go—we’d love to see your favorite spots! #OneDayThreeTemples #BangkokHiddenGems #ThonburiTrail
Editor in Chief : Nampetch Siramanon
Editor: Pacific Leisure (Thailand)
Content Creator : Mr. Saroj Na Ayutthaya