From shrines to temples and even natural landscapes, there are many places that are regarded as holy in the Land of Smiles. Spirituality is naturally a very subjective thing to each individual. However, it can be said that Thailand is renowned for being one of the most spiritual places in Southeast Asia. With an abundance of remarkable temples, numerous religions and spiritual beliefs, as well as many sacred and holy sites to behold, Thailand is an absolute mecca for all things spiritual.
Hereunder are the various places we recommend you visit:
Bangkok: There are so many temples and religious sites in Bangkok that no one really knows the exact number; however, it’s estimated that there are thousands of Buddhist temples in the city of Bangkok, perhaps nearly as many as 40,000!
Krabi: Krabi is renowned for being home to one of the most spiritual sites in the whole of Thailand; Wat Tham Suea, also known as the Tiger Cave Temple. Wat Tham Suea, otherwise known as the Tiger Cave Temple, was dubbed this because apparently a tiger used to reside here, though today it is one of the most coveted religious sites in the country. The golden Buddha found at this shrine sits at the 2,000-foot peak. To get here, visitors must first climb the stairs, hugged by jungle terrain on both sides, before finally arriving at the amazing spiritual site.
Chiang Mai: There are over 24 Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai city itself, with countless others decorating the landscape surrounding the city. One of the most famous and arguably most spiritual sites in and around Chiang Mai sits atop Doi Inthanon mountain in the Doi Suthep-Doi Pui National Park. Here you’ll find the temple of Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon; a site dedicated to the celebration of the 60th birthday of the late king.
Kanchanaburi: Kanchanaburi is one of the most spiritual places in Thailand for numerous reasons. It’s home to the infamous Death Railway and the River Kwai Bridge which was built by the Japanese Empire during World War II to supply troops with weapons during the war. It’s estimated between 180,000 and 250,000 prisoners of war died during the construction of the railway due to horrific working conditions and punishments. It’s clear to see therefore, that the railway is now a place of spirituality for locals and tourists who wish to pay their respects to the dead. One place you can do this is at the Tham Krasae Cave which is home to an enshrined Buddha statue where many locals come to pray and pay their respects.
