The Golden Mount (Wat Saket)

An artificial hill with a golden chedi and one of the best views over the old town.

Area

Old town

Start from

Old town

Distance

in the city

Time needed

1–2 hours

Best season

All year; sunset

Difficulty

Easy

Transport

Taxi or walk from Banglamphu

Tickets & rules

Small entry fee

Why go

The Golden Mount is an artificial hill topped by a golden chedi. Around 300 steps spiral up the hill, past bells and shrines, to a viewing terrace over the old town.

It's a lovely place at sunset, when the city lights come on.

As you climb, you pass bells, small shrines and frangipani trees. At the top, the golden chedi is said to contain relics of the Buddha. From the terrace you can see the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Chinatown and the skyscrapers of downtown, all in one panorama.

The story

The hill was started under King Rama III but collapsed because of the soft ground. Later kings completed it, and the chedi was built on top.

Every November, a temple fair is held here during the Loy Krathong period.

The relics were given by the British colonial government in India in the late nineteenth century and installed in the chedi.

Nearby Wat Ratchanatdaram has the Loha Prasat, a unique metal-spired structure with many small towers.

Getting there

Walk from Banglamphu or take a taxi. Khlong Saen Saep boats also stop nearby.

Combine with Wat Ratchanatdaram and the Loha Prasat.

A suggested plan

1. AfternoonClimb the steps, ringing bells along the way.
2. TopEnjoy the view and visit the chedi.
3. EveningWalk to nearby Wat Ratchanatdaram.

Where to stay

Banglamphu hotels nearby.

Good to know

• Go in the late afternoon for the light.
• Ring the bells for good luck.
• The temple fair in November is lively, with food stalls and performances.