Wat Samphran: How To Get To The Dragon Temple in Bangkok, Thailand
Discover how to reach Wat Samphran, also known as the Dragon Temple, a unique and fascinating Buddhist temple located just outside of Bangkok. In this article, I’ll provide you with all the information you need to travel to this hidden gem, including transportation options and what to expect upon arrival.
Are you planning a trip to Bangkok and looking to explore some of the city's lesser-known gems? Look no further than Wat Samphran, the famous Dragon Temple. This stunning Buddhist temple is located just outside of Bangkok, and is completely unique thanks to its 17-story pink tower adorned with intricate dragon sculptures that wind around its exterior. The main problem tourists have is that Wat Samphran is a pain to get to. So much so that, despite my ten million previous trips to Bangkok, I had never made the effort to visit. It was always too out of the way!
While it may not be as well-known as some of Bangkok's other temples, Wat Samphran is a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing Thailand's hidden gems. In this article, I’m sharing everything you need to know to get to Wat Samphran, including the best ways to travel to the temple and what to expect when you arrive.
a brief history of Wat Samphran ↴
This 17-story temple once required stairs to get up to the top, but now there’s a walkable tunnel that leads you up to the very top. The temple grounds are home to multiple animal-shaped buildings and statues, including an elephant, a turtle, and a rabbit. All of these have significance in Buddhist culture and folklore. The architect of the temple is unknown, adding to the sense of mystery that looms in the air.
In 2004, the Buddhist clergy at Wat Samphran were involved in a sexual misconduct scandal. The former Abbott, who has since been serving a prison sentence of 150 years, was found guilty of rape after a nine-year trial. Because of this, the temple was closed to the public for some time. Despite the horrific events that took place here, today it’s a temple for locals to worship.
how to get to Wat Samphran ↴
You should know that Wat Samphra temple isn’t actually in Bangkok! It’s located in Thailand’s Nakhon Pathom province, approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) to the west, which makes it about an hour away from Bangkok city. There. minimal public transportation options available to get you to Wat Samphran, and the ones that exist involve multiple forms of transport and a lengthy travel time.
Getting a Grab taxi is the easiest way to get to Wat Samphran. The ride will cost you about USD $10 each way. If you’re a solo traveller or on a tighter budget, I’d highly recommend using public transport or finding other travellers who are eager to visit the temple so that you can cut your costs.
Those who are experienced in navigating two wheels in traffic, consider renting a motorbike. For approximately USD $8 for the entire day, you can rent a motorbike and drive yourself out to Samphran. If you aren’t comfortable on a motorbike, consider taking the BTS public transport to Bang Wa Station. From the station, you’ll still need to get a Grab taxi, but this will cut your costs significantly.
map ↴
find Wat Samphran here
what to expect at Wat Samphran ↴
The complex is actually quite big and, if you decide to make the trip, you should definitely give yourself a minimum of an hour {I stayed for nearly 3}. At one end of the temple complex, you have Wat Samphran and its guardian dragon. Conversely, you have a turtle cove leading to a pond down a concrete tunnel. In between the two, there’s a beautiful statue of a white elephant. Near the elephant statue is a staircase leading up a level to a golden Buddha, which is also the best place to grab a photo. The day I visited, there were hundreds of locals celebrating Songkran. There was even a walking meditation procession with monks and novices from all over Thailand and visiting from Myanmar. The clergy ate in an outdoor dining hall near a giant rabbit figure. It truly would take multiple hours to see the grounds in completion.
temple etiquette at Wat Samphran ↴
It goes without saying that when you visit any place of worship, you should act with respect to the local custom. When visiting temples in Thailand, it is essential to adhere to proper temple etiquette to show respect for the religious and cultural significance of these sacred places.
First and foremost, it is customary to dress modestly and conservatively when entering a temple. Both men and women should ensure their shoulders, knees, and cleavage are covered. Wearing long pants or a long skirt and a top with sleeves is the most appropriate attire. Remove your shoes wherever signs indicate to do so. Many temples provide designated areas for shoe removal, and it's important to do so quietly and neatly.
While inside the temple, speaking softly or in hushed tones is encouraged, as temples are places of contemplation and worship. It's considered impolite to raise one's voice or engage in loud conversation within the temple.
Another key aspect of temple etiquette in Thailand is showing respect to Buddha images and religious artifacts. Visitors should never touch or point their feet at Buddha statues, as this is considered highly disrespectful. Instead, they should sit or kneel with their feet tucked beneath them when in the presence of such religious symbols. It's also customary to make a small offering or donation when visiting a temple, which can involve placing a small amount of money in the donation box provided.
Finally, be mindful of taking photographs within the temple! While many temples allow photography, it's essential to check for signs or ask for permission when inside. When you are taking permitted photos, try to be discreet and refrain from posing in a disrespectful or irreverent manner.
tips for taking photos at Wat Samphran ↴
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but Wat Samphran is not super easy to photograph. The temple itself is surrounded by low-hanging wires, tarps set up to provide shade, and other less-than-aesthetic bins and signposts. Here are some quick tips for taking photos at Wat Samphran.
Climb up the stairs of the surrounding buildings to get views of the temple from a higher vantage point, thus blocking out the aforementioned tarps and bins.
Visit earlier in the day or during golden hour for less blown-out photos.
There are plenty of photo opportunities throughout the temple complex that don’t include the pink tower. Be sure to check out the surrounding buildings and giant animal statues.
