Emerald Temple, Bangkok

The most well-known and respected temple in Thailand is The Emerald Temple or Wat Phra Kaew. The Wat Phra Kaew temple complex, which has stunning architecture, serves as the spiritual center of Thai Buddhism and the monarchy.

The Emerald Buddha statue, regarded as Thailand's protector, is housed there. The statue is made of a deep green, single piece of jade stone. It stands 66 centimeters tall, and it's dressed in a special cloak changed personally by the king three times a year, as the seasons change. The three jeweled garments are made of gold and represent the three seasons that exist in Thailand: hot, cool, and rainy. The most affordable and enjoyable way to go to the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew is by river taxi.