04/01/2025 – Day 12: Bangkok’s Revered Temples and Evening Splendor
Arrival in Bangkok
Our journey continued with a mid-morning flight from Siem Reap to Bangkok, a city we hadn’t visited since 2010. Initially, this wasn’t part of the plan, but complex flight connections made a stopover in Bangkok the perfect choice. After arriving, we took a Grab to our hotel near the Grand Palace, enjoying a restful afternoon to recharge for the evening ahead.
A Stroll Through Bangkok’s Evening Charm
After a late afternoon nap, we ventured out to explore Bangkok by night. Although lunch had been a challenge due to many closed shops, a delightful street food experience made up for it. The highlight of the evening was visiting Wat Pho and viewing Wat Arun from across the river.
Wat Pho: The Reclining Buddha Temple
Our first stop was Wat Pho, one of Bangkok’s most iconic temples and home to the famous Reclining Buddha. By evening, the temple exuded a serene beauty, illuminated softly against the night sky.
The Reclining Buddha
The Reclining Buddha, measuring an impressive 46 meters in length and 15 meters in height, is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. The golden figure rests peacefully, symbolizing the Buddha’s entry into Nirvana. The soles of the feet, measuring 3 meters high and 4.5 meters long, are adorned with intricate mother-of-pearl inlays depicting 108 auspicious symbols. These designs represent the Buddha’s teachings and are a testament to the incredible artistry of the temple.
The Temple Grounds
Wat Pho is not just about the Reclining Buddha; its sprawling complex includes numerous chedis (stupas), intricately tiled pavilions, and ornate statues. The temple is also a center of learning, historically significant as a birthplace of traditional Thai massage. By night, the chedis glisten under the lights, creating an almost magical atmosphere.
Wat Arun: The Temple of Dawn
From the riverbank, we marveled at Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, shimmering in its evening glory. Its central spire, or prang, rises 70 meters, adorned with intricate porcelain mosaics that reflect light beautifully. Although we didn’t cross over to the temple, the view from across the river was stunning, bringing back memories of our 2010 visit.
This time, instead of holding young children on our laps, we stood as a family of grown adults, attempting to recreate old photographs. The contrast between past and present added a poignant layer to our visit.
River Cruises and Dinner with a View
The Chao Phraya River buzzed with activity, as river cruises with loud music sailed up and down. While the noise slightly detracted from the ambiance, the bustling energy of Bangkok was undeniable. As the evening progressed, the cruises thinned out, leaving behind a quieter, more serene riverside.
We ended our day at a sunset lounge on the fifth floor, enjoying a delicious dinner with a breathtaking view of the illuminated Wat Arun. The combination of fine food and the tranquil sight of the temple made for a perfect close to the evening.
Reflections and Plans for Ayutthaya
Day 12 served as a blend of rest and exploration, allowing us to appreciate Bangkok’s timeless beauty. The intricate details of Wat Pho and the majestic presence of Wat Arun reminded us of the city’s rich cultural heritage. With our trip to Ayutthaya booked for the following day, we retired to the hotel, excited for another adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – The Chaos, The Charm, and The Old Quarter | Day 2: Immersing in Hanoi’s History, Culture, and Culinary Delights | Day 3: A Journey Through Ancient Vietnam and Cultural Wonders | Day 4: Cruising Through the Wonders of Ha Long Bay | Day 5: From Ha Long Bay to Da Nang – Adventures Above and Below | Day 6: A Day of Misty Hills and Evening Elegance in Da Nang | Day 7: A Day of Serenity and Lanterns in Hoi An | Day 8: Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels and Welcoming 2025 | Day 9: A Journey Through the Mekong Delta | Day 10: From the Horrors of War to the Charm of Cambodia | Day 11: The Majestic Temples of Angkor | Day 12: Bangkok’s Revered Temples and Evening Splendor | Day 13: Exploring Ayutthaya’s Historical Treasures | Day 14: The Final Day in Bangkok
