Wat Saket, also called the Golden Mount, is a Buddhist temple on an artificial hill in Bangkok’s Pom Prap Sattru Phai district. Climb its winding staircase, past bells, gongs and garden features, to reach the gilded chedi and an observation terrace overlooking the Old City’s temples and rooftops, Ratchadamnoen Avenue and newer towers. The temple’s roots reach back to the Ayutthaya period. Allow time for the ascent, and dress modestly as a courtesy at this active religious site.
The Golden Mount and its history
Wat Saket Ratchawora Mahawihan is widely known as the Golden Mount, or Phu Khao Thong. The temple stands on a man-made hill, a distinctive rise in Bangkok’s otherwise low terrain. Its origins date to the Ayutthaya period, before the kingdom ended in 1767.
The hill’s gilded chedi is the landmark’s central feature. The temple’s history also spans later reigns: construction was begun under King Rama III and completed under King Rama V. The Golden Mount was once the city’s highest point, before Bangkok’s taller buildings changed its skyline.
Climbing to the summit
A broad, winding stairway leads up the hill. The ascent involves more than 300 steps; accounts give the count as roughly 300 to 320. Bells, gongs, Buddhist statues and garden details line the route, giving you places to pause as you climb.
At the top, the golden chedi stands beside an observation area. From here, you can look over the Rattanakosin area, including older temple roofs and Ratchadamnoen Avenue, with modern towers farther away. The summit is also a place for visitors to pay respect.
A visit at a religious site
Wat Saket remains an active Buddhist temple, as well as a place to see Bangkok from above. Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, and behave respectfully within the grounds. The gardens along the ascent are part of the visit, so leave time to explore them rather than treating the climb only as a route to the top.
The climb can be demanding in the heat. Morning or evening is a more comfortable time to make the ascent. The temple’s annual Loy Krathong fair takes place in November and includes food stalls and performances.
Preguntas frecuentes
How many steps are there at Wat Saket?
The climb to the Golden Mount involves more than 300 steps. Published counts in the supplied information range from about 300 to 320.
What can you see from the top of the Golden Mount?
The summit looks over the Rattanakosin area, including old temple roofs and Ratchadamnoen Avenue, as well as modern towers farther away.
What should I wear to Wat Saket?
Cover your shoulders and knees as a courtesy at this active Buddhist temple.
When is the best time to climb the Golden Mount?
Go in the morning or evening to avoid the strongest heat during the climb.
