Wat Mahathat

Founed in the early 18th century, Wat Mahathat is one of Bangkok's oldest shrines and the headquarters for Thailand's largest monastic order.

Wat Mahathat predates the founding of Bangkok (in 1782), but was significantly renovated after one of its monks, the young Prince Mongkut, became King Rama IV.

The temple is the headquarters of the Mahanikai sect of Buddhism and is a center for learning for monks of that sect from throughout Southeast Asia.

The temple itself is large and shares its sprawling complex with monastic cells, schools, offices and other buildings. There is a peaceful garden of palm trees in the back.

Also the home of the Center for Vipassana Meditation at Buddhist University, the most important center for the study of Buddhism and meditation, Wat Mahathat offers some programs in English.

Bangkok's biggest amulet market is adjacent to the Wat.