Iriyabod

Iriyabod is a quiet Buddhist temple and meditation center tucked away on a small soi (lane) in Bangkok's historic Phra Nakhon district. Unlike the grand, crowded temples like Wat Pho or Wat Phra Kaew, Iriyabod offers a more intimate and contemplative experience. The temple grounds feature a beautifully maintained main hall with traditional Thai architecture, ornate decorations, and a serene Buddha image. Visitors can observe monks in prayer or meditation, and the center often hosts meditation sessions for locals and tourists alike. The atmosphere is calm and spiritual, with the gentle sound of chanting and the scent of incense filling the air. It's a place to slow down, reflect, and experience a quieter side of Bangkok's religious life. The surrounding neighborhood is full of old shophouses and narrow streets, adding to the charm.

Don't miss

• Admire the intricate details of the main temple hall's roof and eaves
• Observe monks in meditation or prayer (respectfully from a distance)
• Explore the quiet, leafy courtyard for a moment of calm
• Visit the small shrine with a revered Buddha image
• Walk the surrounding soi to see old Bangkok shophouses and street life

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Iriyabod

Cheapest way inBangkok Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Tour4.2★ · 127 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$14 per personSee dates →Best full dayBangkok: Floating Market and Train Market Experience4.9★ · 2,777 travelers~9 hoursFree cancellationFrom$24 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleFrom Bangkok: Private Customizable Bangkok City Tour5★ · 11 travelers~8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$65 per personSee dates →

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How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Dress modestly: cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering temple buildings.
• Maintain silence or speak softly to respect the meditation environment.
• Photography is usually allowed, but avoid using flash inside the prayer hall.
• It's customary to bow three times before the Buddha image as a sign of respect.

A bit of history

Iriyabod is a lesser-known Buddhist temple in the Phra Nakhon area, part of Bangkok's Rattanakosin Island. While its exact founding date is unclear, it reflects the traditional temple architecture and monastic life that have been central to Thai culture for centuries.