5 Best Bangkok Temples for Makha Bucha

Perched atop a 77‑meter man-made hill, Wat Saket turns into a shimmering halo on Makha Bucha night. Arrive before dusk and take the gentle, meditative climb up the 300+ steps, pausing for city views as Bangkok’s lights flicker on. The candlelight procession circles the gilded chedi and around the base paths, creating layers of moving light against the skyline. Photographers love the contrast of warm candles with cool blue-hour skies, plus leading lines along the balustrades. Keep gear compact, as space tightens once the walk begins, and always yield the path to worshippers. Getting there is straightforward by canal boat to Phan Fa Pier or a short ride from the Old Town. Expect large crowds but a remarkably calm, reverent atmosphere.

With pristine Carrara marble courtyards and a tranquil reflecting pond, Wat Ben glows ethereally under candlelight. The procession typically circles the ubosot, where soft flames mirror off marble floors and the water surface, creating painterly frames with golden gables beyond. This is the spot for classic Bangkok temple symmetry: compose under the red-roofed cloisters and look for reflections without stepping into prayer areas. Keep your voice to a whisper, remove hats, and avoid flash, which spoils both atmosphere and devotion. Access is easy by taxi or rideshare from central Bangkok, and the temple grounds are well laid out for visitors. It’s a controlled, elegant setting that rewards patience and careful, respectful composition.

Wat Arun’s riverfront setting adds a breezy romance to the candlelight walk. As the procession flows around the base of the Khmer-style prang, the textured stucco glitters in warm light, with boats sliding past on the Chao Phraya. For photos, arrive early to scout angles inside the grounds and, if you prefer distance, consider shooting from the public promenade or across the river near Tha Tien for wide, story-telling frames. Expect stricter crowd control here, so follow staff guidance and keep clear of altar spaces. The easiest approach is by river boat, then the short cross-ferry to Wat Arun. When the chanting begins and the candles rise, the temple feels less like “Dawn” and more like starlight at your feet.

Just beyond Bangkok in Samut Prakan, Wat Asokaram offers a more contemplative Makha Bucha experience among rows of white chedis. The geometry is striking at night: tiered spires become silhouettes edged by candlelight as devotees circle in slow unison. Many locals wear white, and the soundscape is soft, with crickets, distant bells, and murmured chants. Photography is welcome outdoors when done unobtrusively. Dress modestly, speak softly, and let monks and elders pass first. Reach it by BTS to Kheha Station, then a short taxi or songthaew ride. If you want fewer crowds and a powerful sense of calm, this is the pilgrimage-like setting that rewards the extra travel with unforgettable images and a deeper connection to the ritual.

Famous for the Giant Swing outside, Wat Suthat’s interiors and courtyards become intimate stages of light and shadow on Makha Bucha. The venerable Phra Sri Sakyamuni Buddha and dusky murals create a contemplative mood, while the candlelit walk around the ubosot is typically less hectic than at bigger landmarks. Photographers can work with low, directional light bouncing off lacquered pillars and stone courtyards, but should remain outside the sanctum during active prayers. Arrive via MRT Sam Yot and stroll through the Old Town to feel the evening settle in. With respectful timing and a steady hand, you’ll capture classic Bangkok temple character without the crush of the riverfront crowds.