Top 3 Bangkok Temples to Fix Your Luck (Kae Chong)

One of Bangkok’s most potent places for protection and luck, the Tiger God Shrine is ideal when you want results without battling crowds. The atmosphere is intense but orderly, with attendants who help you navigate the ritual. Pick up a kae chong set at the counter, write your name and zodiac on the Tai Sui card, and follow the sequence of incense, candles, and paper offerings. Many devotees also make a small vow for career, exams, or safe travels, then return later to “redeem” it with thanks.

Go early on weekdays for the calmest experience. Dress respectfully, avoid using flash inside, and step aside promptly after praying so everyone gets a turn. Donations are modest and entirely up to you. If you’re short on time today, this shrine balances convenience with a serious spiritual punch.

Known locally as the Green Dragon Temple, this Chinese-Buddhist sanctuary is a peaceful alternative for kae chong. You’ll find clear signage for Tai Sui offerings, red talismans, and paper sets, plus volunteers who can show you the correct order if it’s your first time. The signature green dragon iconography symbolizes protection, prosperity, and the strength to push through a difficult zodiac year, making this a fitting stop if you need a quiet reset.

Expect a slower, more contemplative pace than the city’s big-name temples. Keep shoulders and knees covered, speak softly, and move along with the flow once you’ve finished your prayers. If you’re visiting today, you can be in and out smoothly, with plenty of space to reflect before heading back to work or errands.

Bangkok’s landmark for Lunar New Year and kae chong, Wat Mangkon is the big, bustling classic. If you’ve never done the ritual, this is the definitive experience, complete with rows of incense, Tai Sui tablets, and donation sets sold at designated counters. Write your name and birth year on the card, follow the posted steps, and burn paper offerings at the outdoor furnace. It’s atmospheric, photogenic, and steeped in community energy.

Crowds can be intense, especially on weekends and festival days, so go right at opening time or late afternoon on weekdays. Wear breathable clothing, bring water, and keep valuables secure while moving with the one-way flow. If smoke is a concern, take brief breaks outside. Despite the bustle, many visitors say they leave feeling lighter and reset for the year.