Most Beautiful Architectural Buildings Worth Visiting in Thailand

Join us as we go on a tour of some of the most stunning examples of Thailand architecture, exploring palaces, temples and more.

For many visitors to Thailand, this country’s stunning and distinctive architecture is among its chief draws. When you plan your tour, you will want to include in your itinerary some of the ancient palaces and temples as well as the more modern buildings that embody Thailand’s culture, history, development, and aesthetics. In this post, we help you plan a tour of the best buildings to visit in Thailand.

An Overview of Thailand Architecture

The history of architecture in Thailand comprises distinct periods, beginning with the Dvaravati era during the 7th to 11th centuries CE. This was followed by the famous Angkor era, and later the Sukhothai, Uthong Ayutthaya, Ayutthaya and Rattanakosin eras. Each era brought evolutions in Thai architecture and design while retaining a strong national character.

Visitors will notice some common architectural elements in the Thai buildings they explore. Some of these include stilts, prefabricated wood panels, central terraces, sloped tile roofs with distinctive shapes, bell-shaped stupas, and ornate details. Gardens and potted plants also play a major role in Thai architecture and landscaping, uniting structures with nature.

Best Buildings to Visit in Thailand

1. Grand Palace

The Grand Palace in Bangkok is among the most majestic architectural sites in all of Thailand. In Thai, it is called Phra Borom Maha Ratcha Wang. The Kings of Siam have lived in the Grand Palace from the late 18th century onward. This palace consists of more than a hundred buildings. Some are residential, while others serve as museums, temples, administrative structures, and so on. 

As you make your way around the Grand Palace, you will explore the Outer Court, Middle Court, and Inner Court. The architectural style is largely traditional Thai, infused in places with European elements. While the forms of the buildings are pleasing, what will truly astonish you is the sheer amount of painstaking architectural detailing, including astonishing mosaics, coffered ceilings, dramatic murals, and gilded statues. You can easily spend an entire afternoon here.

Address: Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 
Opening hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm (closed if royalty is present)
Entrance fee: 500 baht (US$13.55)

2. King Power Mahanakhon

For something entirely different, but still in Bangkok, venture to King Power Mahanakhon. This skyscraper extends 78 floors. What makes it stand out from the other skyscrapers around it is not just its impressive height, however. Its contemporary architecture has an unusual, eye-catching effect with a spiral shape that makes it look almost as if the building is comprised of Minecraft blocks and is frozen in the process of twisting apart.

While you are visiting the King Power Mahanakhon skyscraper, you have the chance to head out on the highest observation deck in Thailand, offering a stunning view of the city at a height of 314 meters. You can also step out onto one of the skyscraper’s glass trays, a jaw-dropping experience as you gaze down at the lights of the city directly below your feet.

Address: 114 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Rd, Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok 
Opening hours: 10:00 am - 0:00 am (10:00 am - 7:00 pm for Sky Walk)
Entrance fee for skywalk: starting from 880 baht (~US$25)

3. Central Embassy

(Photo: Expedia)

Central Embassy is not actually an embassy; it is a popular mall owned by Central Group. The mall takes its name from the site where it was built, which used to be where the gardens of the British Embassy were located. 

While the Central Embassy draws crowds with its stores and events, the building itself is also a highlight. Incorporating a 27-story skyscraper that houses the Park Hyatt Hotel, it is an asymmetrical building defined by distinctive curves in unexpected places. While this lends it a striking appearance, the unusual forms nonetheless flow in a way that feels natural and balanced. 

Stepping inside, you will discover the interior is just as exquisite as the exterior. Graceful curves and plenty of natural light make shopping and dining here a joy. 

Address: 1031 Phloen Chit Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok
Opening hours: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm

4. Wat Samphran (Dragon Temple)

For a building that truly captures the imagination, visit Wat Samphran, known as the “Dragon Temple” in Nakhon Pathom. The 17-story tower is eye-catching with its pink façade, cylindrical shape, and numerous arch windows. But what really commands attention at this Buddhist temple is the massive sculpture of a green dragon winding its way around the temple from the bottom to the top, where its head presides over the rooftop.

When you visit, we suggest you have a little cash ready to make a donation. Morning is an especially good time to visit the temple because it is generally quiet. Plus, the light at this time of day looks lovely against the pink tower of the temple. 

Address: 92 Sam Phran, Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom 
Opening hours: 7:00 am - 6:00 pm
Entrance fee: None but donation is recommended

5. Wat Rong Khun

One of the most celebrated and iconic Buddhist temples in Thailand is Wat Rong Khun, often called “the White Temple.” The reason for this name is obvious once you see it. Many Thai temples feature red tile roofs and gold accents. But the White Temple is entirely white (save for one Golden Building), even the roof. 

Designed by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, it opened in 1997. While that hardly makes it ancient, its design is evocative of traditional temple architecture with some distinctive twists. If you are standing at a distance, you might assume the whole thing is built out of porcelain or some similar substance. But it is actually just wood and concrete covered in a mixture of mirrored chips and whitewash. As you might suspect, there is a great deal of symbolism woven into the design. 

Address: Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 
Opening hours: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Entrance fee: 50 baht (US$1.38)

6. Baan Dam Museum

Another of the best examples of Thailand architecture is the Baan Dam Museum, also referred to as the “Black House Museum.” There are actually dozens of distinctive structures at the museum. The most famous one is known as the “Cathedral,” and was designed by Thawan Duchanee. It is a large wooden building that blends traditional Buddhist art styles with modern elements. The dark wood has lent the museum its nickname. While the Cathedral’s overall design is simple compared to many of the others in our list, that very simplicity is one of the elements that makes such a powerful statement on visitors.

The Cathedral features a stunning Lanna-style roof with four tiers and an impressive 44 pillars. It took seven years to complete the construction of this remarkable building. Many visitors find both its architecture and its taxidermied exhibits imposing. While at the Baan Dam Museum, you can also explore the Small Temple, East Pavillion, and Tri Phum (“Triangle House”). 

Address: 333 Nang Lae, Chiang Wat, Chiang Rai 
Opening hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Entrance fee: 80 baht (US$2.21)

7. Wat Umong (the Tunnel Temple)

Another exquisite example of Thailand architecture can be found at Wat Umong, known as “the Tunnel Temple”. Whereas most temples in Thailand feature a traditional temple hall, this one does not. Instead, the temple comprises the entire grounds and everything on them.

While you will enjoy basking in the beauty of the trees and watching the breeze on the lake, the highlight of a visit to Wat Umong is exploring its tunnels. While these tunnels have been worn down by time and history, the sense of holiness pervading them remains. Tourists will find themselves feeling meditative as they gaze upon the famous Buddha statue. 

Address: 135 Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai
Opening and closing times: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Entrance fee: 20 baht ($US0.55)

8. The Sanctuary of Truth

At first glance, you might think the Sanctuary of Truth is a traditional temple or even an ancient palace. But this stunning structure, the country’s largest wood building, is actually a museum. In fact, its architecture, which is the work of designer Lek Viriyaphan, combines aspects of both a palace and a temple, with influences from Hinduism and Buddhism alike, as well as styles from the Ayutthaya Kingdom. All of the sculptures, like the building itself, are wood. You will be blown away by the sheer scale of the Sanctuary, as well as the elaborately carved details that seem to cover every inch.

As you explore the museum, notice the variety of wood types used in its construction. One of them is takien, which has an estimated lifespan of six centuries. Construction on the Sanctuary of Truth began in 1981 and has been ongoing ever since. It may actually be nearing completion, however, with some estimations as soon as 2025. 

Address: 206 2 Pattaya-Na Kluea Rd, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 
Opening hours: 

• Day time ticket available from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m
• Day tour schedule – 8:20 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
• Night-time tickets available from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m
• Night tour schedule – 6:20 p.m. - 8:30 p.m

Entrance fee: 500 baht (US$13.76)

9. Prasat Hin Phimai

(Photo: tourismthailand.org)

One more candidate for the best building to visit in Thailand is the temple Prasat Hin Phimai in Phimai Historical Park. At this park, you can explore the ruins of an ancient town which is home to the largest Khmer-Hindu temple in the country. 

The impressively well-preserved site offers you a glimpse into the past with elaborate structures reminiscent of those at the famous Angkor Wat in Cambodia. The layout of the entire temple complex is intended to act as a kind of map of the universe. Prasat Hin Phimai’s elaborate stone carvings make the tiny details of the temple every bit as awe-inspiring as its scale.

Address: 115/2 Wannaprang Alley, Nai Mueang, Phimai District, Nakhon Ratchasima
Opening hours: 7:30 am
Entrance fee: 100 baht (US$2.75)

Design Your Tour of Thailand Architecture

The best buildings to visit in Thailand comprise a wide range of architectural periods and styles from the traditional to the modern and everything in between. If you are ready to design a tour rich with architectural splendor, contact Exotic Voyages to plan your itinerary.