Wat Saket (Golden Mount), Bangkok

Wat Saket (Golden Mount): Climbing to the Peaceful Summit of BangkokAscend the man-made hill of Wat Saket (Temple of the Golden Mount), a serene and historically significant landmark that offers a truly unique perspective on the bustling city of Bangkok! This temple complex, topped by a large golden chedi (stupa), was once the highest point in the city and played a major role in Bangkok's early history and culture.We’ll guide you up the gentle, winding, 318-step staircase—often shaded by trees and featuring small, atmospheric Buddha images and bells—where the absolute must-see feature is the breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of old Bangkok from the platform at the summit. For a spiritual hidden gem, pause near the base of the chedi to find the small, tranquil cemetery and the remains of old bot (prayer halls), which speak to the temple's centuries-old history.Wat Saket is central to the annual Loy Krathong festival, when the mount is spectacularly illuminated with candles and lanterns. We’ll offer essential visitor tips, suggesting you take a moment to ring the many bells on the way up for good luck, and visit at sunset to capture the golden chedi shining brilliantly against the twilight sky and the city lights below.In this episode, we explore the history, the tranquility, and the profound, sweeping views from the Golden Mount.