Wat Saket & the Golden Mount
A 344-step spiral climb around a golden chedi, with the best 360° view over old Bangkok.
Wat Saket, the Golden Mount, is a hilltop temple in old Bangkok reached by 344 steps spiralling around a gilded chedi. It has the best 360° view in the old city and takes about an hour.
Open Wat Saket & the Golden Mount in Google Maps13.7539, 100.5064
Climb of about 300 steps; the November temple fair closes parts of it
Entry fee checked against operator or park publication, October 2026. Hours can change without notice — confirm on the day.
A 344-step spiral climb around a golden chedi, with the best 360° view over old Bangkok.
The hill was artificial, built in the 19th century when the temple needed a landmark; the chedi was completed under Rama V, who brought relics from Sri Lanka. During Loy Krathong the mount is draped in red cloth and lit with candles, and pilgrims climb it barefoot.
It is the one temple in the old city where the payoff is the view rather than the building. Go an hour before sunset and you can see the whole city from the rooftops to the river.
What you’ll actually see
- The city from the top: rooftops, the river and Wat Arun in the distance
- The gong and bell corridor on the way up, which you are meant to strike
- The chedi itself, gold against the sky
- The Giant Swing and Wat Suthat, five minutes away
How to visit it well
- The climb is shaded and gradual — much easier than it looks.
- Ring the bells on the way up; locals do.
- Combine with Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing, five minutes away.
Mistakes worth avoiding
- Going at noon in April — there is shade, but the metal handrails are hot
- Expecting a grand temple interior; this is about the climb and the view
Is it worth it?
One of the best value hours in Bangkok, and the only old-city temple where the payoff is the view rather than the building.
Common questions
344, on a spiral ramp that is mostly shaded. It takes 10–15 minutes at an easy pace.
An hour before sunset, or early morning. November's Loy Krathong festival is spectacular but very crowded.
Tours that include Wat Saket & the Golden Mount
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Last updated: October 2026 · Prices and hours checked by Tom Whitfield