Wat Samphran: Thailand’s Dragon Temple You’ve Never Heard Of

Apr 22, 2025 Kriti Keshari

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The dragon represents the passage from hell to heaven, and the temple's 80-meter-tall tower represents the age of the Buddha at his passing

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Visitors can ascend through a tunnel inside the dragon's body, leading to panoramic views from the top, though some sections may be closed due to disrepair

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The dragon embodies strength and good fortune, reflecting both Chinese and Thai cultural influences, and the temple grounds feature various animal statues and shrines

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Wat Samphran is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm, with a suggested donation of 80 THB for tower access

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Despite its striking appearance, the temple remains relatively unknown to tourists, offering a serene and unique experience away from typical tourist paths

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Accessible by a one-hour drive from Bangkok, Wat Samphran invites visitors to explore its distinctive architecture and spiritual ambiance

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