Those arriving in Bangkok via smaller planes or regional airlines will often land at Don Mueang Airport. Just across the highway is the spectacular Wat Don Mueang, which makes it an ideal first stop when exiting the airport. Some travel tips for Wat Don Mueang include preparing for temple etiquette, planning to see nearby sights, and considering renting a car.
Visitors looking for the most convenient and economical way to get around Bangkok can rely on a car hire at Don Mueang from Drive Car Rental. With a wide variety of vehicles to choose from, we can help make your trip flexible and budget-friendly.
Why Visit Wat Don Mueang?
This temple is the historical and spiritual heart of northern Bangkok. First constructed in 1895, it has been continuously added to and renovated. Today, it features a towering twenty-nine-metre bell-shaped pagoda that stands out among the otherwise crowded neighborhood.
The main temple building houses a spectacular seated Buddha statue with several smaller Buddha icons below. The walls are adorned with paintings representing the life of Buddha and other ancient Buddhist folktales. The exterior of the temple is exquisitely decorated in shimmering tile mosaic with golden paint around window frames and roof sills.
Another building on the grounds serves as a communal gathering hall. Nearby, visitors will notice what looks like a small temple building with a tall chimney. This is where Buddhist funerals and cremations are held. As this is a functioning temple, please be respectful of ceremonies or funerals being held there.
Finally, this temple is designated by the monarchy of Thailand as a royal temple. This means it holds a higher status and may be the subject of visits from royal family members and dignitaries. Annual Buddhist holidays and merit-making events are especially likely to receive important visitors from the upper classes of Bangkok society.
General Temple Etiquette
When visiting any temple in Thailand, it is important to dress respectfully. Men should wear a shirt with short or long sleeves and preferably pants. Shorts are acceptable as long as they extend past the knee.
Women are also expected to dress appropriately and ensure their shoulders, chest, and midriff are covered. A simple scarf can accomplish all three. Skirts and shorts should extend below the knee.
Buddhist monks are generally friendly and may even speak English. It’s important to note that you should never touch a monk or attempt to shake their hand. They have strict rules about the purity of the body and hold it sacred. A simple smile and a ‘hello’ is all that’s needed.
In Thailand, the true way to say ‘hello’ is by wai’ing, which is a formal hand gesture that is used when Thais meet each other. To truly earn respect, try to wai the monks by making a prayer gesture and holding your index fingers to the top of your forehead. In Thailand, the higher the hands are held, the more respect is given to the individual being wai’d. Monks are always wai’d at the highest level possible, out of respect for their position.
Nearby Attractions
Is there Uber in Bangkok? There isn’t, but there is a ride-hailing service that operates similarly. However, costs can be expensive if you’re planning to take several trips.
Not far to the west of the airport is the Muang Thong Thani Thunder Dome stadium. Feel free to catch a football match between some of Thailand’s top teams or check out the nearby Impact Arena and Exhibition Centre. Here, world-class touring acts from every genre imaginable play to immense crowds. It’s also the primary convention centre for northern Bangkok and regularly holds large regional conventions for all of Southeast Asia.
Finally, the Museum of Contemporary Art is just a few kilometres south of the airport. This museum houses incredible exhibitions of Thailand’s best modern art, from the sacred to the absurd and everything in between. It’s an overlooked gem and should not be missed.
Hassle-free Renting With Drive Car Rental
With locations across Thailand in major cities and airports, Drive Car Rental has the right vehicle for the job. Choose from SUVs, luxury cars, compacts, electrics, and more. Save money and get the vehicle you want by booking as early as possible.
Long-term rentals by the month or the year are also available for expats, business travelers, and long-stay tourists. These are offered at even steeper discounts than weekly rentals!