Although Bangkok is the most visited city in the world, it is also one of the least explored. Understandably so: the traffic is catastrophic; most tourists therefore stick to areas that are accessible on foot or by the limited, but improving, public transport system.

Admittedly, although I have been coming to the city for over 15 years (and, to my advantage, often stepping outside my comfort zone to visit places that are new to me), I still make new discoveries on literally every trip.

One of these temples is Wat Phra Dhammakaya, a temple controversial – perhaps even infamous – among Thais, but whose existence is unknown to most farangs (foreigners). Come along and decide for yourself if you would like to visit it.

Why Bangkok's "UFO Temple" remains undiscovered

Many of my friends (but not all) know the Dhammakaya Temple, especially those who live in Bangkok. I don't want to go into detail about this Buddhist sect—I don't want to say whether it's a sect or not—but let's just say that Bangkok residents have their own opinions about it. I even know many Thais who refuse to enter the temple grounds on principle.

However, the mere fact that there are no significant numbers of domestic tourists visiting the temple does not explain why foreigners know so little about Wat Phra Dhammakaya. The temple's location (near Don Mueang Airport, which is hardly considered a tourist area) does not help matters, especially given the disastrous traffic in the district, which is also poorly connected to the public transport network.

How to visit Wat Phra Dhammakaya

Find out how to get there.

Unlike my first visit to the Dhammakaya Temple, the Grab app in Thailand is now so reliable that you can easily get to the temple entrance from anywhere in Bangkok. However, traffic is still so heavy most of the time that it might be advisable to take the train to Chatuchak Park or even Don Mueang Station to arrive on time.

Be vigilant (in a sense) upon your arrival.

As I will explain later in this article, the staff at the UFO Temple in Bangkok are not particularly welcoming to foreigners, so much so that the Dhammakaya organization could be classified as a cult. At the same time, as an Asian, you should be especially cautious, as you might be mistaken for a local and attempts might be made to approach you.

Stay as long as possible.

Wat Phra Dhammakaya is enormous – you can see that immediately on a map or when flying in from DMK airport, but perhaps not upon arrival. Believe me when I say it's worth spending at least an hour or two here; in fact, it's essential.

Don't be afraid to take photos.

One might think that the staff at this iconic temple in Bangkok would discourage visitors from taking photographs. Quite the opposite, however! The place is architecturally stunning, and the Million Buddha Pagoda on the opposite side (as seen from the entrance) is my favorite subject for photos.

Pay attention to the time of your visit.

Wat Phra Dhammakaya is located far outside Bangkok's city center. While you can take the train part of the way to ease traffic congestion, traffic jams are still frequent. I therefore recommend traveling there after the morning rush hour (around 9 am). Conversely, you should ideally leave before 3 pm or after 7 pm.

Other impressive temples in Bangkok

Bangkok is a city that is both ancient and modern, and home to some of Thailand's most impressive temples. Here are a few of my favorites:

  • Wat Pak Nam: This “space temple”, which is also associated with Dhammakaya, is popular with Japanese tourists, but less so with other foreigners.
  • Wat Arun: My favorite temple among Bangkok's "mainstream" temples, the famous Temple of Dawn, is ironically even more beautiful at dusk.
  • Wat Traimit: Planning to enjoy street food in Yaowarat, also known as Bangkok's Chinatown? Then you definitely shouldn't miss this proverbial marble temple.

    • TIP: Learn more about the most beautiful temples in Bangkok by reading the article I wrote on this topic, which you can find here.

    Further FAQ about Wat Phra Dhammakaya

    Why is Wat Phra Dhammakaya so controversial?

    Wat Phra Dhammakaya is controversial because it is associated with Dhammakaya, a Buddhist sect that is highly contested in Thai society. At worst, many Thais consider it a cult, while others simply believe that it brainwashes its members and coerces them into accepting financial abuse.

    What does Dhammakaya mean?

    The Sanskrit term Dhamma (or Dharma) Kaya literally means "body of enlightenment." Whether the use of this name makes the Dhammakaya sect of Theravada Buddhism a sect or not, I consider it a presumptuous name for an organization to give itself.

    Is Dhammakaya a cult?

    As a foreigner and non-Buddhist, I don't care whether Dhammakaya is a sect or not. I didn't experience any harassment at either of the two popular Dhammakaya temples in Bangkok, and in fact, no one approached me. However, if you are Thai, I advise you to remain vigilant and under no circumstances give any money.

    Conclusion

    Why is Wat Phra Dhammakaya so controversial? Honestly, it isn't, unless you're Thai. Due to its location near Don Mueang Airport in a relatively untouristy part of Bangkok, most foreigners don't even know the temple exists, let alone care about the controversy surrounding it. And let's face it: the whole drama is irrelevant to non-Thais anyway. If you visit (and I recommend you do), you probably won't even be approached by someone from the Dhammakaya organization, at least not in a way that puts you at risk of being drawn into the cult. Need help planning your Thailand trip? Let us create a customized Thailand itinerary for you!