Why should you go there and how do you do it right?

First the climb, then the view. The Golden Hill is a 77-meter-high artificial hill in Wat Saket. It was created when a large chedi, begun under Rama III, collapsed on the soft ground. The path to the top spirals up 344 steps, past hanging bells, small shrines, and shady spots to rest. At a leisurely pace, the climb takes 10 to 20 minutes. There is neither an elevator nor a shortcut, so people with limited mobility should carefully consider whether to attempt it.

At the very top, an open terrace awaits you, offering a pleasant breeze and a magnificent view over the old town. The gilded chedi houses Buddha relics from India, and locals come here to earn merit. Please be quiet near the shrine. Further down lies the cave with the standing Buddha – the quieter part of the visit and well worth the short detour.

Late afternoon is my favorite time. The heat subsides, the light softens, and the temple lights come on as you descend the hill. In November, around Loy Krathong, the temple's chedi is draped in red cloth, and the area below fills with the annual fair for about ten days—the busiest time of the year on the hill.

Entry costs 100 baht in cash for foreign visitors and is free for Thai citizens. The temple is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Please cover your shoulders and knees. The boat trip on the Khlong Saen Saep Canal ends at Panfa Leelard Pier, which is a 5- to 10-minute walk away. The cost is between 15 and 25 baht, depending on the distance. Sam Yot MRT station is about a 15-minute walk, and Khao San Road is about a 20-minute walk.