The renowned for a sacred place among the Thais as well as a famous tourist site is Wat Saket. A staircase of 318 steps leads to the top of the Golden Mount and to the Buddha’s relics.
The Golden Mount is a distinctive and outstanding feature on the Rattanakosin landscape located in the compound of Wat Srakes. Wat Saket, the temple on the top of the mount dates back to the Ayutthaya era, when it was called Wat Sakae. The original structure was restored in 19th century, but was increased at the end of that century in order to guard relics of the Buddha. A spiral staircase of 318 steps leads from the ground to a terrace and shrine-room - the Buddha's relics are housed in a gold-leaf covered temple at the center of this area. The temple itself is an ancient structure that creates an atmosphere worthy of veneration. The temple was used for cremation ceremonies, which were not permitted inside the walled city. Every November a large festival, held on the ground of Wat Saket, includes a candlelight procession up the Golden Mount. On a clear day, the view from the top includes old Rattanakosin Island and the rooftops of Bangkok.
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