11 Most Beautiful Buddhist Temples Around the World (5 of 6)

Wat Huay Pla Kang, Thailand

This religious site is divided into three parts — the huge Buddha statue, the Wat, and a nine-tier pagoda — and is inspired by Chinese architecture. It includes an impressive staircase with dragon heads and the aforementioned Buddha statue that greets you at the top. Just make sure to be prepared for the long walk up the steps. It takes about an hour to reach the top!

Paro Taktsang, Bhutan

Also known as the Tiger’s Nest, Paro Taktsang is a Buddhist monastery that hangs off the side of a mountain along the Himalayas. According to legend, the “Second Buddha” Guru Rinpoche meditated in the exact spot where the monastery is located. Getting there requires a bit of a climb. Visitors need to hike 3,000 feet up the mountain to get to the monastery, which is more than 10,000 feet above sea level.