I wouldn't say this is essential if you've doing the other major temples in Bangkok. It is nearby Chinatown so you could pair it with a visit there if you have the time, but it's not essential. There is a solid gold buddha inside the temple which is the distinguishing feature

Getting to the temple is straightforward. I used the MRT and got off at Hua Lamphong station exit 1 which took you out opposite the rail station and a junction. I must have had the look off a confused tourist as an elderly fruit seller pointed in the direction of what I assumed was the temple. After buying some fruit I wandered off in that direction and after 5-6 minutes the temple appears out of nowhere. It does appear lost in its position. The ticket booth is set off to the right hand side and after paying the 100 baht ( for which I would have been happy paying more), I wandered to the bottom of the stairs past a gazebo abbled to show your tickets , but no staff were present. After walking up the stairs with clearly labeled directions I reached the top where there are ample racks to take off your footwear. There was a lift for the less mobile. I was there mid afternoon, and although hot and humid, it was not very busy. You are able to walk round the Budha to appreciate it from all sides but I still could not comprehend it was solid gold. All together an interesting visit that you should allow 30-60 minutes to appreciate the site.

This temple is most famous for housing a solid gold statue of Buddha in meditation and calling the earth to witness. The statue is thought to have been created an incredible 600 years ago during the Sukhothai Dynasty. You have to climb about 3 storeys to see the sanctum, but it’s worth it.

Temple of the Golden Buddha (wat traimit) is one of the tourist attraction in Bangkok city. It is located in the busy area of the city. The seated Buddha is made of Gold made of about 5.5 tons of gold and it is located in Wat Traimit temple.

This temple is mesmerising. It is incredible to see how much gold is used in devotion for a teacher that lived such a simple life and shows the devout reverence he is held in. My young son was amazed by what he was seeing and his attention was fully occupied for the trip. We stayed for an hour, heard all about the temple and wandered around observing the daily routines. Well worth a visit!