Wat Traimit, more commonly known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha, is a fairly modest temple housing a remarkable Buddha.  Built in 1832, the temple is located off the Odeon traffic circle right near Chinatown close to the Hualamphong train station.  The modest building takes up the entire compound, and is located adjacent to an elementary school. 

Once you walk into the temple, you are instantly wowed by the Buddha image.  Called the Sukhothai Traimit and housed inside the wiharn (hall of worship), thegold Buddha was made in the popular Sukhothai style during the 13th century, most likely during the reign of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great (1277-1317).

At some point in its history, the guilt gold Buddha was covered in lime, possibly to hide its value.  Over time, the gold Buddha was forgotten.  In 1955, as it was being moved to this temple, the lime covering was cracked and the gold underneath was exposed.  The rest of the covering was removed and the Golden Buddha now lights up the room in its humble surroundings.

This little temple is definitely worth a visit in Bangkok.  Be careful of arriving during lunch time from 12-1 - the doors are shut and access to the interior is not possible.