Wat Ratchanatdaram (Loha Prasat)
Each of the iconic structures in Bangkok is impressive but there are those that absolutely stand out from the rest mostly because of its distinctive architecture, like Wat Ratchanatdaram.
Wat Ratchanatdaram was built in mid 19th century by King Rama III in honour of his niece, Princess Somanas. Through all these years, the temple was more known as Loha Prasat or the metal castle. A masterpiece modelled from the older structures from India, Sri Lanka and Burma, it is composed of 37 ascending laterite pillars that were coloured golden sheer in the recent years. The spires symbolise the 37 qualities that contribute to enlightenment.
Visitors can explore the place and look at the small Buddha images and English writings explaining the historical and spiritual background of the temple. There is also an interactive display where they will hold up a square plastic to a mirror and it appears that you’re holding a Loha Prasat miniature model.
Location
Wat Ratchanatdaram is located in Maha Chai Road | Bowon Niwet, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok.
Opening Days and Hours
The place is open from 8:00 to 17:00.
Entry Fee and Bookings
Entrance to the temple is THB 20 or USD 0.70.
How to Get There
- From the city centre, take the Chao Phraya Express Boat services.
- Alight off Memorial Bridge pier.
- From there, you can board a cab to Wat Ratchanatdaram.
Suggested For
- Solo travellers/backpackers
- Couples
- Family
- Groups
Time to Spend
Suggested duration in this attraction is 1 hour.
Popularity and Best Time to Go
The best time to visit is in the afternoon. Crowds usually lessen during this time.
Food
Mikey Tree Coffee, There Bar and Garden, Rat Na Ching Ki, Pad Thai Thip Samai, and Siam Champs Wood Bar are some of the nearest dining places to Wat Ratchanatdaram.
Nearby Attractions
- Wat Mahathat
- Wat Traimit
- Wat Pho
- Wat Arun
Stay
The Greenery Hotel, Sleep Whale Express, JP Mansion Melody Bar, City Hotel, and the Malika Hotel offer accommodations at rates ranging from USD 18 to USD 70.
