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ThailandDescription and is it worth visiting
Wat Ratchabophit Sathitmahasimaram Ratchaworawihan (or simply Wat Ratchabophit) is one of the most underrated gems of Bangkok's historic center. It was built in 1869 by order of King Rama V (Chulalongkorn) just one year after his coronation, when the monarch was only 15 years old. This was his personal temple, and he wanted to embody his vision of a modern, "civilized" Siam that could rival Western powers.
Unlike its overcrowded neighbors – Wat Pho and the Grand Palace – there's an amazing silence and peace here. The temple is indeed rarely visited by tourists and is not on the standard routes. But that's precisely what makes it special.
The main architectural feature of Wat Ratchabophit is its unique layout. Around a circular inner courtyard paved with five-colored Bencharong ceramic tiles, all the main buildings are arranged. In the center of this courtyard rises a 43-meter golden stupa (chedi) in the Ceylonese style, clad in gold tiles. Inside the stupa are 6,018 Buddha relics – unfortunately, you can't go inside, but it's impressive even from the outside.
But the main ordination hall (ubosot) is a real surprise. From the outside, it looks like a traditional Thai temple, but inside… you'll be greeted by pointed arches, buttresses, and Italian Neo-Gothic decor. King Rama V was inspired by the architecture he saw during his visit to Europe and ordered the interior to be designed according to Western canons. This combination looks unusual and very impressive.
The walls of the ubosot deserve special attention. They are covered with mosaics of Bencharong ceramic tiles – five-colored, with traditional Thai patterns. The quality of execution is so high that from a distance, the mosaic really looks like a photograph or fine painting. The doors and window panels inside are covered with black lacquer with gold leaf and inlaid with mother-of-pearl. At the entrance, you'll be greeted by two whimsical figures of Europeans with rifles – another reminder of Western influence.
On the western side of the temple complex is the royal cemetery. This is an active burial site for members of the royal family, mainly close relatives of King Rama V. There are 34 monuments here, each numbered with Thai numerals. The four largest white buildings are dedicated to the king's four main wives. Among those buried here are Prince Mahidol Adulyadej (father of King Rama IX) and Princess Galyani Vadhana. The last burial here took place in 2012. Entry to the cemetery is free, and tourists are almost never seen there.
Is it worth coming here specifically? If you're in Bangkok for the first time and only have one day, it's probably better to see the main attractions first. But if you've already seen the main temples or want variety and are looking for a quiet, atmospheric place away from the crowds, Wat Ratchabophit is an ideal choice. It's literally a 10-15 minute walk from the Grand Palace, so it's easy to combine with the main tour. It's not a top-tier attraction, but we think it's definitely worth your attention, especially if you love off-the-beaten-path routes and unusual architecture.
🕐 Opening hours
The temple is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
💵 Entrance fee / ticket prices
Entry to the temple and the royal cemetery is free.
🚶 How to get there
Wat Ratchabophit is located in the historic center on the Rattanakosin Peninsula at 2 Fueang Nakhon Road, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200. It's literally across the road from Sanamrom Park and just a 10-15 minute walk from the Grand Palace and Wat Pho (temple on the map), and 30 minutes from the Khao San tourist area.
From other areas of Bangkok you can get here by taxi or metro:
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By taxi
A metered taxi ride from most central areas will cost no more than 200 baht (6.08 USD). It's better to use Grab, Maxim or InDrive apps. You'll see the fare immediately in the app, and you can pay in cash or by card.
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By metro
The nearest station is Sam Yot on the MRT Blue Line. From there, it's about a 5-minute walk to the temple. Exit onto Fueang Nakhon Road and walk towards the Grand Palace – the temple will be on your right.
More details about all types of Bangkok transport and how to use it.
Friends, we'd like to remind you that exploring Bangkok's attractions is much more interesting with guided tours, so we recommend checking out options with online booking and reviews on these Russian-language tour aggregators: