Construction:
Construction of the temple began in 1899 at the request of King Chulalongkorn after he had built his palace nearby. The temple’s name means “the temple of the fifth king near Dusit Palace.” It was designed by Prince Naris, a king’s half-brother, and is made of Italian marble. It has an exhibition of Carrara marble columns, a marble courtyard and two large sanghas (lions) guarding the entrance to the bot. The interiors are adorned with lacquer and gold moldings, and paintings of essential stupas hang everywhere in shallow niches on the walls—the country. The cloister surrounding the assembly hall houses 52 Buddha images.
The Temple:
Wat Benchamabophit Temple was designed by Italian architects Mario Tamagno, who built other palaces across Thailand, and Annibale Rigotti in 1899-1911 under King Chulalongkorn, combining two completely different styles, but with an impressive result. In addition to the temple’s Carrara marble, Wat Benchamabophit is famous for the two lions gabuseuarding the entrance and the fifty-two Buddha statues surrounding the assembly hall. Inside the temple, the most crucial religious space in the Buddhist tradition, is also made of marble, which gives it even more splendor. Also inside, at the foot of a massive statue of Buddha, are the ashes of King V. Buddhist monks still inhabit the temple, so it is essential to dress appropriately to visit. The cost of dwelling and entering is only 20 baht! Undoubtedly, the Wat Benchamabophit temple is one of the most impressive buildings in the capital and a must-see for all visitors to Bangkok. The chapel is entirely decorated with marble. The chapel has the shape of a square with five layers. The roof is yellow and arched—52 Buddha statues in various postures on the balcony at the back of the chapel. Prince Damrong Rajanubhab collected these statues from the cities he has visited and from abroad.
Som Dej Pavilion has four faces with impressive decorations and ornate patterns. The Ordination Throne Hall was a residence for King Rama V when he died in 2416 BC. was ordained. C. Song Tham Thorne Hall was built in honor of Queen Saovabha Phongsri. Queen Saovabha Phongsri built Crown Prince Vajirunhis Sor Por Chapel as a library for collecting Buddhist scriptures. Today the Buddhist statue of Norasingha and other essential figures are located there.
When to visit?
Coming here also allows you to experience a peaceful atmosphere and wish happiness and happiness. Especially if you come to Wat Benchamabophit during Thailand’s Buddhist festivals like Makha Bucha (in February) or Visakha Bucha (in May), it will be an excellent experience to admire the colorful parade at night in the light of a thousand candles. Wat Benchamabophit is generally open to tourists every weekday from 6 am to 6 pm. Entrance fee of 50 baht (US$1.61) per person, you are free to explore the temple and its many beautiful features.
There are several ways to get to Wat Benchamabophit from where you live in Bangkok. Some travel by bus, get into a taxi or drive alone.
Helpful information about Wat Benchamabophit
If you are planning a short visit to Wat Benchamabophit shortly, please refer to the information below as it may be helpful; Although Wat Benchamabophit is open to tourists all day, it is recommended to get here early when the weather is excellent, and there are not too many tourists.
- When you come to Wat Benchamabophit, to show your respect, you should never wear skimpy clothing but rather dress politely.
- When entering Wat Benchamabophit, you must leave your shoes or sandals outside, so be sure to bring bags, so you don’t lose yours.
- In Wat Benchamabophit, taking pictures is not allowed when visiting the lower ones.
So you can only take some photos from the outside. As one of the most beautiful temples in Bangkok with its distinctive architectural style and long history, Wat Benchamabophit could be an ideal place to make a short visit and learn more about the country. Pack your bags now and join us on the tour of Wat Benchamabophit.
