Wat Ratchapradit

Temple in Bangkok

Wat Ratchapradit
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Supanut Arunoprayote.

Bangkok is home to an incredible array of intricately designed temples, and Wat Ratchabophit stands out as a masterpiece combining traditional Thai artistry with Western influences. Its colorful tiled roofs, golden spires, and ornate structures reflect the unique fusion of Thai and Italian architectural elements. Conveniently located in the Phra Nakhon district, this temple is an essential stop on a central Bangkok tour.

History of Wat Ratchapradit

Wat Ratchabophit was commissioned by King Rama V and completed in 1869. The temple’s entrance features intricately carved doors depicting soldiers, welcoming visitors into its striking design. A key highlight is the circular courtyard at the heart of the temple complex, where a 43-meter-tall gilded chedi (stupa) in Sri Lankan style stands.

The temple’s exteriors are adorned with hand-painted glazed tiles, resembling traditional Thai benjarong enamels. The doors and window frames are lavishly decorated with gold and mirrored embellishments, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the era.

To the south of the temple lie the residential buildings for monks and temple workers, known as kuti. At the far end, a Chinese-style building once served as accommodation for royalty during their stays.

Highlights of Wat Ratchabophit

The Golden Pig Statue

Cross the canal via the footbridge at the northern end of the temple to find the gilded statue of a pig. This bridge was constructed by one of King Rama V’s wives, who was born in the Year of the Pig. The bridge and statue were named in her honor.

The Gothic-Style Chedi

On the western side of the temple, near the Lawd Canal, lies a burial ground featuring small monuments built in various styles, primarily for royal family members. Among these, Gothic-style structures resemble miniature cathedrals, adding a distinct Western architectural influence. Traditional wiharns (prayer halls) with gilded pagodas on their roofs further enhance the temple’s aesthetic diversity.

Understanding the Architecture

  • Chedi: Often referred to as a stupa or pagoda, a chedi is typically bell-shaped and contains relics of the Buddha, the ashes of royalty, or significant monks. Wealthier families may construct smaller versions for their own final resting places.
  • Wiharn: A hall housing important Buddha images, where the laity comes to pray. Unlike the ubosot (ordination hall), which is unique to each temple, a wat may have multiple wiharns.

The Wat Ratchapradit appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bangkok!

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Visiting Wat Ratchapradit

Hours:

8am until 5pm


Price:

Free entry

Address: Wat Ratchapradit Sathit Maha Simaram Ratchaworawihan, Saranrom Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand

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