point of interest

Wat Benchamabophit

Two Italian architects who matched the neoclassic Italian style with the traditional Buddhist Thai architecture designed the Wat Benchamabophit temple, built at the end of the XIX century – beginning of the XX century. The result is a splendid work of art made of marble, gold and other precious materials. It is nowadays considered one of the finest works of architecture in the country and every year it is used for religious ceremonies but millions of foreign tourists also visit it. So, if you visit Bangkok, come and discover the Wat Benchamabophit temple!

Bangkok

Wat Benchamabophit temple

The Wat Benchamabophit temple was designed by the Italian architects Mario Tamagno, who built other palaces around Thailand and Annibale Rigotti during the years 1899-1911 under the king Chulalongkorn, combining two completely different styles but with an impressive result. A part from the Carrara marble of the temple, the Wat Benchamabophit is famous also for the two lions that protect the entrance and for the fifty-two Buddha statues, that surround the assembly room.

Inside the temple, the ubusot, the most important religious room in the Buddhist tradition, is also in marble, giving even more splendor to it. Moreover, inside, at the feet of a giant Buddha statue the ashes of King V are preserved. The temple is still inhabited by Buddhist monks so to visit it, it is very important to dress up adequately. The cost of the visit and entrance fee is just 20 Baht! For sure, the Wat Benchamabophit temple is one of the most breathtaking buildings of the capital and it is a must-see for every Bangkok visitor.

Highlights

During February and May, the temple is the protagonist of two religious events: the Magha Puja and the Visakha Puja. These Buddhist traditions are very important and they are an incredible opportunity to learn more about this religion.
Each of the 52 statues of the Buddha represent a mudra, a traditional symbolic gesture in Buddhism. They were collected by prince Damrong Rajanubhab for the king.
Inside the ubusot, you will find the statue of the Phra Buddha Chinnarat, one of the most important depiction of the Buddha. At the bottom of the statue, you will find the remains of the beloved king Rama V.
The roof of the temple is divided into five levels, according to the traditional Thai architectural style with its gables garnished with golden leafs.
Inside the temple area, there are also other important buildings such as the Song Phanuat Hall and the Song Dharm Hall used by the royal family.

More around Bangkok

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Golf in Bangkok

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Muay Thai Bangkok

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point of interest

Amphawa Floating Market

Enjoy yourself in Amphawa Floating Market, the Thailand most popular floating markets which offer a series of grilled seafood served at the stores that will surely awaken your taste buds. Walk on the central bridge where you will see the appetizing array of huge prawns, shellfish and squid. Shop your favourite creations with a wide range of shirts to lots of sweets and snacks radiating in the floating market. Take long-tailed boat rides or rent a bicycle and take around to explore the hidden beauty of Amphawa Floating Market. Plan your trip to Thailand and get amused by the staple Thai dishes served in seafood restaurants on boats!