A guide to visiting San Rak Muang, the white spire that marks the beginning of Bangkok

[Access] From MRT Sanam Chai Station Exit 1, walk north along Royal Palace Road for about 1 km, 12-15 minutes. If you go straight with the white walls of the Royal Palace and the roadside trees on your left, you will see a pure white spire on your right. Free admission, open from 07:00 to 18:00. [What is San Rak Muang?] This shrine was built in 1782 when King Rama I moved the capital to the east bank of the Chao Phraya River as a guardian pillar for the city. The gold leaf pillar standing in the center of the shrine is the "city pillar," and prayers are offered to the pillar every time the dynasty changes or a new year event occurs. [How to visit] 📍Purchase an offering set at the shop next to the main gate. A set of wreaths, incense, and gold leaf costs 60B. 📍Following the instructions on the board, proceed clockwise from the outer altar to the offering table to the main hall. Light three incense sticks at the same time and stick gold leaf at the base of the pillar to make a wish. 📍It is said that ringing the gong with the wooden striker on it three times will bring good fortune. It makes a loud noise, so please be considerate of the worshippers around you. [Photo tips] 📍If you take a photo with direct sunlight before 9am, the intricate decorations carved into the white marble will be sharply shaded. 📍The tropical fruits lined up on the offering table are highly saturated, and complement the white building, making them perfect for SNS posts. [Time and attire] It takes about 20 minutes to worship and take photos. It is recommended to wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees, and it is best to follow the same dress code as the royal palace. --- #Bangkok City Pillar Shrine #SanLakMuang #CityPillarShrine #Bangkok Tourism #Prayer Manners #Prayer Spot #Thai Temple #Bangkok Trip #Bangkok Strategy