A metal castle with 37 spires! Complete guide to Wat Ratchanadharam

[Summary] Loha Prasat at Wat Ratchanadharam is the world's only "metal castle" with 37 metal spires. Inspired by the temple of the same name in Sri Lanka, King Rama III built it in 1838, and as of January 2025, the temple grounds are still open to the public free of charge. [Access] About a 15-minute walk from Exit 1 of MRT Sam Yot Station. About a 10-minute taxi ride (around 50 THB) from BTS National Stadium Station. Opening hours are 08:00–17:00, and admission is free (only the bell tower observation deck requires a donation). [Sights] 📍The front spires are made up of multiple roofs stacked in a pyramid shape, with a height of about 36m to the top. In the afternoon, the gold turns copper-colored in the setting sun. 📍The white chapel and metal spire overlap at an angle, condensing the beauty of a mix of Thai and Western classical styles into one image. 📍The huge golden Buddha in the center of the hall has a lotus throne that is 3m wide. The lapis lazuli mural in the background is a picture of the heavens, and the gradation of clouds emerges depending on the amount of light. 📍The high windows and chandeliers reflect natural light off the gold leaf lattice, painting the entire room in a soft gold color. 📍The small seated statue at the base is constantly visited by worshippers praying for a safe journey, and it is said that offering lotus buds will grant mercy. [Photo spot] Before 9:00 a.m., the spire shines most brightly with the sunlight coming from the front. Handheld photography is permitted inside the hall at ISO1600 and F2.8, but tripods are not permitted. [Model course (60 minutes)] 📍Front view → Diagonal exterior → Overlooking the old town from the bell tower deck (10 THB donation) → Meditation experience inside the hall → Visit the small shrine → Purchase limited goshuin at the shop. We also recommend visiting Maha Khan Fort, which is within walking distance. --- #Bangkok　 #LohaPrasat #WatRatchanadharam　 #MetalCastle　 #ThaiTempleTour　 #GoldenSpires　 #BangkokConquest