Metal Castle with 37 Spires! Complete Guide to Wat Ratchanaddaram

[Overview]

The Loha Prasat of Wat Ratchanaddaram is the world's only "Metal Castle" with 37 metal spires.
Built in 1838 by King Rama III, inspired by a temple of the same name in Sri Lanka, the grounds are still open for free as of January 2025.
Under clear skies, the white walls and golden decorations create a vivid contrast of colors, while inside, a serene meditation space unfolds.

[Access]

About a 15-minute walk from MRT Sam Yot Station Exit 1. About a 10-minute taxi ride from BTS National Stadium Station (around 50 THB).
Opening hours are 08:00–17:00, free admission (only the bell tower observation deck is donation-based).

[Highlights]

📍 The front spire group stacks multi-tiered roofs in a pyramid shape, reaching about 36 meters high. In the afternoon, the gold changes to a reddish copper color under the setting sun.
📍 From a diagonal exterior view, the white chapel and metal spires overlap, condensing a blend of Thai style and Western classical beauty into one frame.
📍 The huge golden Buddha in the center of the hall has a lotus pedestal width of 3 meters. The lapis lazuli blue mural behind depicts a celestial scene, with cloud gradations emerging depending on the light.
📍 The high windows and chandeliers reflect natural light on the gold leaf lattice, bathing the entire interior in a soft golden hue.
📍 The small shrine statues on the base platform are constantly visited by worshippers praying for safe travels; offering lotus buds is said to grant compassion.

[Photography Tips]

Before 9 a.m., the front is front-lit and the spires shine the brightest. Inside the hall, handheld shooting is possible at ISO1600, F2.8, but tripods are not allowed.

[Suggested Itinerary (60 minutes)]

📍 Front photo shoot → diagonal exterior view → overlook the old city from the bell tower deck (10 THB donation) → meditation experience inside the hall → visit the small shrine → purchase limited edition goshuin at the shop.
Visiting the nearby Mahakan Fort on foot is also recommended.

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