Thawon Watthu Building (Red Building), Sanam Luang: History, Highlights, Hours & How to Get There
Walk along Na Phra That Road on the edge of Sanam Luang and you can't miss a long, brick-red building standing in front of Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit. This is the Thawon Watthu Building, known to locals as Tuk Daeng or "the Red Building." Built in the reign of King Rama V, it tells the story of royal tradition, Buddhist monastic education, and the beginnings of Thailand's National Library, all under one roof.
This guide covers everything you need to know before visiting the Thawon Watthu Building: its history, architecture, what to see, opening hours, how to get there, and where to stay for an easy trip around Rattanakosin Island.
What Is the Thawon Watthu Building?
The Thawon Watthu Building is a historic structure under the care of the Fine Arts Department. It stands on the western side of Sanam Luang on Na Phra That Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok. Today it houses an exhibition honouring King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and the Piyamaharaj Raluek Library.
The name Thawon Watthu means "permanent structure," which reflects the idea behind it: to build something lasting and useful instead of the temporary structures used in the past.
History of the Thawon Watthu Building
Born from a Royal Idea of King Rama V
By ancient royal custom, the grand funeral structures at Sanam Luang were built of wood and dismantled after the ceremony. King Chulalongkorn felt this wasted royal funds on something used only once.
For the funeral of Crown Prince Maha Vajirunhis, who passed away on 4 January 1895 (B.E. 2437), the King commanded that a permanent building be constructed instead. It served as the royal merit-making hall for the funeral rites and could be put to further use afterwards.
Designed by Prince Narisara Nuwattiwong
The building was designed by Prince Narisara Nuwattiwong, celebrated as the "Great Master Craftsman of Siam." It remains one of the clearest examples of his architectural genius.
From Monastic School to National Library
After the funeral, the building became a place of study for monks and novices of the Mahanikaya order, in step with the founding of Mahathat College at Wat Mahathat. Whenever another great royal funeral was held at Sanam Luang, it could be restored to ceremonial use.
The Thawon Watthu Building later housed the Vajirayana Library for the Capital, the forerunner of today's National Library of Thailand. Government sources list its construction year as 1905 (B.E. 2448).
Distinctive Architecture of the Red Building
Its signature brick-red colour, striking against the open expanse of Sanam Luang, is what earned it the nickname "the Red Building."
In Prince Narisara's original design, the building was long, with a central wing extending to the rear in a T-shape, crowned by three prang spires. It blends Thai architectural forms with Western construction techniques, a hallmark of the Rama V era.
Highlights Inside the Thawon Watthu Building
King Rama V Commemorative Exhibition
The exhibition presents the life and royal achievements of King Chulalongkorn, with models of historic buildings from his reign and multimedia learning displays. It suits history lovers, families, and students alike.
Piyamaharaj Raluek Library
The library corner offers a quiet place for reading and research, carrying on the building's long role as a centre of knowledge.
Photo Spots by Sanam Luang
The front of the building is a popular photo spot, especially in the morning and late afternoon when soft light makes the red façade glow.
Visitor Information
- Location: Na Phra That Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200
- Open: Wednesday – Sunday (closed Monday and Tuesday)
- Hours: 09:30 – 16:00
- Managed by: Fine Arts Department
- Tips: Dress modestly, and check the latest opening times with the Fine Arts Department before you go, as they may change during royal ceremonies or special holidays.
More information: Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
How to Get to the Thawon Watthu Building
By Train
Take the MRT Blue Line to Sanam Chai Station, then walk or take a short taxi ride to Na Phra That Road. From BTS Victory Monument, change at Siam to Sala Daeng, transfer to MRT Si Lom, and ride to Sanam Chai.
By Boat
Take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Tha Chang or Tha Maharaj Pier, then walk through the Tha Phra Chan area to Sanam Luang, enjoying the riverside atmosphere on the way.
By Taxi or Car
From the Victory Monument area, a taxi or ride-hailing car to Sanam Luang takes about 20–40 minutes depending on traffic.
Attractions Near the Thawon Watthu Building
After visiting the Red Building, you can easily spend the whole day exploring Rattanakosin Island.
- Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit, right next door, a historic royal temple.
- Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace, Bangkok's most famous landmarks.
- Bangkok National Museum, one of Thailand's largest museums of art and history.
- Bangkok City Pillar Shrine, the city's sacred guardian shrine across Sanam Luang.
- Tha Chang and Tha Maharaj, riverside areas with restaurants and cafés overlooking the Chao Phraya.
Where to Stay: The Victory Bangkok Hotel
If you plan to explore the Thawon Watthu Building and the old city over several days, a well-connected base saves a lot of time. The Victory Bangkok Hotel is located on Soi Sri Ayutthaya 12 in the Rang Nam area, close to BTS Victory Monument, one of Bangkok's main transport hubs. From here you can reach Rattanakosin Island, the Siam and Pratunam shopping districts, and Chatuchak Weekend Market with ease.
Why Stay at The Victory Bangkok Hotel
- Connected to everywhere — close to BTS Victory Monument and the Airport Rail Link at Phaya Thai, convenient for city sightseeing and airport transfers.
- Classic & Vintage Luxury ambience — rooms with timeless elegance that suit a history-focused trip.
- Rooms for every party size — from the Regent King Studio for 1–2 guests to the Grand Regent Heritage Suite for families or groups of 5–6.
- Full facilities — rooftop saltwater pool, fitness centre, sauna and steam room, and a breakfast room, so you can recharge after a day on foot.
After a day of exploring the Red Building and the temples, a sunset dip in the rooftop pool with city views is the perfect way to end the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Thawon Watthu Building and the Red Building the same place?
Yes. "Red Building" (Tuk Daeng) is the popular name for the Thawon Watthu Building, after its brick-red colour.
When is the Thawon Watthu Building open?
Wednesday to Sunday, 09:30–16:00; closed Monday and Tuesday. Please check the latest information before visiting.
Who designed the Thawon Watthu Building?
Prince Narisara Nuwattiwong designed it following the royal wishes of King Rama V.
Where should I stay to visit the Thawon Watthu Building?
The Victory Bangkok Hotel near Victory Monument is a convenient choice, connected by BTS, the Airport Rail Link, and an easy taxi ride to Sanam Luang.
📞 Contact & Reservations
View rooms and book directly at:
📍 Location: Soi Sri Ayutthaya 12, near BTS Victory Monument
📞 Phone: +66-2-640-0200
💚 LINE: @TheVictory37
💬 Wechat: Thevictorybkk1970
🌿 WhatsApp: +66-96-887-2487
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌎 Website: www.the-victory.com
📍 Google Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/
The Victory Bangkok Hotel — Where Comfort Meets Timeless Elegance.
#TheVictoryBangkokHotel
#LongStayBangkok
#BangkokHotel
#BangkokBreakfastBuffet
#HotelBreakfastNearVictoryMonument
#BreakfastBuffetinBangkok
The Victory Bangkok Hotel Your hotel near Victory Monument, in the heart of Bangkok Website: https://www.the-victory.com
