Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram – Bangkok's Marble Temple You Must Visit at Least Once

Bangkok is a city brimming with stunning temples, but if you ask which one seamlessly blends the intricacy of Thai art with the grandeur of Italian marble, the answer is undoubtedly Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram Ratchaworawihan — known worldwide as "The Marble Temple."

The History of Wat Benchamabophit

Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram Ratchaworawihan is a first-class royal temple of the highest rank, located on Si Ayutthaya Road in the Dusit district of Bangkok. Originally a small ancient temple called "Wat Laem" or "Wat Sai Thong," its exact founding date remains unknown.

During the reign of King Rama III, Prince Phipitphokphubern led the restoration of this temple together with four of his royal siblings. King Rama IV subsequently bestowed the name "Wat Benchabopit," meaning "the temple of five princes."

Later, when King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) built the Dusit Palace, he commissioned a complete reconstruction of the temple and renamed it "Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram" — meaning the temple of the fifth king in the Dusit royal garden.

Breathtaking Architecture – The Marble Ordination Hall

What sets Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram Ratchaworawihan apart from every other temple is its ordination hall (ubosot) built entirely from Carrara marble imported from Italy. Designed by Prince Naris (Krom Phraya Narisara Nuwattiwong), the structure harmoniously blends Rattanakosin-style Thai architecture with Western construction techniques.

Inside the ordination hall stands a replica of the Phra Buddha Chinnarat, the principal Buddha image that King Chulalongkorn commissioned to be cast from the original in Phitsanulok province. The pedestal beneath also enshrines the royal relics of King Rama V.

Must-See Highlights

The Cloister of 52 Buddha Images

The gallery surrounding the ordination hall houses 52 replica Buddha images representing various artistic periods and styles from across Asia. It is one of Thailand's most important collections of Buddhist art and a must-see for history and art enthusiasts.

Phra Thinang Song Phanuat (The Royal Ordination Hall)

This historically significant building opens to the public once a year on Chulalongkorn Memorial Day (October 23). Inside, 20 magnificent murals depict the life and reign of King Rama V in exquisite detail.

Gardens and Canals

The temple grounds are shaded by lush greenery and surrounded by scenic canals crossed by elegant bridges — perfect for leisurely strolls and photography.

Benchamabophit National Museum

Located within the temple compound at the Phra Wihan Somdet hall, the museum displays ancient artifacts and Buddha images from various eras. Admission is free.

Visitor Information

• Opening hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Admission: Free for Thai nationals / 100 THB for foreign visitors
• Dress code: Modest attire required — no sleeveless tops, shorts, or short skirts (wraps are available to borrow at the entrance)
• Recommended visit duration: 1 – 2 hours
• Address: 69 Nakornpathom Road, Dusit, Bangkok 10300

How to Get to Wat Benchamabophit

Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram Ratchaworawihan is situated in the Dusit district and is accessible by multiple means of transport, including taxis, public buses, and the Saen Saep canal boat. If travelling by BTS Skytrain, alight at Victory Monument Station and take a short taxi or bus ride of just 10 – 15 minutes to reach the temple with ease.

Looking for a Hotel near Wat Benchamabophit? Try The Victory Bangkok Hotel

If you are planning a visit to admire the beauty of Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram Ratchaworawihan, choosing accommodation in a convenient location is essential. For those searching for a hotel near Victory Monument that offers both comfort and easy access to Bangkok's top attractions, we recommend The Victory ฺBangkok Hotel — a hotel located at the entrance of Soi Rangnam in the Victory Monument area, just a short walk from the BTS Victory Monument Station.

Thanks to its prime central location, you can travel from The Victory Bangkok Hotel to Wat Benchamabophit in approximately just 10 minutes by taxi or private car. This makes it incredibly convenient for an early-morning temple visit followed by a relaxing afternoon back at the hotel.

Beyond its unbeatable location, The Victory Bangkok Hotel offers a full range of amenities including a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa, on-site restaurant, and café — all with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout your stay. The hotel is also within walking distance of popular shopping and dining destinations such as King Power Rangnam and Pratunam Market.

Book your stay at: www.the-victory.com

Make the Most of Wat Benchamabophit – A Suggested 1-Day Itinerary

Staying in the Victory Monument area gives you the perfect base for a full day of sightseeing:

Morning – Head out from the hotel to Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram Ratchaworawihan. Spend 1 – 2 hours paying respect at the marble ordination hall, exploring the gallery of Buddha images, and capturing photos around the temple grounds.

Late Morning – Visit the nearby Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall and the equestrian statue of King Rama V, both just a short distance from the temple.

Afternoon – Return to the hotel to relax by the pool or unwind with a spa treatment before heading out for some shopping at the malls near Victory Monument.

Evening – Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants around Victory Monument, where you will find everything from authentic Thai cuisine and international fare to vibrant street food.

Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram Ratchaworawihan is a place where architectural splendour, rich history, and the spirit of Buddhism come together in perfect harmony. Whether you are a local or an international traveller, this temple promises an unforgettable experience. And if you need a conveniently located hotel near both top attractions and public transport, The Victory Bangkok Hotel is the ideal choice for your trip.