Wat Benchamabophit (Marble Temple)

By Thailand 2026 Annual Meetings Team

29 Jul 2025

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Wat Benchamabophit Dusitwanaram

The Marble Temple – A Poem in Stone at the Heart of Bangkok

Nestled in the tranquil Dusit district, Wat Benchamabophit Dusitwanaram stands out with its pristine white marble walls beautifully contrasted by vibrant red Thai-style roofs. This temple, constructed during the reign of King Rama V, exemplifies a graceful fusion of Western architecture and Thai tradition, earning its place as one of Thailand’s most beautiful temples and a landmark cherished by travelers worldwide.

Notable for its ordination hall built from white Italian marble

Built in 1900 under the royal commission of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), Wat Benchamabophit was dedicated to honoring his maternal royal lineage and symbolizes Thailand’s aspirations toward modern development.
Constructed with imported Italian marble and blended with traditional Thai four-gabled (chaturamuk) architectural style, the temple exemplifies sophisticated cultural integration and holds artistic, architectural, and religious significance.

Key Highlights Not to Miss

The Marble Ubosot: The temple’s main structure, fully clad in white marble inside and out, featuring a striking red roof. Inside enshrines a replica of Phra Buddha Chinnarat in the Maravijaya posture.
52 Buddha Images: Displayed along the cloister surrounding the ubosot, these statues reflect diverse Buddhist art styles from across Asia, including Sukhothai, Lopburi, Lanna, Khmer, Burmese, and Chinese influences.
Intricate Ironwork and Wood Carvings: Depicting Buddhist stories, religious motifs, and folklore in exquisite detail.

Why Wat Benchamabophit is a Global Landmark

More than a religious monument, Wat Benchamabophit is a living archive of Thailand’s modern era. Its elegant yet symbolic design reflects King Rama V’s vision of progress—where spiritual tranquility meets aesthetic and architectural sophistication—making it a timeless embodiment of Thai identity and forward-looking spirit.

Travel Tips

Best time to visit: Morning (08:00–10:00) for soft lighting and fewer visitors
Dress code: Modest—avoid sleeveless shirts, shorts, and flip-flops
What to bring: Hat, umbrella, sunscreen, drinking water, and a camera
For deeper understanding: Consider hiring a local guide
Top photo spots:
- Directly in front of the marble ubosot between the two stone lions—popular globally for its symmetry and depth
- Side angle in the morning with roof shadows cast across the white marble floor
- The cloister lined with 52 Buddha images—peaceful and meditative
Beware of scams: Especially from individuals posing as local guides or staff, trying to sell overpriced services or goods. Use only certified services and consult official temple staff when in doubt. Also, watch your valuables, especially in crowded areas.

How to Get There

MRT: The nearest station is MRT drop at Sam Yot Station,call for Tuk Tuk or taxi overthere, but still quite far—take a taxi or bus from there
Bus: Routes 72, 503, 157, 510
Taxi / Private car: Parking available beside the temple
Bicycle: Ride from the Phra Nakhon or Sanam Luang areas via the shady U-Thong Nai Road—perfect for slow travel

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

Wat Benchamabophit is where past and future intersect—a celebration of creativity, faith, and national progress through artistic expression. For those interested in Buddhist art, architecture, or Thai history, this is a must-visit destination.

Visitor Information

Location: Si Ayutthaya Road, Dusit Subdistrict, Dusit District, Bangkok
Opening hours:
- Monday–Saturday: 08:00–17:00
- Sunday and public holidays: 10:00–17:00
Admission: Free for Thai nationals / 50 THB for foreign visitors
Official website: Wat Benchamabophit Dusitwanaram (English site)