There are plenty of temples to visit in Bangkok and each one has its own unique identity but some temples really stand out for their grandeur and unmistakable individuality. Loha Prasat, also known as the ‘metal castle’ is definitely one temple that you have to check out during your visit to Bangkok.
Reaching 36 meters into the sky, Loha Prasat was built in 1846 and is inspired by similar temples once found in India and Sri Lanka. The roof construction features 37 metal spires, each signifying one of the 37 virtues needed to reach enlightenment. When the spires are illuminated at night, they are said to look like candles on a birthday cake. Multiple concentric square levels are built on aligned pillars. Loha Prasat is an Indian name, dating from the time of Buddha, referring to multi-story and square based construction with metal spires. Loha Prasat was originally used as Monk’s quarters and only three examples of this kind of architecture ever existed. Only this one in Bangkok remains.
Guide Yuut takes you around Loha Prasat
Loha Prasat is so close to the center of town and the Wat Saket and Khao San Road that visiting it is a must when you’re nearby. There’s a small fee to enter this beautiful temple with its spiral staircase and often you will be one of only a few people inside. You can wander among the alleys created by the pillars to learn more about the rich history of this temple. Check out the white temples of Wat Ratchanaddaram that surround Loha Prasat and admire the golden Buddha statues and the beautiful murals and door carvings. There is a market selling religious trinkets, statues and Khon masks behind Loha Prasat where you’l find some excellent keepsakes to remind you of your visit to Loha Prasat.
Of course, this temple is near the center of Bangkok and there are many other temples, museums and attractions nearby that you can visit. Consider adding some of these other exciting locations to your tour itinerary when you talk to us:
- The Old City (Rattanakosin)
- Khao San Road
- Bangkok National Gallery
- Wat Saket (Golden Mount)
- Erawan Shrine
- The Grand Palace/Wat Phra Keaw / Temple of the Emerald Buddha
- Wat Pho ‘Temple of the Reclining Buddha’
Wat Ratchanatdaram Woravihara (Loha Prasat) can be visited every day of the week from 8am until 5pm.
Admission Price: 20 baht.
Things you should be aware of when visiting Wat Ratchanatdaram Woravihara (Loha Prasat):
- Respectful attire is required. Wat Ratchanatdaram Woravihara (Loha Prasat) is a functioning Thai Buddhist temple, and as such the management insists that visitors dress in a respectful manner. This means that men must wear long pants and short-sleeved or long-sleeved shirts (no tank tops or sleeveless shirts). Women must wear skirts or pants extending at least to the knee, and also should not wear a top that reveals bare shoulders.
- Visitors are allowed to take photographs in any area of the complex.
