While going through my photo collection from a recent trip to Bangkok for a new blog post, I came across some older pictures taken during a work assignment in the city nearly a decade ago. The files were labeled "Wat Benchamabophit," and instantly brought back memories of my visit to this remarkable marble temple, located in the administrative heart of Bangkok’s Dusit district. Although it may not be as widely known as Wat Phra Kaew at the Grand Palace, Wat Pho with its iconic Reclining Buddha, or Wat Arun, a symbol of Thai tourism, Wat Benchamabophit stands out for its intricate architectural beauty. In fact, the temple once graced the reverse side of Thailand’s 5 Baht coin during the later years of King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s reign (Rama IX), from 1988 until 2017. However, starting in 2018, following the ascension of King Vajiralongkorn (Rama X), the coin’s design was changed to feature the king’s royal monogram, and the temple no longer appears. Wat Benchamabophit was also nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status in 2005. Although it has not yet been inscribed as a full World Heritage Site, it remains on Thailand’s official tentative list. It made me wonder—what is it that makes this temple truly special?
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| Wat Benchamabophit is a national heritage currently in tentative list for Unesco Heritage Sites |
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| A pair of mythical Singha statues guard the main entrance of the temple's main hall |
Officially named Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram, this Buddhist temple—also known as the Marble Temple—is recognized as one of Thailand’s First-class Royal Temples. While it shares many typical features of Thai temple architecture, such as tall gables, tiered roofs, and intricate ornamentation, what truly sets it apart is its striking use of elegant white Italian marble, which gives the temple its distinctive, refined appearance. The construction of this temple began in 1899 upon request from King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V) after he had built his palace nearby, hence the name which literally means "the temple of the fifth King located near Dusit Palace". The temple was largely completed by 1911 and it was designed by Prince Narisara Nuwattiwong, a half-brother of the king. Despite his military background, Prince Naris was also known for his deep interest in Thai art and architecture, and he played a key role in the modernization of traditional Thai styles. His artistic sensibility was shaped in part by his exposure to Western ideas through education during a time when Western missionaries and influences were increasingly present in Siam.
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| These golden lacquered temple doors feature mythological deities or celestial beings in Thai style |
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| A glimpse of Wat Benchamabophit complex and a beautifully adorned stained glass window |
Wat Benchamabophit is known for its blend of Thai traditional architecture with European influences, especially the use of Italian Carrara marble. This marble, quarried from the northern region of Tuscany, Italy, is known for its white or bluish-gray hues. It is often referred to as 'Luna Marble' because its color resembles the soft glow of the moon at night. This elegant white marble isn’t only seen on the temple walls, but it also adorns the graceful pillars that line the corridors and covers the expansive courtyard, adding a sense of brightness and refinement. Most Thai temples (wats) are known for their intricate ornaments, and this temple also lives up to its reputation. From the finely carved teak doors to the graceful window frames and gilded gables, every corner showcases meticulous craftsmanship. The multi-tiered roof, with its sweeping lines and chofahs (ornamental finials), adds a sense of grandeur, while the richly painted ceilings glow with red and gold patterns. All these details come together to create a serene yet majestic atmosphere that reflects both artistic brilliance and spiritual devotion.
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| Intricate carvings on the temple’s window shutters reflect traditional Thai artistry |
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| Devotees praying before the majestic golden Buddha inside the main ordination hall |
Another distinctive feature of this temple is the pair of large marble singha (mythical lion) statues standing in front of the ordination hall (ubosot), guarding its main entrance. In Thai mythology, the singha is seen as a loyal guardian and is also considered one of the protectors of the Buddha. At the heart of the ordination hall sits a magnificent gilded Buddha statue, Phra Buddha Chinnarat, a revered replica of the original from Phitsanulok, radiating calm and elegance under the soft light filtering through the marble hall. Beneath the principal Buddha image inside the ordination hall, the ashes of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) are enshrined—making Wat Benchamabophit not only a place of worship but also a site of deep royal reverence. Additionally, at the western side of the temple complex, there is a royal cemetery where the ashes of many of his descendants and other members of the Chakri dynasty are interred, further cementing the temple's connection to the Thai monarchy.
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| This standing Buddha image reflects the elegance of the ancient Sukhothai style |
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| A bell tower can be located on the temple grounds with classic Thai multi-tiered roofing |
Wat Benchamabophit is easily accessible via public transportation. You can take a taxi or ride-hailing service directly, or hop on a bus that passes through the Dusit district. While there's no BTS or MRT station right next to the temple, the nearest stations (like Victory Monument BTS or Ratchathewi) are just a short taxi ride away. Whether you're drawn by its elegant white marble, the serene atmosphere, or the rich artistic details throughout the complex, Wat Benchamabophit offers a unique glimpse into the fusion of traditional Thai craftsmanship and European influence. It’s not just a place of worship, but also a cultural and architectural treasure that reflects Thailand’s royal heritage and artistic spirit.Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram
วัดเบญจมบพิตรดุสิตวนาราม
Location 69 Rama V Rd, Dusit, Dusit District, Bangkok, Thailand
Opening Hours
Daily, 08.00 AM to 06.00 PM
Admission Fee
Foreigner - 50 Baht
Thai - Free
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