Wat Ratchanatdaram Worawihan (Loha Prasat)
Wat Ratchanatdaram Worawihan, also known as Loha Prasat, is a unique and striking Buddhist temple in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand.
It is in the Phra Nakhon district, near popular tourist attractions such as the Grand Palace, Wat Saket (The Golden Mount), and Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha).
This temple is famous for its distinctive architectural style and is one of the lesser-known gems of Bangkok.
Architectural Style
Loha Prasat is renowned for its unconventional and awe-inspiring architectural design. It is a multi-tiered structure made of iron, a unique feature in Thai temple architecture.
The temple is often compared to a castle or a fortress due to its metallic appearance.
History
Well, imagine this: back in 1846, during the time of King (Rama III), someone had a grand idea for a shiny, iron-wrought masterpiece.
But alas, they must have had a few too many distractions because it didn’t quite get finished during Rama III’s reign. His successors gave it a shot, but it seemed like they were stuck in a perpetual game of architectural “whack-a-mole.”
Fast forward to 1960, under the watchful eye of Rama IX, they decided to give it another go. This time, they brought in the pros from the Fine Arts Department of Thailand to ensure things went smoothly.
Finally, in 1995, they added a dash of spirituality by enshrining a Buddha relic at the tippy-top spire of the Loha Parsat.
It took until 2007 for them to declare, “Alright, folks, it’s showtime!” and open it up for the curious public to marvel at its long-awaited glory.
Better late than never, right?
The Loha Prasat
The most distinctive feature of Wat Ratchanatdaram is the Loha Prasat, which means “Metal Palace” or “Iron Castle.” It comprises 37 metal spires, symbolizing the 37 virtues of enlightenment in Buddhist philosophy.
Visitors can ascend the structure’s multiple levels, each containing a small meditation area.
Religious Significance
The temple is a place of worship and meditation for Buddhists and is often used for religious ceremonies and meditation retreats.
The Loha Prasat also houses a Buddha relic, adding to its spiritual significance.
Visiting
Tourists are welcome to visit Wat Ratchanatdaram Worawihan.
It offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere amidst the bustling city of Bangkok.
Visitors can explore the temple grounds, admire the unique architecture, and take in the panoramic views of the city from the top of the Loha Prasat.
Dress Code
As with most Buddhist temples in Thailand, visitors are expected to dress modestly when visiting Wat Ratchanatdaram.
This means covering shoulders and knees and avoiding revealing attire.
In summary, Wat Ratchanatdaram Worawihan, or Loha Prasat, is a remarkable temple in Bangkok with a distinctive architectural style.
Its historical significance, spiritual importance, and stunning design make it a noteworthy stop for tourists interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Thailand’s capital city.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Bangkok, Thailand |
| Architectural Style | Metallic, Unique |
| Construction Year | 1846 (Reconstruction in 1960) |
| Entrance Fee | 20 THB |
| Meaning of Loha Prasat | “Metal Palace” or “Iron Castle” |
| Religious Significance | Place of worship and meditation |
| Notable Features | 37 metal spires, Buddha relic |
| Nearest Metro Station | Sam Yot |
| Public Access | Opened to the public in 2007 |
How much is the entrance fee for Loha Prasat?
The entrance fee for Loha Prasat is 20 Thai Baht for tourists.
What is the meaning of Loha Prasat?
“Loha Prasat” translates to “Metal Palace” or “Iron Castle” in English.
It refers to the temple’s unique and striking iron structure, which resembles a castle made of metal spires.
Address:
- 2 Maha Chai Rd, Wat Bowon Niwet, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
Contact:
Opening Hours:
- Daily: 8:00-17:00
Entrance Fee:
- 20 baht
