Wat Benjamabophit (also spelled Wat Benchamabophit) is called the Marble Temple because of the white Carrara marble of which it is constructed. The Marble Temple is the most modern and one of the most beautiful of Bangkok's royal wats.
History
The Marble Temple was built in 1899 by Prince Narai, the half brother of Rama V. Thailand's present king spent his days as a monk here before his coronation. Today, Marble Temple is not only a magnificent Thai temple, but a seat of learning that appeals to Buddhist monks with intellectual yearnings.
What to see
Unlike the older complexes, there's no truly monumental wihaan or chedi dominating the grounds. Walk inside the cloister, beyond the main bot, to view over 50 bronze Buddha images that represent styles from various Buddhist countries and regions.
Behind the cloister is a large Bodhi tree, bought from Bodhgaya, India as a gift for King Chulalongkorn.
Many smaller buildings reflect a melding of European religious designs (such as stained-glass windows) with traditional Thai religious architecture. Even the courtyards are paved with polished white marble.
This is an excellent place to watch religious festivals and processions. Unlike most other temples, monks do not go out seeking alms but are instead visited by merit-makers from 6am-7am.
During the early mornings, monks chant in the main chapel, sometimes so intensely that it seems as if the temple is going to lift off the ground.
Information
| Names: | Wat Benjamabophit, Wat Benchamabophit, Marble Temple |
| Date: | 1899 |
| Location: | Si Ayutthaya Rd. (south of the Assembly Building near Chitralada Palace) |
| Phone: | 2281-2501 |
| Hours: | Daily 8am-5pm |
| Cost: | 20B (50¢) admission |
Sourec from
- Fodor's Thailand, 8th edition
- Frommer's Thailand
- Wat Benjamabophit - Thailand for Visitors
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