Temples In Thailand

Wat Benchama Bophit or another name is “The Temple Marble” as well known to Thais and foreigners. The temple is most satisfactory architecturally with its symmetry and lovely proportions. The construction of the stunning temple began in the reign of King Rama V, after building his palace nearby. The temple’s name literally means the Temple of the fifth King located nearly Dusit Palace. 

The Ordination Hall (Ubosot in Thai) was constructed from Carrara marble from Italy and showing distinct European neo-classical influence. It was designed by H.R.H. Prince Narisranuvattivongse, half brother to King Rama V, and has been reckoned for its architectural and decorative arts of finest Thai craftsmanship, say, second to none in the world. It attracts the interest of tourists throughout the world to come to visit in large numbers each year. 

Inside the Ordination Hall is a Sukhothai-style Buddha statue named Phra Buddhajinaraja, made from 2.5 tons of bronze, cast in 1920 after the original located in Wat Mahathat in Phitsanulok. The ashes of King Chulalongkorn are buried beneath the statue. 

It is an excellent place to watch religious festivals and moonlit precessions. Unlike most other temples, monks don’t go out seeking alms but are instead visited by merit-makers.