37 metal spires
The last building of its kind.
BerryJ — CC BY-SA 4.0 · กสิณธร ราชโอรส — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Nawit science — CC BY-SA 4.0 · กสิณธร ราชโอรส — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Nawit science — CC BY-SA 4.0
A temple in the heart of the old city, on the same road that leads to the Golden Mount, commissioned by King Rama III in 1846 in honour of his granddaughter. Its landmark is Loha Prasat, the Metal Castle, a tiered building crowned by thirty-seven metal spires that stand for the thirty-seven virtues leading to enlightenment in Buddhist teaching. History knew two earlier buildings of this name, in India and Sri Lanka, and neither still stands, which leaves Bangkok's as the only surviving one of its kind. Inside, identical crossing corridors feel like a maze, and a spiral staircase winds around a central pillar up to the top terrace, with views over the old city's rooftops and the neighbouring Golden Mount. The courtyard is free, and climbing the tower costs a token fee of about twenty baht or a donation; it usually opens from nine in the morning until five in the afternoon. Modest dress is required at royal temples: shoulders and knees covered, and shoes come off before entering the halls. Behind the temple an old market sells Buddhist amulets and small curios, worth a look. Visit in the morning, then walk ten minutes to the Golden Mount, or pair it with the Giant Swing and Wat Suthat nearby. The stairs are narrow, so the climb is not for anyone who struggles with steps.
The last building of its kind.
Up to a terrace over the old city.
Right behind the temple.
Maha Chai Road at Ratchadamnoen Avenue, old city, Bangkok
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