On the other side of the road from the Golden Mount Wat Saket is the unusual Indian style Wat Ratchanatdaram. It is striking in its simple colour scheme. Most of the other Bangkok Buddhist temples are a riot of colour

The temple of Wat Ratchanatdaram has white walls and dramatic black pointed roofs over the multiple arches around the four sides of the building. You can walk up to the top of the building and get great views over the Grand Palace area.

This royal temple was built during the reign of King Rama III in 1846. The name of the temple means "Royal Niece". The King ordered its construction for his niece who later became Queen and wife of King Rama IV.

The highlight of the temple complex is the stunning 'Loha Prasat', also known as Metal Castle, It has 37 spires incorporated in its design representing the 37 different virtues leading to enlightenment (Bodhipak Khiyadhamma). A winding European style staircase, with wooden posts stands at the centre and leads to the top floor.

It was built to serve as a Chedi marmoreal to the dead and not a Monastry. It holds an urn, wherein rest the holy relics of Buddha. Aside from this Metal Castle, another noteworthy feature of the temple is the 'Ubosoth' (Ordination Hall), with square pillars surrounding it and the gable adorned with stucco.

The main Buddha image is cast of copper and has been preserved here since the 1864 AD. The temple has an amulet market selling magic charm talisman Buddha amulets that feature not only the image of the Buddha but also famous Thai monks or Indian gods.

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