Dusit at a Glance
From 1899, King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) laid out a new district here, outside the walls of the old city, modelled on the great European avenues he had visited. That is why you find Western-style buildings, open squares and tree-lined streets, which is rare in Bangkok. The district still holds royal residences and official institutions: some areas are closed to the public, and guards watch over them.
No metro or BTS station really serves Dusit. You get around by taxi, Grab or tuk-tuk from one site to the next; the boat on the Chao Phraya helps for the riverside sights. Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees: several sites, temples and palaces alike, require it.
The Marble Temple: Wat Benchamabophit
Dusit's must-see is Wat Benchamabophit, the "marble temple": an ordination hall in Carrara marble, orange-tiled roofs and a gallery of 52 Buddhas. It is open daily from 8am to 6pm (THB 100 for foreigners, prices checked in October 2026). Early in the morning you can watch the monks' alms round in front of the temple. It is the best starting point for a visit to the district.
The Royal Plaza and Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall
At the end of Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue, Dusit's Royal Plaza is dominated by Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall, a domed marble building in Italian Renaissance style, inaugurated in the early 20th century. It served as the seat of Parliament; the equestrian statue of Rama V stands in front. Even when the hall is closed, the whole ensemble photographs well from the square and the avenue. Interior access, exhibitions and closing days change: check before you come and do not count on seeing the inside without confirming.
Dusit Palace and Vimanmek
Dusit Palace brings together buildings put up under Rama V, including Vimanmek, a teak residence from 1900. According to the sources we consulted, it is usually open every day except Monday, but this depends on royal ceremonies and works, and we could not confirm its current opening status; ask at the ticket office before planning your day around it. Dusit Zoo, for its part, closed in 2018: don't look for it.
Wat Intharawihan and the Bank of Thailand Museum
On the river side, towards Banglamphu, two sights combine well:
- Wat Intharawihan houses a 32-metre standing Buddha, one of the largest statues in the city. Entry is free.
- The Bank of Thailand Museum occupies Bang Khun Phrom Palace, free but by reservation in timed slots, at weekends according to the latest information (reopened on 4 July 2026).
Nearby, Wat Bowonniwet, seat of the Dhammayut order, and Santichaiprakan Park and Phra Sumen Fort, on the river, round out the tour. The Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall, on Ratchadamnoen Avenue, tells the story of the old city.
Thai Boxing at Ratchadamnoen
Rajadamnern Stadium, on Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue, is one of the capital's two great Thai boxing stadiums. Fights take place in the evening: our page on Thai boxing details the seating categories, prices and fight nights.
Thewet: River, Piers and Cafés
Thewet, on the river, is a quieter neighbourhood, halfway between Dusit and Banglamphu. This is where you catch the boat on the Chao Phraya (Thewet pier) towards Wat Pho, Wat Arun and Asiatique, and where you will find cafés, guesthouses and local markets. Routes on the water are described in our guide to transport in Bangkok.
A Half-Day Itinerary
- Arrive at Wat Benchamabophit at opening time, 8am, for the morning cool.
- Take a taxi to the Royal Plaza and Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall.
- Go down to Wat Intharawihan for the standing Buddha.
- Have lunch in the lanes of Banglamphu, then finish with Wat Bowonniwet or Phra Sumen Fort at sunset.
For a weekend, book your Bank of Thailand Museum slot in advance.
Going Further
Dusit follows on naturally from the old city: read our guide to Banglamphu and the old city. To choose where to stay, see our guide to where to stay in Bangkok, and for temples, our selection of the most beautiful temples in Bangkok.
