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Open Days: daily
Opening Hours: generally open all day (outdoor public area; recommended 08:00 – 18:00 for comfortable walking and better light for photos)
King Rama I Monument (Phra Pathom Borom Rachanuson) is one of those historical landmarks that instantly adds depth to “Old Bangkok” the moment you stand in front of it. It is not merely a statue to stop by for a quick photo; it is a memorial that ties the story of Bangkok’s founding to the Chao Phraya riverside. The location also makes it an easy launch point for a city-walk route that can flow naturally from Pak Khlong Talat and Yodpiman River Walk to Tha Tien, Wat Pho, and even Yaowarat.
At the heart of this memorial is the tribute to King Phutthayotfa Chulalok the Great (Rama I), the first monarch of the Chakri Dynasty, giving the city’s collective memory a tangible form. The monument is a bronze casting, showing the King seated above the royal throne, with dimensions that become especially clear when you compare the scale to the surrounding open space (approximately 4.60 meters from the base to the top, with a base width of about 2.30 meters). The overall presence feels dignified, yet the setting remains approachable for everyday visitors.
What adds another layer of meaning is how closely the memorial is linked to Phra Phuttha Yodfa Bridge (Memorial Bridge / Saphan Phut). From an urban-history perspective, the monument and the bridge work like a pair: the bridge represents physical connection between Phra Nakhon and Thonburi, while the monument represents symbolic connection to Bangkok’s roots and identity. Many visitors naturally end up with photos that include the river, passing boats, the skyline, and the bridge structure within the same frame—a “living Bangkok” scene rather than a standalone landmark shot.
If you want to make the visit feel truly worthwhile, use this spot as a starting point and let the day flow without forcing it. Begin by viewing the statue and taking photos with the river or the bridge as your backdrop. Then move on to Pak Khlong Talat for the color and energy of the flower market, or walk along Yodpiman River Walk for a riverside stroll. If you want a more culture-forward route, continue to the Tha Tien area, Wat Pho, and Museum Siam. And if you prefer ending with food and street-life, Yaowarat fits perfectly as a final chapter.
Getting There For the most flexible plan, take the MRT and connect by taxi or a short bus ride into the Saphan Phut–Pak Khlong Talat area, then continue on foot along the riverside attractions. If you enjoy the classic Bangkok feel, you can also use the Chao Phraya Express Boat and walk onward from the pier-based route. If you drive, plan extra time for traffic and parking, especially on weekends and in the evening when the historic-city zone becomes noticeably busier.
As a small note on etiquette, dress respectfully, avoid climbing onto the base or any parts of the memorial, and help keep the area clean. After rain, watch for slippery surfaces. If you visit during midday, bring water and sun protection so the rest of your walking route stays comfortable.
| Name | King Rama I Monument (Phra Pathom Borom Rachanuson) |
| Location | Phra Phuttha Yodfa Bridge (Memorial Bridge / Saphan Phut) area, Chao Phraya riverside, Bangkok |
| Characteristics | Bronze monument with the King seated above the royal throne; a historical memorial closely connected to the Memorial Bridge area and riverside walking routes |
| Period | Phra Pathom Borom Rachanuson memorial project (commemorating King Rama I) |
| Key Evidence | Designed under the direction of Prince Narisara Nuvadtivongs; bronze casting; approximately 4.60 m from base to top and about 2.30 m base width |
| Name Origin | “Phra Pathom Borom Rachanuson” is a memorial honoring King Phutthayotfa Chulalok the Great (Rama I) |
| Travel | MRT + short taxi/bus connection into the Saphan Phut–Pak Khlong Talat area, or Chao Phraya Express Boat + walk onward (allow extra time for traffic on weekends/evenings) |
| Current Status | Outdoor public landmark for viewing and paying respect; access depends on area conditions and traffic management during special events |
| Facilities | Outdoor walking area and photo viewpoints (details may vary depending on site management at different times) |
| Fees | no admission fee (outdoor public area) |
| Nearby Tourist Attractions (Approx. Distance) | grand palace – 3.0 km – 02 623 5500 museum siam – 2.7 km – 02 225 2777 wat pho (wat phra chetuphon) – 2.8 km – 02 226 0335 rattanakosin exhibition hall – 3.8 km – 02 621 0044 wat saket (golden mount) – 3.6 km – 02 621 0576 |
| Popular Restaurants Nearby (Approx. Distance) | thipsamai pad thai – 3.8 km – 02 226 6666 kope hya tai kee – 3.6 km – 02 221 7167 kor panich mango sticky rice – 4.0 km – 02 221 3554 sala rattanakosin eatery & bar – 3.0 km – 02 622 1388 supanniga eating room (tha tien) – 3.1 km – 02 622 1388 |
| Popular Accommodations Nearby (Approx. Distance) | sala rattanakosin bangkok – 3.0 km – 02 622 1388 chakrabongse villas & residences – 3.2 km – 02 222 1290 royal rattanakosin hotel – 4.5 km – 02 222 9111 nouvo city hotel – 4.8 km – 02 282 7500 chillax resort – 5.0 km – 02 629 0101 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Where is the King Rama I Monument (Phra Pathom Borom Rachanuson)?
A: It is located around Phra Phuttha Yodfa Bridge (Memorial Bridge / Saphan Phut) on the Chao Phraya riverside. Use the Saphan Phut–Pak Khlong Talat area as your reference point and continue on foot.
Q: What time is best for an easy walk and good photos?
A: Morning or late afternoon is ideal. The light is softer, the riverside breeze helps, and your bridge-and-river shots usually look better than under harsh midday sun.
Q: What makes this monument special?
A: It is a bronze monument of King Rama I seated above the royal throne, and it is closely tied to the story of Bangkok’s founding and the Memorial Bridge area—making it a natural stop within an Old Bangkok walking route.
Q: If I have limited time, where should I go next?
A: Start with Pak Khlong Talat or Yodpiman River Walk, then continue to Tha Tien, Wat Pho, and Museum Siam. If you want to finish with food and street-life, head to Yaowarat.
Q: Any etiquette or safety tips?
A: It is an outdoor public area, so prepare for sun and watch for slippery surfaces after rain. Avoid climbing on the base, and help keep the area clean.
King Rama I the Great Memorial Map
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