Why should you go there and how do you do it right?

Anyone who misses this structure will miss what is probably the most unusual silhouette in the old town. The Loha Prasat, the "Metal Castle," rises 36 meters high in seven levels, crowned by 37 metal spires—one for each of the virtues that lead to enlightenment. It was the first building of its kind in Thailand, and the earlier metal castles in India and Sri Lanka, which served as its model, have long since disappeared. King Rama III founded Wat Ratchanatdaram in 1846 for his granddaughter, hence the name: "Temple of the Royal Niece."

Climb it. That's the real reason for your visit. A wooden spiral staircase leads up through the center to an open platform. From there, you can enjoy the entire circuit and take in the views of the Golden Mount, the Democracy Monument, and Ratchadamnoen Street. Foreign visitors pay 20 baht, Thais 10 baht, and children under 15 go free. The grounds are quiet, even when the nearby major temples are busy, and the late afternoon light bathes the spires in a special glow.

It is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Please cover your shoulders and knees as it is an active temple. The Golden Mount is about 350 meters away, and the Democracy Monument is a similar distance in the other direction. The adjacent Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall offers a lovely view over the city rooftops. The boat on the Khlong Saen Saep Canal stops at Phan Fa Pier just a few minutes away, and Sam Yot MRT Station is about a 15-minute walk. Jay Fai and Thipsamai are both within walking distance and are ideal for a lunch break.