Royal Clock Tower

4.5(61 reviews)

Standing on Sanam Chai Road in the heart of Bangkok's historic district, the Royal Clock Tower is a striking white, European-style landmark that carries significant historical weight. It is a replica of the original tower — widely recognised as the first clock tower in Siam — which was built at the royal initiative of King Rama IV, who sought to bring Siam into closer alignment with the civilised world of its time. The tower is located adjacent to Wat Pho and near the Ministry of Defence, placing it among some of Bangkok's most historically layered surroundings. Visitors can expect a photogenic and quietly atmospheric stop rather than a large-scale attraction. The tower's elegant white facade stands out against its surroundings, and the area offers pleasant views that make it a convenient addition to any walk through the Rattanakosin old city district. Reviewers consistently describe it as beautiful and easy to visit, making it well suited to those exploring the neighbourhood on foot. Good to know: the tower is accessible at any hour, making it a flexible stop whether visiting Wat Pho in the morning or passing through the area later in the day. Since it is an outdoor landmark on a public road, there is no entry fee or formal visit required. Modest clothing is advisable if combining the visit with nearby temple sites such as Wat Pho.

Experience hints

Hidden gem

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Pair your visit. After Royal Clock Tower, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.

Visitor Reviews

The Royal Clock Tower (Replica) Today The white, European-style clock tower we see standing on Sanam Chai Road (next to Wat Pho and the Department of Territorial Defense) today is not the original tower from the reign of King Rama IV. It is a "replica Royal Clock Tower" that was newly constructed. Year Built: Constructed in 1982 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Bangkok. Architecture: Designed by Dr. Sumet Chumsai Na Ayutthaya, based on the original clock tower from the reign of King Rama IV. It is a tall, square tower with a pointed spire and clock faces on all four sides. Significance: It stands alongside the Drum Tower, commemorating the evolution of timekeeping in Thailand from the era of "drum beating" to the era of "clocks." Actual Clock: The clock mechanism from the Phuwadontatsanai Throne Hall, which was dismantled during the reign of King Rama V, is currently preserved and displayed at the National Museum, Bangkok.

The first clock tower in Siam (Thailand): "Phra Phuwadon Thasnai Throne Hall," the civilized clock tower of Siam, was built at the royal initiative of King Rama IV, who wanted Siam to become a civilized nation and modernize, replacing the use of hour markers, gongs, and drums to tell the time.

The beautiful white European-style royal clock tower currently visible on Sanam Chai Road (next to the Ministry of Defence) is a replica of the original tower. It was built to commemorate the astronomical prowess of King Rama IV and serves as a symbol of past technological advancement.

Location Info

น.1 Thanon Sanam Chai, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand

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Opening Hours

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Sunday00:00-23:59

Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture

Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.

Mind Your Feet

Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.

Ask Before Photographing

Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.