Royal Clock Tower
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.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Royal Clock Tower, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
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 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.
Beautiful
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 62 reviews on Google.
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Royal Clock Tower: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Royal Clock Tower worth visiting?
Royal Clock Tower holds a 4.5★ rating from 62 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Bangkok.
What are the opening hours of Royal Clock Tower?
Royal Clock Tower is open 24 hours a day — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Royal Clock Tower?
The best months to visit Bangkok are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December & January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: April – May (peak heat).
Where is Royal Clock Tower located?
Royal Clock Tower is at น.1 Thanon Sanam Chai, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand, in Bangkok. Getting around Bangkok: BTS Skytrain (most central areas); MRT Metro (underground).
Location Info
น.1 Thanon Sanam Chai, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (peak heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
25°C – 34°C(77°F – 93°F)
Crowds
Peak: December & January
Getting there
Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports serve Bangkok with direct flights from most major cities.
Getting around
- •BTS Skytrain (most central areas)
- •MRT Metro (underground)
- •Airport Rail Link (ARL)
- •Chao Phraya Express Boat
- •Grab (ride-hailing app)
- •Metered taxis — always use the meter
Where to stay near Royal Clock Tower
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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.
Nearby Places
Wat Pho
Everyone comes for the 46-metre Reclining Buddha, but the stupas and courtyards are what stay with you.
The Reclining Buddha
A 46-metre gold-leaf Buddha that photos genuinely can't handle, plus grounds worth an unhurried hour.
Wat Ratchapradit Sathit Maha Simaram
A compact 19th-century royal monastery near the Grand Palace, known for intricate mosaics and serene atmosphere.
Pi Kun Bridge
A preserved 1911 pedestrian bridge over a Bangkok canal, built to honour a royal milestone.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Doi Suthep Temple
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The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
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The Big Buddha, Phuket
A 45-metre marble Buddha on a hilltop, though the front is closed and you'll be viewing from behind.
Tha Phae Gate
Free, open all hours, and best after dark when the brick gate is lit and the square fills up.
Where to stay near Royal Clock Tower
Find hotels in Bangkok on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (peak heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
25°C – 34°C(77°F – 93°F)
Crowds
Peak: December & January
Getting there
Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports serve Bangkok with direct flights from most major cities.
Getting around
- •BTS Skytrain (most central areas)
- •MRT Metro (underground)
- •Airport Rail Link (ARL)
- •Chao Phraya Express Boat
- •Grab (ride-hailing app)
- •Metered taxis — always use the meter