World War I Volunteer Monument
A touching WWI memorial in Bangkok's historic Rattanakosin area, honoring Thai volunteers who served in Europe.
Plan your visit
- Hours
- Open 24 hours daily
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.
Details
Full opening hours
Tours that include World War I Volunteer Monument
Guided visits and day-tour combos that include World War I Volunteer Monument.
Why go, and how to do it well
This monument in the heart of Bangkok's Phra Nakhon district commemorates the Thai soldiers and volunteers who traveled to France and Belgium to serve during World War I, and notably contains the ashes of those Siamese soldiers who perished in Europe. It stands as one of the few sites in Thailand dedicated to this relatively overlooked chapter of the country's modern history, making it a genuinely meaningful stop for visitors interested in military heritage or lesser-known historical narratives.
The atmosphere is quiet and reflective, set within the culturally dense Rattanakosin area near the Grand Palace. The memorial itself is considered moving and well-kept, though visitors should be aware that a visible homeless population currently occupies the surrounding grounds. Several recent visitors have noted this as a significant factor affecting their experience, so it is worth keeping in mind when deciding whether to include this site on a itinerary.
Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Sep 2026
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Tours that include World War I Volunteer Monument
Guided visits and day-tour combos that include World War I Volunteer Monument.
Around here, on foot
Well-rated places within a short walk of World War I Volunteer Monument, nearest first. Minutes are at an easy pace in the heat.
- 1 minNational Museum BangkokTemples & Culture · 110 m · 4.7★
- 2 minThe National GalleryTemples & Culture · 120 m · 4.1★
- 2 minSiwamokhaphiman HallTemples & Culture · 130 m · 4.8★
- 3 minVilla De Khaosan by ChillaxHotels & Resorts · 210 m · 4.2★
- 3 minPoo Street FoodRestaurants & Food · 230 m · 4.8★
- 3 minBangkok Jazz BBQ and BarNightlife & Bars · 270 m · 5.0★
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After World War I Volunteer Monument, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Lovely memorial to those Thais who died in France and Belgium in the 1st World War. Lest We Forget 🌺🌺🌺🌺
Visited in June 2025. The monument is nice and meaningful, but lots of homeless people are living around.
Who can notice any monuments when there are so many homeless people laying on the grass that apparently live and sleep there. This is just sad and so close to the Royal Palace.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 113 reviews on Google.
4 Soi Na Phra That, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand
Open in Google MapsMore temples & culture nearby
All within a 2-minute walk of World War I Volunteer Monument.
National Museum Bangkok
The National Gallery
Siwamokhaphiman Hall
Phra Tamnak Daeng (The Red House)
Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
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.
Go Early Morning
Big-name temples are dramatically less crowded in the first hour after opening. You'll also avoid the worst of the midday heat and get softer light for photos.
World War I Volunteer Monument: Frequently Asked Questions
Is World War I Volunteer Monument worth visiting?
World War I Volunteer Monument holds a 4.0★ rating from 113 Google reviews — a strong rating for temples & culture in Bangkok.
What are the opening hours of World War I Volunteer Monument?
World War I Volunteer Monument 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 World War I Volunteer Monument?
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 World War I Volunteer Monument located?
World War I Volunteer Monument is at 4 Soi Na Phra That, 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).
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