Phra Mondop in Grand Palace Complex, Bangkok

The Grand Palace of Bangkok, a huge complex of 98.5 hectares, is unforgettable place because of the various mesmerizing visual delights. Each ornate building there competes for attention and focus of your lens; however I feel the Phra Mondop in Grand Palace of Bangkok is the most beautiful of all of them.

Phra Mondop in Thai Grand Palace

Built by King Rama I, it houses the Royal Golden Edition of Buddhist Cannon inscribed in palm leaves, enclosed in a mother of pearl cabinet. There are a number of Buddhist publications and ancient literature. They belong to the Rattanakosin Era.

The original Canonical Library was surrounded by water to prevent damage to the manuscripts by fire and termites. Ironically, the original building was destroyed by fire on the day of its inauguration caused by fireworks.

King Rama I then rebuilt it and placed the precious holy scripts in his new structure. This building is closed to public, and I stood wondering if the exteriors are so captivating, how much more beautiful the interiors would be! The floor of the Phra Mondop, I read, is lined from wall to wall by a woven mat from strips of pure silver. That must be truly a precious sight to behold!

Phra Mondop Grand Palace Bangkok – This golden building holds the Canon of Buddha, sacred scriptures written on palm leaf.

Phra Mondop in Thai Grand Palace - Pillars

Sixteen twelve cornered columns support the intricate multi-tier roof.

Facade of Phra Mondop is covered with tiny green and gold glass mosaics.  Looking closely I saw the glittering walls were covered in green mirrored tiles inlaid with gold medallions depicting Buddha. A gilt spire caps the amazing building.

At the four corners of Phra Mondop are stone Buddhas carved in ninth century Javanese style.

Javanese style stone Buddha

A pair of guardian angels, each slightly different from the other guard the four entrances to the building.

Saddest part is the building remains closed to public. We couldn’t get even a peek of the sacred texts. Nevertheless it is worth a halt and a great place for instagrammable pictures. If ever you are there in Bangkok and you can outsmart the Tuk Tuk drivers, do visit this Grand Palace.

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Phra Mondop Grand Palace Bangkok Thailand

(Updated post. This was published first on Nov 12th, 2009.)

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