Wat Rakhang

Wat Rakhang, the Temple of Bells, sits on the Thonburi bank of the Chao Phraya opposite Bangkok's Grand Palace. Its name recalls an ancient bell discovered here and later moved by an early Chakri king. The temple is admired for a small wooden scripture library, once the residence of King Rama I before his accession, decorated with delicate murals and carved gables. Reached by a short ferry hop, the compound draws worshippers who release fish and birds for merit, and it offers fine views across the water to the royal district.