What gleams white in the middle of this bustling intersection? It is the Golden Jubilee Monument. This monument stands as a tribute to King Rama IX. We are standing on Ratchadamnoen Road. The Golden Jubilee Monument marks King Rama IX’s Golden Jubilee. That was his 50th year on the throne.
King Rama IX, also known as Bhumibol Adulyadej, reigned from 1946 to 2016. He was a much-loved king. In 1987, he received the title King Bhumibol the Great. He was the ninth king of the Chakri dynasty. From 1989 to 2016, he was the world’s longest-reigning head of state. At the time of his death at 88, he was the second-longest reigning monarch in world history. Queen Elizabeth II later claimed that place. His Golden Jubilee was celebrated in 1996.
Look closely at the statue. The Golden Jubilee Monument features a four-headed elephant. It is not the typical three-headed one. Thais also know it as the Elephant with four heads.
The statue has heads and front legs. These belong to four white elephants. They stand back to back. The sculptors carved them from white marble. They placed these elephants on an octagonal base. Marble phum dokmai surrounds the base.
King Rama IX was the father of the current King. That is King Rama X, Maha Vajiralongkorn.
You can find another monument to King Rama IX in Bangkok. The King Rama IX Golden Jubilee Temple is in the Dusit district. The new palace and Dusit Zoo are there too.
The Golden Jubilee Monument sits on an island. It is in the middle of the road. Use the pedestrian crossings on either side to reach it.
This location is close to Pinklao Bridge. Both are on Rattanakosin Island. It is also in the Phra Nakhon district.
Walk five minutes from the temple. The temple is at the Khao San Road end. Head towards the Grand Palace. Turn left. Do this where Khao San Road meets Chao Fa Road. Follow the footpaths to the traffic island. If you take a taxi or tuk-tuk, ask to be dropped off at the temple end of Khao San Road.
The Golden Jubilee Monument is a beautiful sight. It commemorates a beloved king. Take a moment to appreciate its artistry and significance. It is one of many treasures in Bangkok.