The Rama VIII bridge in Bangkok crossing the Chao Phraya river

Rama VIII bridge

475 Meter bridge over the river

An impressive sight, Rama VIII bridge crosses the Chao Phraya river connecting the old city with Thonburi.

Modern architecture

A landmark of modern architecture in Bangkok, the bridge was built as part of the Royal project to alleviate traffic congestion from Rattanakosin island to Thonburi.

It was constructed just North of the historical Rattanakosin district with the Grand Palace.

Design

Rama VIII bridge is a cable-stayed bridge in an asymmetrical design. A single tower from which cables in a fan like shape support the deck of the bridge stands on the Thonburi side of the river. The bridge deck passes through the two legs of the tower shaped like an upside down Y.

Cars, cyclists & pedestrians

The bridge deck supports two car lanes for each direction. There is a detached space for pedestrians and cyclists on both sides.

475 Meter long

Crossing the Chao Phraya river, Rama VIII bridge is 475 meters long. Its single tower stands 160 meters tall. Clearance under the bridge is over 10 meters, allowing larger boats to navigate up river.

The illuminated Rama VIII bridge crossing the Chao Phraya river at dusk
The illuminated Rama VIII bridge

Opened 2002

After three years of construction the bridge was completed and opened for traffic on May 7th, 2002.

King Rama VIII

The bridge is named after King Ananda Mahidol (Rama VIII), who reigned Thailand from 1935 until 1946. The bridge was officially inaugurated on September 20, the King’s birthday.

Best views of the bridge

The best views of the bridge are had from the river. Take a Chao Phraya dinner cruise or rent a longtail boat for a private experience. The bridge is beautifully illuminated at night.

Rama VIII park

Right next to the bridge on the Thonburi side of the river is Rama VIII park. A pleasant place with manicured gardens and a statue of King Rama VIII, the park is a nice place to relax for a while on the Chao Phraya river bank.

Location

Rama VIII bridge leads from Phra Nakhon district just North of the historical district Rattanakosin to Bang Phlat district on the Thonburi side of the river. It connects Wisut Kasat Road and Arun Amarin Road.

How to get there

The easiest way to get there is by Chao Phraya river express boat. Get off at N14 Rama VIII bridge pier, right next to the bridge.
Otherwise, take a metered taxi.

You can get to Rama VIII park across the river by cross river ferry to Ban Pun pier. You can also cross the bridge on foot.


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