Rama VIII Bridge, Cable-stayed bridge in Bangkok, Thailand
Rama VIII Bridge connects the Phra Nakhon and Bang Phlat districts across the Chao Phraya and spans 475 meters with a single diagonal support. Golden cables fan out from an asymmetric pylon and hold the deck 160 meters above the riverbed.
King Bhumibol Adulyadej pushed for construction in 1996 to ease traffic on the Pinklao route. The crossing opened after several years of work and has since relieved pressure on older Chao Phraya spans.
Named after King Ananda Mahidol, the structure appears on the back of Thailand's 20-baht note. At night, its golden cables light up over the river and become a landmark many Bangkok residents associate with the city's modern development.
Separate lanes run for cars, bicycles and pedestrians across the river. Cross during daylight when visibility is clear or in the evening when lighting highlights the cables.
Its alignment matches the earth's orbit so the sun rises directly above the center line at certain times. This astronomical coincidence makes the crossing an unexpected sunrise viewpoint for early risers.
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