King Rama I intended that the present building be used for his own lying in state ceremony as it shares the same height and dimensions as the Suriyamarin Throne Hall in Ayuthaya, the traditional lying in state place for the remains of Ayuthaya kings. Thus, the principle function of the Dusit Maha Prasat Hall has been and still is a hall for the lying in state of kings, queens and honoured members of the royal family. It is also used for the annual Coronation Day Ceremony.
The hall is furnished by an exquisite mother of pearl inlaid throne surmounted by a nine tiered white canopy, a symbol of a duly crowned king. The hall has four wings and is surmounted by a four tiered roof which is topped by a seven tiered spire.