1. The Grand Palace
Also known as Phra Borom Maha Ratcha Wang in Thai, the Grand Palace is one of Bangkok’s most impressive sights. The glittering golden rooftops and soaring chedis (pagodas) of this impressive palace and temple complex can be seen as visitors travel along the Chao Phraya River, capturing the imagination of all who pass by.
The Grand Palace was built in 1782 and was home to the Thai Royal Family for 150 years. Although Chitralada Palace is now the main royal residence, this magnificent structure is now open to the public and is still used for ceremonial purposes.
Visitors should allow plenty of time to explore the Grand Palace and the temple complex as a number of treasures are waiting to be explored. In addition to the palace itself, which is elaborately decorated and features impressive guardian statues, Wat Phra Kaew can also be found here. This is one of Bangkok’s most famous temples as it is home to the much celebrated Emerald Buddha statue (described in more detail in the temple section).
It should be noted that a strict dress code applies to all who want to enter this sacred site. Modesty is important here, and knees, shoulders and toes must be covered. Visitors need to dress conservatively, avoiding backpacker items such as sandals, shorts and vest tops.
How to get there: Take the Chao Phraya River Express boat to Chang Wang Luang Pier. The Grand Palace is a 2 minute walk from the pier.
Opening Hours: Daily from 08.30 am. - 03.30 pm.
Admission: 250 Baht, which includes admission to Wat Phra Kaeo, The Royal Thai Decorations & Coins Pavilion and Vihamanek Mansion. Free for Thai people.
2. Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram (Wat Phra Kaew)
One of the most famous temples in Bangkok, Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram is more commonly referred to as Wat Phra Kaew or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Located in the northeast corner of the Grand Palace compound, this temple is world famous as the home of the tiny jade statue known as the Emerald Buddha.
Wat Phra Kaew is regarded by many people to be the most important Buddhist temple in the whole of Thailand and passing through the temple doors is a stirring experience. Naturally, visitors are required to dress and act modestly when entering the temple, taking their shoes off outside and storing them in a special rack.
Known as Phra Kaew Morakot, the Emerald Buddha is highly revered and is seen to be one of the main symbol of Thailand. Carved from a single block of jade, the Buddha image is raised on a series of platforms and the only person who is allowed close to the tiny statue is HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej. In addition to Phra Kaew Morakot, the temple contains a number of large Buddha statues and other elaborate ornaments, most of which have been presented to the King by visiting dignitaries. The complex itself also includes several impressive gilded chedis, antique murals depicting Buddhist lore, and a scale model of the Angkor Wat. It all adds up to a feast for the camera lens, but does get crowded.
How to get there: Take the Chao Phraya River Express boat to Chang Wang Luang Pier (pier 9).
Opening Hours: Daily from 08.30 am. - 12.00 pm. and 01.00 pm. - 03.30 pm.
Admission: 250 Baht, which includes admission to the Grand Palace, The Royal Thai Decorations & Coins Pavilion and Vihamanek Mansion. Free for Thai people.
3. Wat PhoFeaturing the famous Reclyning Buddha statue, Wat Pho is perhaps one of the most interesting temples in the whole of Thailand. in addition to the temple itself, Wat Pho’s compound contains a beautifully designed garden complete with fountains, statues and tiny trees as well as a massage centre. People travel to the massage school at Wat Pho from all over Thailand to study the art of massage from the famous instructors here and gain the much coveted certificate, which allows them to practice massage all over the world. But the most prominent feature here is the Reclyning Buddha statue, which is an impressive 46 meters long and is covered with gold leaf. After removing their shoes, visitors to Wat Pho pass through the temple doors and are permitted to view the statue. Particularly of note are the feet of the Buddha statue, which are three meters long and are decorated with the laksanas or characteristics of Lord Buddha, depicted in mother of pearl.
Wat Pho and the Buddha statue both date back to the 16th century. Visitors who wish to discover the history of the temple and the teachings of Lord Buddha can take a tour with an English speaking, and a number of guides can be found in the grounds of Wat Pho.
How to get there: Take the Chao Phraya River Express boat to Tha Tien (pier 8) or Bus routes 1, 3, 12, 25,44, 47, 53, 60, 82, 91, 501 or 508
Opening Hours: Daily from 08.30 am. - 08.00 pm.
Admission: 30 Baht
Historic Building
The Grand PalaceAlso known as Phra Borom Maha Ratcha Wang in Thai, the Grand Palace is one of Bangkok’s most impressive sights. The glittering golden rooftops and soaring chedis (pagodas) of this impressive palace and temple complex can be seen as visitors travel along the Chao Phraya River, capturing the imagination of all who pass by.
The Grand Palace was built in 1782 and was home to the Thai Royal Family for 150 years. Although Chitralada Palace is now the main royal residence, this magnificent structure s now open to the public and is still used for ceremonial purposes. Visitors should allow plenty of time to explore the Grand Palace and the temple complex as a number of tresures are waiting to be explored. In addition to the palace itself, which is elaboratly decorated and features impressive guardian statues, Wat Phra Kaew can also be found here. This is one of Bangkok’s most famous temples as it is home to the much celebrated Emerald Buddha statue (described in more detail in the temple section).
The Grand Palace
How to get there : Take the Chao Phraya River Express boat to Chang Wang Luang Pier (pier 9). The Grand Palace is a two-minute walk from the pier
Opening hours : Daily 08.30 am. - 03.30 pm.
Admission Fee: 250 Baht, which includes admission to Wat Phra Kaeo, The Royal Thai Decorations & Coins Pavilion and Vihamanek Mansion
Vimanmek Mansion
Built in the 19th century, the Vimanmek Mansion is the largest structure in the entire world to have been built entirely of wood. Recently renovated by HM Queen Sirikit, Vimanmek Mansion contains an impressive collection of antique furniture, porcelain and photographs documenting the reign of King Chulalongkorn at the end of the Nineteenth Century when Siam was at its Zenith.
Visitors are treated to a guided tour of Vimanmek Mansion and a presentation of traditional Thai dancing, which takes place in the grounds of the mansion from 10.30 am. to 02.00 pm. The mansion grounds also contain a number of small museums, including the Abhisek Dusit Hall, which houses a collection of ingenious handicrafts created by rural people.
How to get there : Take bus no. 12, 18, 28, 56, 70, 108 or 515, getting off at either Ratchawithi Road or Ratchasima Road
Opening hours : Daily 09.30 am. - 03.30 pm. (close on Public Holidays).
Admission Fee : 100 Baht or fee with an entrance ticket to the Grand Palace
The Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall
The focal point or royal celebrations, the Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall can be found at the end of the Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue, whih features a large number of impressive buildings. This commanding two-story sctructure was built at the start of the 20th century and looks strikingly different from most of Bangkok’s buildings. Designed by Italian architects Mario Tamango and Annibale Rigotti, the Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall features a large central dome and has been built in the neo-classical Renaissance style.
The Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall contains a large number of elaborately crafted golden statues and other items, which were presented to HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej to mark his 60th birthday. It was from the balcony of this building that he greeted an ecstatic crowd of hundreds of thousands who turned out for this proud milestone.
The Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall
How to get there : take bus no. 70, 72 02 503, getting off at the end of Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue
Opening hours : Tuesday - Sunday 10.00 am. - 08.00 pm.
Admission : 150 Baht
Giant Swing
Located on Bamrung Mueang Road in the centre of a square in front of Wat Suthat, the Giant Swing is one of the most intriguing structures in Bangkok. Measuring some 27 meters high, this teak wood frame was used in ceremonies paying homage to the god Shiva up until 1935, when King Rama VII ascended to the throne. During the the ceremony, teams of three daring Thai men would take turns in balancing on the structure and being swung skywards in an attempt to catch a bag of silver coins with their teeth.
However, the ceremony resulted in a large number of deaths and finally had to be cancelled. It is celebrated to this day in a more modest manner every December in Wat Suthat. The Giant Swing was renovated in 2006 and golden teak wood from Phrae Province was used.
How to get there : Take a Taxi or Bus no. 12
Opening hours : Daily 24 hours.
Admission fee : No entry charge
Assumption Cathedral
Built at the request of French missionary Father Pascal in 1809, Assumption Cathedral is the principal Roman Catholic cathedral in Bangkok. Visitors who take a ferry along the Chao Phraya River will be greeted by the sight of Assumption Cathedral as it holds pride of place on the river bank, near the world famous Oriental Hotel.
Assumption Cathedral features a radiant red brick façade, which makes it stand apart from the surrounding buildings. A choir of devout followers practices here every day, often holding concerts to mark occasions such as Easter and Christmas. It’s not strictly in the Grand Palace vicinity but dates from the same era. Among the many famous figures to have visited Assumption Cathedral over the years is Pope John Paul II, who graced the cathedral with his presence in May 1984.
How to get there : take the BTS Skytrain to Taksin station or the Chao Phraya River Express Boat to the Oriental Pier (pier 1).
Opening hours : Services for mass are held on Sundays at 06.00 am., 07.30 am., 08.30 am., 10.00 am. and 05.00 pm.
Admission fee : No entry charge.
Park
Rommaninat ParkSituated on the grounds of the old prison, just a short stroll from Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing, this pleasant park provides a place to relax and unwind in the heart of the city.
Only around five years old, Romimaninat Park features some of the former prison’s original guard towers. Visitors who are interested in Bangkok’s prison history will also be able to visit the Corrections Museum, which is located in one corner of the park and contains displays of instruments of punishment as well as the evolution of punishment within the Kingdom of Thailand. It offers a nice respite to rest while walking among the temples of the area.
How to get there : Take bus no. 5, 35, 42, 56 or 96
Opening hours : Daily 05.00 am. - 08.00 pm., The museum is open 08.30 am. - 04.30 pm., Thursday to Saturday
Admission fee : No entry charge.
Saranrom Park
Featuring a picturesque garden and large lake, Saranrom Park provides a great place to relax after exploring the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. Originally the royal garden belonging to Sanrom Palace, the park was commissioned by King Rama IV in 1866. However, the king died before the park was completed and was given to the crown prince and his brother to use while they were growing up.
Visitors who explore Saranrom Park will discover a number of ancient trees to rest under as well as wooden pagodas and a marble monument at the south of the park, which is dedicated to HM Queen Sunantha Kumareerat and HRH Prince Kannaporn Phetcharat.
How to get there : Take the Chao Phraya River Express boat to Tha Tien (pier 8) or bus no. 1, 6, 7, 12, 25, 39, 43, 48, 75 or 91
Opening hours : Daily 05.00 am. - 08.00 pm.
Admission fee : No entry charge.
Religious Site
Wat Prakeaw (Wat Phrasrirattana Sasadaram)
One of the most famous temples in Bangkok, Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram is more commonly referred to as Wat Phra Kaew or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Located in the northeast corner of the Grand Palace compound, this temple is world famous as the home of the tiny jade statue known as the Emerald Buddha.
Wat Phra Kaew is regarded by many people to be the most important Buddhist temple in the whole of Thailand and passing through the temple doors is a stirring experience. Naturally, visitors are required to dress and act modestly when entering the temple, taking their shoes off outside and storing them in a special rack. Known as Phra Kaew Morakot, the Emerald Buddha is highly revered and is seen to be one of the main symbol of Thailand. Carved from a single block of jade, the Buddha image is raised on a series of platforms and the only person who is allowed close to the tiny statue is HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej. In addition to Phra Kaew Morakot, the temple contains a number of large Buddha statues and other elaborate ornaments, most of which have been presented to the King by visiting dignitaries. The complex itself also includes several impressive gilded chedis, antique murals depicting Buddhist lore, and a scale model of the Angkor Wat. It all adds up to a feast for the camera lens, but does get crowded.
How to get there : Take the Chao Phraya River Express boat to Chang Wang Luang Pier (pier 9).
Opening hours : Daily 08.30 am. - 12.00 pm., and 01.00 pm. - 03.30 pm.
Admission fee : 250 Baht, which includes admission to the Grand Palace, The Royal Thai Decorations & Coins Pavilion and Vihamanek Mansion
Wat Pho
Featuring the famous Reclyning Buddha statue, Wat Pho is perhaps one of the most interesting temples in the whole of Thailand. in addition to the temple itself, Wat Pho’s compound contains a beautifully designed garden complete with fountains, statues and tiny trees as well as a massage centre. People travel to the massage school at Wat Pho from all over Thailand to study the art of massage from the famous instructors here and gain the much coveted certificate, which allows them to practice massage all over the world.
But the most prominent feature here is the Reclyning Buddha statue, which is an impressive 46 meters long and is covered with gold leaf. After removing their shoes, visitors to Wat Pho pass through the temple doors and are permitted to view the statue. Particularly of note are the feet of the Buddha statue, which are three meters long and are decorated with the laksanas or characteristics of Lord Buddha, depicted in mother of pearl.
Wat Pho and the Buddha statue both date back to the 16th century. Visitors who wish to discover the history of the temple and the teachings of Lord Buddha can take a tour with an English speaking, and a number of guides can be found in the grounds of Wat Pho.
How to get there : Take the Chao Phraya River Express boat to Tha Tien (pier 8) or bus no. 1, 3, 12, 25,44, 47, 53, 60, 82, 91, 501 or 508
Opening hours : Daily 08.30 am. - 08.00 pm.
Admission fee : 30 Baht
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing
Officially known as Wat Suthat Thep Wararam, Wat Suthat is located in the very heart of Bangkok. Commissioned by King Rama 1 in 1807, this is one of the oldest temples in the whole of Bangkok and features an elegant sweeping roof. Representing Mount Phra Sumeru, Wat Suthat is home to the holy Buddha image known as Phra Sri Sakayamunee, which was brought to the temple from Wat Mahathat in Sukhothai shortly after the temple was completed.
Visitors to Wat Suthat should also take the time to explore the neighborhood, which has changed little over the years. In addition to the mighty Giant Swing, which can be found just outside the entrance to Wat Suthat, visitors will also discover a number of well preserved shop houses, many of which sell religious souvenirs.
How to get there : Take bus no. 12, 15, 42, 73, 96 or 508
Opening hours : 08.30 am. - 09.00 pm.
Admission fee : 20 Baht
Wat Mahathat
Home to the Vipassana Meditation centre as well as the largest monastic order in Thailand, Wat Mahathat can be found between the Grand Place and National Museum. A good place to pause while exploring the Grand Palace district, Mahathat was built during the reign of King Rama I.
People travel to Wat Mahathat from all over the world to study Buddhism and meditation. In addition to Thai language programmes, the monks here also offer courses in English, making this an excellent place for visitors to Bangkok to study the methods of Vipassana meditation. Classes usually last for three hours at a time and are held daily from 07.00 am. -10.00 am., 01.00 pm. - 04.00 pm. and 06.00 pm. - 08.00 pm. While there is no set charge for these classes, participants are expected to make a donation to the temple.
How to get there : Take bus no. 3, 6, 82, 59, 201, 91, 60, 512, 33, 10 or 203
Opening hours : Daily 07.00 am. - 05.00 pm.
Admission fee : No entry charge.
Wat Ratchabophit
Locted near Wat Pho, Wat Ratchabophit was built in 1869 and was the first temple to be commissioned by King Rama V after he ascended to the throne. While there are a number of different temples in this area, Wat Ratchabophit stands apart from the rest as it features some interesting and unusual gothic elements. While both the prayer hall and ordination hall of Wat Ratchabophit feature standard Thai exteriors, the interiors have been created in the gothic style and look similar to some of the most magnificent cathedrals in Europe.
One of the most famous features of this unusual temple is the Buddha image known as Phra Buddha Ankhiros, which has been created in the meditation posture.
How to get there : Take bus no. 1, 6, 7, 12, 25, 39, 43, 48, 75 or 91
Opening hours Daily 08.00 am. to 05.00 pm.
Admission fee : No entrance charge
Wat Benchamabophit
Often referred to as he Marble Temple, Wat Benchamabophit is one of Bangkok’s most striking temples. Built at the end of the 19th century just after the completion of Dusit Palace, Wat Benchamabophit was designed by the half brother of King Chulalongkorn; Prince Narris.
As the name suggests, many of the buildings here have been constructed from marble, including the ordination hall, which was built from fine Carara Italian marble and features an impressive three-tiered roof. Yet visitors will find that the temple still manages to follow traditional Thai temple styles, including a Buddha replica known as Phra Buddha Chinarahat, which was created in the Sukhothai style.
How to get there : Take bus no. 72 or 503
Opening hours : Daily from 06.00 am. – 06.00 pm.
Admission fee : No entry charge.
Monument
The Equestrian Statue of King Rama V the Great Created as a tribute to one of Thailand’s most beloved kings, the Equestrian Statue of King Rama V the great was completed in 1908. A collection was taken up by the people of Thailand to create this statue, which was then cast by a French craftman in the city of Paris. The statue occupies pride of place in the Royal Plaza in Dusit, near Dusit Zoo. After the sun sets, people travel from far and wide to pay tribute to Rama V, who is also known as King Chulalongkorn, with gifts of flowers, incense and candles.
How to get there : Take bus no. 72 or 503
Opening hours : Daily 24 hours
Admission fee : No charge
Museum
Museum of Siam
A tribute to the Thai culture and identity, the Museum of Siam can be found in the former building of the Ministry of Commerce. A visit to the Museum of Siam is a must for visitors to Bangkok who want to learn more about the ethnology and anthropology of Thailand.
In an attempt to tackle the challenging issue of what it means to be Thai, the Museum of Siam contains a large number of interesting displays, ranging from new articles dating back to the 1920s to photographs, maps and collections of Thai clothing throughout the ages.
How to get there : Take a ferry to Tha Tien (pier 8) and walk for 500 meters or take bus no. 3, 6, 9, 12, 47, 53, 82 or 524
Opening hours : 10.00 am. - 06.00 pm., Tuesday - Sunday
Admission fee : No entry charge
The National Museum
Containing the largest collection of Thai artifacts and artwork in the entire country, the National Museum can be found in the grounds of the former 18th century Wang Na Palace. Many of the artifacts located in the National Museum hail from some of Thailand’s oldest sites, such as Sukhothai and Ayutthaya. Featuring colour photographs, maps and well displayed exhibits, the National Museum should be the first port of call for those with an interest in history and architecture.
The National Museum was first established by King Rama V in 1887 and also contains a number of royal treasures. Those who wish to receive a guided tour of the National Museum should visit on Wednesdays and Thursdays, when tours are conducted free of charge in English and French. It is regarded as one of the greatest repositories of Southeast Asian art and ancient artifacts in the World, included substantial Khmer Buddhist and Hindu carvings.
How to get there : Take bus no. 15, 32, 53, 82 or 503
Opening hours : 09.00 am. 04.00 pm., Wednesday - Sunday
Admission fee : No entry charge
The Press Museum
Originally established in order to enhance the press industry within Thailand, the Press Museum can be found opposite Suan Dusit Rajabhat University, just a short distance from Vimanmek Palace. Although often overlooked by tourists, the Press Museum contains a large number of interesting displays and exhibits, such as the display on modern information technology. The publishing business was established in Thailand by King Rama VI and details of Thailand’s freedom of press and the history of journalism in Thailand can also be found within the Press Museum.
How to get there : Take bus no. 18 or 515
Opening hours : Mon - Fri from 09.00 am. to 05.00 pm.
Admission fee : No entrance charge
Exhibition Centre
Sala Chalermkrung Royal TheatreDedicated to productions of traditional Thai classical masked dance performances known as khon, a visit to the Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theater is an unforgettable experience. Visitors are encouraged to dress themselves in their finest clothes and lose themselves in the moment as some of Thailand’s most celebrated dancers take to the stage and perform tales from classic Asian texts such as the epic Ramayana.
The masks themselves are a real work of art and are extremely costly to produce. Created by some of the most skilful craftsmen in the whole of Thailand, the creation of khon masks and headgear takes a lifetime to perfect. You should certainly have your camera ready for this display of national costume.
How to get there : Take bus no. 12, 48 or 508
Opening hours : Performances start at 07.30 am., Fridays and Saturday
Admission fee : Tickets cost 1,000 and 1,200 Baht
