DK Travel : Bangkok : Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo

Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo

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In 1782, Rama I (r.1782–1809) established the capital in Bangkok, where he built Wat Phra Kaeo to house the country’s most precious Buddha image. In 1784, he had the Grand Palace built, which became the home of the royal family. No king has resided here since the early 20th century, but the complex is a stunning display of Thai art and architecture and a truly memorable sight.
Modest dress is essential; no sandals, shorts, or sleeveless shirts allowed. Visit in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat. Wear a hat or carry an umbrella to protect yourself from the sun. It is usually cooler inside the cloisters. Keep your ticket for free entry (use within one week) to Vimanmek Palace . Carry water, as the only café is at the end of the tour, next to the Dusit Throne Hall.

Top 10 Features

1. Wat Phra Kaeo

Serving as the royal chapel of the Grand Palace, this dazzling complex never fails to impress first-time visitors with its slender chedi (stupas), glittering mosaics, and other-worldly creatures, such as the fearsome yaksha (giants) that stand guard by the gates. The wat (temple) is Thailand’s holiest shrine, but unlike other Thai temples, there are no resident monks here (see Wat Phra Kaeo ).
2. Siwalai Gardens

2. Siwalai Gardens

These well-kept, picturesque gardens were once used for official receptions. Within the gardens are two buildings. The Neo-Classical Boromphiman Mansion, was built by Rama V (see 1868: Rama V Crowned ) for the Crown Prince (later Rama VI), and now serves as a guesthouse for visiting dignitaries. The Phra Buddha Ratana Sathan was built as a personal chapel by Rama IV (see 1851: Rama IV Crowned ).
3. Amarin Winichai Hall

3. Amarin Winichai Hall

This was one of the first buildings of the palace complex to be completed, and was originally used as an audience hall for foreign guests. Inside, the hall has colorful murals and Rama I’s boat-shaped Busabok Mala Throne surmounted by a nine-tiered white canopy. Today the hall is used for state cermonies and is open to the public on weekdays.
4. Phaisan Thaksin Hall

4. Phaisan Thaksin Hall

This hall is not open to the public and is used only for coronations. It contains the Coronation Chair and the tutelary deity, Phra Siam Thewathirat.
5. Chakraphat Phiman Hall

Closed to the public, this hall was the residence of the first three kings of the Chakri dynasty (see 1782: Bangkok Founded ). It consists of a royal bedchamber and a reception chamber housing the regalia and accoutrements of kingship.
6. Inner Palace

Until the time of Rama VII (r.1925–35), the Inner Palace was inhabited solely by women. All males except the king were forbidden entry. Still closed to the public, it is now a school for girls from prominent families.
7. Chakri Maha Prasat

Occupying center stage in the Grand Palace is the Chakri throne hall.Built by Rama V in 1882, it is a fusion of Western and Thai architectural styles. The ashes of Chakri kings are housed here.
8. Aphonphimok Pavilion

This small but attractive pavilion was built by Rama IV as a royal changing room prior to audiences in the adjacent Dusit Throne Hall. Its multi-tiered roof and elaborate decoration are hallmarks of classic Thai design.
9. Dusit Throne Hall

9. Dusit Throne Hall

For many, this building is the site’s crowning glory, featuring a four-tiered roof and Rama I’s teak throne.
10. Wat Phra Kaeo Museum

This museum displays a treasure trove of artifacts salvaged from restoration of the palace, including costumes of the The Emerald Buddha .

Practical Information

Modest dress is essential; no sandals, shorts, or sleeveless shirts allowed. Visit in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat. Wear a hat or carry an umbrella to protect yourself from the sun. It is usually cooler inside the cloisters. Keep your ticket for free entry (use within one week) to Vimanmek Palace . Carry water, as the only café is at the end of the tour, next to the Dusit Throne Hall. Na Phra Lan Road (02) 623 5500 AC bus 503, 508, 512 Open 8:30am–3:30pm daily Adm B250