Joanna James
The Chao Phraya River is the lifeline of Bangkok. Thus, cruising along this sparkling river gives you the opportunity of witnessing Bangkok's iconic landmarks like never before.
Ask anyone who has been on a Chao Phraya River cruise what the best landmark they saw was and the answer is, more often than not, Wat Arun. Wat Arun is popularly known as the Temple of the Dawn, and is an awe-inspiring and stunning ancient temple in Bangkok. Known for its flawless architecture, the central spire of the temple, along with its four small towers, are iconic structures that are sure to be etched in your mind forever. Located in the West Bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is easily visible while cruising on the river; with the sight of the temple in the night sky, adorned with bright lights, being a simply breathtaking sight.
Easily recognizable by its bright red roof, Wat Mongkhon Bophit is one of the most beautiful temples located along the Chao Phraya River. The temple is renowned for its elegant fusion of red, white and bronze, and is quite a sight when observed from the river. Located in the middle of beautiful temple ground with many idyllic gardens, Wat Mongkhon Bophit is known for housing a large and highly revered bronze-cast Buddha statue. Although you won't see the statue while cruising on the river, the panoramic view of this magnificent temple is quite extraordinary enough!
Located closer to Ayththaya than Bangkok is the Bang Pa In Royal Palace. The Royal Palaces of the Thai Royal Family are known for their opulent architecture and grandeur, and the Bang Pa In Royal Palace is certainly no exception to this. Located along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this marvelous 17th Century palace can be easily seen while on a cruise along the Chao Phraya. Its stunning golden façade, its towering central spire, and regal traditional architecture and design make a sight that any lover of Thai architecture is sure to cherish. The Bang Pa In Royal Palace is, therefore, one of the popular landmarks of the Chao Phraya cruise offered by operators such as Anantara Cruises, Thailand.
It's not every day that you get to experience a panoramic view of Ayuththaya's famous Wat Panancherng. Dating back to the 14th Century, the stunning Wat Panancherng is regarded as being one of the largest and grandest temples in Ayuththaya. Wat Panancherng is renowned for its awe-inspiring beauty, and is revered for housing a gold Buddha statue of immense size, gifted to the Kingdom of Thailand from the Emperor of China. Cruising along the Chao Phraya River offers an unparalleled view of this magnificent temple, making it a point of interest that you must look out for.
Koh Kret is a small island located on the Chao Phraya River and is inhabited by the Mon people. The Mon people established themselves in the island of Koh Kret during the early 1800's, and brought with them their impressive pottery skills. Over 200 years later, the Mon village on Koh Kret is still known for its stunning pottery creations. This simple village is visible while cruising on the Chao Phraya and will give you a sneak peek into the lifestyle and culture of the people that are responsible for some of the most masterful works of pottery in Thailand.
Located in Ayuththaya's Grand Palace complex is the ancient Wat Phra Si Sanphet. Built in the 16th Century, Wat Phra Si Sanphet was one of the most reputed monasteries during the peak of the Ayuththaya Kingdom. Although this monastery/temple is in ruins, its might structures and remnants of its former glory are still worth witnessing.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
