Joanna James
Known as the River of Kings, the Chao Phraya River is lined with iconic landmarks and cultural points of interest. From a sprawling palace to enchanting temple grounds, here are 5 of the area's must-visit highlights every traveller should explore.
Ranked among the top attractions in all of Thailand, let alone the Bangkok riverside, the Grand Palace remains the most breathtaking cultural highlight in the capital. Having served as the royal residence of Thai Kings and the royal court for well over 150 years, the venue is a functioning palace that has opened some of its areas to the public. One of the main reasons Thais and tourists visit the Grand Palace is of course Wat Phra Kaew, the temple where Phra Kaew Moraket or the sculpture of the Emerald Buddha is found. Apart from the countless golden Buddha statues lining the property and its extensive gardens, the Grand Palace's other highlights include the gilded and ornate Phra Mondop and Ho Phra Parit.
Also known as the Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun is easily the most visually stunning temple on the Bangkok riverside. The unique architectural features of the temple and its design are reflected perfectly on the river surface and appear to be hovering over the water at any given time of the day. Especially breathtaking in the early hours of dawn, Wat Arun is on the opposite side of the river from the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. Open to visitors from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm, those based at Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel or any one of the other riverside hotels in Bangkok will find that the evening and the wee hours of the morning are the perfect time to tour these confines.
Called Wat Pho by locals, this ancient temple is also among Bangkok's must-see riverside attractions. Tipped to be one of the largest temples in all of Bangkok, the main draw for pilgrims who flock to the venue throughout the year is undoubtedly the 46m long golden Buddha. Covered almost entirely in gold leaf, the Mother of Pearl engravings on the sculpture's feet are another special feature of this staggering monument. Just 10 minutes away from the Grand Palace, Wat Pho is also home to one of the country's leading massage schools.
A tour of the Thonburi Canals or the khlongs of the Chao Phraya River is essential to understanding the thriving communities that dwell on the riverside. Although most travellers head to the floating markets located in this area, few take the time to delve into the waterfront homes, temples and other highlights located within this riverside community hub.
As the riverside's premier retail Mecca, Asiatique is a one-stop shopping compound and entertainment venue. The best time to enjoy a shopping spree at this mall is during the evening hours as wine bars, food stalls, and street performers can also be witnessed at this hour while the Ferris wheel is also active and affords great views of the city.
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