Joanna James
Although Bangkok is famed as a shopper's paradise, the capital of Thailand is also home to countless cultural heritage sites dating back centuries. Here's a rundown of the top 10 historical points of interest that every visitor should explore during a trip to Bangkok.
As the main reason that most history buffs visit Bangkok in the first place, the Grand Palace is not only home to the Emerald Buddha but is also a resplendent residence of the Thai royal family. Built as early as 1792 by the founder of Bangkok King Rama I, the venue's main highlights include the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and dozens of other Buddha sculptures as well as reception halls and banquet spaces that were used to entertain dignitaries.
Located in Yaowarat, Bangkok, Wat Traimit is an ancient temple that also contains the globe's biggest seated Buddha statue in gold. Made using 5.5 tons of solid gold, the value of the sculpture is estimated to be around 250 million US dollars.
While it may be lesser known than the Grand Palace, the Suan Pakkad Palace is no less impressive. Having served as the luxurious residence of King Rama V's grandson, Prince Paribatra, the palace is well-known for its extensive painting, glass and musical instrument collection. On the lacquerware and art collection side, the venue, which has now been turned into a museum, also showcases Ban Chiang pottery.
Occupying pride of place in Dusit, Rattanakosin Island is a historic area of Bangkok that's on the Chao Phraya River. It is home to iconic structures of cultural importance such as Wat Pho and the National Museum. Some of the city's main landmarks are also found on this charming island. Those based at Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok or any other Bangkok city hotel on the banks of the river will have easy access to this island.
Called KUDI JIN in the local tongue, this centuries-old church in Thonburi, Bangkok, was aptly dubbed "The Chinese Church" since it was first built in 1769.
As an attraction that's off the beaten path, most visitors are unaware of this museum that's dedicated to a local legend in the sphere of politics, literature, and journalism.
Complete with small alleys lined with shophouses and marketplaces that have stood the test of time, Bangkok's Chinatown offers visitors the chance to step back to a cultural heartland that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Whether you're a silk connoisseur or not, a visit to this breathtaking household, which was the residence of Jim Thompson, is a must. A pioneer in Thai silk manufacturing and marketing, the house is a combination of 6 traditional teak houses that have been reassembled in Bangkok.
Situated on the outskirts of the city, Ayutthaya Historical Park contains the ruins of hundreds of temples and is one of Bangkok's main cultural hotspots.
Constructed by the country's first developer back in 1915, the Nai Lert Park Heritage Home is a public park that's now home to a museum, gardens, and a period home.
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