Joanna James
There’s a lot more to Bangkok than the infectious chaotic energy that permeates every corner. Its rich culture, for one, is fascinating, and it’s preserved by places like the Grand Palace.
Simply put, it was where the royal family lived. Built in 1782, the Grand Palace is a key part of Thai culture and has had a hand in shaping Bangkok’s character. Royals no longer live here, but the palace still has an important role to play. Some of the official ceremonies and state visits are held at the palace, and it’s culturally and religiously significant. Not to mention, over the years, the Grand Palace has become a top tourist attraction in Bangkok, drawing crowds from around the world, wanting to get a glimpse of a palace that once housed royals.
You have two ways of getting here: you can either take the BTS or the MRT. Most tourists choose the BTS as it’s a scenic route – you’ll travel to Saphan Taksin Station by BTS, and then take the Chao Phraya Express Boat from there, which costs less than a dollar! You also have the option of taking the MRT – take the Bangkok MRT and get to Sanam Chai Station. From there, it’s a 15-minute walk to the palace. The Grand Palace is located centrally to accommodations and transport links. You can easily take a taxi or a tuk-tuk from your hotel too. For example, if you stay at a Riverside Bangkok hotel, a hotel like Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, for example, it’s a 20-minute drive to the palace.
Located on the Grand Palace premises, the Temple of Emerald Buddha, also called Wat Phra Kaew, is among the most important temples in Thailand. It’s home to a Buddha statue carved from a single jade stone. Both locals and tourists visit to see this amazing Thai workmanship personified in the form of a statue, and you should be one of that number too!
This one is a library, one of the best you’ll ever see anywhere. Part of the Grand Palace complex, Phra Mondop features a collection of Buddhist scripture encased within a safe with an inlay of pearls! Needless to say, Phra Mondop is a must-visit during your visit to the Grand Palace.
Cambodian Heritage: The Grand Palace is home to some of the most curious things you’ll ever see, but none as intriguing as the replica of Angkor Wat, one of the most magnificent and historically and culturally rich temple complexes in Cambodia. You get to see a glimpse of it right here in Bangkok! It’s much more than a glimpse, actually – the craftsmanship is so good you’d feel as though you’re in Cambodia, not Bangkok. It’s fascinating to see the cultural connection here. Commissioned by King Rama IV, the replica was built in the 1800s.
Do you know the tale of Ramayana of India? You can see something similar unfold at the gallery of the Grand Palace. The story of Ramakien is very much like the tale of Ramayana in its cultural significance. The gallery houses a collection of paintings that tell the story of Ramakien, so be sure to add it to your list.
Thailand’s rich culture is showcased through its traditional attire. At the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles, you get to see this part of Thai culture preserved through a collection of textiles, handcrafts, and fabrics. Don’t just go in and out of the museum; spend a bit of time here to learn about the country’s weaving craft.
All that walking around and exploring is bound to make you tired. Visit the onsite shop, Doi Kham, for a snack. It’s open from 7.30 AM to 4 PM. Grab a drink, hot or cold, and find a quiet corner to rest your legs. Before you move on to the next attraction, take a second to look through the fascinating array of local products on sale here. Buy some dried fruits like mango, peach, or strawberry to enjoy once you get to your hotel.
Yes, there’s a theatre inside the Grand Palace. Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theater hosts various cultural shows, including Thai classical dance performed by talented dancers. To get to the theatre, take the shuttle bus from the Phiman Deves Gate.
Situated close to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Pavilion of Regalia, Royal Decorations and Coins features a collection of old Thai money and decorations that were used by the royals in the past. The collection also includes royal attire and various royal emblems.
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.
