Every visitor to Bangkok is supposed to visit the Grand Palace, main symbol of the country's royal heritage. Built in 1782 by King Rama I as royal residence and the new seat of power after Bangkok was chosen capital of the country, it was designed to look like the Royal Palace in the former capital of Ayutthaya.
To fully appreciate the grandeur of the palace, one must have a look at the magnificent buildings within the palace compound. The current monarch does not live in the Grand Palace. He stays at the Chitralada Palace. But the Grand Palace, apart from being the country's show window, is still used for certain royal ceremonies.
The main buildings within the Grand Palace compound were built for King Rama V, who was the first Thai King to travel to Europe.
Phra Thinang Chakri Maha Prasat, built in 1877 by King Rama V as his Royal Residence, is the most highly recognized architectural landmark of the country. The central Throne Hall, formerly used to formally receive foreign envoys, is flanked by reception areas decorated with royal portraits. The central room on the second floor is where the ashes of former monarchs are kept.
The Borom Phiman Mansion was also built during the reign of King Rama V. When his son, King Rama VI, ascended to the throne, he had it improved for use as his residence The three succeeding Kings also resided here at one time or another.
The Siwalai Gardens, where the office of The Royal Household Bureau is located, were used for receptions as well as a recreation area for the royal women and children.
Maha Monthien Prasat housed The Audience Hall of Amarin Winitchai where ceremonies of the royal court usually took place.
The Siwalai Gardens, where the office of The Royal Household Bureau is located, were used for receptions as well as a recreation area for the royal women and children.
Maha Monthien Prasat housed The Audience Hall of Amarin Winitchai where ceremonies of the royal court usually took place.
One of the most important buildings in the compound is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, also built in 1782 to serve as the Royal Chapel. It was dedicated to the Emerald Buddha, the most venerated Buddha Maha Mani Rattana Patimakon. Unlike in other temples, there are no resident monks here.
About 48 centimeters tall, the Emerald Buddha image was found in Chiang Rai. Regarded as the most important Buddha image in the country, it was carved out of solid jasper and thought to have been made during the 15th century.
How to go to the Grand Palace:The easiest way is by taxi. But the more enjoyable way is to take the BTS Skytrain to Taksin Station. From here take a Chao Phraya River Express boat to Tha Chang Wang Luang Pier. The public entrance to the Grand Palace is a short walk from the pier.
Opening Hours: Open to the public everyday, except during special Royal Ceremonies, from 8.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. Admission: Bt250. No shorts are allowed.
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Special thanks! for information from "What's on after dark" and "What's on this week"
Special thanks! for information from "What's on after dark" and "What's on this week"
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