Bangkok has a wealth of palaces and mansions.
The Grand Palace is Bangkok's number one attraction. Shimmering
in gold, alongside the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, it represents
the best in Thai tradition and is a truly magnificent sight.
Much of Bangkok's history has evolved along the banks of
the Chao Phraya river. It provides a contrast of old and new,
with some of Bangkok's best temples standing alongside warehouses,
old wooden houses, and five star hotels. A trip on the river
is a must and that way you will see some of the Sights
of Bangkok and also see many local people go about
their business. For a small amount you can go on the river
taxi which goes up and down the river constantly stopping
at many stops - but get on quickly it doesn’t hang around.
The Ko Rattanakosin area is the oldest part of Bangkok. Located
by the river, this is where most of Bangkok's main historical
attractions are.
The Grand Palace
Na Phra Lan Road - Inside the Grand Palace complex.
Hours: 8:30 am to 12 pm and 1 pm to 3:30om daily.
Within the palace complex are several impressive buildings including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It contains a small and beautiful Emerald Buddha, dating back to the fourteenth century. The robes on the Buddha are changed with the seasons by the King of Thailand. But the entire Palace is a wealth of historic associations, culture and traditions.
Wat Arun - Temple of the Dawn
On the Chao Phraya river, opposite Tha Thien Pier.
Hours: 8 am - 5:30 pm
One of Bangkok's most famous temples with an imposing spire over seventy metres high. It is one of the major landmarks on the river.
Wat Suthat -Great Swing
146 Banrung Muang Road
Hous: 8:30 am to 5 pm. One of the oldest temples and the site of the original Giant Swing ceremony. The swing was used in a ceremony to give thanks for a good rice harvest.
The Klongs
To reaxch the Klongs hire a long-tail boat at Tha Chang ferry pier near the Grand Palace or the pier at the River City Shopping Complex. The Klongs is a world of villages criss-crossed by narrow canals and lined with old wooden houses. Small boats taxi locals up and down the river and women in sampans sell rice and noodles from their floating kitchens.
Wat Po- Temple of the Reclining Buddha
Thye Wang and Sanam Chai Road, Bangkok
The largest and oldest temple in Bangkok, it contains the largest statue in Thailand. Forty six metres long, its feet are three metres long and the whole body is covered in gold leaf.
Erawan Shrine
Corner of Ratchadamri and Ploenchit Roads, Bangkok
A shrine is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, who has the
power to grant wishes.
|
