Discover the wonders of Bangkok's Grand Palace!
One of Thailand's most visited tourist attractions, the Grand Palace is located in the heart of the city. This impressive complex is both the historic home of the Thai royal family and a major symbol of Thailand's religious and cultural heritage. If you're looking for an exotic trip filled with exploration and magical experiences, the Grand Palace is one of the must-see attractions in Bangkok.
Historical Significance
The palace itself was built in 1782, when King Rama I founded the Rattanakosin Kingdom, making Bangkok the capital of Thailand. The palace served as the official residence of Thai kings for decades, and although it is no longer inhabited, it remains one of the most important venues for royal ceremonies and religious events. The palace consists of various buildings, each serving a different purpose. The architecture of the Palace incorporates elements of Chinese, European and Khmer in addition to Thai styles. The most iconic part is Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which is the holiest Buddhist temple in Thailand. The gilded buildings, impressive decorations and imposing statues found within the palace grounds showcase the best of Thai architecture and amaze all visitors, as they were once adorned with real gems and gold. Since Bangkok is often threatened by floods, special attention was paid during construction to creating a proper drainage system.
What to Wear to Visit the Grand Palace?
There is a strict dress code when visiting the Grand Palace, as it is a sacred site and one of the most important symbols of Thai culture. Visitors are required to cover their shoulders and knees, so it is a good idea to plan ahead and wear appropriate clothing. But who says conservative dressing has to be boring? Many of my designs will work well for this program! A long skirt or an elegant maxi dress are not only comfortable in the tropical climate, but also fashionable.
Dressing tips for your visit:
• Long dresses and skirts: When visiting the Grand Palace, choose a long dress or skirt that covers your knees. An elegant maxi dress or a light summer skirt would be a perfect choice. Shorts are not allowed!
• Light fabrics: In Bangkok's tropical climate, light, breathable natural fabrics are essential. A beautiful dress made from natural fabrics is not only practical, but also elegant.
• Cover everything stylishly: Shoulders should also be covered, so it's a good idea to bring a light scarf or blazer with you to always look stylish while respecting local customs.
The vast grounds of the Grand Palace are home to many attractions and special sites to explore. Here are some of the most important ones that are definitely worth seeing:
Wat Phra Kaew – Temple of the Emerald Buddha The most sacred part of the palace is Wat Phra Kaew, home to the famous Emerald Buddha. This small jade statue is Thailand’s most important Buddhist relic and attracts thousands of visitors each year. The temple itself is a stunning sight, with gilded decorations and beautiful frescoes. Don’t miss a walk around the temple, where you can admire the detailed architectural elements and sculptures. The Emerald Buddha is dressed in ceremonial clothes three times a year, with the participation of the Thai king. This ceremony symbolizes the change of the three seasons (summer, rainy season, winter) and is intended to ensure good weather that brings good luck.
The Royal Pantheon The Royal Pantheon is one of the most iconic buildings in the Grand Palace grounds. It houses statues of former Thai kings and is a particularly important site during Thai royal ceremonies. Like other royal palaces, it also hosts spectacular changing of the guard ceremonies.
The Palace's Inner Courtyards and Gardens The palace's inner courtyards and gardens exude a special tranquility and offer a great opportunity to relax after the hustle and bustle of the city. Here you will also encounter special sculptures and traditional Thai architectural elements that further enhance the experience of your visit.
Due to its popularity, it is worth arriving early to avoid large crowds.
Opening hours: 8:30am to 3:30pm daily, so it’s a good idea to arrive in the morning when it’s least crowded. Expect even bigger crowds during national holidays as Thais pay their respects at temples. Keep in mind that you often have to take off your shoes at temples, so comfortable sandals or flats that are easy to slip on and off are a practical choice.