Visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand

One of the most impressive and colorful sites to explore when you visit Bangkok is the Grand Palace.

The Grand Palace complex was built in 1782, right after the ascension of King Rama I.

The new King wanted to move the capital of Siam from Thonburi to Bangkok and build a palace that would not only serve as his main residence, but also be the site for government offices

Due to its magnificence and rich history, the Grand Palace is one of the most touristic spots in Bangkok, so be patient  as you walk-tour the site because, chances are, there will be crowds.

Also, get your camera ready and plan to spend at least a few hours to fully appreciate the architecture, the symbols, and the overall structures that make up the Grand Palace complex.

What to look for in the Grand Palace

The Upper Terrace is one of the most beautiful and representative areas of the Grand Palace and where you can find four main monuments:

The  Phra Mondop, which contains a repository of sacred Buddhist scriptures; the Golden Chedi; a miniature version of Angkor Wat; and the Royal Pantheon (see photo).

Across from the Upper Terrace you can find the Hor Montien Dharma, which is the Scripture Library and one of the finest buildings in the complex.

As you walk through the palace, look for some of the most representative statues in the palace (besides the Buddhas), which are the Golden Kinnaras and the colorful Temple Guardians.

Also, look for the beautiful art galleries with detailed paintings made during the reign of King Rama I.

One of the most venerated sites in all of Thailand is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), located north of the Borom Phiman Mansion.

The gorgeous Buddha figure at this important temple is enshrined on a golden throne and clad with one of three seasonal costumes.

In front of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha you can find a pavilion used by many people to make offerings to Buddha.

Other spectacular buildings are the Phra Maha Monthien, which used to be the royal residence for the Thai Kings, and the Chakri Maha Prasat, which consists of the Central Throne Hall.

This royal building is multi-purpose, but mainly used to welcome foreign ambassadors and for state banquets in honor of Heads of State.

One of the last buildings to see in the Grand Palace complex is the Dusit Prasat Hall, used for the annual Coronation Day ceremony.

One thing for sure is that if you love history, architecture, and photography, you will find the Grand Palace to be one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Have you been to the Grand Palace in Bangkok? Please comment and share your experiences.