The Grand Palace, a pride of Thailand, is a must-see tourist attraction for anyone visiting Bangkok. Built in 1782 by King Rama I, this 60 acre landmark houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) and was also home to the royal residence.
the classic view of the Grand Palace complex from outside
Upon entering the complex, we are greeted by a friendly looking statue of the Hermit Doctor on a pedestal, said to be the father of Thai herbal medicine. Many pay their worship here to be blessed with good health.
worshippers making offerings to the Hermit Doctor
As we explore the interior of the complex, we are amazed at the display of architectural splendour in the royal compound. Also, around the buildings of Wat Phra Kaew are colourful guardian statues of varying sizes.
demon guardian standing tall
holding up one of the chedis
more guardian statues supporting a golden chedi
Upper Terrace
Three prominent monuments stand next to each other at the Upper Terrace. The first is the Phra Si Ratana Chedi, a tall gold structure with a bell shaped base and a spire at the top. Covered in gold tiles, this main chedi is said to contain the relics of Lord Buddha. In the centre is the Phra Mondop, a library where sacred Buddhist scriptures are kept. Adjacent to the Phra Mondop, is the Prasad Phra Thep Bidom, the Royal Pantheon, in which statues of the Chakri kings are enshrined.
the three outstanding structures of the Upper Terrace
9th century Javanese buddha with the high columns of Phra Mondop
beautiful arches of the Royal Pantheon
the ornate doors and walls of the Royal Pantheon
Ubosot
The most important building in the complex, the Ubosot, is the ordination hall which houses the sacred Emerald Buddha. Carved from green jade, this Emerald Buddha sits high on an altar and has seasonal costumes for summer, rainy season and winter. There is a ceremony presided by His Majesty the King, held 3 times a year to change the costume.
the Ubosot
protectors in gold, lining the walls of the Ubosot
glittering exterior of the Ubosot
the Emerald Buddha in winter clothing
Chakri and Dusit Group
We move on to the southern part of the complex. The Chakri Maha Prasad which is the Grand Palace Hall, consists of the Central Throne Hall. West of the Chakri Maha Prasad is the Dusit Group comprising of the Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall and the Amphorn Phimok Pavilion. The Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall serves as the resting place for deceased members of the Royal Family before they are cremated.
European style facade of the Chakri Maha Prasad
the impressive Amphorn Phimok Pavilion
Visitors to Note:
Visitors are required to dress appropriately to enter the Grand Palace and Temple of Emerald Buddha, considered as a place of worship. Men should be dressed in long trousers, shirts with sleeves and covered shoes. Likewise for ladies, the legs, shoulders and upper part of the arms should not be exposed. However, for visitors whose dress attire are considered inappropriate, there are trousers or skirts available for borrowing.
signboard of dress code guidelines
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