The Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand is a historic royal residence that was the official residence of the Kings of Siam (and later Thailand) from the late 1700s to the mid-1900s. The palace complex, which covers an area of 218,400 square meters, is made up of numerous buildings, halls, pavilions, and courtyards, and is adorned with intricate and ornate decorations. Some of the notable structures within the palace include the Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), the Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram (Temple of the Sacred Relic), and the Chakri Maha Prasat Hall. The palace is open to the public for tours, and is a popular tourist attraction in Bangkok, but visitors are required to dress appropriately and follow strict rules while inside the palace.
There are several ways to get to the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand.
- By Public Transport : The palace is located in the heart of Bangkok and can be easily accessed by public transportation. The nearest public transportation is the BTS Skytrain, get off at Saphan Taksin Station and take the boat (Chao Phraya Express Boat) to Tha Chang (N9) pier, and the palace is within walking distance.
- By Taxi : You can also take a taxi to the palace, but traffic in Bangkok can be heavy, so it may be a bit slow. Make sure to ask the driver to use the meter, as some may try to charge you a higher fare.
- By Motorbike-taxi : This is a popular option for those who prefer a faster and more flexible way to travel in Bangkok. You can take a motorbike-taxi to the palace, but make sure to negotiate the fare before getting on.
- By Car: you can rent a car or hire a driver to take you to the palace, but be aware that traffic in Bangkok can be heavy, and parking near the palace can be difficult.
- By Bike : You can also rent a bike to get to the palace, but be aware that traffic in Bangkok can be heavy and chaotic, and the palace’s area is not bike-friendly.
It’s also important to note that the Grand Palace is closed on public holidays, so please check the schedule before visiting.
The Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand has an admission fee for visitors.
As of 2021, the admission fee for foreign visitors is 500 THB (Thai Baht) per person. The admission fee for Thai citizens is 40 THB per person. Children under the age of 6 are free.
However, there are some ways to visit the palace for free.
- On the King’s birthday: Admission to the Grand Palace is free for everyone on the King’s birthday, which is celebrated on December 5th.
- On National holidays: Admission is free for Thai citizens on National holidays such as the Thai New Year (Songkran) and other National holidays.
- For students: Students with a valid ID can enter the palace for free.
It’s worth noting that these free entry policies are subject to change, so it’s always best to check the official website or with the palace directly before your visit.
Keep in mind that you will be required to dress appropriately and follow strict rules while inside the palace, otherwise, the palace staff will ask you to leave.
There are many activities to do at the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand. Some of the most popular activities include:
- Touring the palace complex: The palace complex is made up of numerous buildings, halls, pavilions, and courtyards, and is adorned with intricate and ornate decorations. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace to learn about its history and architecture.
- Visiting the Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha): This temple is considered the most sacred temple in Thailand and it is located within the palace complex. The temple houses the famous Emerald Buddha, a statue of the Lord Buddha made of jade. Visitors can see the statue and learn about its history and significance.
- Visiting the Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram (Temple of the Sacred Relic): This temple is located within the palace complex and it houses the Phra Sri Ratana Chedi, which contains a relic of the Lord Buddha. Visitors can see the chedi and learn about its history and significance.
- Visiting the Chakri Maha Prasat Hall: This hall is located within the palace complex and it houses the throne of the Kings of Siam and Thailand. Visitors can see the throne and learn about its history and significance.
- Taking in the views: The palace complex offers many beautiful views of Bangkok, visitors can take a walk around the palace complex and take in the views of the city.
Keep in mind that the palace is closed on public holidays, so please check the schedule before visiting.
When visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand, there are several precautions that should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit:
- Dress appropriately: Visitors are required to dress appropriately when visiting the palace. Men should wear long pants and shirts with sleeves, and women should wear skirts or pants that cover the knees, and shirts that cover the shoulders. Visitors who are not dressed appropriately will be asked to leave.
- Follow the rules: Visitors are required to follow strict rules while inside the palace. Visitors should not touch or climb on any of the buildings, statues or other structures in the palace, and should not take any photographs or videos that could be considered disrespectful or offensive.
- Be aware of pickpockets: The palace is a popular tourist destination and it can be crowded, so it’s important to be aware of pickpockets. Visitors should keep their valuables in a secure place and be aware of their surroundings at all times.
- Be prepared for the heat: Bangkok can be very hot and humid, so visitors should be prepared for the heat by wearing appropriate clothing, using sunscreen, and staying hydrated.
- Take care of your health: Visitors should also be aware of their health and take any necessary precautions. If you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking any medication, please make sure to bring them with you.
- Check the schedule: The palace is closed on public holidays, so visitors should check the schedule before visiting.
By following these precautions, visitors can ensure that they have a safe and enjoyable visit to the Grand Palace in Bangkok.