bangkok palace visit

By his royal command, a palace was built to serve not only as his residence but also as the site of administrative offices

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The Grand Palace

Phra mondop, phra siratana chedi, there are 3 different costumes of the emerald buddha.

The Temple of The Emerald Buddha

The temple of the emerald buddha is located in the area of the outer palace to house the emerald buddha., attractions, arts of the kingdom museum.

The Arts of the Kingdom Museum is therefore the only museum that displays work created by the hands of the farming community. The artisans of the Queen Sirikit Institute create art works without a model or a mold. They start from zero, with no background in the arts. Some cannot even read and write. But through the generosity of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, these beautiful works of art have therefore been preserved as national treasures, an artistic heritage that is a source of pride for future generations of Thai people.

Khon Performance at Sala Chalerm-krung Royal.

Khon Performance at Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre is a show staged to follow the footsteps of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn in preserving and carrying forward the nation’s high art form of classical dance.

Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles.

The Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles is located inside the Ratsadakorn-bhibhathana Building on the grounds of the Grand Palace. In 2003, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother requested permission to use a then-vacant building on the grounds of the Grand Palace to house a new museum of textiles.

The Grand Palace is a complex of buildings at the heart of Bangkok, Thailand. The palace has been the official residence of the Kings of Siam (and later Thailand) since 1782.

Inclusive of access to Wat Phra Kaew, The Royal Thai

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Guide to the Grand Palace

Bangkok's Grand Palace: The Complete Guide

 TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

The Grand Palace

Make no mistake: Bangkok’s Grand Palace is the busiest tourist stop in the city. Day after day, it’s swarming with tourists from all parts of the world who scramble for some Thai history and culture as they bake in the heat.

Somehow, the 2.35 million square feet of the Grand Palace grounds right in the middle of the city just don’t seem enough to accommodate everyone!

People keep coming because the Grand Palace could arguably be called the birthplace of Bangkok. The Emerald Buddha housed there is considered to be the most important image of Buddha in Thailand.

If you arrive early and apply some patience, the Grand Palace in Bangkok can be rewarding. Although the palace grounds and Wat Phra Kaew — home of the emerald Buddha — are indeed impressive, Thailand’s capital has plenty of interesting places on offer . No need to “muscle through” checking off every top attraction if doing so seems more like work than enjoyment.

Tip: If the pace in the City of Angels has already frayed your patience, consider taking a train the short distance north to Ayutthaya for some more personal space among even older ruins.

The Grand Palace didn’t always look as impressive as it does today. When King Rama I began construction in April of 1782, he was forced to use wood and whatever was nearby. Eventually, bricks were recovered from the ruins of Ayutthaya and ferried down the Chao Phraya River. The former capital in Ayutthaya was sacked in 1767 during a war with the Burmese.

Canals were dug, and the natural bend of the Chao Phraya was leveraged to create a more easily defended island that would become home to the new capital city. The plan worked; the capital never had to be moved again. Today, Bangkok is home to over 10.5 million people in the metropolitan region.

During construction, some time was saved by mimicking pretty well the exact floor plan and layout of the Grand Palace in Ayutthaya. King Rama I was able to take permanent residence at the new Grand Palace just two months later on June 10, 1782.

Over the years, materials hastily scavenged were eventually replaced with mason work performed by unpaid laborers. The Emerald Buddha, considered to be the protector of Thailand, was housed in the king’s Royal Chapel. It eventually became Wat Phra Kaew.

Interestingly, two of the three golden costumes draped on the Emerald Buddha were made by King Rama I himself. The golden attire is usually changed seasonally by the King of Thailand.

How to Get to the Grand Palace

Making your own way to the Grand Palace in Bangkok is more enjoyable and rewarding than dealing with the persistent upselling delivered by drivers.

Get off the roads, and take advantage of the water. Moving around by river taxi is inexpensive. Plus, you’ll have a good excuse to see the Chao Phraya River up close. Going by boat allows you to avoid traffic and enjoy river scenery along the way — bonus!

If you have access to the BTS Skytrain , take it to Saphan Taksin station, then follow signs to the boat pier. Take the river taxi nine stops north to the Tha Chang (elephant) pier; they are marked with signs.

If you lose count of the stops, don’t worry. The Grand Palace is sprawled between the Tha Tien pier and Tha Chang pier; you’ll be able to see it from the boat. Once alighting at Tha Chang pier, walk a short distance south (to the right) to the entrance of the palace.

Note: For first-timers, using the river taxi system can seem a little daunting, even hectic. Boats often don’t come to a complete stop at piers as attendants blow whistles and wrestle with ropes to hold them in place. It all seems a bit frenetic. Passengers are encouraged jump on and off the boat quickly to avoid delays. Don’t worry, the Grand Palace is often the busiest stop along the river. You’ll be given enough time to get off the boat.

People staying in the Khao San Road area may opt to walk (around 20-25 minutes) to the Grand Palace. You can walk south skirting the edge of the green Royal Field or down the road nearest the river.

The Grand Palace is open seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.

Occasionally, the Grand Palace does actually close for official visits and state functions, however, this is rare. Don’t believe any driver who claims the Grand Palace is closed, assuming you’re trying to go before 3:30 p.m.!

If the claims of closure are too convincing, ask someone at your hotel reception to confirm by calling: +66 2 623 5500 ext. 3100.

Entrance Fees

Considering that temples in Thailand are often free, the 500 baht (around US $16) per person entrance fee at the Grand Palace is relatively steep. Thai nationals do not have to pay.

An audio tour can be rented for an additional 200 baht. Optionally, human guides are available for hire; you’ll have to negotiate a rate with them. Choose an official guide within the compound rather than accepting someone’s offer on the outside.

Dress Code at the Grand Palace

To show adequate respect, you shouldn’t wear shorts or sleeveless shirts in any temple or state building in Thailand. Numerous travelers do so anyway. But unlike many of the other temples, a dress code is strictly enforced at the Grand Palace.

• Men must wear long pants; women must cover legs to just above the knee.
• Avoid wearing tight-fitting stretch pants or “revealing” clothing.
• Don’t wear sleeveless shirts or show shoulders.
• Don’t wear shirts with religious themes or symbols of death (heavy metal t-shirts, anyone?) on them. Many of the backpacker-favored Sure and No Time brand t-shirts portray Buddhist and Hindu themes.
• You may be told outside that flip-flops are unacceptable footwear, but this rule is usually overlooked for tourists. Shoes must be removed when entering sacred areas anyway.

If your attire is unacceptable, you’ll be required to cover up with a sarong. Assuming the booth is open and they still have sarongs on hand, you can borrow one for free (with a refundable 200-baht deposit).

If borrowing a sarong isn’t an option, you’ll be sent across the street to the myriad of sellers to haggle for an overpriced t-shirt or to rent a sarong.

Note: The booth for loaning sarongs may close whenever they like, meaning you’ll have paid 200 baht for a used sarong.

Beware of Scams

The area surrounding the Grand Palace is considered a honeypot by every scammer and con artist in Bangkok. In fact, the fleecing effort is organized: clout and seniority determine a pecking order for preying on tourists!

Tuk-tuk drivers may audibly smack their lips when you request a ride to the Grand Palace. For them, it’s the equivalent of winning the tourist-fare lottery. Avoid a lot of hassle by getting yourself there by boat (or walking from Khao San Road).

Don’t believe drivers — or anyone — who claim that the Grand Palace is closed. Barring a complete disaster, it probably isn’t. These con artists are just trying to hijack your itinerary for the day. Tuk-tuk drivers want to take you to shops where they receive commission or fuel vouchers.

If you aren’t sure if your attire meets dress code, wait for the official verdict at the entrance. Sarongs may be available for free. The many sellers will claim that skirts are too short in order to sell or rent sarongs to tourists unnecessarily.

Once near the Grand Palace, be more on guard with bags and belongings. Don’t have that expensive iPhone protruding tantalizingly from a back pocket. Although crime in Bangkok is relatively low, snatch-and-grab thefts by motorbike are on the rise.

Stick to hiring only officially sanctioned guides at the Grand Palace.

Tips for Visiting the Grand Palace

• Arrive right when the Grand Palace opens (8:30 a.m.). Doing so will give you a short while to enjoy the grounds before big tour groups and heat move in.
• Plan to get hot. Bangkok’s heat and urban humidity become suffocating by 11 a.m., particularly if visiting during the hottest months between March and May . Wear sunscreen and a hat. Some visitors choose to take an umbrella, but this makes navigating crowded spaces even more challenging.
• Stay patient. The heat and cramped spaces can test nerves. Unless you’re on assignment, don’t feel obligated to explore every part of the Grand Palace. If you’re no longer enjoying yourself, leave! Nearby Wat Pho is often slightly less crowded.
• The Grand Palace is often the only tourist sight squeezed in by people with limited time who are passing through Bangkok for business or transit . Don’t become convinced, as some do, that Thailand is just “too touristy” because of one experience!

In the Area

Unsurprisingly, the Grand Palace in Bangkok is surrounded by other interesting attractions within walking distance. You can also take public transportation to find many free things to do .

Wat Pho, just to the south, is home to the largest collection of Buddha images in Thailand. Among them is an impressive 46-meter-long reclining Buddha. Wat Pho is also considered to be the premier place to learn or experience traditional Thai massage.

Wat Mahathat, one stop north, is one of the oldest temples in Bangkok. It’s an important vipassana meditation center, and interestingly, the preferred place to buy charms and amulets.

The busy tourist area of Khao San Road can be reached by walking north around 25 minutes. The neighborhood, along with Soi Rambuttri, is home to a myriad of budget cafes, bars, spas, and restaurants.

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13 Highlights at Bangkok's Grand Palace: A Visitor's Guide

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

If you could only choose one thing to do during your visit to Bangkok, seeing the Grand Palace should be it. Built in 1782, the palace was commissioned by then-king Rama I, who founded Thailand's Chakri Dynasty.

Although the palace is no longer the official administrative seat of the government or home to the Thai King, the original buildings used for these purposes still stand and can be toured during your visit.

During the centuries since it was first built, the palace grounds have been well maintained, with particular care being taken to preserve and restore the palace's extensive murals. Thailand's most sacred site, the Emerald Buddha temple , is located between the walls of the palace, and so are many other important buildings where you can get a chance to experience a piece of Thailand's history firsthand.

For details on everything you should see when you get here, check out our list of top tourist attractions inside the Grand Palace.

See also: Where to Stay near Bangkok's Grand Palace

Things to See at the Grand Palace

1. temple of the emerald buddha/wat phra kaeo, 2. phra mondop, 3. ho phra parit, 4. the royal pantheon, 5. angkor wat, 6. boromabiman hall, 7. the great chakri palace, 8. phra thinang amarin winitchai, 9. dusit maha prasat, 10. aphorn phimok prasat, 11. hor phra monthian dharma, 12. phra wiharn yod, 13. the belfry, hours and entry fee, where to stay near bangkok's grand palace, tips and tactics.

This holy site is easily recognizable by the two imposing demon figures guarding the entrance. The statues, gifts from Chinese merchants, stand sentinel at the gate to the gorgeous temple. Those brave enough to pass by the demons are treated to a cycle of murals depicting the epic poem of Ramakien , which recounts the work of the gods and their relationship with humanity. Inside the gold-tiled chedi, known as Phra Si Ratana, there's a relic that (according to tradition) its either a piece of bone or hair of the enlightened Buddha.

Inside the bot, the exquisite statue of a meditating Buddha–made completely out of the semi-precious stone jade and dressed in gold robes–stands just 66 centimeters high and rests on a tall plinth beneath a nine-tiered canopy. Scholars believe the figure was carved in Pataliputra in India, though other sources claim it to be from Burma and the work of an unknown artist. It first came to light in 1434 in Chiang Rai, northern Thailand, having arrived there by way of Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) and Cambodia.

At the time of its discovery, the statue was encased in plaster. While being transported, the casing was damaged and split open, revealing the figure within. The Buddha traveled a long way to end up in Bangkok in 1778, where it has been kept ever since. Three times a year, the king changes the Buddha's robes during a special ceremony to mark the beginning of a new season.

Behind Phra Sri Ratana is Phra Mondop–a building made out of tiny green and gold glass mosaics, a gilt spire, and pure silver floors–which serves as the Palace library. This golden building holds the Canon of Buddha–sacred scriptures written on palm leaf–as well as a number of Buddhist publications and ancient literature.

While the building remains closed to the public, and you won't be able to get even a peek of the sacred texts, the outside sight of the beautiful mother-of-pearl doors, dragon imagery, and Ayutthaya-style architecture are more than worth a stop.

Originally, this unique hall was created especially for the use of monks, who would congregate here daily to create Holy water and then sprinkle it all around the palace. During times of war, the water was also used to "enhance" the power of weapons through a special ceremony performed here. While the practice of creating Holy water was discontinued in the 1920s, the ceremony is still performed during Buddhist holy days.

Ho Phra Parit is divided into two rooms, with the largest one being used for prayers and rituals, and the smaller one used as a storage space for religious artifacts.

Also known as Prasat Phra Dhepbidorn, this pavilion is of great importance within the Grand Temple complex. It was constructed in 1856 by King Rama IV, and was originally going to be the chapel in which the Emerald Buddha was held. After construction, it was considered too small to hold the iconic statue, so it was originally left empty.

A fire destroyed the roof of the building in the early 20th century. After it was restored, King Rama VI turned it into the Royal Pantheon of all the kings who have reigned in the period when Bangkok has been the capital of Thailand. It is protected on either side by two stupas that were built during King Rama I's reign.

While nothing beats the magnificence of the real Angkor Wat in Cambodia , this perfect replica of the Khmer-style temple is worth visiting. Although much smaller than the real thing, the stone model does offer an interesting history lesson and a glimpse at the landmark as it was being planned. The model dates from the reign of Rama IV, when what is now Cambodia was a vassal state of Siam.

The mini Angkor Wat is right across from the Emerald Buddha temple, and you can easily miss it if you're not looking for it. Surrounded by colorful, ornate buildings, the simple design of this gray sand model offers a noticeable contrast worth a look.

Boromabiman Hall is the official name for the building that overlooks the lawns where the king's annual garden party used to be held. Frescos inside depict the four Indian gods (Indra, Yahuma, Varuna, and Agni) as guardians of the universe. Inscribed on plaques beneath are the ten royal virtues: liberality, propriety, readiness to make sacrifices, clemency, modesty, conscientiousness, freedom from anger, freedom from suspicion, patience and right dealing.

Ever since the time of Rama VI, all the Crown Princes have grown up here. Nowadays the building is only used occasionally, usually to accommodate visiting heads of state or high-ranking Buddhist dignitaries.

Though it is no longer the royal residence (the present monarch, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, lives at the Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall inside Bangkok's Dusit Palace since 2016, when he inherited the throne after the death of his father), the Great Chakri Palace is still something special to behold.

The residence was originally designed by an English architect in Italian Renaissance style, but King Rama V ordered that it be embellished with typically Siamese stepped roofs and mondhop. While the design makes the building stand out from the ones around it, it also makes it seem more royal and important. As well as being notable for the richness of their interiors, all the rooms in the palace are treasure troves with valuable paintings and portraits of every Thai king.

This is the "High Residence"–essentially a throne room where King Rama I once received homage. The hall is still used today, often in ceremonies involving heads of state or for future anniversary celebrations of the present king's coronation. You can see a peristyle in front of the building, which is where royal proclamations used to be read.

Inside, the golden throne, shaped like a boat, takes center stage. Right in front of it, there's a giant, royal, nine-tiered umbrella, which represents the king's prestige and power. Royal umbrellas can have anywhere from five tiers (for a crown prince) to nine for a sovereign king.

The single large inner hall of this building, which is open to visitors, was originally Rama I's Audience Chamber. Here, the king received his guests, seated not on the large throne seen today, but higher up on a niche-like throne set in the south wing wall. On the roof, a spire designed to look like the king's crown adds a royal touch to this Italian Renaissance meets Thai traditional hall.

While the furniture inside is original to the time of the building's construction, the murals were painted in a later period. There's also a second mother-of-pearl inlaid throne here, which was used by the king when he stepped away or took a break between audiences.

When leaving the Dusit Maha Prasat, the delicate golden wooden pavilion ahead is the Aphorn Phimok Prasat, used by Rama I as a robing chamber. Here, the king would change before entering the audience room and then again after leaving. Drapes interlaced with gold thread were drawn around the pavilion pillars while the king donned his ceremonial robes.

This pavilion was also used to park the king's palanquin, a one-passenger human-powered form of transport–basically a large box or seat carried by six bearers on long poles. Before a ceremony, the king would change inside Dusit Maha Prasat before leaving in the palanquin to join the festivities.

King Rama I's younger brother had Hor Phra Monthian Dharma built as an auxiliary library. The building looks humble next to Phra Mondop, but it is worth stopping in front of. Inside the building are mother-of-pearl inlay book cabinets, which hold many Buddhist scriptures.

Be sure to pay attention to the central door panels of the building, which have also been inlaid with mother of pearl. The panels have an inscription, which says that they originally belonged to Wat Borom Phuttharam, which is Ayutthaya. They were made by King Boromkot, who was the King of Ayutthaya in the 1700s.

Directly across from Hor Phra Monthian Dharma is Phra Wiharn Yod, which you'll recognize from its elaborate roof. This building was built by King Rama II and served as a chapel, filled with many images of Buddha.

The roof is the most standout feature of this building and was constructed to resemble the Thai crown. It is decorated with porcelain mosaics from China.

The belfry building may not be as grand as some of the other structures within the Grand Palace, but it is a beautifully decorated construction. Built by King Rama IV, the belfry is plastered with colorful mosaics. Today it is rung on only the most important of days, like when a new king takes the throne.

Hours: 8:30am-3:30pm daily. The Grand Palace doesn't close for any national or religious holidays, but it might close on very rare occasions during special Royal ceremonies.

Admission: The standard admission ticket includes access to Wat Phra Kaeo, the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textile, and The Royal Thai Decorations & Coins Pavilion. Tickets can be bought at the gate or online at the Palace's official website to skip the long queues. If you're buying online, keep in mind the tickets must be purchased at least 24 hours before your visit and must be picked up in person at a special window near the Palace entrance.

There's an additional fee for the rental of an audio guide in a number of foreign languages, including English, German, French, Spanish, Russian, and more.

Getting In: Visitors can enter the palace through the Wiseedtschairi Gate ("Gate of Wonderful Victory"), beyond which a wide roadway leads through the outer courtyard. On either side are modern buildings housing government offices. The ticket office is located at the start of the roadway that leads to the actual palace precinct.

For easy access to the magnificent Grand Palace in Bangkok, choose hotels in Phra Nakhon or the surrounding districts. This will put you within walking distance or at least a short tuk-tuk ride away from the palace.

Luxury Hotels:

• For five-star luxury that includes a yoga terrace, a riverfront infinity pool, and private boat transfers, nothing can beat The Siam . Each of the 39 suites here comes with its own private butler and is carefully designed using turn-of-the-century artwork and antique furniture. The Siam is all about the extras, and guests will find everything from a cooking school to a Muay Thai boxing ring to a cinema inside the hotel's premises.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Riva Surya Bangkok is an elegant riverside resort that offers comfortable beds, a lovely pool with river views, and a well-equipped gym.

Budget Hotels:

• For budget rates and tasteful comfort, Villa Phra Sumen Bangkok can't be beaten–you'll get stylish rooms in a restored historic building, windows that open over one of Bangkok's many canals, and even a free Grand Palace tuk-tuk shuttle for very affordable prices.
• Phranakorn-Nornlen Hotel is an affordable guesthouse with colorful rooms and eclectic décor, a rooftop restaurant, and a quiet courtyard to disconnect after a hectic day on the streets of Bangkok.
• Dress appropriately. As is the case at any temple or palace in Thailand, visitors are expected to dress modestly. For women, this means covering the shoulders and the leg all the way to the knee at least. For men, a t-shirt and pants will do. Flip-flops, see-through clothing, sweats, and the baggy fisherman pants popular among backpackers in Thailand are not allowed. If your attire is deemed inappropriate, you can rent a sarong to wear for a nominal deposit fee (which will be returned when you return the sarong).
• Beware of scams. Because the Grand Palace is a major tourist attraction, it also attracts a lot of scammers. A common scam is someone approaching you and telling you the palace is closed or they have another attraction to show you. If this happens, politely shake your head and keep walking. No matter how sweet a package they are offering, chances are you're about to be duped, big time. Only buy tickets at the official ticket counter, not from "guides" on the street.

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Exploring Bangkok: Once you're done touring the grounds of the Grand Palace, it's time to see what else Thailand's capital has to offer. From neighboring Wat Pho, with its magnificent reclining Buddha, to floating markets and the lush greenery of Lumpini Park, you can check out a great list of things to see and do in our Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bangkok article.

• (1) Royal Council
• (2) Amporn Phimok Prasad
• (3) Chakri Maha Prasad
• (4) Somut-Devaaraj-Ubbat Hall
• (5) Moonstarn-Baromasna Hall
• (6) Hor Phra Dhart Monthien
• (7) Dusida-Bhiromya Hall
• (8) Snamchandr Hall
• (9) Amarindra-Vinichai Hall
• (10) Paisal-Taksin Hall
• (11) Chakrabardi Biman
• (12) Hor Phrasulaya Biman
• (13) Rajruedi Hall
• (14) Hor Satrakom
• (15) Hor Kanthararasdr
• (16) Hor Rajbongsanusorn
• (17) Hor Rajkornmanusorn
• (18) Phra Sri Ratana Chedi
• (19) Phra Mondhop
• (20) Prasad Phra Debidorn
• (21) Model of Angor Wat
• (22) Phra Viharn Yod
• (23) Hor Monthien Dharam
• (24) Hor Phra Naga
• Temple of the Emerald Buddha
• Sridhala-Biromya-Hall
• Sivalaya Garden
• Sanam Chai Road
• Sala Sahadaya
• Sala Lukhum
• Na Phra Lan Road
• Finance Ministry
• Dusit Maha Prasat
• Double Gate
• Buddha-Ratana-Starn-Hall
• Boromabiman

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The Grand Palace

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• Phu Phan Rajanives Palace
• Bhubing Palace
• Bang Pa In Palace
• Online Ticket Booking

The Grand Palace complex was established in 1782 and it consists of not only royal and throne halls, but also a number of government offices as well as the renowned Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It covers an area of 218,000 square metres and is surrounded by four walls, 1900 metres in length. After King Rama I ascended to the throne in 1782, the palace was built. Prior to this, the royal palace and centre of administration had been located in Thonburi, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. For various reasons, the new King considered the former capital to be unsuitable and decided to establish a new capital on the other side of the river.

By his royal command, a palace was built to serve not only as his residence but also as the site of administrative offices. The royal compound has been known since then as The Grand Palace. The two earliest buildings erected within the complex were the Dusit Haha Prasat Throne Hall, and the Phra Maha Monthian.

• Statements/Announcements of the Bureau of the Royal Household
• Court Circular
• Royal Guidance and Royal Speeches
• Royal Thai Volunteers
• Visit the Palaces
• News and Activities

Royal Office – All Rights Reserved.

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The Grand Palace, Bangkok – Everything You Need To Know

If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok then you absolutely need to add the Grand Palace to your itinerary.

This exquisite palace, situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, is one of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks and visiting it is a must on any trip to Bangkok.

In this ultimate guide, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about the Grand Palace including cost, how to get there, dress code, opening hours and more.

Table of Contents

About The Grand Palace, Bangkok

The Grand Palace is one of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks and after visiting it for myself recently, I can see why.

The palace complex not only features the Grand Palace itself but many other halls, buildings, gardens, courtyards and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. 

One of my favorite things about the palace is that it has a really unique look and it showcases Thai history and culture well.

The Grand Palace is actually a very sacred site in Thailand as long ago, it used to be home to the Thai King, his court and the government. 

This ended in 1925, however, today it is still used for official events and ceremonies.

Be aware that, as one of Thailand’s most popular tourist spots, the Grand Palace can get very crowded and busy. 

Is Grand Palace Bangkok Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Grand Palace in Bangkok is definitely worth visiting. 

It is actually one of the most iconic and important cultural attractions in Bangkok and is definitely a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

The Grand Palace was built in 1782 and was the official residence of the King of Thailand until 1925. 

Whilst nobody lives there now, the Grand Palace is open to the public as a museum and is a great place to explore and learn about Thai history and culture.

The Grand Palace is home to a number of impressive buildings and temples, including Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), which is one of the most sacred temples in the whole of Thailand.

This temple houses a very beautiful and impressive Buddha statue made entirely of jasper, as well as numerous other ornate statues and decorations. It’s pretty impressive and something you just have to see!

In addition to the impressive architecture and artistry of the Grand Palace, visitors can also learn about the rich history and culture of Thailand through the various exhibits and artifacts on display.

I personally really loved the artwork which is displayed all around the palace. I spent ages trying to figure out what was happening in each scene.

Overall, the Grand Palace is a must-see attraction in Bangkok that offers a unique and fascinating glimpse into Thailand’s rich history and culture so you don’t wanna miss it.

How Much Does The Grand Palace Cost?

The Grand Palace Bangkok entrance fee is currently 500 baht ($14.55). It’s the same price for both adults and children however any children under 120cm can enter for free.

I actually visited the palace very recently and that’s what I paid.

This price is only for foreigners so if you’re a Thai national, you can actually enter the palace for free.

This ticket does give you entry into both the Grand Palace and the Wat Phra Kaew temple (where you can see the impressive Emerald Buddha statue).

You may also need to rent a sarong (if you’re not wearing the correct clothing) which costs 200 baht ($5.80) but this is usually refunded as long as you return the sarong. I cover the dress code in detail later in the post.

If you want to rent an audio tour then you can for an additional 200 baht ($5.80).

You can purchase your ticket on the day at the ticket office or you can pre-book your ticket online .

I personally just bought my ticket when I got there and it was fine. The queue wasn’t super long so I only had to wait a few minutes to get my ticket and enter the grounds.

You can pay with either cash or card (I paid by card).

Grand Palace Bangkok Tour

The best way to see the Grand Palace is by booking onto a guided tour like this one .

I’d really recommend doing one of these if you can as the knowledgeable guides know everything there is to know about the palace.

I personally always find I enjoy visiting places like this so much more when I know the history behind it.

Additionally, this tour also includes a visit to Wat Traimit (where you can see a 5.5-ton solid gold Buddha statue) and Wat Pho (where you get to see the 46m-long reclining Buddha).

It also includes all of your entrance fees making it actually a pretty good price given everything that’s included.

Grand Palace Guided Tour (also includes Wat Pho & Wat Traimit)

Grand Palace Bangkok Dress Code

The dress code at the Grand Palace in Bangkok is very strict and you will be denied entry if you’re not wearing the right clothes (and that goes for both men and women).

The general rule is that you should cover your knees, shoulders and chest.

For men, you should wear full-length pants and a t-shirt that covers your shoulders. Avoid wearing shorts and vests.

For women, you should wear full-length pants or a long skirt and a t-shirt that covers your shoulders and chest. Avoid vests/tank-tops, crop tops, shorts and short skirts.

The Grand Palace is seen as a sacred site meaning the dress code is strictly enforced .

When I visited recently, I saw so many men showing up in shorts and all of them had to either buy some long pants from a nearby vendor or hire a sarong at the official hire shop.

If you’re not dressed properly, I’d recommend getting your clothes from the official hire shop inside the Grand Palace as it’s actually free (you just pay a 200 baht refundable deposit).

You’ll find a lot of vendors located just outside the Grand Palace trying to sell you ridiculously priced clothes. 

They’ll often tell you that your outfit is incorrect (even if it’s not) so if you’re unsure then continue to the official ticket office and ignore these sellers. 

They’re just trying to sell you an overpriced t-shirt or sarong.

Can You Wear Jeans To The Grand Palace?

Yes, you can wear jeans to the Grand Palace.

You should avoid ripped jeans or anything with holes in as this may be seen as inappropriate. Regular full-length jeans are fine though.

I actually wore jeans to the Wat Arun temple when I first visited and I wish I hadn’t.

I was allowed to enter wearing jeans but I felt so hot . The tight clothing plus the uncomfortable material made walking around in 86ºF (30ºC) heat almost unbearable.

I later bought a pair of loose cotton trousers for other sights like the Grand Palace and felt much more comfortable.

Why Is The Grand Palace So Famous?

The Grand Palace in Bangkok is famous for many reasons. Not only is it hugely historically significant but it’s also incredibly beautiful so tourists flock here from all over the world to see it.

Historical Significance

The Grand Palace was built in 1782, and was the official residence of the King of Thailand for over 150 years. 

Many important ceremonies and events took place here and, as a result, the Grand Palace is an important symbol of Thailand’s history and culture.

Architectural Beauty

The Grand Palace is world-renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate design. 

The buildings within the palace complex all feature intricate carvings, golden leaves and colorful tiles. 

One of my favorite things about visiting the palace was admiring its beauty and appreciating the incredible craftsmanship that went into its creation. It really is stunning.

Cultural and Religious Significance

The Grand Palace is also home to Wat Phra Kaew which is one of the most important and sacred temples in Thailand. 

This temple houses the Emerald Buddha statue which is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to Thailand. It’s made entirely of jasper (not emerald), meaning it looks pretty cool too.

Due to this, the Grand Palace is also an important religious site and many Thai people come here for this reason.

Grand Palace Bangkok Opening Hours

The Grand Palace is open from 8:30 am until 3:30 pm every day of the week.

Last entry is at 3:30 PM but the palace does remain open until 4:30 pm.

Best Time To Visit Grand Palace Bangkok

The best time of day to visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok is early in the morning as the temperature is cooler and the crowds are smaller. 

Arriving as soon as the palace opens at 8:30 am is a good way to avoid the worst of the crowds and the heat.

This is also great if you want to take lots of photos without tons of people in the background. Make sure you’ve got your best Thailand Instagram captions on hand because you’ll need them!

Another good time to visit is in the late afternoon, just before the palace closes at 3:30 pm. 

You can actually enter the palace at 3:30 pm and wander around until 4:30 pm.

Few people know this (they think the palace closes at 3:30 pm but that’s just the last entry) so it means that it’s much quieter.

The crowds tend to thin out at this time as visitors begin to leave and the temperature begins to cool down. 

Make sure you visit with enough time to explore the grounds. I personally don’t think 1 hour is enough to see everything so you might want to get there at 2:30/3 pm.

The Grand Palace does get very crowded , especially during peak tourist season, so it’s a good idea to avoid visiting at midday when the crowds are at their worst.

What Can You Do At The Grand Palace In Thailand?

The Grand Palace complex, which covers over 200,000 m², is made up of several sites which are divided into two main areas: Wat Phra Kaew and the royal residences. 

The royal residences are then divided up into further areas: the Outer Court, the Middle Court and the Inner Court.

Wat Phra Kaew

One of the most impressive areas within the Grand Palace complex is Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. 

This sacred Buddhist temple contains the famous Emerald Buddha statue which shows a Buddha in a meditating position, having been delicately carved out from a single block of jasper (and not emerald as the name implies).

The origins of the statue are very mysterious. In fact, nobody really knows where it came from or who made it. It initially surfaced in northern Thailand in 1434.

Since 1784, once a season, the King of Thailand has changed the Buddha’s clothes in a ceremony.

The Royal Residences

My personal favorite part of the Grand Palace to explore was the royal residences as it was just so grand! 

I’ve literally never seen anything so fancy – it really puts Buckingham Palace to shame.

You’ll find the Outer Court of the palace close to the entrance. 

This was the location of several state offices and government departments like the army, the treasury and the civil administration. This is also where you’ll find the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

The Middle Court is where the King of Thailand once resided. It also contains some of the most magnificent rooms including two very detailed throne halls. 

You can actually take a look around these halls which today are just used for important royal ceremonies like coronations. The interiors are really magnificent!

The Inner Court is actually closed off to the public so you won’t be able to see it at all. 

Historically, the Inner Court was where the King’s daughters and royal consorts lived. It was a mostly female-only zone but many sons under the age of puberty also lived there.

The King was the only adult male allowed to enter, however today it is no longer in use.

Interestingly, the Grand Palace actually has more of a European-style rather than Thai-style. You’ll notice a huge contrast between the palace itself and the Wat Phra Kaew temple.

To learn more about the palace’s restoration throughout the years, you can also take a look at the museum that’s located inside the complex. 

This museum contains lots of information about the restoration of the Grand Palace as well as many models and images of how it used to look.

How Long Does It Take To Walk Around The Grand Palace Bangkok?

The Grand Palace in Bangkok is a vast complex, covering an area of more than 200,000 m² so the amount of time it takes to walk around the entire palace can vary depending on how much you want to see and how fast you walk.

On average, it takes about 2-3 hours to explore the main buildings and temples within the Grand Palace complex, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Outer Court and the Middle Court. 

If you are interested in learning everything there is to know about Thai history and culture, or if you want to explore every single nook and cranny of the palace, it may take longer.

When I visited recently, I spent around 2 hours exploring the palace grounds. I definitely didn’t see everything there is to see including the throne rooms and the museum but I saw a lot.

It was very hot on the day I visited and I was getting tired (plus my boyfriend came down with sunstroke) so we left after a couple of hours.

As one of Thailand’s most popular attractions, the Grand Palace can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist season, which can slow down your progress as you navigate through the crowds. 

I was constantly bumping into people and trying to get around people to see certain parts of the palace. I imagine it would have been a bit quicker without so many people.

You’ll also need to factor in some time to take a rest as it’s really tiring and there’s not much shade at all so the hot sun is beating down on you the whole time.

To get the most out of your visit to the Grand Palace, I’d plan at least 2 to 3 hours of time to explore but you may want to allow for more time if you want to take things at a more leisurely pace or explore every single corner of the palace.

How To Get To Grand Palace Bangkok

The Grand Palace is located right in the heart of the city, along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. 

There are many ways to get around Bangkok including the BTS, MRT, taxi or tuk tuk.

What Is The Closest BTS Station To The Grand Palace?

The closest BTS Skytrain station to the Grand Palace is Saphan Taksin on the Silom Line but it is still 5.5km away.

To get to the Grand Palace by BTS using public transport follow these steps:

• Take the BTS to Saphan Taksin on the Silom Line.
• When you arrive, take Exit 1 which is labeled ‘Cross-River Ferry Pier’.
• Once you get outside, walk to the Central Pier. You’ll be able to see it when you exit the station.
• When you get to the pier, follow the signs for the Chao Phraya Express Boat.
• Buy a ticket from the attendant. It should cost 20 baht ($0.60) per person.
• Board the boat and get off at Tha Chang Pier which is located right in front of the Grand Palace.

I actually did this journey recently when I visited the Grand Palace and it’s pretty easy. 

If you’re coming by MRT rather than the BTS then you can still take the MRT to Saphan Taksin station and follow the steps above.

Taxi/Tuk Tuk

Taking a taxi or tuk tuk is another easy way to get to the Grand Palace. It’s much more convenient and comfortable than taking the BTS and the boat.

It can be expensive though because as soon as you tell a taxi driver you want to go to the Grand Palace they just see you as a huge dollar sign and will try to charge you at least 5x the normal price.

Be sure to negotiate the fare with them or insist that they use the meter. I personally use the Grab app (Asia’s version of Uber) whenever I’m in Thailand because you don’t have to haggle or worry about being overcharged.

Grand Palace Bangkok Address

Address: Na Phra Lan Rd, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand.

This is the official address for the Grand Palace however if you tell a taxi driver you want to go to the Grand Palace they’ll know where it is so you won’t really need the address.

Can You Take Photos In The Grand Palace Bangkok?

Yes, you can take photos in most areas of the Grand Palace in Bangkok but there are some restrictions in certain areas including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

You’re allowed to take photos in all the outdoor areas of the Grand Palace including the courtyards, gardens and exterior of buildings. 

However, you’re not allowed to take photos inside the main buildings, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew).

This rule is strictly enforced so please don’t try to take any pictures of the Emerald Buddha itself.

Areas where you’re not allowed to take photos are clearly signposted so you’ll know when you can and can’t take photos.

Can You Go Inside The Grand Palace Bangkok?

Yes, you can go inside the Grand Palace itself but only certain rooms are open to the public.

You’ll find that there are certain areas of the palace that are off-limits completely including the Inner Court.

You can access the outdoor areas of the Outer and Middle Courts as part of your ticket.

The only buildings that you’re allowed to enter are the two throne halls, which are located in the Middle Court, and the Wat Phra Kaew temple which is in the Outer Court.

The entire Inner Court and the rest of the indoor areas are all off-limits and the public cannot enter them.

Who Lives In The Grand Palace Bangkok?

Today, nobody lives inside the Grand Palace in Bangkok but historically the King of Thailand lived there.

Whilst the Grand Palace is one of Thailand’s most important historic landmarks, it’s no longer used as a royal residence by the Royal Family of Thailand.

In 1925, King Rama VII moved their primary residence to the Dusit Palace, however the Grand Palace is still used by the family for official state functions and ceremonies.

The Grand Palace was originally built in 1782 as the official residence of the King of Thailand and it served as the center of the government and administration for the country for over 150 years. 

Do You Need A Passport For Grand Palace Bangkok?

No, you do not need a passport to visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok.

You actually don’t need anything to visit the palace other than some money to pay for the entrance fee. You can also pay by card.

Grand Palace Bangkok Scams

Unfortunately as the Grand Palace is one of Thailand’s most famous sights, this does mean that some people try to take advantage of that and scam tourists.

Below I’ve listed the most common scams involving the Grand Palace.

The Grand Palace Is Closed

Many taxi and tuk tuk drivers in the area will tell you that the Grand Palace is closed. They often dress up like official-looking security guards to make it more believable.

This is really common as when I visited the palace recently, I actually had 3 different people come up to me saying this and some of them even looked like official officers.

I even had one guy come up to me after I’d left the Grand Palace telling me it was closed, little did he know I’d just been in there so I knew it wasn’t closed.

The Grand Palace is open every single day and it would only be closed if there was some sort of catastrophic event.

These drivers are just looking to take you to various shops that pay them a commission to bring in tourists. Just ignore them and keep walking to the palace.

Dress Code Scam

Another common scam is street sellers telling you that your skirt is too short or your t-shirt is too tight in order to sell you a sarong/clothes. 

If you follow the guidance that I listed above then you shouldn’t have a problem so just ignore anyone that says what you’re wearing isn’t correct.

If you are unsure, go to the official Grand Palace entrance anyway and if it is too short, they will give you a sarong for free.

The street sellers will usually try and charge you a high price so I personally wouldn’t bother (especially when you can hire one for free at the entrance).

Overpriced Tours

Another scam is people trying to sell overpriced tours or audio guides. They often will try to charge a really high price.

If you want an audio tour then you can rent one inside the entrance for 200 baht.

It’s also hard to know the quality of these tours when someone is just approaching you on the street.

If you want a guided tour of the palace I’d recommend pre-booking this Grand Palace tour as it’s very reasonably priced, includes a tour of two other Thailand temples and it has excellent reviews so you know you’re getting a good deal.

Grand Palace Bangkok History & Facts

Here’s some Grand Palace Bangkok facts and the general history behind the palace.

The Grand Palace was originally built in 1782 by the King at the time, Rama I. 

Rama I was the founder of the Chakri Dynasty which is the current reigning dynasty of the Kingdom of Thailand. 

He decided to move the capital of Thailand from Thonburi (on the west side of the Chao Phraya River) to Bangkok (on the east side).

The Grand Palace was originally built out of wood to save money meaning it looked very different to what you see today.

Over time, bricks were taken from the ruins of Ayutthaya and taken down the Chao Phraya River to build the Grand Palace into what it is today. 

Over the years, many other buildings were added by successive kings.

Rama I was able to move into his new residence just 2 months after construction started. 

This was due to them using the exact floor plan and layout of the old Ayutthaya Grand Palace to build the new palace. This saved both time and money.

The Grand Palace was then the home of the King of Thailand for the next 150 years. It was also the site of the government. 

Throughout the early 1900s, a series of new palaces were built in Bangkok and the Royal Family gradually moved into them and by 1925, the palace was empty.

The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which is one of the palace’s most popular sights, dates back to the 14th century.

Here’s a quick overview of how each area of the palace was used:

• The Outer Court was historically used to house government departments including the treasury and the army. 
• The Middle Court was where the King resided. It also contained halls used for state business. 
• The Inner Court was where the King’s royal consorts, Queens, ladies-in-waiting and daughters lived, along with young boys (under age of puberty). The King was the only man allowed inside the Inner Court.

And that’s it!

Thanks for reading this post all about the Grand Palace in Bangkok. 

I absolutely loved visiting this royal palace and I strongly recommend it to anyone interested in history, culture and architecture.

If you need more help planning your Bangkok trip then check out my guide on where to stay in Bangkok which covers the top hotels and a guide to each area of the city.

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Everything You Need to Know about Bangkok’s Grand Palace, a Travel Guide

Before heading to  Bangkok’s Grand Palace , I did a little bit of research in preparation for my departure. I was immediately shocked to read so many negative reviews from visitors online. I couldn’t understand how someplace which looked so beautiful could receive such negative comments. But, with further reading, I found that most of the reviews had nothing to do with the place itself but more about their  experience  while there.

On the other hand, I had such a fantastic time exploring the bejewelled buildings and painted hallways rich with Thai history and culture. The  Grand Palace  is one of Bangkok’s busiest places and where all the tourists flock throughout the year.  But this is not without good reason!  While some might be put off by the tourists, I implore you to not let them impede your visit to the palace and instead accept them as a part of the landscape. Read this post in full to find out how to make the most of your time and experience visiting Bangkok’s Grand Palace.

My Experience

I had the most wonderful time touring this grand complex, and it would be a shame to miss out on seeing this place for yourself. After all, the entire palace grounds span over 2.35 million square feet, so there are lots to explore for yourself and places to get away from the crowds. Plus, there are many methods to ensure you don’t have a negative experience and can explore the palace at your own pace.

Bangkok’s Grand Palace  was first built in 1782.  King Phutthayotfa Chulalok  (Rama I) decided he wanted to move Thonburi’s capital city to  Bangkok . Therefore, he needed a magnificent residence to dwell inside once in Bangkok. The first buildings built on the site were made using bricks recovered from  Ayutthaya ‘s ruins.  Ayutthaya  was the ancient capital of Siam, but it was sacked during the war with the Burmese in 1767. Since then, the site had fallen to ruins. The King decided to take apart the old buildings to reuse the brickwork for this new Palace. I suppose he was trying to be an early adopter to recycling. Still, inadvertently he ended up destroying much of Ayutthaya’s rich history. 

Construction

Workmen used the connecting  Chao Phraya River  to ferry the bricks down from the ancient site. The new Grand Palace was even designed using the same floor plan and layout of the  Grand Palace  in  Ayutthaya . If you can visit both places, it’s so interesting to see how they mimic each other. Although Ayutthaya has been left crumbling in its natural environment, compared to the Grand Palace’s glittering modern flourishes, the similarities between the two’s basic layouts can still be seen.

Over the years, the vast compound expanded, and more buildings were constructed. Because there were so many different factions that used the grounds, they required a variety of structures. The Palace played host to the Kings of Siam, the royal family and today, even the government has their offices within these walls. 

There are dozens of colourful pavilions throughout the palace, blooming gardens, lush courtyards, and glittering religious temples. Take note of the changing architectural and artistic styles employed throughout its 200 years of construction. This myriad of art styles makes visiting the palace a veritable museum of historical Thai architecture. With each successive king being personally involved in adding more buildings to help increase the glorify of the dynasty.

The Palace was used as a royal residence up until 1925. After this, the Royal family decided it was more comfortable to live outside the busy capital. In 1932, the monarchy was abolished, and the palace was left mostly abandoned. But early on in Bangkok’s bid to gain more tourism, the Grand Palace was restored to its original glory so that visitors could experience a slice of Thailand’s royal history.

How to Get to the Grand Palace

The Palace is located in the heart of Bangkok, just beside the banks of the  Chao Phraya River . Unless you’re within walking distance, the best way to access the Grand Palace is by avoiding the roads altogether and getting on a river taxi . Approaching the palace from the water provides not only a more enjoyable experience but a spectacular view upon your approach.

Take the train (or walk if you’re close enough) to  Sapan Taksin  station. From here, you can walk down the stairs of the metro to the  Sathorn pier . Tickets for the river taxi cost 15 baht ($0.50 USD). The boat trip from Sathorn pier will take about 20 minutes to the Grand Palace. 

Get off at the  Tha Chang  (Elephant) pier and follow the clearly marked signs (both in Thai and English) to the Grand Palace. The palace complex is so huge its easy to know which stop to get off at even if the announcements aren’t in English.

Hours & Tickets

The Grand Palace is open seven days a week from 8:30 am until 4:30 pm . Tickets to the Grand Palace cost 500 baht ( $15 USD ). If you’d rather not worry about buying tickets at the gate on the day you arrive you can buy tickets in advance online .

When to Arrive & How Long To Stay

Although the palace is open throughout the day, try your best to arrive right at 8:30 am ! Yes, I know this is early, but there are so many benefits to arriving early. You’ll experience the palace before the hoards of bus tours arrive. You’ll also avoid the intense heat, which is hottest in the afternoon.

I would recommend at least two hours inside the complex. If you plan to visit all the museums, you might want to budget a little more time. But if you are interested in solely touring the grounds, two hours will allow you enough time to take things at a leisurely pace with time for a few short breaks.

To get inside the palace, you must adhere to the strict dress code. Many of the buildings inside are religious temples and require this dress code to be followed. While dress codes might not always be strictly enforced in other places around Thailand, the Grand Palace is a state-run property and therefore they are very serious about ensuring the dress codes are respected.

What Not to Wear:

• Short pants (both men and women must have pants that cover the legs above the knee)
• Tight-fitting clothes
• Revealing clothes or clothes that are transparent 
• Sleeveless shirts or anything that shows your shoulders
• Shirts with offensive imagery or text (people have been turned away for wearing death metal t-shirts so be careful about that)
• Ripped jeans which show off your knees

What to Bring

• Make sure you wear a hat and have lots of sunscreen as even by 11 am it gets super hot.
• Wear shoes that are easy to take on and off as you will be going in and out of temples where shoes are not allowed inside.
• I would always recommend bringing an extra sarong or covering just in case there is something wrong with your outfit. These sarongs are great to have one hand to cover up. You can also buy a sarong or borrow one for 200 baht just outside the palace gates. Although some temples allow you to borrow them for free, the Grand Palace just sees too many tourists here to provide that option.

How to Avoid Scams

If you take a taxi or tuk-tuk to the Grand Palace, your driver will often say the palace is closed. This is just untrue. But they will often try to convince you of this. They will then recommend you try another palace, where they receive a commission for each tourist they bring. Just ignore them or ask to be dropped off anyways so you can “ see it from the outside .” I have also often just old my drivers to take me to a destination close to the attraction as this will sometimes prevent the scam attempt altogether.

Admission Scam

Another popular scam is when scammers hang out at the front gate and tell tourists the main admission gate is closed or that all the tickets are sold out for the day. They will try to convince you to head to another temple instead.

Tuk-tuks are one of the most popular ways of getting around Thailand and are super popular with tourists due to their iconic and colourful appearance. They really are plenty of fun, but you need to be very strict with the drivers. Tuk-tuk drivers will often scam tourists when they hear they are looking for a ride to the Grand Palace. They sell you on a “multiple stop” ride to the palace at a super low price. All these stops are at stores where the drivers receive commission or fuel vouchers for bringing you there. What could have been a short journey turns into a long and frustrating one. Offer upfront to pay more to go direct or ask for “no stops ” (they are usually just as happy to just take the extra money). If you don’t feel comfortable haggling with drivers, take my previous advice and get the water taxi.

Many guides hang out outside the temple, saying you need to purchase their services to get inside. Nope, once more, this is untrue. There are many great guides here who will provide you with a fantastic private tour experience, but they are required . To get one who is officially licensed to give tours, look for an official lanyard with the city’s seal on it.

Clothing Scams

Many people selling sarongs outside the palace will comment on your clothes and claim you won’t get it. If you’ve followed the guides above, don’t believe what they say. If indeed something you’re wearing is offensive or not allowed, wait for the officials at the entrance to turn you away. Then you can go back and purchase a sarong or cover-up but don’t buy one straight away.

Bags and Pickpockets

Any large tourist attraction in Thailand is a popular spot for pickpockets. Keep your bags locked ups (I put a mini lock around my knapsack zippers) or wear the bag in front. Keep your money deep inside your bag and never wear flashy jewellery or designer clothing – this makes you more of a target. Even when you come inside, there are often pickpockets who will pay for the admission to get access to unsuspecting tourists. So just keep aware, and you’ll be fine.

Self-Guided Walking Tour of the Grand Palace

The map below will help guide you throughout the palace as detailed in the guided tour below.

Defensive walls

Walking up to the Grand Palace, the first thing you’ll be faced with are the huge white walls topped with those iconic orange and green roofs. These defensive walls were one of the first things they built for the complex to ensure the royal family’s protection. They were built in 1782 during the reign of King Rama I. In total, the walls surrounding the castle measure 6,270 ft or 1,910 meters. Surrounding the 12 gates around the palace are several guard towers used for extra protection against invaders.

Even if someone got inside, they would be met with another 22 gates and a labyrinth of inner walls. Most of the inner walls have been demolished for tourists’ access around the interior.

Phimanchaisri Gate

Enter the palace from the Phimanchaisri Gates . After passing through the entrance, turn left to head towards the Outer Palace . The Outer Palace is where you’ll find most of the holy sites in the palace.

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Cheewok Komaraphat

Walking into the Wat Phra Kaew, you’ll pass through the Hermit Gate . Beneath this gate you’ll find a black statue called the “ Cheewok Komaraphat ” or the Hermit. People come here from all over the country to pray for their sick relatives and leaves offerings of lotus flowers and incense to pray for their own good health. The Hermit’s name was Cheewok Komaraphat, and he was the doctor for Lord Buddha. In front of the lounging man, is a large stone sculpture of an ancient mortar and pestle. This tool is one of the oldest methods of grinding herbs, which were the foundation of Thai medicine.

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Wat Phra Kaew

The  Wat Phra Kaew  is the name for the complex which houses the  Temple of the Emerald Buddha.  The temple complex comprises various buildings, each has their own specific religious purposes and unique Thai architectural style. The different buildings’ design reflects the traditional principles that must be adhered to for each building-specific use. There are so many tiny details hidden away in the architecture of this space. Although I’ve tried to identify as many little treasures as possible, there is so much more to discover for yourself!

Walk around the south side of the Ubosot or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha . On the south side of the complex, you’ll find the belfry tower . This tower was built for King Rama IV in the 1800s. The entire tower is covered in intricately painted porcelain mosaics. The green walls of the tower frame the stepped l upper levels, which bloom into a series of multicoloured flowers. The bell in the tower is only rung during special occasions, such as when a new king is crowned.

Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Temple of the Emerald Buddha  is thought to be the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand. The temple is over 200 years old and designed in the  Rattanakosin  (old-Bangkok) style. This building would become the blueprint upon which other the temple, built in Bangkok around this period was based upon.

The King wanted to ensure his new home had a majestic place for his personal worship. But not just any temple would do. He wanted this new temple to feel heavenly. The roof of the building is covered in dark blue coloured tiles, which almost mimic the sky’s hue. Looking at this building, you might notice how it has multiple roof tiers. This is purely ornamental but represented the structure’s importance: the more tiers, the more influential the building.

One the pediments at either end of the roof, you can find the image of the Hindu god Narayana (or Vishnu) and the Garuda (a mythical half-man and bird). The Garuda is a traditional symbol of kingship and has been used as the emblem of Thai kings since ancient times.

The roof life is decorated in  Lamyong  finials. These  lamyongs  are sculpted in an undulating, serpentine fashion evoking the head of the  Nāga . The Nāga is a Buddhist deity that is half-human and half-serpent. They are some of the Palace’s protectors, and their blade-like projects that protrude off the roof feel almost aggressive. Like they are warning anyone who would think of attacking this place of their dominance. The original King of the Nagas, Mucalinda , was said to have protected the Buddha from the rain before he achieved enlightenment. Images of the naga continue to be incorporated into temple designs to commemorate this faithful event.

The main exterior of the temple is called the Ubosot . An Ubosot is a large hall, supported by forty-eight square columns. The eastern and western ends of the building have an extended porch that projects outwards surrounded by another set of columns. These marbled columns, responsible for holding up the enormous roof, are embellished in thousands of mirrored mosaics. The top of the column blooms into the shape of a lotus flower. This is such a small detail but one which really adds to the elegance of the entire structure.

The temple is built on a multi-tier foundation. You must walk up a series of stairs to enter the temple. Look on either side of the lower base of the Ubosot at the decorated porcelain along the exterior. The entire surround is covered in a gossamer image of birds perched on orchid blossoms against the palest blue background.

Along the base of the Ubosot, you’ll find a series of 112 minature figured. These are the golden Garudas . They each clasp in their hands the tail of the Naga serpents, which they also pin down in their clawed feet. Once more this series of fierce warriors is a defiant stand against any incoming enemies of the palace.

On the walls outside the temple, you are absolutely inundated in a sea of gold leaf and coloured glass. The image is so dazzling you can barely stare straight at it. Six doors enter into the temple, with the largest, central gateway reserved for the King. The doors are even more fabulously decorated with mother-of-pearl inlay depicting mythical beasts and surrounded by a lush leafy design.

The Emerald Buddha

Inside the temple, you’ll find the great Emerald Buddha. He sits atop an elevated altar surrounded by large gilded trimmings. The Buddha is only 26 inches tall but is overwhelmingly powerful. Buddha sits in the Virasana position, a meditative pose. The statue was carved in India in 43 BC. It was then moved to a cave in Sri Lanka where it sat for over 500 years. In 1468 it came to Chiang Mai and became one of the most important religious figures in Thailand.

Many Thai people believe that those who visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha will be blessed. During times of plague and cholera, the Emerald Buddha would be carried through the city’s streets and into the countryside to cure the sick of these epidemics.

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The Third Eye

The entire statue is made out of solid jade and not an emerald at all. The emerald reference in its name refers only to the colour of the Buddha and not the material it is made of. In the center of the Buddha, you’ll see their third eye, inlaid in gold. Buddhists regard the third eye as the “eye of consciousness.” You can achieve enlightenment through using this third eye and seeing beyond your physical sight.

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The Buddha’s Costumes

The statue wears golden dressings, which change throughout the year based on the season. In the rainy season, the Buddha wears a simple monk’s robe, draped over one shoulder and a crown covered in sapphires. In the summer, he wears a tall crown and opulent traditional jewellery. This includes armlets, bracelets and other pieces covered in semi-precious stones. I think the summer dress is by far the most elaborate. It features a stepped, pointed crown, a breast pendant, a sash, a large necklace, armlets, bracelets, and other royal attire items.

In the winter, to keep warm, the Buddha wears a sizeable golden shawl studded with diamonds. Two of the three different outfits were actually made by King Rama I himself. When the time comes to change the clothes, the King of Thailand himself is allowed to make these changes and interact with the sacred Buddha.

The frame that surrounds the Buddha is made up of the image of the Garuda . The Garuda was Rama’s steed, who holds his mortal enemy, the Naga serpent in his legs.  Surrounding the walls behind the Emerald Buddha are wonderfully detailed paintings depicting moments from the Buddha’s life. Shown in the backdrop is the birth of the Buddha in Nepal. It shows the steps the Buddha took towards enlightenment, the Worlds of Desire, Being, and Illusion. The murals serve to emphasize human values of honesty, faith, and devotion.

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Twelve Salas

Walk back outside and take a break under the shade of one of the twelve salas surrounding the temple. A sala is an open-air pavilion that provides people shade around the temple. During times when there are ceremonies, these salas are often where people will stand to listen to the services outside. During the rest of the year, these little awnings are a great place to hide from the sun. They were designed to look like little minatures of the temple.

Lotus Flowers

Outside many of the elaborate temples, you’ll see people with lotus flowers, which they leave as offerings outside the temple. The lotus flower is a symbol of great importance in Thailand. Lotus flowers are edible and used in medicine to improve blood circulation and help with digestion. But, in Buddhism, the lotus flower also is symbolic of purity, faithfulness and spiritual awakening. The flower is known to grow out of the mud, and keep growing skywards, towards the light. This act represents the ideals of enlightenment and therefore strengthens its connection to the divine. Legend says that when the Buddha was born, he could walk right away and with every step he took a lotus flower grew where his sole left the ground.

Giant Yakshas

Walking out of the Emerald Buddha temple, take a look at the two massive guardians located on either side of the gateway just across from the temple; these are the  Yakshas . Yakshas are nature-spirits, usually benevolent, but sometimes mischievous or malicious. They are connected with water, fertility, trees, and wilderness. These Yakshas guard the gates into the Wat Phra Kaew and protect the Emerald Buddha from evil spirits. They are fantastically carved, with almost an unbelievable amount of details covering their entire body. Their large faces are menacing, with bulging eyes and protruding fangs.

Phra Atsada Maha Chedis

In the distance, behind the guardians standing atop the outer walls, are these large  Phra Atsada Maha Chedis . There are eight of the  Prangs  or towers which stand on the east walls of the temple. They were made during King Rama I’s reign. A  prang  is a monument worthy of veneration, and each one is dedicated to an individual Buddhist principle. 

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Buddhist Principles & Prangs

The different concepts are distinguished by different colours. The blue prangs are dedicated to the  Dharma  (Buddhist scriptures), the pink is assigned to the  Bhikkhus  (male Buddhist monks). The green symbolizes the  Bhikkhunīs  (female Buddhist monks). The purple is dedicated to the  Pratyekabuddha  (those who have attained Enlightenment but do not preach). Pale blue represents the  Chakravarti  (universal rulers). Red is applied to the  Bodhisattvas  (Buddha as he lived in his past lives). Finally, the yellow is dedicated to the  Maitreya  (the future lives of the Buddha).

The prangs or towers are gorgeously decorated in intricate plaster and tiles in floral motifs. The tall, narrow design is actually thought to mirror an ear of corn, with the ceramics mimicking kernels on the cob. In the center of the prangs are four sets of golden doorways supported by a band of  yaksha  or giants around the base. 

Phra Suvarnachedi or Golden Chedi

The  Than Phaithi  is a raised terrace where you’ll find the complex buildings featuring the  Prasat Phra Thep Bidon, the Phra Mondop and the Phra Si Rattana Chedi.  Flanking either side of the Phaithi terrace are two large golden pyramids. These are the  Phra Suvarnachedi  or  golden chedi . A  chedi  is a structure that contains relics or the remains of a Buddist monk and is used as a place of spiritual meditation.

The two chedis here were built by Rama I to commemorate his parents. The southern chedi for his father  Thongdi  and the northern for this mother,  Daoreung . The pyramids are formed in nine layers and culminate in a tall golden spire. The spire’s shape contorting into a blooming lotus bud. Look carefully at the faces of the creatures holding up the chedi’s base. Each pyramid features sixteen minature  yakshas  (or giants) and four monkeys hidden amongst them. The monkeys have a slightly differently shaped face, so see if you can spot them!

Prasat Phra Dhepbiorn

To the north of the Emerald Buddha Temple is the Prasat Phra Dhepbiorn or the Royal Pantheon . This regal building was originally where the Emerald Buddha was to be housed. The structure was completed in 1882, but a massive fire required it to be rebuilt in the 20th century. Today the building is used as a memorial to all Kings of Thailand. The public is not allowed to enter, except for one day in April. This national holiday in Thailand honours the memory of their previous kings. The interior of the Pantheon features lifelike statues of the first nine Chakri kings and looking upon them on this holy day is said to bring any devotee good luck.

The building stands out among the rest due to the vast spire which juts out from the roof. This is called a prasat . The prasat symbolizes the centre of the universe and is usually reserved for royal residences.

Surrounding the base of this complex is a series of little gardens. Hidden amongst the trees and shrubs are stone statues. Carved amongst the flora you’ll find monkeys, cows, spiritual guardians, monks and more.

Walk up the marble staircase to get a closer look at the walls of the pantheon. Atop the marble staircase, you’ll find a series of golden Kinnaree guarding the building on the final tier. The Kinnaree are celestial musicians, who are part female, part horse and part bird. These beloved creatures are thought to watch over the well-being of humans in times of trouble or danger.

Exterior Design

The walls of the pantheon are decorated in luxurious blue tiles in a floral motif. Set in amongst the sea of blue tiles are golden doorways, each one topped with a royal crown. These entrances are to be used only by the royal family or the king himself.

Phra Borom Ratcha Sanyalak

As you make your way around the  Prasat Phra Dhepbiorn  upper terrace, you’ll find various golden emblems on marble pedestals framed inside gilt butsabok thrones. These are the royal insignias or  Phra Borom Ratcha Sanyalak . There are nine of them in total. Each one was designed to replicate one of the King’s personal seals. The various seals are as follows; Rama I (the crown without ear ornaments), Rama II (the Garuda) and Rama III (a triple-doored vimana), Rama IV (a royal crown), Rama V (the Phra Kiao or coronet), Rama VI (a thunderbolt or vajra), Rama VII (three arrows), Rama VIII (a Bodhisattva) and Rama IX (the Octagonal Throne and chakra). See if you can spot them all!

At the base of these golden pavillions are a set of bronze statues of massive elephants. In Thailand, white elephants are considered sacred and are a symbol of royal power. Any white elephant which was discovered in the wild would be presented to the king. This gesture was just ceremonial, though, as the elephant was not taken into captivity. Other elephants were used by the Kings as their ceremonial form of transport, and they served as trusted companions. Each one of these sculptures represents one of the royal elephants of the kings. Be sure to circle these elephants three times and rub their heads to get some good luck!

Phra Mondop 

My favourite building in this area is the  Phra Mondop . Phra Mondop translates into the “ library of palm-leaf scriptures. ” This building is not open to the public as these scriptures are thought to be too precious for mortal eyes. The green, red and white glass mosaics that cover the entire building make it one of the most exciting structures in the outer court. The mosaics covering the exterior form  thepphanom  motifs. Thepphanom is mythical creatures and the name for the symmetrically arranged diamond patterns you find on the facade of many Thai temples.

The small set of stairs which lead into the library are guarded by two golden statues of Naga, Snake Guardian. Their exterior also inlaid with green and red tiles to match the library’s facade.

Phra Sri Ratana

Behind the Phra Mondop is a sizeable bell-shaped structure called the  Phra Sri Ratana . The entire structure is covered in solid gold leaf! The bell-shaped design was influenced by Ayutthaya’s stupas, which actually took their inspiration from similar religious buildings in Sri Lanka. In Thailand, a stupa is a mound-like or hemispherical structure containing relics of Buddhist monks or nuns. Around the stupa is what is called a  pradakhshina path.  Buddhists walk around the stupa performing acts of prayer as they go.

In the center of the stupa is a very narrow doorway that leads inside. Although it is not open to the public, the interior is said to contain a piece of the Buddha’s sternum, which is what makes this building so important for practicing Buddhists.

Angkor Wat miniature

To the north of the Phra Sri Ratana is a “minature” (although it’s really quite a large) model of  Angkor Wat . During the war of 1860,  King Mongkut  ordered his generals to lead 2,000 men to dismantle  Angkor Wat  in Cambodia, but they were defeated. To quell his sadness over the defeat, the king had this miniature built to always “own” his personal version of Angkor Wat.

Phra Viharn Yod

The northernmost building in this outer complex is  Phra Viharn Yod  or  Vihara . The building is used as a chapel for Buddhist monks. Instead of being covered in mosaics, this building is covered in white concrete and decorated in porcelain ceramics. The spire on top of the building resembles the shape of the Thai crown. The ogee arches cut out along the building’s exterior are topped with the royal cypher of  Rama V  under a golden crown. 

The roof is so richly decorated, and the carvings so fine that they truly look like real flowers set abloom. The colours are so vibrant even after so many years exposed to the elements. They genuinely look like they could simply be plucked from the walls.

Tantima birds

Standing guard outside the Phra Viharn Yod are statues of  Tantima Birds . These bronze carvings are relatives of the Garuda, birds with a human torso and Garuda head. They guard the entrances on the west and east sides of the building.

Hor Phra Nak

The Hor Phra Naga is a funerary mausoleum used to preserve the ashes of deceased princes and princesses. It was previously used to house the sacred  Phra Nak  Buddha image from Ayutthaya . The incredible gold details around the windows in this precious building are truly spectacular.

Hor Phra Monthian Dharma

To the right of the Phra Viharn Yod is the Hor Phra Monthian Dharma or auxiliary library. The doors of the library are inlaid with mother of pearl. Although you can’t see it, inside the library is a large mother of pearl cabinet, which these doors are said to match.

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On the exterior pediment, look close at the golden carvings. Many praying Naga guardians whose tails swirl in the background create a mesmerizing pattern. In the center is the largest of the Nagas, perhaps the King Naga, who stands in the same prayer pose as the rest, eyeing the visitors below.

Yiharnyod Gate

Towards the back of the complex, you’ll find the  Yiharnyod Gate.  Walk into this cloister, which encircles the complex. Painted on the walls of this building are 178 mural. Each panel depicts a part of the story of the  Ramakien . The Ramayana was an Indian epic tale that the Thai people have adopted and given their own interpretation. 

The story surrounds a great battle between the King of the Demons, Tosakanth and the human King Rama . Tosakanth captured King Rama’s wife and held her captive in the hopes she would fall in love with the demon. King Rama goes to save her but is met with Tosakanth’s army of demons. Rama gathers with him an army of great monkey warriors who help him defeat the evil Tosakanth. These monkey guardians shaped the iconic image of the Yakshas seen around the temple.

Phra Thinang Chakri Maha Prasat or Middle Court

Head back out through the same Hermit Gate and back through the  Phimanchaisri Gate . This time, head south into the  Phra Thinang Chakri  complex of buildings. This part of the palace is called the ‘ Middle Court .’ The Phra Thinang Chakri was initially the grand royal residences of King Rama V.  Phra Thinang Chakri  means ‘ the seat of the Chakris. ’’ The  Chakri  was the ruling dynasty when the building was constructed. The royal  Throne Hall  forms the largest part of the building, flanked on either side by the  Phrom Sopha Gates . Today, the structures are used primarily for governmental receptions and royal banquets.

Phra Maha Monthien

To the east of the Throne hall, you’ll find the Phra Maha Monthien grouping of buildings. This seven-building structure, enclosed by a low set of walls, contains the original residential and sleeping abode of kings before the more modern Phra Thinang Chakri was built. The Phra Maha Monthien was built in 1785 and included the public reception hall, ceremonial hall and residential hall. All the royal coronation would have been held here before 1877. The meaning of the name  Maha Monthien  means ‘Great Royal Residence’.

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Dusita Phirom Hall

On the corner of the Phra Maha Monthien complex, you’ll find the Dusita Phirom Hall . It is notable for it’s blue, orange and red roof tiles, compared to the green roof which most of the rest of the complex employs. The Hall was initially open to the elements but since has been enclosed by a curtain of intricately patterned wall masonry. This was where the King would change into his royal regalia before going outside the palace. Here, he would be greeted by his royal court and would mount his  palanquin  or ceremonial elephant. You can see the white marble raised dais where the king would be able to more easily climb unto the elephant.

Thevaphibal Gate

The main entrance to the Maha Monthien is by the Thevaphibal Gate . This gate is covered in Chinese ceramics in a rainbow of colours and topped with great Thai-style spire.

On either side of the gate are Chinese-style statues, which include mythical warriors and lions.

Amarin Winitchai Throne Hall

The Amarindra Winitchai Hall is the central part of the Phra Maha Mountain Group. This was the audience hall where the King met his officers of state and foreign Ambassadors. In the centre of the room stands the great golden throne. The thone is covered in precious stones and colourful enamel decorations. You can also see a series of deva and garuda figures who act as the throne’s protectors. On the ceiling of the throne room are a painted series of glass mosaic stars. Like the king is forever sitting under the watchful eye of celestial creatures.

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Nine-Tiered Throne

The throne is topped by the massive Nine-Tiered umbrella. Each of the tiers represents the King’s power and prestige. The first four tiers represent the four cardinal directions, and the following tiers the sub cardinal directions. The final row signifies the direction descending down to the earth. All of these culminate in the symbolism of the King’s absolute control of the earth from all directions.

Phra Thinang Boromphiman

Further along, this little road to the east is the Phra Thinang Boromphiman. This two-storey Neo-Renaissance pale stone building really stands out amongst the rest of the brightly coloured Thai style architecture. It was designed by a German architect in 1903. It was built as the home for the crown prince during the reign of King Rama V. Today, it is used as the official guest house for visiting Heads of State and their entourages.

Inside are fresco painted ceilings feature the four Indian gods who protect the universe  Indra, Yama, Varuna,  and  Agni.  These serve as perhaps as a warning to any guests who might be thinking of doing any wrong to the royals while staying under their roof.

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Middle Court Gates

One of the seemingly unimportant bits of design I love in this complex is the gates that separate each building in the middle court complex. They are topped with these phenomenally detailed ceramic designs, making them look like blooming flowers exploding out of the ground!

Phra Thinang Aphorn Phimok Prasat

Walk back to the royal residence, and down to the Phra Thinang Aphorn Phimok Prasat . The first thing you’ll see here is a small pavilion mounted on a high terrace. Just as the older royal residence had a spot where the king could change and greet his royal elephant, the new house had a similar design. This mounting station was much higher off the ground, making it easier for the king to get on and off his elephant.

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The building of the Phra Thinang Aphorn Phimok Prasat is considered the epitome of Thai architectural elegance. A copy of this building was even used at the Worlds Fair in Brussels in 1958 to show off Thailand’s incredible artistry. Each of the columns holding up the pavilion’s tiered roof is covered in gold and silver glass mosaics in a flower pattern. The columns are shaped in the form of a long lotus petal. On the eastern side of the pavilion, you can see the pediment dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva standing on one foot, with his sword raised in hand left hand and his right in a blessing position.

Dusit Maha Prasat Hall

Behind the pavilion is the great  Dusit Maha Prasat Hall  or  Phra Thinang Dusit Maha Prasat . The original building was made from wood and burned down in 1789. King Rama I had this new structure designed for his “ lying in the state .” Lying in State is a tradition in Thailand for when a King dies, his body is placed in a state building, to allow the public to pay their respects and morn him publicly. Rama wanted the building to house his dead body to have the same height and dimensions as the iconic  Phra Thinang Suriyamarin  in Ayudhaya, one of the world’s holiest places.

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The Spire of Mount Meru

The Phra Thinang Dusit Maha Prasat is better known as the ‘grand spired hall ‘ due to the tall gilded spire which extends from the center of the building. The spire was meant to resemble the tall mountain Mount Meru , which is thought to be the mythological centre of the universe in Thai culture. There is a tremendous amount of symbolism wrapped into the design of the spire. The lowest level is made of seven tiers that represent heaven. The middle section is formed into the shape of a bell, similarly, as the stupa’s we saw before where the Buddha’s ashed have been buried. The top part is designed to look like a tapered lotus bud, which signifies escaping the mortal realm and being reborn once more.

Mount Meru Garudas

On either side of the spire are a series of garudas, which represent the heavenly realms connection to the earthly kingdom. Garudas are said to have come from the Himavanta forest surrounding Mount Meru , so this is almost their “home.”

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The pediments are decorated with the figures of Narayana riding on the back of a garuda. The Narayana came from heaven down to earth to help alleviate mankind’s suffering. This action is representative of what a king should aim to do for their people. Alleviate their pain and improve their lives. The roofline ends in a sharp set of finials in the shape of a lion’s foot. The lion’s paw is said to symbolise the Buddha’s family.

Busabok Mala Throne

A large golden porch juts out from the rest of the building at the Prasat Hall’s front. Sitting on the porch is the  Busabok Mala Throne.  A  busabok  is a small open structure used in Thai culture as a throne for the monarch or for the enshrinement of Buddha images or other sacred objects. The term is derived from the Sanskrit word  puṣpaka , a reference to the Hindu epic Ramayana’s flying chariot. The high base of the throne is surrounded by praying deities. During King Rama I’s reign, the throne was used when the king appeared before the public. Museum of the Emerald Buddha Temple

If you are interested in extending your stay, consider checking out the Museum of the Emerald Buddha Temple . The museum is free to enter with your general admission. The building is located inside what was initially designed as the Royal Mint, built in 1902. It wasn’t until 1982 that it was converted into a museum. Today the museum houses artifacts relating to the history of the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Very few tourists seem to know this place is here and if you’re looking for peace and quiet, this is place the escape to!

Museum Collection

Inside the exhibition, you’ll discover the bones of the royal elephants who served the former kings along with their palanquins on the ground floor. A  palanquin  is a class of wheelless vehicles, which take the form of open chairs or beds carried by two or more carriers, but in this case, held atop the royal elephants. On the upper levels, you can admire the fantastic costumes which adorned the Emerald Buddha over the years. There are architectural models of the Grand Palace as well, so you can see how it looked over the years. There is a series of old cannons on display along with a small armoury in the exterior courtyard, which details the military history of the Grand Palace.

Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles

If the Emerald Buddha museum doesn’t sound like it’s for you or if you want to see even more, stop in at the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles. This was one of my favourite stops since I LOVE fashion. It was such a lucky opportunity to see historical attire from the royal family’s collection. Inside the museum, you can study traditional textiles, fabrics and Thai clothing. The museum was founded by Her Majesty, the Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn . She wanted to create a space where the Thai identity and culture, and the beauty of Thai traditional textiles could be appreciated.

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This brings us to the end of the tour! I hope this guide helped you fully appreciate and experience the grandeur of the Bangkok Grand Palace . This place truly is a wonder to explore, and while the crowds might be a little intense from time to time, just know we’re all there for the same reason, to see something incredible and bask in its magnificence.

Let me know in the comments if you’ve ever visited the Grand Palace before or what you are most looking forward to seeing upon your first visit

Happy Travel Adventurers!

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Hi, thanks for the info. The palace should hire you to expand their brochure! I was wondering if you knew the following: What’s the meaning behind the green and orange of the roof tiles? What are those golden squiggles at the end of almost every roof ridge? They look a bit like the head of a bird, but it’s not clear. Thanks!

laura.f.whelan

Aw, you are just the sweetest! Honestly, I’d love that job 🙂 Orange is one of the most important colours in Buddhism so you’ll that that a lot in Thailand. Bordering it in the darker green colour (also often in dark blue) allows the roof to look a little bit more dynamic and highlights the shape. Those gold squiggles are indeed related to a bird! They are called ‘chofas’ and are meant to resemble the bird guardians that live on the gables of each building. Hope this helps! Should I add this to the post?

This is a really great article and I learned a lot. Do you happen to know what those dog-like creatures are that can be found all around the place? They almost look like pugs and sometimes have a ball in their mouth that you can move from side to side. Sometimes they have a chain as if they are a pet and sometimes they have what looks like a puppy or at least baby version of whatever they are.

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The Grand Palace in Bangkok – What You Need To Know About Visiting

Thailand » Bangkok - City Guide

It’s the most well-known attraction in Bangkok, and it’s top of the bucket list for the majority of first-time visitors to Thailand. There’s little denying the beauty and splendour of the Grand Palace, but a few insider tips can make your trip even better.

Here are our tips to help you get the most out of your visit to The Grand Palace.

Introducing The Grand Palace and The Temple of The Emerald Buddha

The Grand Palace is a complex of buildings that has been the official residence of the Kings of Chakri dynasty, ever since King Rama 1 moved the capital to Bangkok in 1782. Prior to this, the palace and centre of administration had been located across the river in Thonburi bank of the Chao Phraya.

The Grand Palace consists of royal residences and throne halls, administrative, and the sacred Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It covers an area of 218,000 square metres and is surrounded by four walls, 1900 metres in length.

The Grand Palace served as the main residence of the King until 1925. Now it is mainly used for ceremonial purposes.

Tickets for The Grand Palace

The Grand Palace admission fee is 500THB for foreigners. It is free for Thais and children under 120cm tall.

However, it’s a better deal than it might seem at first glance. In addition to allowing you to take in the Grand Palace and Temple of The Emerald Buddha complex, you also get access to a few other museums. In addition the ticket includes entrance to a traditional Thai “Khon” masked dance at Sala Chalermkrung theatre.

You can buy a ticket at the entrance or you can buy online at the official website for The Grand Palace .

There are many websites that do claim to sell tickets but usually they are including a guide as well.

Come Early to Avoid the Crowds

If you can pull yourself out of bed on time, getting to the Grand Palace at around the opening time of 8.30 am. It gives you a far greater chance of having the place to yourself for an initial wander and getting that peace-exuding shot of the complex grounds without a soul around.

The Palace Is Still Used for Royal Ceremonies

Though, The Grand Palace might no longer be home to Thailand’s royal family (they moved out to the Dusit Palace as long ago as 1925), it still plays a role in the most important of Thailand’s royal and religious ceremonies. Among these is the changing three times a year of the costume that adorns the Emerald Buddha statue inside Wat Phra Kaew – the switch between the three different costumes marks the transition between Thailand’s seasons, with one costume for each of the hot, rainy and cool seasons.

Some Common Questions & Answers on Visiting The Grand Palace

We always recommend a visit to The Grand Palace. While it is often packed with tourists it remains the most important attraction in Bangkok and one of the most spectacular.

At a very minimum you need 1 hour but to see it properly we suggest 2 hours. If you are detail orientated you may need longer.

The Grand Palace complex consists of 2 parts: The temple part and palace part. When you visit you get access to both. Locals usually refer to it as Wat Phra Keaw (The Temple of The Emerald Buddha).

We recommend visiting as early in the day as possible before it gets too hot and before there are too many people.

A dress code is strictly enforced at the Grand Palace. Please avoid revealing clothing and tight-fitting stretch pants. You should wear a shirt covering your shoulders, long pants covering your ankles, or a skirt and dress covering your knees. Specifically no: • sleeveless shirts • vests • crop tops • see through tops • short hot pants, shorts or miniskirts • torn pants • tight pants Flip-flops are not appropriate footwear but it is usually overlooked as shoes must be removed when entering sacred areas anyway. However, if anything is unacceptable, there are several shops just outside the complex that will sell you a suitable clothing to wear (and keep as a souvenir). For full details of the dress code visit the official website of The Grand Palace .

Our simple answer would be yes. If there is one place in Bangkok where you could gain significant insight from having a good guide, then it is here. While there are guides who hang around the Grand Palace we recommend booking a tour in advance via a reputable company. Audio guides are also available in 8 different languages.

The Grand Palace is open daily from 8:30am. Last entry is at 3:30pm and they will make sure everyone has left by 4:30pm. We suggest going early to avoid crowds and avoid having to rush.

Many of Bangkok’s main historical attractions are located in the vicinity of The Grand Palace. There are also many great cafes and places to get a drink. Read this article for more details .

There Is Plenty More to See Near The Grand Palace

The area around the Grand Palace, in Bangkok’s old town of Rattanakosin Island , is a pocket full of historical, cultural and gastronomical interest. There are countless other temples , plus numerous museums that are worth visiting. Most people do combine it with a visit to Wat Pho and Wat Arun.

Finally: Be Careful if Someone Says “ The Grand Palace Is Closed “

Don’t trust Bangkok’s infamous touts, who will tell you just about any number of lies to get you to take a scammy tuk tuk tour or visit a dodgy tailor’s shop for which they are on commission. We’ve heard stories of tourists being told everything from the complex being closed for Buddhist holiday celebrations, to lies about the whole place having burned down!

But whatever you’re told, the truth is that the Grand Palace rarely closes. It does happen on occasion. For example, for royal ceremonies (see below). But in these cases it’s almost always just a smaller section of the complex that closes, leaving the rest open for visitors.

If it is closed there will usually be a sign up on the main gates. If you want to be up to speed in advance of your visit, following travel blogger @richardbarrow on Twitter is a good idea. He regularly tweets about planned closures to the Grand Palace.

If you are interested about scams in Bangkok including the Grand Palace, check out our blog How to Avoid Scams in Bangkok & Beyond .

Other Articles That May Be of Interest

• Bangkok’s best hotels for a staycation
• Exploring Bangkok’s Chinatown
• The 35 best things to do in Bangkok
• The best experience in Thailand

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Everything You Need To Know To Visit The Grand Palace Bangkok

You can’t read any list of must see or can’t miss attractions in Bangkok without coming across The Grand Palace . It is without a doubt the city’s most famous and popular landmark, with it’s gold pagodas, impressive mosaic detailing and protective demon guards standing tall in front of the main temples.

To be brutally honest, we did not love our visit to the Grand Palace, and this may have just been because we weren’t prepared and didn’t know exactly what was going on when we arrived. I really don’t like sharing negative experiences on the blog, it makes me feel petty and ungrateful for our opportunity to travel, and I would instead prefer to just avoid sharing the experience completely.

But all I could think of when I was walking around the Grand Palace was how much extra information I would have liked to know before we arrived, that would have made our day so much easier. So hopefully, this post can help you be more prepared for your visit to the Grand Palace and have a more enjoyable day!

Avoid the stress completely and book a day trip to the Grand Palace

Having visited and hopped through dozens of temples across Thailand and Southeast Asia before our visit, we thought we’d be fine. Wouldn’t this just be like visiting any other Palace or temple, with maybe a few more visitors? But the Grand Palace is like a tourist attraction on a completely different level.

It was incredibly hot, humid and sticky on the day we visited the Grand Palace, definitely over 35⁰C. I hadn’t put enough thought into what I was wearing. Unfortunately, I dressed for the heat – not for visiting the craziest tourist attraction in Thailand. At other temples, I have always just rented or borrowed their sarongs to ensure that I was respectful and covered within the temple grounds, so I thought I would be fine once we got there. This was not an option at the Grand Palace.

Check out the best places to stay around the Grand Palace

As we approached the Palace we were greeted with much more of a circus than we expected. There were people yelling at us everywhere, telling us what to do and trying to sell us tours. As we approached the Grand Palace we were greeted by two big gates – acting as a perimeter around the Palace grounds. We were told by several of the tour guides standing out the front, that we weren’t even allowed to enter the gates without a ticket or appropriate clothing.

This is a lie. They just wanted our business.

Unfortunately, all the yelling and bartering, mixed with our confusion of the whole situation and the extreme heat in the middle of the day was getting a little overwhelming. The street directly across the road from the Palace is lined with shops selling sarongs, t-shirts and pants for people who have not come prepared.

In hindsight, we should have just grabbed some clothes from one of the shops and headed into the Palace. What was throwing us off though, was that every guide in front of the gates was telling us that we couldn’t even enter the grounds without a ticket. Again, another lie.

Avoid all the confusion and pre-buy your Grand Palace tickets HERE

With all the pressure and confusion, we gave in to one of the tour guides standing outside, and agreed to visit the temple on a private tour with him. However, once you get into the Palace grounds, there is in fact a ticket booth where you can purchase tickets yourself. This was instantly irritating to me. I’m not really one for tours, I prefer to explore at my own pace and be free to wander wherever I like. Also, I was annoyed we had just given money to this man that had conned us.

Admittedly, Thom actually enjoyed the tour and learning all about the history of all the buildings, so it wasn’t money that was completely lost or wasted. I was slightly too annoyed, hot and bothered to enjoy our visit. The heat and the crowds were overwhelming, and the fact that I couldn’t take a photo of anything without a million people being in the shot very quickly got old. The Grand Palace, definitely felt like the Disneyland of Thailand – but with even more people.

In this post:

History of Bangkok’s Grand Palace

The Royal Palace holds a very significant place in the hearts of the Thai people and is widely considered the most sacred Buddhist site in Thailand. In it’s heyday (between 1782 and 1925) it was essentially a city within a city, acting as the official home to the Thai King, the Royal Court, the Thai war ministry, the administrative seat of government and even Thailand’s mint!

Even though there are no longer any royals living in the Grand Palace, this historic building still remains the spiritual heart of the Thai Kingdom. It is still used for various government offices, royal ceremonies, state functions and of course, as Thailand’s most popular tourist attraction.

Explore more of the top attractions around Bangkok

A Guide To The Grounds of the Palace

Within the Palace, there are many important and impressive buildings to explore, as well as a centuries of a countries unique and sometimes turbulent history.

The  Outer Court  near where you enter the temple grounds, was the home to government departments that the King was directly involved in – such as civil administration, the army and the treasury. These days it is still the home to the royal offices. The  Temple of the Emerald Buddha  is found right next to the Outer Court.

Wat Phra Kaew – Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Widely regarded as the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand, Wat Phra Kaew is the home of the famous Emerald Buddha (also known as Phra Kaew Morakot). This Buddha was carefully carved from a single block of jade, and sits hill within the temple in a seasonal gold cloak.

Read more details about the Temple of the Emerald Buddha

The Royal Pantheon – Prasat Phra Thep Bidorn

The largest building on the upper platform is the Royal Pantheon, which was originally going to be the home of the Emerald Buddha. After it was once destroyed by fire, it was restored and is now the home to exact life sized statues of each of the kings from the Chakri Dynasty.

The  Central Court  is where the home of the king and the halls for conducting state business could be found. These days only two of the throne halls are open to the public, and only on weekdays. It’s still worth checking out the front of these buildings, the architecture is so beautiful.

Royal Reception Halls

The home to the antique throne, the Royal Reception Hall is still used for important ceremonial occasions, such as coronations. Inside, visitors are actually allowed to visit the Grand Palace Hall (Chakri Maha Prasat), which is a large European style reception room. There is also the Dusit Hall, which has been considered one of the finest architectural buildings of this style, and a museum that offers lots of information on the restoration and history of the Grand Palace.

Behind the Central Court, the  Inner Court was home to the king’s daughters and Royal consorts. It was actually like a mini city within the Palace that was entirely populated by women and boys under the age of about 12. Even though there are no royals currently living in the inner court, it’s still completely closed off to the public, and is often offered as a place to stay for visiting heads of international countries.

Dress Code at the Grand Palace

The Grand Palace definitely has the strictest dress code of any temple we have ever visited, as it’s Thailand’s most sacred site.

Men must wear long pants and shirts with sleeves – no tank tops or singlets.

Women must be similarly modestly dressed. Shoulders and knees must be covered and no see-through clothing.

If you’re wearing sandals or thongs/flip-flops you must wear socks – in other words, no bare feet.

If you arrive without the appropriate clothing you can buy something to cover yourself from one of the many shops across the road from the temple.

Some websites do say that you can rent clothes from inside the temple for a small deposit (this is why I thought I would be fine), however we didn’t see anywhere to do this as we walked into the grounds, so I’m not really sure if there is. Also, some websites say that you must leave your passport or credit card as security if you’re renting garments. Seems a whole lot easier to just wear the right thing I think!

Check out some of the best places to stay to be within walking distance of the Grand Palace and main temples

How to make the most of your visit to the Grand Palace

Although it’s crazy, crowded and just so humid, the Grand Palace is still at the top of many lists of must-see sites in Bangkok. And so it should be. As the most sacred site in Thailand and the former home of the King, it’s definitely a must see. But to make your trip a little more enjoyable, there are some of our top tips for your day:

• Wear the right clothes – so you don’t have to worry about buying or renting something when you get to the Palace.
• Visit at 8:30am – to experience some of the grounds without the huge crowds and craziness, get there right when the doors open.
• Prepare for the heat – there is very little shade at the Grand Palace, and it can get extremely hot in the midday heat. Definitely make sure you bring water to keep hydrated, and take a break whenever you find some shade.
• Wear shoes that are easy to take on and off – especially if you want to visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It’s a crazy scene out the front of the temple all day long, with thousands of people taking off, trying to find and then putting their shoes back on.
• Learn some of the history and significance of the buildings before you go – it always means more when you know what you’re looking at.
• The first gates you walk through are not actually the walls to the Palace – within those walls is where you will find the ticket booths and clothing hire. Any signs that state rules for visiting the temple refer to the actual Palace gates after the ticketing area, so don’t feel like you can’t walk onto the grounds at all.

Scams to lookout for at the Grand Palace

The tour guides out the front of the palace have several different scams that they like to run on people, to try and get you to take their tours instead of visiting the Grand Palace yourself, like you had intended. Here are a few of the lies and scams we heard about – or have fallen victim to, to help you avoid the same fate:

• You can’t enter the grounds without a pre-purchased ticket
• You can’t enter the grounds without the appropriate clothing, and there is no where inside the Palace to rent garments
• The Palace is closed for a State function, so you should take their tour of Bangkok

It seems like they will pretty much say anything to get confuse and alarm you, so stay alert and avoid getting caught up with anyone outside the temple.

Important Information for your visit to the Grand Palace

Visiting Hours: The Grand Palace is open from 8:30am to 3:30pm each day.

The Royal Pantheon in the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is only open on the 6th of April each year, Chakri Day.

Location: On the banks of the Chao Phraya River – Na Phra Lan Road, Old City (Rattanakosin).

How To Get There:  Take the BTS Skytrain to Saphan Takin Station. From this station you will need to take a Chao Phyara River Express Boat to Tha Chang Wang Luang Pier, where you can easily walk to the entrance.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi or order yourself an Uber. Remember, it is the law in Bangkok that a taxi driver must have his meter on, so make sure it’s all good before you take off.

Admission: Entry to the Palace costs 500 baht per person, and tickets can be bought either online before you arrive, or at the ticket booths inside the Palace grounds. Ticket booths are also open from 8:30am to 3:30pm and the ticket also includes entry to Vimanmek Palace and Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall within 7 days of your visit to the Palace.

Guided Tours:  The Palace offers free guided tours in English at 10am, 10:30am, 1:30pm and 2pm. You can also rent an audio guide for 100 baht for more of a self-guided tour.

Although our experience at the Grand Palace had a rough start and wasn’t the most enjoyable day we had in Thailand, there’s no doubt at all that the Grand Palace is absolutely epic, and definitely one of the most beautiful and intricately designed buildings in all of Thailand.

Next time we’re in Bangkok I would definitely like to visit again, following some of my own advice in this post for a much more relaxed day!

Have you visited the Grand Palace before? What was your experience like?

Explore more of our adventures around Thailand

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Grand Palace in Bangkok: Expert’s Guide to Exploration

The Grand Palace in Bangkok is a must-see, especially for first-time visitors.

It’s full of beautiful buildings and gardens. My wife and I absolutely loved it!

In this guide, you’ll find great photos and the best spots to visit, along with helpful tips.

Plus, I’ll show you how to easily get to the Grand Palace by either taking both the BTS Skytrain and Chao Phraya Express Boat, or by using the Bangkok MRT.

Let’s explore what makes the Grand Palace so special!😊

Grand Palace Overview

Must-see things at the grand palace, grand palace map, important tips, visitor information.

• By BTS and Boat
• Join a Guided Tour

Related Posts

Bangkok’s Grand Palace has been a top spot for travelers for its stunning designs and picturesque views .

This large temple complex stands out with its intricate styles and vivid colors , showcasing Thailand’s unique architecture. It’s a fantastic place for photography .

Moreover, since 1782, it has served as the home for Thai royals and a venue for important ceremonies and royal gatherings.

After exploring Grand Palace, I recommend that you visit Wat Pho and Wat Arun . These 2 stunning Bangkok temples are very close to the palace.

So, for a memorable trip, see this reliable Bangkok itinerary to know how to plot your schedule to visit these 3 beautiful places in just one day.

As you begin your Grand Palace adventure, it’s important that you know everything about the place.

So, I have listed down the 12 best things to see at the palace, together with its photos and useful information .

Let’s begin with the first one, which is Wat Phra Kaew.

1. Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of The Emerald Buddha)

There’s nothing more perfect than to start your Grand Palace exploration at Wat Phra Kaew or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha .

This isn’t just a normal site as it is one of the holiest Buddha temples in Bangkok.

Upon entering the shrine, you’ll catch sight of the most significant religious symbol in Thailand―the Emerald Buddha .

Inside, you can pray and pay your respects to the highly respected figure among locals.

But before you get to the main highlight, you’ll pass by the Yakshas or the caretakers of the temples.

The giant demon guards , which are sometimes called nature-spirits, are not hard to find because they stand at 20 ft. tall .

So, before or after you explore the place, make sure to marvel at these statues.

And of course, take a photo of the stunning decorations and sophisticated pieces around the temple.

2. Prasat Phra Dhepbidorn (The Royal Pantheon)

Continue with the journey and head to Prasat Phra Dhepbidorn , or often called the Royal Pantheon .

As one of the striking pavilions in the complex , this place is always a top-notch destination among tourists.

However, visitors can only see the inside of the building during Chakri Day, which is on the 6 th of April. One of the things you’ll see inside the building is the life-sized of the kings during the Chakri Dynasty.

But of course, you can still tour around the place and see its stunning external design .

And just beside the grand Royal Pantheon are two golden chedis or pagodas that are worth the capture . These pagodas were created by King Rama I in honour of his father and mother.

3. Phra Mondop

Get a glimpse of Phra Mondop ―the very own library located at the Grand Palace.

From afar, you can already sense the sophistication of the site. Clothed with golden Ayutthaya architectural designs, the building is definitely a head-turner.

Aside from its splendid exterior, the library is recognized for its key Buddhist scriptures . Because of the sacred scriptures inside the building, it never permits visitors into its perimeters.

But on the bright side, you can just wander around the entrance of the structure. One of the beautiful spots you’ll find here is the golden Yaksha statue .

4. Phra Siratana Chedi (Golden Stupa)

Another picturesque site at Grand Palace is the Phra Siratana Chedi or the Golden Stupa .

It is located just beside the Phra Mondop on the eastern side of the palace complex.

This massive stupa from the 19th century was built by King Rama IV as a place of worship .

Surprisingly, it is unlike most pagodas in the area. If you look closely, its architectural style is like a Sri Lankan design.

5. Model of Angor Wat

Discover a Model of the Angkor Wat within the temple. This stands out among other structures in the area because it’s a realistic replica of another important landmark in the country.

More than that, it demonstrates the communal history between Cambodia and Thailand . So, don’t miss this unique spot and capture its beautiful views .

6. Phra Bussabok

Phra Bussabok consists of four pillars that are enclosed by elephant statues.

The pillars shelter the royal symbols and accessories of the kings during the early Bangkok period.

Because of its historical significance, make sure you pop by this famous site at the Grand Palace.

7. Asurapaksi

Meet the Asurapaksi , a popular mythical creature in Thai traditional belief .

This distinct figure is surely one of kind because it has a head of a Yaksha and a body of a bird. This celestial being was said to live in the legendary forest of Himmaphan.

8. Chakri Maha Prasat Hall

Grand Palace is also the home of the Chakri Maha Prasat Hall .

Before you enter the building, spend time appreciating its fine-looking architecture . Because of its palace-like design , this site is a great backdrop for your photos .

In the past, this 3-storey structure was used as a royal residence .

It was constructed in 1877 , featuring a combination of European aesthetics and Thai style . Subsequently, it is now being utilized as a place for state gatherings.

Stroll around the building and enjoy its beautiful displays. And don’t forget to explore all three parts that are interconnected by corridors.

9. Dusit Maha Prasat Hall

Admire the gorgeous Dusit Maha Prasat Hall . This 17 th century building is also called the grand spired hall because of its impressive spire designs .

Along with the unique exterior, the place also has a distinct history. Centuries ago, this site served as the primary lying-in-state area for kings and other members of the royal family.

But now, it is considered as one of the revered sites in the country , where the Thai king is generally crowned. During this time, the hall is filled with ancient prayers to welcome the royal family.

10. Phra Wiharn Yod

Phra Wiharn Yod exudes simple yet striking vibes.

It may not be as colourful as other pagodas and buildings in the complex but it’s one of the famous sites in the palace complex.

If you watch the building intently, you’ll realize that it outlines the shape of the Thai crown .

Aside from that, the structure is actually decorated with porcelain Chinese mosaics . And inside the chapel are many Buddha figures and images.

11. Phra Maha Montian

Phra Maha Montian has one of the most scenic areas in the place. Since you cannot enter the building premises, just enjoy the lush vibes and capture its picturesque layout .

There are 7 connecting buildings that make up the entire structure. Furthermore, the place is not just gorgeous but also very prominent.

In fact, it is dubbed as the heart of Siamese royal supremacy, serving as the grand residence of the kings .

12. The Gallery and Ramakien Story

Along the walls of Grand Palace’s buildings, you’ll see the Gallery and Ramakien Story .

This historical display illustrates the story of King Ramakien . The King Ramakien story is actually the Thai version of the famous Indian epic called King Ramayan.

Follow the first part of the story, which is located in the opposite area of the Spired Hall. From there, move in a clockwise direction to complete the narration.

All these paintings were created back in the 17th century, featuring realistic Thai-style elements.

When visiting the Grand Palace, you should follow appropriate clothing so you won’t violate the rules. Here’s a simple guideline for your easy reference.

Dress code for men:

• Should wear long pants
• Should wear short-sleeved or long-sleeved shirts
• Can wear whatever footwear, including sandals, shoes, and flip-flop
• Should not wear short pants even if it covers your knees
• Should not wear sleeveless shirts
• Should not wear clothing with disrespectful image or slogan

Dress code for women:

• Should wear long skirts or long pants that are close to the ankle
• Should wear shirts with sleeve
• Can wear long dresses as long as it covers the shoulders and is close to the ankle
• Should not wear short and hot pants
• Should not wear tank tops, sleeveless shirts, and vests
• Should not wear short dresses
• Should not wear see-through and torn clothing
• Should not wear leggings or any tight-fitting pants

For you to easily access the Grand Palace, just wear the appropriate clothing such as long pants or long skirt that is close to your ankle. And, wear a sleeved shirt. Very simple, right? 😊

But if you prefer wearing short pants, you can do so as long as you cover your legs properly.

Or, you can bring a long pullover pant that you can easily take out and wear when visiting the palace complex.

In case you forget your sarong or pullover pant, you can rent these for a fee from the shop situated across the palace.

To make your tour more convenient, don’t forget to have a Grand Palace guide map.

You can get a softcopy of the map here . Simply download the file and save it in your phone so you can navigate the palace with ease.

1. Allocate 2 or 3 hours at the Grand Palace

Ideally, you can complete the palace tour within 2 hours. But, if you can spend 3 hours, that would be more than enough to enjoy all the attractions inside the complex.

2. Visit the palace early in the morning to avoid the crowd

Since Grand Palace is a very popular attraction in Bangkok, the best time to visit the place is during morning. At this time, there are fewer visitors so you can tour around the complex conveniently.

3. Know the schedule of the palace before your visit

There are times when the Grand Palace is not open because of royal ceremonies.

Therefore, you should check the palace schedules here before visiting the place so you’ll not waste your time and effort.

4. Beware of tuk-tuk scammers

There could be scammers outside the palace complex, who would inform you that the place is closed. Then, these people would offer you an alternative tour.

So before your trip, make sure you check the opening days and verify if the palace is open.

Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Ticket Price: 500 Baht per person *Children below 120 cm are free.

To know more about the history of the palace, there’s an audio guide for rent at the ticketing counter for an additional 200 baht.

This audio guide is available in 8 languages, including English, French, German, Japanese, Mandarin, Russian, Spanish, and Thai.

Official Website: https://www.royalgrandpalace.th/en/home

Address: Na Phra Lan Road, Grand Palace, Phranakorn, Bangkok 10200, Thailand

How to Get to Grand Palace in Bangkok

1. by bts skytrain and chao phraya express boat (recommended).

The cheapest way to go to the Grand Palace is by taking the BTS Skytrain and getting off at Saphan Taksin Station , strong>Exit 2 .

Then take the Chao Phraya Express Boat (costs 16 Baht) at Sathorn Pier , which will take you to Tha Chang Pier. The palace is just a 3-minute walk from Tha Chang Pier.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting to the palace by BTS and boat.

1. The very first step is to take the Silom Line going to Saphan Taksin Station. Once you alight at Saphan Taksin BTS Station, head to the Exit 2 of the station.

2. Take the stairs going down at the Exit 2 of Saphan Taksin BTS Station.

3. Just walk straight for less than a minute, and then you’ll find Sathorn Pier on your left side.

4. Continue walking and you’ll come across the ticketing booth selling the Chao Phraya Express Boat ticket.

5. Just look for the booth with a label “Chao Phraya Express Boat (Orange Flag)”. The Orange Flag Boat fare is at 16 Baht per person for one-way. This is the fixed price regardless of the jetty where you will get off.

6. After you purchase your ticket, head to the queue for the Chao Phraya Express Boat (Orange Flag). The boat will take you from Sathorn Pier to Tha Chang Pier for around 18 minutes. There will be a signboard that displays the pier name so you’ll know when to get off the boat.

7. Once you get off the boat at Tha Chang Pier, head out to the pier and go straight.

8. From there, you’ll find a pedestrian walkway on the left side. Keep walking on the left lane for around 3 minutes, and then you’ll see the entrance of the Grand Palace on the right. There’s a pedestrian crossing to allow you to travel across the road from the left lane to the right.

Chao Phraya Express Boat (Orange Flag): Monday to Friday: 6:00 AM – 6:10 PM Saturday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

*Departs every 15 to 30 minutes

Google Maps:

To give you a more detailed route from Saphan Taksin BTS Station to the Grand Palace, see the Google Maps below.

Another way reach the Grand Palace is by taking Bangkok MRT. And, the nearest MRT Station to the palace is Sanam Chai Station , Exit 1 . It will take you about 15 minutes’ walk to the palace from the station.

If you’re from Sanam Chai Station, check the Google Maps below to have a clearer picture of the route going to the palace.

3. Join a Guided Tour

Because of the proximity of Grand Palace to Wat Pho and Wat Arun, most travellers would visit these 3 Bangkok sights in one day.

If you don’t have enough time to plan your visit, you can take this Grand Palace tour in Bangkok. The tour will bring you to visit these 3 attractions so you won’t have to deal with public transportations.

Also, the assembly location of the day tour can be easily located. It’s just outside of Victory Monument BTS Station, Exit 2, making it very convenient for tourists.

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HOW TO VISIT THE GRAND PALACE, BANGKOK

The Grand Palace is an iconic attraction in Bangkok. After visiting many times, we are sharing our tips on how to visit The Grand Palace, Bangkok.

Tips on how to visit the Grand Palace Bangkok

Get there early

As with most temples and attractions in the city centre, it is worth arriving early – like before opening. The Palace opens at 8.30 am, so arrive at 8.15 am to get in and see the Palace before the crowds.

Avoid the holidays

Thailand has several holidays throughout the year, with some that celebrate royal birthdays or coronation anniversaries. Avoid visiting the Grand Palace on these dates as more often than not, locals flock to the palace and nearby temples for the special occasion.

Stay hydrated

Drink water during your trip – Bangkok is hot and humid but drinking water will help keep you hydrated. Remember to find the shade too, especially if you do feel like the heat is getting to you.

Stick to the dress code

Wear something light and long – shoulders and ankles need to be covered and leggings are not allowed. If you have a full day of sightseeing, you may not want to wear long trousers, so you can buy or rent long pull-over trousers from the entrance of the Palace. Or, bring trousers in a backpack to change in and out of.

The Grand Palace is one of the most expensive historical attractions in Bangkok with current prices being 500 baht for foreigners. You won’t find a cash point in the immediate area around the Palace so bring plenty of cash with you.

How to get to the Grand Palace

If you are staying near the MRT or BTS, you can catch the Silom Line (dark green) to Saphan Taksin Station then take exit 2. From here you can take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Ta Chang Pier, with the Grand Palace being around a 10-minute walk from the Pier, with clear directions to the Palace.

You can also catch a taxi to the Palace but check the traffic first. It is worth downloading the GRAB app before your visit – it can be difficult to catch a taxi back to your hotel, especially as a lot of taxis will try to avoid using the meter.

Don’t plan a full day

Do not underestimate the heat in Bangkok. You will likely be shattered by midday, so plan your morning at the Grand Palace but don’t plan a load of activities for the afternoon.

Bring Socks

A strange one but it is worth wearing a pair of socks with your shoes or bringing a pair of socks if you are wearing flip flops. This is for two reasons: firstly, you will be expected to take your shoes off when entering temples within the grounds, such as where the Emerald Buddha is, and no-one wants to walk around barefoot. Secondly, the Palace can occasionally be very strict with the dress code and will ask you to wear socks.

Stay away from nearby food stalls

Thailand has some great street food but the vendors outside the Grand Palace are not examples of them. Often the food is overpriced and tasteless; instead, head to local restaurants or vendors near apartment blocks – always eat where the locals eat for the best food.

Eat on the river

Not too far from the Grand Palace is Trok Maha That Amulet market. Walk through the market and you find some restaurants along the riverfront – the food here is good, decently priced and offers fantastic views.

Head straight to the entrance

As you walk towards the entrance, you will find tuk-tuk drivers trying to tell you that the Palace is closed. They say this in the hope to entice you to overpay for one of there tours to other temples around the city. Just keep walking to the front of the Palace and ignore the tuk-tuk drivers.

Now you are all set for your trip! Have an amazing time at the Grand Palace and tell us about your time in the comments below!

Wow. The Grand Palace looks beautiful. I can’t wait to get there and visit see it in person one day. Thank you for the great tips! They will definitely come in handy. It’s good to know that I won’t need a full day at the palace. I would have planned an entire day, so it is good to know I don’t have to. I also appreciate your advice regarding not eating at the food stalls right outside the palace. I try to avoid food right near popular tourist destinations but sometimes I’m so hungry that I can’t resist. Haha.

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Complete Guide to The Grand Palace of Bangkok in 2024

• Last updated: February 28, 2024

Full-time travelers, photographers, bloggers and travel journalists for over 4 years. We write in-depth travel guides about destinations we have personally visited, providing practical travel tips and recommendations.

About the Grand Palace

The Grand Palace (Royal Palace) in Bangkok is a stunning historic complex of buildings that served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam from the 18th to the mid-20th century.

The construction of the Grand Palace in Bangkok began in 1782 by the order of King Rama I and was expanded many times by successive monarchs. Covering over 200,000 square meters, it is a true icon of the rich cultural heritage of Thailand . 

Bangkok’s Grand Palace is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate details, including the golden spires and colorful mosaics that adorn the various structures.

The palace also houses several important temples and relics, including the Emerald Buddha, a highly revered Thai cultural and religious symbol.

This area of the capital city is steeped in the history of the Royal Family, with the grounds of the Grand Palace being used for state functions and ceremonies attended by the Thai people for centuries.

Overall, the Grand Palace is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Bangkok . It offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Bangkok Travel Tips

Before we jump into everything you need to know before visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok , let’s cover the essentials and tips to help you have a more fun, enjoyable, and safer trip to Bangkok, Thailand .

Stay connected with an eSIM

Instantly connect to the internet on your arrival in Thailand by buying an eSIM package in advance.

• eSIM packages on Thailandesim (get 5% off your purchases with code SHIPPEDAWAY )
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Book trusted tours

Bangkok is easy to explore on your own, but if you want a guided experience, you can opt for one of the top-rated Bangkok tours on Viator or GetYourGuide .

Save money on tours and attractions

Check out Bangkok Go City Pass for combo deals on tours and attractions. Use the code SHIPPEDAWAY5 for 5% off any city pass!

Get travel insurance

While Bangkok is a safe destination, we recommend getting travel insurance for any trip outside your country. We highly recommend an insurance package from Heymondo . And as our reader, you get 5% off the price.

Getting around

It’s easy to get around Bangkok by using the MRT, BTS, boat, taxi/Grab, or by foot.

Transportation options worth checking out:

• Bangkok BTS Skytrain One Day Pass
• Bangkok BTS Skytrain Rabbit Card
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
• Hop-On Hop-Off Boat
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tuk-Tuk and Boat combo

Bangkok still relies heavily on cash. So we recommend taking out a good amount each time you visit an ATM. Note: There is an 8.5 USD fee for each withdrawal (most Thai ATMs).

Get a Wise card to save money on additional conversion fees and ATM transactions from your bank.

Hotels in Bangkok

Khao San , Sukhumvit , and Banglamphu are the best areas to stay in Bangkok. Book your Bangkok hotel in advance to secure the best deals: Check all hotel options.

We have compiled a Bangkok Travel Map , which you can refer to when exploring.

Opening hours and entrance tickets

The Grand Palace in Bangkok is open daily from 8:30 am until 3:30 pm . 

Before visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok, always check the opening sc hedule on the official website, as sometimes the Grand Palace is closed due to specific events.

The entrance ticket for the Grand Palace in Bangkok costs 500 THB (about 15 USD) for foreign adults and is free for children under 120 cm. The entrance is free of charge for Thai nationals.

Save money on conversion fees and ATM transactions. Get a Wise card!

The entrance ticket to the Grand Palace also includes Wat Phra Kaew and Queen Sirikit Museum of Textile, located on the grounds.

Arts of the Kingdom Museum, located in Ayutthaya province, is another site included in the ticket, with 7 days validity after the Grand Palace visit. Since it’s so close to Ayutthaya, it makes a lot of sense to add it to your Ayutthaya itinerary if you’re looking to go there as well.

Khon Performance

Another thing that the Grand Palace ticket includes is the “Khon performance” – a Thai classical masked dance. 

The dance is performed at Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theather in Bangkok’s Chinatown from Monday to Friday at 1 pm, 2:30 pm, and 4 pm. The ticket is valid for 7 days after the Grand Palace ticket purchase.

It also includes a free shuttle to the show. We took a photo of the information, but these things change, so the most updated information will be on the spot.

The best time to visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok

The ideal time to explore the Grand Palace in Bangkok is in the morning when it’s still not crazy hot, and the crowds are the most manageable. 

Keep in mind that the Grand Palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bangkok for both Thai and foreigners, so it’s almost impossible to avoid crowds.

Before visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok, always check the opening schedule on the official website, as sometimes the Grand Palace is closed due to specific events.

[ ALSO READ ]

Guide: Best Things To Do in Bangkok

Dress Code for the Grand Palace in Bangkok

The dress code for the Grand Palace is the strictest of any tourist attraction in Bangkok and includes covered shoulders, knees, and no open shoes for both, men and women . Sleeveless shirts, shorts, and revealing, tight, or ripped clothing are not permitted within the palace grounds. 

Remember that the Grand Palace is not just a popular tourist spot; it also holds significant historical and cultural value for Thai nationals and the royal family, including the former capital’s grounds and the royal chapel.

If you don’t have appropriate attire, you can buy or rent some at the stalls just in front of the Grand Palace. But we suggest to come prepared instead. 

Arijana usually wears long linen pants or a maxi dress while visiting the temples. Having a sarong with you is also useful as you can easily cover your shoulders or knees when needed.

It’s also advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes, as the area is expansive. 

We also recommend Unbound Merino , our favorite travel clothes. Their shirts are great as they dry super fast after getting sweaty (which you will), and unlike other clothes, they don’t stink up after one wear, so you can reuse them a lot.

How long does it take to see the Grand Palace

The Grand Palace in Bangkok is a vast complex with many buildings and attractions to explore.

On average, it can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours to fully explore the Grand Palace in Bangkok, depending on your pace and level of interest. 

However, if you want to take your time, admire the intricate details, and visit all the different areas, it is recommended to allocate at least half a day for your visit. 

It’s also worth noting that the Grand Palace can be quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season, so it may take longer if you encounter lines or crowds at certain attractions.

Tips for visiting The Grand Palace

We’ll briefly cover some main tips to help make your visit to the Grand Palace go more smoothly.

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Beware of common scams

There have been some common scams going on around the Grand Palace in Bangkok for years already. The best advice is not to trust anyone around the complex until you reach the official counter. 😀

“The Grand Palace is closed” scam

If you follow our advice and check the opening times of the Grand Palace before your visit, it will be impossible to fall for the scam at the gate of the Grand Palace. 

There’s been a scam going on for years at the Grand Palace in Bangkok where you try to enter, and a man on the side of the gate says that it’s closed. Then he persuades you to go somewhere else he recommends and takes you on an overpriced tour, likely of things you didn’t want to see in the first place.

We saw this firsthand as a guy sneakily said, “Where you go, the Grand Palace is closed,” when we were entering it. Just brush them off.

Fake tickets Scam

Buy the Grand Palace tickets only at the official counters right before the entrance. Do not believe people stopping you beforehand and offering you tickets. 

You can also buy a ticket online up to 1 month before your visit date. Note that these are non-refundable, and you can’t change the date once you purchase the ticket.

Photography at the Grand Palace in Bangkok

While photography is permitted in most areas of the Grand Palace in Bangkok, flash photography is prohibited. 

Drones are strictly forbidden at the Grand Palace in Bangkok.

Visiting the Grand Palace on a tour

Visiting the Grand Palace with a tour guide is highly recommended as you learn more about its importance and history. No information is displayed around the grounds , so it’s hard to understand the symbolism and significance of certain elements without a guide.

You can purchase an audio guide at the entrance of the Grand Palace for 200 THB (about 6 USD) . 

There are also free pamphlets with the main information at the entrance in English, Thai, and other languages like Russian, Chinese, Spanish, German, French, and more.

However, for some reason, they were entirely out of English pamphlets during our visit. 

Amenities at the Grand Palace

There are toilets and baby-changing facilities across the Grand Palace complex. 

There are also a few places where you can buy water. But we’d recommend to come prepared with your own water just in case.

You can borrow wheelchairs for free, and there are wheelchair-accessible toilets in the Grand Palace in Bangkok.

How to get to the Grand Palace in Bangkok

The best way to get to the Grand Palace in Bangkok is by MRT, boat, bus, or taxi. 

You can also use BTS, but in that case, you need to transfer to the boat as well.

• The Chao Phraya Express Boat boat to Tha Chang or Tha Tien Pier. Depending on the pier, it can take 5-15 minutes to walk to the entrance. Check the boat schedule he re.
• The MRT to Sanam Chai station ; from there, it is about a 15-minute walk to Bangkok’s Grand Palace.
• Taxi is the most popular and easiest way to get to Bangkok’s Grand Palace. Use Grab for the best experience, or make sure it’s a taxi with a taximeter.
• There are frequent buses that pass next to the Grand Palace.
• BTS Skytrain to Saphan Taksin station , and then transfer to the Chao Phraya Express Boat, which stops at Tha Chang Pier, just a short walk from the palace. 

Tip: When hailing a taxi upon departure from the Grand Palace, be aware of the drivers waiting near the entrance, as they’ll often try to scam you. We suggest walking a bit away from the Grand Palace and then calling a taxi.

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Is the Grand Palace in Bangkok worth visiting? 

If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok , the Grand Palace is an absolute must-see . This stunning complex of buildings and temples was once the home of Thai kings, and even Queen Elizabeth II has been present here. The intricate architecture and attention to detail in every aspect of the palace are truly breathtaking. 

Must-See Sights within the Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is divided into three main zones: the Outer Court, Middle Court, and Inner Court. The Inner Court is not accessible to the public.

There are over 30 beautiful and important buildings at the Grand Palace in Bangkok, so we’ll only mention some of the best ones.

Plus, many of the buildings at the Grand Palace complex you can only see from the outside.

Also read: Top Things to do in Phuket

To understand more about the importance and history of each building and the whole complex, it’s recommended to go on a guided tour . 

1. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Located within the grounds of the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha holds immense cultural and religious significance, making it the most important temple in Thailand .

Housing a small yet highly revered statue of the Emerald Buddha, the temple is a sacred site for Thai nationals and draws visitors worldwide. 

The Emerald Buddha, dating back to the 15th century, has three different robes, one for each season: summer, winter, and rainy season. The King of Thailand changes the Emerald Buddha’s robes each season in an important ritual in the Buddhist calendar.

Although often referred to as a Buddhist temple, it is actually a royal chapel with all the features of a temple except for living quarters for monks. 

2. The Demon Guardians

There are six big statues of the Demon Guardians in the Grand Palace complex, and the majority of them are positioned towards the chapel of the Emerald Buddha, protecting it from evil spirits.

3. Phra Mondop and Phra Siratana Chedi

Phra Mondop is a beautiful building that’s actually a Buddhist library and holds sacred texts. And the nearby Phra Siratana Chedi is a bell-shaped golden stupa housing Buddha relics.

4. Model of Angkor Wat

There is also a small model of the incredible Angkor Wat temple in Cambodia. One of the Thai kings built it to show what Khmer architecture looks like.

5. Chakri Maha Prasat Hall

Chakri Maha Prasat Hall was a royal residence originally designed by a British architect. This is the sole structure within The Grand Palace that combines a European-style lower section of the throne hall with a Thai-style roof.

6. Dusit Maha Prasat Hall

Dusit Maha Prasat Hall, a magnificent hall with spires, was built by King Rama I specifically for his own lying-in-state. Its primary purpose is to serve as a venue for the lying-in-state of Kings, Queens, and other members of the royal family.

Additionally, this hall is also utilized for the annual Conservation Day Ceremony.

7. Royal Textiles at the Queen Sirikit Museum

A collection of Royal Textiles at the Queen Sirikit Museum, located within the grounds of the Grand Palace, showcases intricate and ornate garments worn by members of the Thai royal family throughout history.

What other attractions are near the Grand Palace?

There are several Bangkok attractions near the Grand Palace that you can explore. Some of these include Wat Pho , also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, which is located just south of the Grand Palace. This temple is famous for its giant reclining Buddha statue and beautiful architecture. 

Another nearby attraction is Wat Arun , or the Temple of Dawn, which is situated on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. This temple features a stunning spire that is often photographed at sunset. 

You can also take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River to explore other temples and landmarks in the area, such as Chinatown , where you can find bustling markets and delicious street food.

Looking for more travel guides and Thailand travel inspiration?

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8 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Grand Palace in Bangkok

By: Author Eva

Posted on Published: December 18, 2019  - Last updated: January 11, 2022

Categories thailand

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The Grand Palace in Bangkok is one of the places everyone absolutely has to visit in Bangkok. BUT… It took me 3 visits to Bangkok before finally visiting this splendid palace.

Why did it take me this long? To be honest, at first I found the ticket price to be quite expensive. At THB 500, I can eat a lot of good food and great massage. Besides, if I am to spend THB 500 for a temple visit, I might as well spend a whole day at the palace in order to make my money worth, right?

So, spend a WHOLE day at Grand Palace we did! And it was SO worth the THB 500! I’m going to share with you how we made the most of our visit to the Grand Palace. 

1. Grand Palace Entry Fee

The entrance fee for Grand Palace is THB 500 for forigners, Thai people get to enter for free (how cool!). Children below 120cm also enter for free (yay!).

You can pay on the spot with cash or credit card. As a travel hacking junkie, we paid with credit card in order to earn points.

If you are the type of people who want to learn about history but don’t want to hire a tour guide, you can rent audio guide in English, French, German, Spanish, Russian, Japanese, Mandarin and Thai, for THB 200.

However, if you prefer to explore Grand Palace with a tour guide, I recommend checking out this tour .

2. Grand Palace Opening Hours

Grand Palace is open from 8.30am to 3.30pm daily .

I highly recommend that you arrive early, like before 8.30am, because of the following reasons: (a) the palace is so HUGE, you need at least 3 to 4 hours to cover everything (b) you’ll get to avoid the crowd if you go early in the morning (c) the weather is much better in the morning, trust me

Even though the Grand Palace is usually open daily, on some special days Grand Palace is closed due to Royal ceremonies. Therefore, before you go, I urge you to check the schedules of Grand Palace here. Click on the date you intend to visit and it will tell you whether the entire palace is open or closed, and whether it’s only a small part of the palace that’s closed.

Beware of “Grand Palace is closed” SCAM . If your tuktuk driver tells you that the Grand Palace is closed for the day and he can bring you to other temples instead, don’t fall for this scam. Most likely, he’s trying to bring you to tourist shops where he can earn commission on any purchases that you make. Check the schedule to verify whether what he says is correct.

3. Grand Palace Dress Code

Dress code is a very important issue that you must pay attention to when visiting Grand Palace. Visitors are not allowed to wear, sleeveless shirts, sleeveless vests (tank tops), short tops (crop tops), see-through tops, hot pants (short pants), torn pants, tight pants, bike pants, mini skirts. 

Basically, just wear shirt with sleeves with loose long pants, and you’ll be fine 🙂  If you don’t have long loose long pants, you can use sarong too.

When I visited in 2019, the Grand Palace did sell sarongs/long pants (no free loaning) but they were more expensive than what we could get from the shop across the street. Since both my hubby and I wore short pants, we decided to get long pants from the shop across the street. There were 2 options: buy or rent. Since the price difference was not much, we bought the pants!

For footwear, I read somewhere that closed shoes is required. However, I think the rule is not so strict. Both my hubby and I wrote flip-flops and we didn’t face adversity. A lot of other tourists wear flip-flops too. If we were turned down because of flip-flops, I would go to the shop across the street to buy socks. 

4. How to Get to Grand Palace

Bangkok has an extensive transportation system network, so there are plenty of ways to get to Grand Palace. You can take taxi, tuk-tuk, train + tuk-tuk, train + bus, train + boat, boat + tuk-tuk. Basically there are so many possible combinations, just search with Google Maps. However, I do have some tips for you based on my personal experience.

If you stay at Khaosan Road and you don’t mind walking, Grand Palace is just 1.5km away! That’s probably like 15 to 20 minutes walk, not a bad morning exercise!

To go to Grand Palace by boat, you can take BTS to Saphan Taksin, then take Chao Phraya Express Boat (Green flag or Orange flag) to Tha Chang pier.

Do note that there are 2 types of Chao Phraya: Express boat and Tourist boat . Express Boat is cheaper at 15 to 32 Bahts depending on the distance. Meanwhile, Chao Phraya Tourist Boat costs 60 Baht for a single journey and 300 Baht for 1-day unlimited ride. Given that you’ll spend a whole day at Grand Palace, it doesn’t make sense to take the Tourist Boat. By the way, I have a comprehensive article about how to take boat in Bangkok .

For us, since we stayed at Metropole Hotel , there was no BTS station near our hotel so we took the local canal boat to Pratu Nam, then change to another local canal boat to Phanfa Bridge. From there, we took bus 47 to Grand Palace. The bus driver kindly told us when we needed to get off. I think this could be the cheapest way to get to Grand Palace from downtown Bangkok.

If you choose to rent a car to move around Bangkok, I recommend checking out the offers here .

5. Things to do and see in Grand Palace

Grand Palace used to be the home of Thai’s Royal family and government offices in the 1700s. However, from 1925, the royal family is no longer residing at the Grand Palace. Right now, Grand Palace is used for occasional ceremonies besides being the busiest tourist attraction in Bangkok.

As I mentioned previously, the Grand Palace complex is so HUGE, there are no less than 30 landmarks. To get a feeling of how big the palace is, take a look at the map . 

We spent 1 hour at the complex around Chapel of Emerald Buddha thinking that we have covered the entire Grand Palace. Before we left the place, we decided to finally open the map and we immediately realized how foolish we were to think Grand Palace was only that big.

You don’t want to make the same mistake as us. Since you’re reading this article, you’re in good hands. These are the places that I think you should not miss when visiting Grand Palace.

Wat Phra Kaew

Wat Phra Kaew (also known as chapel of the Emerald Buddha or Temple of Emerald Buddha), is the first thing you’ll encounter once you pass through the entrance gate, so it’s very unlikely that you miss it. On the map, it is No. 10.

Prasat Phra Dhepbiorn (The Royal Pantheon)

The Royal Pantheon is a mixture of Thai and Khmer style pavilion. There are eight statues of the previous Kings inside the building presently. On the map, it is No. 9.

Phra Siratana Chedi (Golden Stupa)

The Golden Stupa is the house of Buddha relics. The stupa has circular base and bell shape. On the map, it is No. 3.

Model of Angkor Wat

Even though I have been to Angkor Wat twice, I am still awed by this impressive model the magnificent Angkor Wat. On the map, it is No. 6.

Chakri Maha Prasat Hall 

Chakri Maha Prasat Hall is a former royal residence built by King Rama V in 1877. This unique building has a combination of European architecture at the lower hall and Thai-style roof. On the map, it is No. 26.

Queen Sirikit Museum of Textile

Queen Sirikit Museum of Textile is probably my most favorite part of Grand Palace. Opened in 2012, this museum is dedicated to Queen Sirikit’s effort to preserve Thailand’s textile arts for the future generation. On the map, it is No. 35.

At the time of my visit in August 2019, there was an exhibition called The Power of Love. It is about the story of Queen Sirikit when she was young until now. I learned so much about the royal family through this exhibition. Unfortunately, photographs are not allowed in the museum, so here is the photo of the building from outside.

Other Landmarks in Grand Palace

6. Your ticket allows you access to other places outside Grand Palace

This was truly a surprise for us. We didn’t know about this before visiting so we did not allow enough time to enjoy these privileges. I think these bonuses will change from time to time. When we visited in August 2019, the ticket allows us to watch Khon (Thai Masked Dance) and to visit Arts of the Kingdom Museum for free.

To watch Khon, visitors can take the free shuttle from Grand Palace to Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre. The ticket to watch Khon is only valid on the same day of the visit to Grand Palace. Sadly, we were not able to watch because we didn’t have enough time, we had another appointment later that evening.

Meanwhile, the ticket to Arts of the Kingdom Museum is valid for 7 days after visiting Grand Palace. However, this museum is not located in Bangkok. It is located in Ayutthaya! Oh well.. I guess I’ll just search for the photos and videos from Google then! *sob*

7. What to Eat around Grand Palace

Inside the Grand Palace, there is a small cafe that sells drinks and ice cream near the West Gate. 

If you’re hungry, there are plenty of food outside the Grand Palace, especially near Tha Chang Pier. We had our lunch at Thong Hong Lee , it was so yummy and affordable.

If you’re adventurous, take the river-crossing ferry to the hidden Wang Lang market where you’ll find plenty of street food. You can also book this food tour by Tuk Tuk for extra fun!

8. Tips for Visiting Grand Palace

In addition to everything I’ve written up from the beginning of the article up to this point, I still have some tips that can’t fit into those categories above. So I guess I’ll just list them all here.

Eat a big breakfast before you visit Grand Palace because you need energy to spend 3 to 4 hours in this huge palace, and also because there’s no food being sold in the Grand Palace (at least I didn’t see any restaurants when I visited).

Bring your own bottle. There are water dispensers near Dusita Phirom Hall (No 23 on the map) and Queen Sirikit Museum (No 35 on the map) so you can refill your bottle for free.

Wear sunscreen. There is little shade so protect your skin by wearing sunscreen or by using umbrella. 

Get the free hardcopy map near the entrance. It has a map and detailed explanation about each landmarks in the Grand Palace.

Official website of Grand Palace: https://www.royalgrandpalace.th/en/home

So, I guess that’s all I have to say about what you need to know before visiting Bangkok’s Grand Palace. Hope you have an enjoyable trip!

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Thursday 29th of December 2022

I agree that the Grand Palace should not be missed, it's the no.1 attraction of Thailand. There is a free guided tour not mentioned here, it's only available in the morning around 9.30am and 10.00am.

Sunday 1st of January 2023

Hi Stanley, thanks for your information. I didn't notice it when I visited Grand Palace. Was the sign-up at the ticket counter?

Monday 30th of December 2019

I was actually planning to visit Bangkok in January. Thanks for sharing this list of places. I will definitely visit them. Thanks for sharing this article.

Wednesday 1st of January 2020

The Grand Palace in Bangkok

Must-see bangkok attraction.

The dazzling, spectacular Grand Palace is undoubtedly the most famous landmark in Bangkok. It’s one must-see sight that no visit to the city would be complete without. It was built in 1782 and for 150 years was the home of the Thai King, the Royal court and the administrative seat of government.

The Grand Palace of Bangkok is a grand old dame indeed, that continues to have visitors in awe with its beautiful architecture and intricate detail, all of which is a proud salute to the creativity and craftsmanship of the Thai people. Within its walls were also the Thai war ministry, state departments, and even the mint. Today, the complex remains the spiritual heart of the Thai Kingdom.

The Grand Palace in Bangkok - one of the highlights of 28 Best Things to Do in Bangkok and 10 Best Group Tours in Bangkok (Read all about Bangkok here)

The Grand Palace

Within the palace complex are several impressive buildings including Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), which contains the small but famous and greatly revered Emerald Buddha that dates back to the 14th century.

The robes on the Buddha are changed with the seasons by HM The King of Thailand – an important ritual in the Buddhist calendar. Thai Kings stopped living in the palace around the turn of the 20th century, but the palace complex is still used to mark all kinds of other ceremonial and auspicious happenings.

Layout and orientation of the Grand Palace

The palace complex, like the rest of Ratanakosin Island, is laid out very similar to the palaces of Ayutthaya, the glorious former capital of Siam which was raided by the Burmese. The Outer Court, near the entrance, used to house government departments in which the King was directly involved, such as civil administration, the army and the treasury. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is located in one corner of this outer court.

The Central Court is where the residence of the King and halls used for conducting state business were located. Only 2 of the throne halls are open to the public, but you'll be able to marvel at the exquisite detail on the facades of these impressive structures.

The Inner Court is where the King's royal consorts and daughters lived. The Inner Court was like a small city entirely populated by women and boys under the age of puberty. Even though no royalty currently resides in the inner court, it is still completely closed off to the public.

Despite the proximity of the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, there's a distinct contrast in styles between the very Thai Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the more European inspired design of The Grand Palace (the roof being the main exception). Other highlights are Boromabiman Hall and Amarinda Hall, the original residence of King Rama I and the Hall of Justice.

Important note about visiting the Grand Palace

A strict dress code applies. The Grand Palace, with the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is Thailand's most sacred site. Visitors must be properly dressed before being allowed entry to the temple. Men must wear long pants and shirts with sleeves (no tank tops). If you're wearing sandals or flip-flops you must wear socks (in other words, no bare feet.)

Women must be similarly modestly dressed. No see-through clothes, bare shoulders, etc. If you show up at the front gate improperly dressed, there is a booth near the entrance that can provide clothes to cover you up properly (a deposit is required).

Tickets to the Grand Palace are sold from 8.30am to 3.30pm and the price includes entry to Vimanmek Palace and Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall.

About Wat Phra Kaew

Wat Phra Kaew or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (officially known as Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram) is regarded as the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand. Located in the historical center of Bangkok, within the grounds of the Grand Palace, it enshrines Phra Kaew Morakot (the Emerald Buddha), the highly revered Buddha image meticulously carved from a single block of jade. The image can also be called Phra Putta Maha Mani Ratana Patimakorn and is in the meditating position. Its design is in the style of the Lanna school of the north.

Royal Reception Halls

Nowadays, its impressive interior is used for important ceremonial occasions like coronations. It also contains the antique throne, used before the western-style one presently in use. Visitors are allowed inside the spacious European-style reception room or Grand Palace Hall (Chakri Maha Prasat).

Then there's the impressive Dusit Hall, rated as perhaps the finest architectural building in this style, and a museum that has information on the restoration of the Grand Palace, scale models and numerous Buddha images.

Location: Na Phra Lan Road, Old City (Rattanakosin), Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand

Open: Daily from 8.30am to 3.30pm

Phone: +66 (0)2 623 5500

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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