Travel District Phra Nakhon

The Grand Palace

Friday 08:30-15:30

Sanam Chai 0.8 km Blue-Line MRT
Sam Yot 1.2 km Blue-Line MRT

Hua Lamphong 3.1km Si Rat Expressway

1 ถนน หน้าพระลาน Bangkok

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Majestic Architecture and Rich History

Visitors are captivated by the stunning architectural grandeur and intricate details of the Grand Palace in Bangkok. As a former royal residence, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Thailand's regal past. The Emerald Buddha Temple, a highlight within the complex, draws awe for its exquisite artistry. While crowds can be significant, the site's historical significance and beauty make it a must-visit. Reviewers recommend early visits to avoid the heat and to fully appreciate the palace's majestic charm. AI Summary Jan 2025

Bangkok Traveler's Guide
No. 10 of 20 in Top 20 Visited Tourist Attractions
Temple Walking Tour10

107'704 Ratings (Sources: 3)

Reviews

The Grand Palace is a beautiful place, but can get very hot and crowded. It's best to arrive early to avoid the crowds. We took a guided tour which added a lot of insight into the history and culture of Thailand. The temples and architecture are truly stunning. Just be prepared for the heat and crowds, but it's definitely worth a visit.

Visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok was a mesmerizing experience. The intricate details of the temples and gardens truly showcase Thailand's cultural heritage. I would recommend allocating more than three hours for the visit to fully appreciate the grandeur of this ancient city. The landscaped gardens and vibrant murals added to the enchanting atmosphere. A must-visit for anyone traveling to Bangkok!

Amazing palace and grounds. 500 baht entrance fee, pants and modest clothing required. Well worth a visit, many amazing buildings and craftmanship. I would go as early as possible to avoid the crowds.

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Wikipedia The Grand Palace

The Grand Palace (Thai: พระบรมมหาราชวัง, RTGS: Phra Borom Maha Ratcha Wang lit. 'The Supreme 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. The king, his court, and his royal government were based on the grounds of the palace until 1925. King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), resided at the Chitralada Royal Villa and his successor King Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) resides at the Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall, both in the Dusit Palace, but the Grand Palace is still used for official events. Several royal ceremonies and state functions are held within the walls of the palace every year. The palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thailand, with over eight million people visiting each year.

Construction of the palace began on 6 May 1782, at the order of King Phutthayotfa Chulalok (Rama I), the founder of the Chakri dynasty, when he moved the capital city from Thonburi to Bangkok.

Throughout successive reigns, many new buildings and structures were added, especially during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). By 1925, the king, the Royal Family and the government were no longer permanently settled at the palace, and had moved to other residences. After the abolition of absolute monarchy in 1932, all government agencies completely moved out of the palace.

In shape, the palace complex is roughly rectangular and has a combined area of 218,400 square metres (2,351,000 sq ft), surrounded by four walls. It is situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River at the heart of the Rattanakosin Island, today in the Phra Nakhon District. The Grand Palace is bordered by Sanam Luang and Na Phra Lan Road to the north, Maharaj Road to the west, Sanam Chai Road to the east and Thai Wang Road to the south.

Rather than being a single structure, the Grand Palace is made up of numerous buildings, halls, pavilions set around open lawns, gardens and courtyards. Its asymmetry and eclectic styles are due to its organic development, with additions and rebuilding being made by successive reigning kings over 200 years of history. It is divided into several quarters: the Temple of the Emerald Buddha; the Outer Court, with many public buildings; the Middle Court, including the Phra Maha Monthien Buildings, the Phra Maha Prasat Buildings and the Chakri Maha Prasat Buildings; the Inner Court and the Siwalai Gardens quarter. The Grand Palace is currently partially open to the public as a museum, but it remains a working palace, with several royal offices still situated inside.

Source: Wikipedia