What is it?
It is easy to admire the iconic grandeur of the Grand Palace, which stands as a historic landmark at the heart of modern Bangkok. The palace was built in 1782 during the reign of King Rama I, when the monarch decided to move the capital to the left bank of the Chao Phraya River. In its entirety the palace covers a vast 218,000 square meters surrounded by crenellated walls stretching 19,000 meters. Design and construction blend influences from former capitals like Sukhothai and Ayutthaya.
The Grand Palace was originally the main royal residence – King Rama V being the last monarch to live there. Today, as well as being a popular tourist attraction, it remains a place for royal ceremonies and a space where the monarch’s guests, state visitors and foreign dignitaries are welcomed. It’s also where the remains of kings and other high-ranking members of the royal family are kept in repose before cremation.
The palace is made up of several key parts including the Dusit Maha Prasat Hall, which is used for significant ceremonies such as coronations, and the museum housing royal artefacts and historical items related to the monarchy.
Why go?
Even though the Inner Court, where the royal family once resided, is typically not open to the public, there is still plenty to see. Year-round you can visit Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which holds Thailand’s most sacred Buddha statue carved from a single block of jade. You can also explore the Outer Court, which houses the Grand Palace’s administrative buildings, where royal affairs were once conducted. If you’re fortunate, you might even have the chance to witness royal ceremonies or celebrations. Be sure to keep an eye out for any events during your visit (and always dress respectfully).
Don’t miss:
Admire Queen Sirikit’s sense of fashion at her museum of textiles, home to a collection of King Rama IX’s mother's clothes worn during her decades of service in Thailand and abroad.
Ticket info:
Tickets and event information are available on the website.
Time Out tip:
There are several ways to get to the Grand Palace but we recommend taking the MRT. You can alight at the Sanam Chai station and enjoy a 15-minute walk to the palace. Along the way, you can make a stop at one of the many enchanting local restaurants and cafes in this historic corner of Bangkok’s old town.