The Grand Palace

Must-Visit Sights at the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand

Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Known as Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is the royal chapel where the revered Emerald Buddha is located. It is adorned with seasonal decorations which were created by King Rama I and King Rama III. Its intricate architecture and sacred atmosphere make it a highlight of the Grand Palace.

The Phra Maha Monthien Buildings

Constructed by King Rama I, this group of traditional Thai-style buildings includes the Baisal Daksin Hall, where ceremonies with royal audiences such as coronations have taken place since King Rama II.

Phra Thinang Chakri Maha Prasat

A blend of Thai and European architectural styles, this throne hall is used for state functions and royal ceremonies. Its foundation stone was first laid by King Rama V in 1876 and it now houses reception rooms, dining hall and a Throne Hall. The top floor is reserved for crematory relics of the children of the royal family.

Queen Sirikit Museum Of Textiles

The Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles honors Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother's lifelong dedication to preserving and promoting Thai textiles. After seeing the troubles of villagers on a royal visit through the Kingdom of Thailand with King Rama, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother established a foundation with training centres to allow people to create art to increase their income and preserve the nation's high art form. Thai artisans at the Queen Sirikit institute create art such as Yan Lipao basketry, Khit pattern bamboo basketry and as well as woven, dyed and embroidered textiles. Today, the innate artistic ability of Thai people is honored at this museum.

Khon Performance at Sala Chalermkrung Royal

Watch the khon performance at Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre at the Grand Palace. Honouring His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, this show aims to preserve Thailand's art form of classical dance.

Cultural and Historical Significance of the Grand Palace

The Grand Palace has been the official residence of the Kings of Siam (and later Thailand) since 1782. It remains a working palace, hosting royal ceremonies and state functions. It was established in 1782 by King Rama I, who moved the capital from Ayutthaya to Bangkok. Even at the time, it served as the royal residence and the administrative and religious center of Siam until 1932. The Grand Palace is a symbol of Thailand's rich cultural heritage and its transition from an absolute to a constitutional monarchy.

Local cuisine at the Grand Palace

While exploring the Grand Palace, don't miss the chance to savor Thai cuisine. At the Grand Palace, the Doi Kham Shop and The Golden Palace Shop serves up hot and cold drinks and snacks. Nearby, you can find street vendors and restaurants offering delicious dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, and Mango Sticky Rice.