The Bangkok Grand Palace & Wat Phra Gaew, Temple of the Emerald Buddha

For almost 150 years, the Bangkok Grand Palace was home for the Thai King and his family. The Thai Kings no longer live in the Bangkok Grand Palace, but it is a vital part of Thailand's history and still revered by modern day Thai people.

The Bangkok Grand Palace compound is one of the first tours taken by visitors to Thailand. This is true for our family as well.  Our first visit to the palace was over ten years ago and we have returned several times since then when friends come for a Bangkok family vacation.

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The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is the main attraction at the Bangkok Grand Palace.  This is especially true for Thai nationals as the emerald buddha is perhaps the most respected replica of Buddha in all of Thailand.  I can still remember the feeling of reverance when I first stepped foot in the temple area.

The emerald Buddha (it is actually a solid piece of jade) still has an important role to play in Thai society. It is a symbol of good fortune and a reminder for Thai people to adhere to the ideals of Buddhism.  The emerald Buddha has a costume for each season of the year. The ceremony to change the costume is performed three times a year and the Thai King is the only one allowed to handle this most revered Buddhist statue.

Admission to the Bangkok Grand Palace is 250 Baht. The admission fee also includes an admission ticket to Vimanmek Mansion that can be used within seven days of your Grand Palace visit.

NOTE:  The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is Thailand's most sacred site.  There is a dress code for visiting the Bangkok Grand Palace. Visitors must dress respectfully before entering the temple.  If you show up at the entrance in attire which does not meet the required dress code, there is a place which provides clothes to meet the requirements for entrance to the Bangkok Grand Palace.

The Bangkok Grand Palace is open every day from 8:30am to 3:30pm. Be careful of persons working outside the palace area who tell you its closed, and suggest their own guided tour instead. Their 'tour' will be to several shops where they get commissions on your purchases. Free guided tours in English are available at 10:00am, 10:30am, 1:30pm and 2:00pm. You can also rent an audio guide for 100 Baht plus passport or credit card to secure return.

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