GRAND PALACE in BANGGOK
One of the most fabulous attractions in Bangkok-Thailand is the Grand Palace which was built in 1782. When Siam restored peace after the decline of Ayutthaya Kingdom, the royal family resided in Thonburi on the west bank of the river.
After his ascension to the throne, Rama I relocated the administration centre to the other side of the Chao Praya; and, after setting up public monuments such as temples and fortification, he constructed a palace.
It serves not only as the main residence for his family, but also for government offices, including the war ministry, mint and other departments. This site came to be known officially as the Grand Palace.
MAIN FEATURES :
Just to the east of the main entrance is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, it consists of all the common features of the Buddhist temple in Thailand, but without a residential quarter as the monks live outside the temple. The Ubosoth or Assembly Hall, serves as a private chapel for the royal family. The partitions near the main altar are intended as the retiring space for the King's family, which won't be found anywhere else. The famed "Emerald Buddha" is sculptured from a block of green jade.
The most convenient route to the Grand Palace is by taking the BTS Skytrain to the Taksin Station, followed by taking the river boat on Chao Phraya directly to the Tha Chang Wang Luang Pier. It only takes a few minutes of walk to the Grand Palace main entrance.
Visitors are expected to dress properly. Thus the following dress code is applicable to everyone, regardless of the gender.
1. Shorts, short skirts, tight fitting trousers, mini-skirts and also tights can't be worn.
2. Sleeveless vests or shirts can't be worn.
3. Shirt sleeves, whether short or long, can't be rolled up.
4. See-through blouses and shirts, and also culottes can't be worn.
5. Sandals (without heel or ankle straps) can't be worn.
6. Sweat pants and sweat shirts, parkas, fisherman trousers and pajamas can't be worn.
Some vital information for visitors::
The compound open to the public nearly everyday, except during certain Royal Ceremonies, from 8.30 AM to 3.30 PM.
The admission fee is 300 Baht, it also includes an entry to Wat Phra Kaeo, the Vimanmek Mansion Museum and the decorations and coins pavilion.
Be careful of illegal guides working outside the compound area who tell you that the Palace is closed, and offer their own guided tour instead. The 'tour' will be directed to a few shops where they earn commissions for your purchases. It is a good idea to join free guided tours in English, which are available at 10 AM, 10.30 AM, 1.30 PM and 2 PM.