Located in the tropics, Bangkok can be scorching and humid on some days, which would be the worst time to visit if you can't stand that sort of weather. Bangkok in June is a little less muggy than May. Not too far from the Grand Palace is Trok Maha That Amulet market. A special shoutout to our last guide in Bangkok - Ms. Ka-Noon who spoiled us with her kindness and then got us through check in and security for our flight home in record time at that huge Bangkok airport. It was a mostly female-only zone but many sons under the age of puberty also lived there. She made sure we were still picked up and escorted to the airport. Thanks Sharon for been so great and crafting me a dream vacation with great suggestions. According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience The Grand Palace: Bangkok's Royal Realms of the Chakri Dynasty - Grand Palace (From $93.09) Buddhist Landmarks and a Royal Visit (From $127.86) Bangkok's Grand Palace Complex and Wat Phra Kaew Tour (From $100.13) This building was built by King Rama II and served as a chapel, filled with many images of Buddha. I absolutely loved visiting this royal palace and I strongly recommend it to anyone interested in history, culture and architecture. December is the driest and coolest month of the year in Bangkok. From the moment I landed in Bangkok, Ms Noi Ying was there to welcome me and get me settled into my hotel. November 26 (The Royal Ceremony of Changing the Costume of the Emerald Buddha). Top things to see at the Grand Palace 1. August 12 (HM the Queen Sirikits Birthday Anniversary). The Grand Palace (Thai: Remittance: Phra Borom Maha Ratcha Wang) is a building compound in the center of Bangkok, Thailand. Youre allowed to take photos in all the outdoor areas of the Grand Palace including the courtyards, gardens and exterior of buildings. Best Times to Visit Bangkok | Well Known Places This complex is one of the most famous landmarks of the country and offers spectacular buildings and sacred sites. Grand Palace is open from 8.30am to 3.30pm daily. Wat Arun, Bangkok Everything You Need To Know, Ultimate Thailand Bucket List 2023: 23 Awesome Things To Do In Thailand, Where To Stay In Bangkok In 2023 Complete Guide. Make sure youve got your best Thailand Instagram captions on hand because youll need them! Additionally, this tour also includes a visit to Wat Traimit (where you can see a 5.5-ton solid gold Buddha statue) and Wat Pho (where you get to see the 46m-long reclining Buddha). document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Tag your photos for a chance to be featured on our Instagram. Buying tickets from their website was super easy and the whole process was straightforward. I cant say enough about how much we appreciate all the efforts, attention to details and immediate responses to all questions that Albee and her team provided. The tight clothing plus the uncomfortable material made walking around in 86F (30C) heat almost unbearable. According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience The Grand Palace: Bangkok's Royal Realms of the Chakri Dynasty - Grand Palace (From $54.49) Buddhist Landmarks and a Royal Visit (From $78.85) Bangkok's Grand Palace Complex and Wat Phra Kaew Tour (From $61.25) Royal Grand Palace and Bangkok Temples: Half Day Tour (From . If you didnt manage to get up early to see the Palace before the groups arrival, consider doing it during another off-peak hours: the second best option is to wait until mid-afternoon. I imagine it would have been a bit quicker without so many people. Would not want to do it any different when we travel to Asia from now on. Peak periods include Christmas, New Year, Chinese New year and Thai New Year (Songkran). Hours: 8:30am-3:30pm daily. When I visited recently, I saw so many men showing up in shorts and all of them had to either buy some long pants from a nearby vendor or hire a sarong at the official hire shop. Consider however that it may be very hot at that time. The panels have an inscription, which says that they originally belonged to Wat Borom Phuttharam, which is Ayutthaya. Bangkok's many shopping malls will have discounts in the middle of the year. If you are interested in learning everything there is to know about Thai history and culture, or if you want to explore every single nook and cranny of the palace, it may take longer. The king, his court and his royal government were based on the grounds of the palace until 1925. I have never hear of this company before , and after reading all these reviews ,I decided to give it a try . I spent ages trying to figure out what was happening in each scene. July to October is the rainy season in Bangkok. Below is the calendar of closure days in 2015: Palace is closed all day (Temple and its Chapel with Buddha remain open to visitors): Palace is closed all day (Chapel with Buddha is closed for visitors): Palace closes at noon (Temple and its Chapel with Buddha remain open to visitors): Palace closes at noon (Chapel with Buddha is closed for visitors): If on your way to the Grand Palace you hear thai people saying that the Palace is closed, dont give up immediately and proceed to the ticket booth. Opening hours: from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm (last entry at 3:30 pm). The dress code is strict: neither men nor women are allowed inside without their elbows or ankles covered: forget about shorts, leggings, tights, skirts and see-through blouses. Secondly, the Palace can occasionally be very strict with the dress code and will ask you to wear socks. Right in front of it, there's a giant, royal, nine-tiered umbrella, which represents the king's prestige and power. On the roof, a spire designed to look like the king's crown adds a royal touch to this Italian Renaissance meets Thai traditional hall. Another common scam is street sellers telling you that your skirt is too short or your t-shirt is too tight in order to sell you a sarong/clothes. You can actually take a look around these halls which today are just used for important royal ceremonies like coronations. 0 2623 5500 Ext.2170, 2171, 2157 Our travel consultant Albee took the time to connect with us during the planning process to make sure we were comfortable with our itinerary. Before a ceremony, the king would change inside Dusit Maha Prasat before leaving in the palanquin to join the festivities. I was ever so grateful to have a point of contact while in a foreign country for the first time, alone, that helped me through the Ins and outs of getting to and from my destination. The closest BTS Skytrain station to the Grand Palace is Saphan Taksin on the Silom Line but it is still 5.5km away. Though April is not a peak season, the festival still attracts many travelers. Overall, the Grand Palace is a must-see attraction in Bangkok that offers a unique and fascinating glimpse into Thailands rich history and culture so you dont wanna miss it. Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Bangkok 2023 | Asia Highlights However, November till February is the best time to visit the Grand Palace as the weather is pleasant. Finally, in October, Bangkok's rainy season comes to an end. Drapes interlaced with gold thread were drawn around the pavilion pillars while the king donned his ceremonial robes. Make sure you read up on tips for visiting the Grand Palace before you [], [] more tips about visiting Grand Palace before your [], [] visit to the Grand Palace Bangkok is a must on every newbies trip to the [], [] earlier and head straight to the Grand Palace, you will want to get here for opening and follow our tips for visiting the Grand Palace to make sure you are well prepared. Arrive right when the Grand Palace opens (8:30 a.m.). Youll also need to factor in some time to take a rest as its really tiring and theres not much shade at all so the hot sun is beating down on you the whole time. Make sure you visit with enough time to explore the grounds. It has served as the home and court for the []. Take your time to explore the imposing courtyards and visit the major landmarks within the Grand Palace complex. The building looks humble next to Phra Mondop, but it is worth stopping in front of. No, you do not need a passport to visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok. This holy site is easily recognizable by the two imposing demon figures guarding the entrance. Consider spending at least two hours inside. One of the main festivals - Songkran (the Thai New Year) takes place in mid-April, and the attendance is usually higher around it (on the Songkran Day itself the Palace is closed). Grand Palace Bangkok: Top Tips For Visiting | MapTrotting Apr 2023, Peter Bongiovanni, Visit The Grand Palace of Bangkok |Thailand| A Walk-Through History From the moment when we contacted her until our departure, the whole support we received was 6* level. Admission: The standard admission ticket includes access to Wat Phra Kaeo, the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textile, and The Royal Thai Decorations & Coins Pavilion. Its much more convenient and comfortable than taking the BTS and the boat. Bring a bag that is big enough to put your shoes inside. The ticket office is located at the start of the roadway that leads to the actual palace precinct. I was allowed to enter wearing jeans but I felt so hot. The best time of day to visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok is early in the morning as the temperature is cooler and the crowds are smaller. During the centuries since it was first built, the palace grounds have been well maintained, with particular care being taken to preserve and restore the palace's extensive murals. The general rule is that you should cover your knees, shoulders and chest. There are 182 items that were found in the Grand Palace and The Emerald Buddha Temple during the year 2015-2023. How to Plan an Incredible Family Trip to Japan in 2023/2024. Asia Highlights uses cookies to give you the best possible service. Photo credits to Blue Li via Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0). This is really common as when I visited the palace recently, I actually had 3 different people come up to me saying this and some of them even looked like official officers. You will find big discounts if you travel between June and October due to the rainy season. The Best Way to Visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok The best time of day to visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok is early in the morning as the temperature is cooler and the crowds are smaller. I personally really loved the artwork which is displayed all around the palace. Heres some Grand Palace Bangkok facts and the general history behind the palace. Bangkok has three seasons: hot, rainy, and cool and dry. May 31 (Royal Commencement of the monks). Sharon was fantastic. July 31 (The Royal Ceremony of Changing the Costume of the Emerald Buddha). This golden building holds the Canon of Buddhasacred scriptures written on palm leafas well as a number of Buddhist publications and ancient literature. They picked great hotels and tours. Yes, the Grand Palace in Bangkok is definitely worth visiting. I highly recommend Asia Highlights. Take the BTS to Saphan Taksin on the Silom Line. You will likely be shattered by midday, so plan your morning at the Grand Palace but dont plan a load of activities for the afternoon. Grand Palace is ranked #4 out of 6 things to do in Bangkok. If you continue browsing, you agree to the Since 1784, once a season, the King of Thailand has changed the Buddhas clothes in a ceremony. She rearranged flights due to a mistake of mine. In 1925, King Rama VII moved their primary residence to the Dusit Palace, however the Grand Palace is still used by the family for official state functions and ceremonies. Over the years, many other buildings were added by successive kings. If you're buying online, keep in mind the tickets must be purchased at least 24 hours before your visit and must be picked up in person at a special window near the Palace entrance. One of the most impressive areas within the Grand Palace complex is Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. I personally dont think 1 hour is enough to see everything so you might want to get there at 2:30/3 pm. The Grand Palace doesn't close for any national or religious holidays, but it might close on very rare occasions during special Royal ceremonies. Photo credits to Jan Albrecht via Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0). Cambodia, Bangkok Weather and Travel: Month by Month, Thailand's Rainy Season: When It Is and the 5 Best Places to Go, Best Places to Spend Christmas in Thailand, Top Activities for Thailand's Rainy Season, 15-Day Myanmar, Thailand and Bali Honeymoon, 19-Day Highlights of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, 10-Day India and Nepal Mini Group Tour for Xmas 2023, How to Plan Your First Trip to Thailand 7 Easy Steps, Best (& Worst & Cheapest) Times to Visit Thailand 2023 & Rainy Season, The Ultimate 4-Week Southeast Asia Itinerary for You! When we arrived, we were met by our guide and all the details were attended to. This ended in 1925, however, today it is still used for official events and ceremonies. With nice weather conditions, November is a good time to go anywhere in Bangkok, like visiting the Grand Palace, local markets, and temples. Thanks Albee for making our vacation through south east Asia absolutely perfect!!! My personal favorite part of the Grand Palace to explore was the royal residences as it was just so grand! Interestingly, the Grand Palace actually has more of a European-style rather than Thai-style. Do not underestimate the heat in Bangkok. Thank you, Albee. The dress code at the Grand Palace in Bangkok is very strict and you will be denied entry if youre not wearing the right clothes (and that goes for both men and women). THE GRAND PALACE (Bangkok) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go December 5 (The Royal Birthday Anniversary of HM the King). The Grand Palace, Bangkok - Traveller's Elixir: A Luxury Travel Blog According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience The Grand Palace: Bangkok's Royal Realms of the Chakri Dynasty - Grand Palace; Buddhist Landmarks and a Royal Visit; Bangkok's Grand Palace Complex and Wat Phra Kaew Tour; Royal Grand Palace and Bangkok Temples: Half Day Tour; Private Guide In and Around Bangkok . In the period between the offer and the trip, Albee was always available for all our questions and supported us on the best possible way. The audience halls in the Grand Palace are closed on weekends. Thats just one example of how far out of her way she went to make our trip easier and more enjoyable. Arriving as soon as the palace opens at 8:30 am is a good way to avoid the worst of the crowds and the heat. We had so much fun in Bangkok with Tanni and Tom as they kept laughing at all of our silly jokes. Its the same price for both adults and children however any children under 120cm can enter for free. tour, whether it's a milestone trip, family trip, or bucketlist trip your planning will be made easy with There are many ways to get around Bangkok including the BTS, MRT, taxi or tuk tuk. Explore destinations at your own pace. One of the best ways to see the Grand Palace is to join a guided tour! King Rama I's younger brother had Hor Phra Monthian Dharma built as an auxiliary library. Arriving as soon as the palace opens at 8:30 am is a good way to avoid the worst of the crowds and the heat. Getting In: Visitors can enter the palace through the Wiseedtschairi Gate ("Gate of Wonderful Victory"), beyond which a wide roadway leads through the outer courtyard. Bangkok's China Town is a good place to visit when it coincides with Chinese New Year. To get the best of your visit and avoid crowds on place, just follow our tips: 1) Arrive early. FREE THINGS TO DO IN BANGKOK (& cheap Bangkok attractions too)! December 6 (The Royal Birthday Anniversary of HM the King). While the building remains closed to the public, and you won't be able to get even a peek of the sacred texts, the outside sight of the beautiful mother-of-pearl doors, dragon imagery, and Ayutthaya-style architecture are more than worth a stop. This price is only for foreigners so if youre a Thai national, you can actually enter the palace for free. To avoid the crowds, visit Bangkok from April to June or in September- early October, but be prepared to local weather in this case. Best time of the year to visit the Grand Palace Bangkok's climate sees three main seasons through the year: cold : December through February, with mild and comfortable temperatures and humidity; Or you may want to use one of our popular itineraries as a starting point: At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey your dates, your destinations, at your pace. As well as being notable for the richness of their interiors, all the rooms in the palace are treasure troves with valuable paintings and portraits of every Thai king. So, thank you Asia Highlights , Cathy, Tip and tour guides Tanny, Sam and Lisa. The Grand Palace is an iconic attraction in Bangkok. Visiting Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun in Bangkok hotels, meals, and activities. You could expect less-crowded attractions and shoulder season promotions. Cant wait for the trip. June is the calmest month of the year in terms of tourists, the rains dont last long and they are not as heavy as in September, for example. She prepared our trip offer within few hours and afterwards she was extremely flexible to adjust as per our needs. From here you can take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Ta Chang Pier, with the Grand Palace being around a 10-minute walk from the Pier, with clear directions to the Palace. Cambodia, 2 Weeks in Vietnam and Coming at about 3 PM will let you beat the crowds, but you may feel yourself in a rush to be in time to see everything before closing. Ms. Albee Ning has been doing a great job accommodating my requests and itinerary changes. As you walk towards the entrance, you will find tuk-tuk drivers trying to tell you that the Palace is closed. Another scam is people trying to sell overpriced tours or audio guides. In addition to the impressive architecture and artistry of the Grand Palace, visitors can also learn about the rich history and culture of Thailand through the various exhibits and artifacts on display. For women, you should wear full-length pants or a long skirt and a t-shirt that covers your shoulders and chest. The buildings within the palace complex all feature intricate carvings, golden leaves and colorful tiles. In fact, nobody really knows where it came from or who made it. April is the hottest month of the year in Bangkok. China Town in Bangkok is probably one of the most chaotic yet vibrant attractions of the great city. If you're planning a trip to Thailand over the Christmas and New Year period, try to book as early as possible. If the flight wasn't so long I would visit Southeast Asia more often. The Grand Palace Bangkok entrance fee is currently 500 baht ($14.55). I often describe our trip as the trip of a lifetime! This was the location of several state offices and government departments like the army, the treasury and the civil administration. Many taxi and tuk tuk drivers in the area will tell you that the Grand Palace is closed. 2019-2022 That Life Media All rights reserved. If you follow the guidance that I listed above then you shouldnt have a problem so just ignore anyone that says what youre wearing isnt correct. Its also hard to know the quality of these tours when someone is just approaching you on the street. Next, we went to Chiang Mai.Gemma exceeded every expectation we had for our tour of Chiang Mai! Off to the Grand Palace in Bangkok? The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which is one of the palaces most popular sights, dates back to the 14th century. Gemma was sincerely interested in making every minute of our trip count. The Grand Palace is located right in the heart of the city, along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Be aware that, as one of Thailands most popular tourist spots, the Grand Palace can get very crowded and busy. This is also great if you want to take lots of photos without tons of people in the background. They will definitely come in handy. Increasing rainfall makes July to October less touristy. They often dress up like official-looking security guards to make it more believable. Inside, the golden throne, shaped like a boat, takes center stage. Grand Palace Opening Hours. You can see a peristyle in front of the building, which is where royal proclamations used to be read. The weather is not-so-hot and mostly sunny, which is very suitable for sightseeing. I am extremely excited to experience everything that Alisa planned for us. Yes, you can go inside the Grand Palace itself but only certain rooms are open to the public. Thailand, 11 Days in Thailand and While nothing beats the magnificence of the real Angkor Wat in Cambodia, this perfect replica of the Khmer-style temple is worth visiting. The best time to visit the Grand Palace is commonly said to be between December and February when the region experiences mild and comfortable temperatures - perfect for wandering outdoors! Be sure to negotiate the fare with them or insist that they use the meter. At the time of its discovery, the statue was encased in plaster. They say this in the hope to entice you to overpay for one of there tours to other temples around the city. The Grand Palace was built by King Rama I in 1782 and has undergone many renovations over the years. Although not as many as in the peak season, there are still many tourists for the Songkran Festival in April. Another bonus is that some audience halls are generally closed to public on weekends, while you may get inside during the week. The end of December brings a festive atmosphere. Inside the gold-tiled chedi, known as Phra Si Ratana, there's a relic that (according to tradition) its either a piece of bone or hair of the enlightened Buddha. However, at those times you can find the most favorable prices and enjoy less-crowded attractions. She was always spot on with figuring out logistics and coming up with unique ideas that suited our interests and schedules. You can also catch a taxi to the Palace but check the traffic first. July and August is a secondary peak season. For men, you should wear full-length pants and a t-shirt that covers your shoulders. Grand Palace Bangkok, Bangkok - Book Tickets & Tours | GetYourGuide It was constructed in 1856 by King Rama IV, and was originally going to be the chapel in which the Emerald Buddha was held. Best Time and Season to Visit Bangkok: Complete Guide - ACKO The Grand Palace is one of Bangkoks most famous landmarks and after visiting it for myself recently, I can see why. She worked in my budget and was very flexible when I had to change my flights. Very quickly she communicated with me and got all the detail of my desire vacation . It really is stunning. I even had one guy come up to me after Id left the Grand Palace telling me it was closed, little did he know Id just been in there so I knew it wasnt closed.

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