Page 14 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Bangkok

12 ❯❯ Top 10 Bangkok Highlights

Grand Palace and
Wat Phra Kaeo

In 1782, Rama I (r.1782–1809) established Bangkok as Siam’s
capital and built Wat Phra Kaeo to house the country’s most
precious Buddha image. In 1784, he had the Grand Palace built,
which became the home of the royal family. No king has resided
here since the early 20th century, but the complex is a stunning
display of Thai art and architecture and a truly memorable sight.

Dusit
1
Throne Hall
For many, this building
(left) is the site’s
crown ing glory, featuring
a four-tiered roof and
Rama I’s teak throne.
Amarin
2
Winichai Hall
This building was
originally used as an
audience hall for foreign
guests. Inside, the hall
has colorful murals and
Rama I’s boat-shaped
NEED TO KNOW Busabok Mala Throne
surmounted by a nine-
MAP B4 • Na Phra Lan tiered white canopy.
Road • 02 623 5500 Today the hall is used
• Chao Phraya express for state ceremonies
boat to Tha Chang and is open to the
Open 8:30am–4:30pm public on weekdays.
Chakri Maha
daily (last entry 3:30pm) 4
Inner Palace
Adm: B500 3 Prasat
Until the time of
Occupying center stage
Queen Sirikit Museum Rama VII (r.1925–35), the in the Grand Palace is
of Textiles: 9am–4:30pm Inner Palace was inhab- the Chakri throne hall
daily (last entry 3:30pm). ited solely by women. (below). Built in 1882 by
Adm B150 (museum
only) All males except the king Rama V (r.1868–1910), it
were forbidden entry. fuses Western and Thai
• Dress modestly; no Still closed to the public, archi tec ture. The
sandals, shorts, short it is now a school for girls ashes of Chakri kings
skirts, or sleeveless shirts. from prominent families. are housed here.
• Keep your ticket for
free entry (use within
one week) to Vimanmek
Palace (see p23).
• Carry water, as the
only café is at the end
of the tour, next to the
Dusit Throne Hall.

Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Three-column, 8.25pt grid “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v1.5)
012-013_Top_10_Bangkok.indd 12 22/05/2017 12:12
Date 12th May 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm