Attraction
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
One of Bangkok's oldest and largest temples, famous for its 46-metre gilded Reclining Buddha and as the historic home of Thai traditional massage.
The Grand Palace
Bangkok's former royal residence, a walled complex of throne halls, courtyards and the revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha beside the Chao Phraya River.
At a glance
- Type
- Royal palace and temple complex
- Area
- Rattanakosin, Bangkok, Thailand
- Opening
- Open daily · 08:30–16:30
- Official site
- royalgrandpalace.th
- Last checked
- October 23, 2026
Good to know
- Ticket office
- Guided audio available
- Dress code enforced
Why we recommend it
Built from 1782 when Bangkok became the capital, the Grand Palace is a walled city of gilded spires, mirrored mosaics and formal throne halls. Within its grounds sits Wat Phra Kaew, home to the Emerald Buddha, the most sacred image in Thailand, and the reason many visitors come at all.
Allow at least two hours to cover the temple terraces, the murals of the Ramakien that line the cloisters and the European-influenced Chakri Maha Prasat hall. Shoulders and knees must be covered, so dress accordingly before you arrive. Ticket sales stop an hour before closing, and the earliest entry slot is the calmest, before tour groups and the midday heat build up. The Tha Chang pier is a short walk away if you arrive by river boat.
Reviewed by Lifestylemetro · Details checked October 23, 2026
The Grand Palace FAQs
What are the opening hours?
The palace is open daily from 08:30 to 16:30, with tickets sold until 15:30.
How much is a ticket?
The official site lists admission at 500 baht.