Few destinations in Southeast Asia can claim to be a better destination than the bustling city of Bangkok, because Bangkok, simply, has almost everything! Serving as the capital of Thailand, Bangkok is a vibrant city which boasts amazing shopping districts, a host of cultural landmarks, loads of exciting leisure and recreational attractions, dedicated street food zones, a thriving nightlife, and a rich heritage.
One of Bangkok’s most historic landmarks you will come across while on a cruise from Bangkok is the Royal Barge Museum; home of Thailand’s greatest barges. A visit to the Royal Barge Museum in Bangkok will give you the opportunity of witnessing some of the most regal and awe-inspiring barges you will ever lay your eyes on, and is thus, promoted by many cruise services, including Anantara Cruises, Thailand.
Before the motorization changed transportation forever, the main mode of transport in Bangkok was by boat, owing to the many canals connected by the Chao Phraya. Thus, the Royal Barges were of immense importance with regards to the transport of the Royal Family.
The Royal Barges were symbols of power and might and were, thus, used for many religious and cultural ceremonies. It is said that its peak, the Royal Barge fleet consisted of 200 grand barges. Unfortunately, following the Coup of 1932, many of these marvelous barges were destroyed. However, the Royal Barge Museum showcases eight of the barges that survived the dark period of 1932.
The Royal Barges of Thailand were constructed by large chunks of teak, and later fashioned into boats of imperial might and beauty which can be seen in the boats on display at the Museum. To give these boats an aura of grandeur and power, they were adorned with gold, glass, and colorful decorations. Some of the most valued barges on display at this Museum are the Suphannahong; a swan-shaped boat built solely for the transportation of the King, and the Asura Vayuphak and Krut Hern Het escort ships.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
