Covering a colossal 218,000 square meters, the sublime setting of the Grand Palace in Bangkok features a mix of royal and throne halls, administrative offices & the famed Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
Accessibility
For locals, entrance is free and will only require you to produce a valid ID card that will in turn, have you exploring the ‘ins and outs’ of the Palace grounds including Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). As for foreigners such as those staying at Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel which is among the leading Riverview hotels in Bangkok, you will only have to pocket out 500 Baht which will offer you access to sought-after sights including the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textile.
Temple of the Emerald Buddha
Inaugurated by King Rama I in 1782, this shrine hugs a portion of the Outer Palace and what makes it stand out is that it does not bear features of living quarters for Buddhist monks.
Phra Ubosot
Also referred to as the ‘Chapel of the Emerald Buddha,’ this work of art is the most important element in the Temple and served as the ordination hall. Detailing architectural styles of the Ayudhaya period, Phra Ubosot is surrounded by double sacred boundary stones while the outside walls are beautified in coloured glass mosaics and gilt.
Demon Guardians
Totalling six pairs, the Demon Guardians were built to safeguard the Emerald Buddha from evil spirits and saw the light of day during the reign of King Rama III.
The Hermit Figure
Upon the order of King Rama III, the Hermit Figure was cast in bronze in a way to honour the practice of traditional Thai medicine. A mortar and grinding stone are found near the Figure which is evidence of how those of yesteryear ground the medicine.
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