Bangkok More than anywhere else in our kingdom, Bangkok (locally known as Krungthep) blends the old and the new. Amazingly, in the midst of this hectic,modern city Bangkok manages to preserve its cultural heritage to a unique degree, As both a gateway and principal destination for most visitors, here are a few suggestions for some of the many sights and attractions Bangkok has to offer. Here is a link to our map of Bangkok to help you navigate your way around the Venice of the East. Cultural Attractions The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo This city landmark should be the first place on any visitor's itinerary. A huge compound surrounded by high walls, the palace consists of several building with highly decorated architectural details. The Royal Chapel, Wat Phra Kaeo, houses the Emerald Buddha, the most sacred Buddha image in Thailand. Wat Pho Wat Pho is one of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok. Built by King Rama 1 nearly 200 years ago, it houses the gigantic gold plated "Reclining Buddha". Wat Arun - The Temple of Dawn Wat Arun is located on the west bank of the Chao Phrya River and can be reached either by road or boat. The most attractive structure in this temple is the 79m high pagoda. A beautiful view of this temple can be seen from the Bangkok side of the river at sunset. Vimanmek Mansion The Vimanmek Mansion is near Bangkok's National Assembly and is the world's largest building made entirely of golden teak. The mansion and other building in the same compound display various items and art objects. A guided tour inside the mansion is provided to visitors. Suan Pakkard Palace Once the residence of Princess Chumbol of Nagara Svarga, one of Thailand's leading art collectors. The palace complex maintains fine traditional thai houses overlooking a beautiful garden. Royal Barge National Museum The Royal barges are kept in sheds on the Thonburi side of the river. Fantastically decorated, they are used on certain royal and government occasion. They also served as war vessels. The most beautiful and well-known is the "Suphanahong" used only by the King. Jim Thompson's Thai House This remarkable Thai-style house was the work of Mr. Jim Thompson, an American who came to Thailand at the end of the second World War and revived the Thai Silk industry. His later disappearance remains a mystery to this day. On permanent display are Mr.Thompson's fabulous collection of Asian antiques. Excursions beyond Bangkok There are several fascinating sights that can be easily visited in one-day trips from Bangkok. [ Back ] |