Grand Palace Thailand: Self-Guided Must-Sees

Grand Palace Thailand: Must-see on your self-guided adventure

What and Where is Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Thailand that millions of tourists around the world visit every year. The Bangkok Grand Palace is a must-see for first-time visitors since it offers a comprehensive view of Thai aristocracy and spirituality. 

However, planning a trip there could be a little challenging due to its vast array of attractions. By following these tips, you can maximize your visit to the Grand Palace Bangkok, avoid the crowds, and enjoy all of its beauty.

Get to Know The Grand Palace Thailand

The Grand Palace Thailand is located in the heart of Bangkok inside the old town area; locally called Rattanakosin Island. It has been the official residence of Thailand's monarchs since 1782 and the site of administrative offices. 

Even though the current royal family doesn't live there, the Grand Palace is still a popular destination with millions of tourists annually and a prominent ceremonial site on important national holidays. 

Inside the Grand Palace Thailand complex divided into key 3 sections: 

• The Front Court: This area serves as the location for various government agencies and military offices responsible for safeguarding the royal palace, such as the Royal Palace Bureau.
• The Middle Court: This is where the royal palaces are situated. It is considered to be the main court of the Grand Palace, and was used for significant royal ceremonies like the Royal Coronation Ceremony and the Royal Auspicious Ceremony.
• The Inner Court: This is the zone for the royal chambers, where the principal consorts, and female courtiers reside. This area is exclusively for women, males aged 13 and older are prohibited from entering.

Iconic Architecture in the Grand Palace Thailand You Should Visit 

While the Grand Palace complex has a lot of exquisite architectural properties, here's our curated list of iconic buildings you shouldn't miss during your visit.

1. Wat Phra Kaew (The Temple of the Emerald Buddha)

Wat Phra Kaew, or sometimes known in their official name as Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram, is the Grand Palace’s Temple. It is home to the renowned Emerald Buddha. 

Inside the Ubosot (Convocation Hall) and around the temple's terrace, there are world-renowned mural paintings depicting the Ramakian epic, representing some of the most stunning, and longest mural paintings in the world. 

Other notable features inside the temple include the eight pagodas, the Phra Sri Rattana Chedi, and the miniature replica of the Angkor Wat temple.

2. Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall

The Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall is the first golden throne hall and the only building that utilizes authentic Thai architecture. It is considered to be the pinnacle of architecture within the Grand Palace Thailand complex. 

It initially functioned as the royal crematorium for King Rama I. Over time, it was changed into a venue for lying-in-state ceremonies for kings, queens, and senior royals, as well as commemorative royal ceremonies.

3. Phra Thinang Chakri Maha Prasat

The Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall is a fusion of Thai and European architectural styles. The structure of the building is in the neoclassical architectural design, while its roof utilizes the traditional Thai architecture. This blend of styles is the origin of its nickname, "Farang wearing Chada" (Westerner wearing Thai headdress).

4. The Phra Maha Monthien

The Phra Maha Monthien is composed of 7 interconnected palaces and halls. This building, in the past, served as both the residence of the reigning monarch and the administrative offices. It was where royal ceremonies, including the Royal Coronation Ceremony and the Royal Golden Jubilee Ceremony, took place.

5. The Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles

The Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Thailand's rich textile heritage including collection of traditional Thai costumes, textiles, and artifacts. 

Inside are the exhibitions that showcase the cultural significance of textiles in Thai society where visitors can also get a close-up look at exquisite embroidery, weaving processes, and royal costumes.

Navigate Through The Grand Palace Thailand

With its vast area, exploring all the iconic buildings might be confusing for first-timers. Here is the recommended walking route inside the Grand Palace Thailand that you can easily follow to witness all the landmarks.

• Start at the entrance of Mani Nopparat Gate, located on Na Phra Lan Road. To your left, you will find the Grand Palace ticket booth and the E-gate to enter Wat Phra Kaew.
• Starting your tour in this temple area, you can explore Wat Phra Kaew and the surrounding pagodas. 
• Next, walk through to visit Phra Maha Monthien, Phra Thinang Chakri Maha Prasat, and Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall, respectively.
• Lastly, before you leave, visit Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles right before the exit gate.

Tips and Tricks to Visit the Grand Palace Thailand Like a Local

• Arrive Early: The Grand Palace Thailand opens daily from 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM. To beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful visit, aim to arrive as early as possible. Moreover, early morning weather is more comfortable for strolling than the afternoon heat. 
• Ticket Price: The Grand Palace entrance fee is 500 baht, and the Grand Palace tickets are sold from 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM only. 
• For a more budget-friendly option, use the TAGTHAi Bangkok Pass, which includes entry to the Grand Palace and access to 30 other attractions, activities, and restaurants.
• Dress Appropriately: The Grand Palace has a strict dress code as it is considered a place of reverence for the Thai people. Inappropriate attire for entry includes sleeveless shirts, short tops, see-through clothes, short pants or skirts, and pajamas. If you arrive wearing any of the above, you can rent appropriate attire at the entrance.
• Transportation: Getting to Bangkok's Grand Palace can be challenging for some people because there are no BTS or MRT stations nearby. However, you can use alternative modes of transportation to reach the location.
  • Boat: Boat is one of the most popular ways to get to The Grand Palace. Take an express Chao Phraya boat to Tha Tien (N8). Once you walk out of the pier, continue past the food stalls until you reach a large road junction; The Grand Palace will be in front of you (slightly to the right).
  • Tuk Tuk or Taxi: It is very easy to find a Tuk Tuk or taxi to take you to the Grand Palace. The price may differ from locations, but it should be around 50-200 baht within the Rattanakosin Island.
  • BTS: From BTS Saphan Taksin Station Exit 2, walk toward the Chao Phraya River and you will find Sathorn Pier under the bridge. Board the orange-flagged Chao Phraya Express Boat and disembark at Tha Chang pier (Pier N9). The Grand Palace is situated nearby, on your right-hand side.
  • MRT: From MRT Sanam Chai Station Exit 1, take the bus no. 3, 9, 44, 47, 53 and 82

Enjoy The Grand Palace and More With TAGTHAi Bangkok Pass 

To make your visit to the Grand Palace Thailand even more convenient and enjoyable, consider using the TAGTHAi Bangkok Pass. This pass not only covers the entrance fee to the Grand Palace but also offers more than 30 entrances to Bangkok attractions, restaurants, activities, massages and transportation. 

For the highlight example: The Grand Palace, King Power Mahanakhon SkyWalk, Thai Costume Rental Fee, Nara Thai Cuisine Set Menu, and Chao Phraya Tourist Boat Hop-on Hop-Off ticket. TAGTHAi Bangkok Pass also comes with the affordable price point at only 1,850 THB. 

Experience Bangkok Like a Pro! Purchase Your TAGTHAi Bangkok Pass & Explore the Grand Palace + 30 more gems for one low price!