Bangkok’s Grand Palace: An Honest Review

Grand Palace, Bangkok; Thai Royal Guards
Travel Rating:7.7

The Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand, is a majestic and historically rich complex that has been a symbol of the country’s grandeur for centuries. Within its walls, you’ll find the sacred Temple of the Emerald Buddha, lush gardens, and architectural marvels.

History: 8.5
Culture: 7.5
Architecture: 9.0
X Factor: 7.5
Value: 6.0

Name (Thai): พระบรมมหาราชวัง

Address: Grand Palace, Na Phra Lan Road, Bangkok

Opening Hours: 8:30 to 15:30 daily

Entrance Fee: 500 baht

Quick Note: During our visit, the complex was under reconstruction

Length of Trip: ~2 hours

Trip Type: Cultural / historical

Age Restrictions: None 

Dress Code: Modest and conservative 

Religious Affiliation:

Construction Date:

  • May 6, 1782.

Table of Contents

พระบรมมหาราชวัง

The Grand Palace's History

In 1782, during King Rama I’s reign, the establishment of the Grand Palace marked a pivotal moment in Thailand’s history. Therefore, visiting this monumental complex isn’t merely an experience; it’s an essential journey, akin to not missing the Eiffel Tower when in Paris. 

Spread across an expansive area of 218,000 square meters, the Grand Palace leaves an indelible impression. It stands as a testament to King Rama I’s visionary leadership as he relocated the capital from Thonburi to its present location, situated across the Chao Phraya River. This relocation was driven by a belief in enhancing the kingdom’s potential, inaugurating an enduring era of cultural grandeur that continues to captivate visitors like ourselves today.

Wat Phra Kaew

The Emerald Buddha

Nestled within the Grand Palace is Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which is one of Thailand’s most revered and iconic religious sites. 

In our humble opinion, Wat Phra Kaew is a true masterpiece among Bangkok’s temples. It transcends the typical temple visit with its breathtaking architecture and the presence of the revered Emerald Buddha. While Bangkok boasts many remarkable temples, Wat Phra Kaew holds a unique place in our hearts. As the holiest temple in Thailand, it exudes an unparalleled aura of reverence that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Grand Palace, Bangkok

The Architectural Style

The Grand Palace is a fusion of various architectural styles, each offering a distinct visual treat.

What struck us the most was the eclectic mix of styles, from traditional Thai to European. Particularly, the Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall, boasts neoclassical columns and a grand façade that stands in harmonious contrast to the nearby Phra Mondop, a Thai-style library with its gracefully tiered roof. This blend of aesthetics, in a way, encapsulates Thailand’s rich past. 

The complex of the palace, with its diverse styles and meticulous craftsmanship, is a captivating visual journey through time and a testament to the country’s enduring royal legacy.

Grand Palace, Bangkok

The Intricate Details

As we continued exploring the Grand Palace, we couldn’t help but be captivated by the sheer wealth of intricate details that adorned every corner. The Ramakien murals, which had been a constant presence throughout our journey, continued to tell their vibrant tales, each panel revealing a new facet of this ancient epic.

Moving deeper into the heart of the palace, our eyes were drawn to the gilded spires that adorned the rooftops. These intricate designs featured mythical creatures known as garudas, their forms dancing in the play of light and shadow.

What truly left an indelible mark on us was the unwavering commitment to detail evident in every facet of the palace’s design. It felt as though every surface, every structure, and every ornament had been meticulously crafted to perfection.

Grand Palace Review

Our Honest Thoughts

While the Grand Palace undoubtedly stands as an iconic landmark and a must-visit site in Bangkok, our experience there didn’t quite match our initial expectations. As we stepped through its majestic gates, we were immediately greeted by an overwhelming crowd that seemed to rival the bustling atmosphere of Disneyland, even before 9:00 am. The sheer number of visitors jostling for a glimpse of the palace’s splendor made it challenging to appreciate the intricate details and historical significance we had anticipated.

Moreover, the steep admission fee of 500 baht per person left us pondering whether the experience justified the cost, especially in comparison to other attractions in Bangkok that offered a more immersive and less congested experience. While the Grand Palace undeniably boasts a rich history and architectural grandeur, we found ourselves longing for a quieter, more contemplative exploration of Thai culture and heritage.

Grand Palace Guide

Grand Palace's Dress Code

The Grand Palace in Bangkok enforces a strict dress code to maintain the cultural and religious sanctity of the site. Visitors are required to adhere to these guidelines, as failure to do so may result in denied entry. The dress code can be broken down into specific details:

Modesty: The key principle is modesty. Both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders, arms, and knees. Sleeveless tops, shorts, and skirts above the knee are not allowed. This rule applies to all visitors, regardless of age or nationality.

Tight-Fitting Clothing: Tight-fitting, see-through, or ripped clothing is not permitted. Your attire should be loose-fitting and not transparent.

No Revealing Clothing: Avoid clothing with low necklines, open-backs, or exposed midriffs. It’s important to ensure your clothing is respectful and does not reveal too much skin.

Footwear: Upon entering the temple buildings and some specific areas within the palace complex, footwear must be removed as a sign of respect. We highly recommend that you wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off, as you’ll be doing this frequently. Just know that flip-flops are not allowed and sandals must have heel straps.

Hats & Sunglasses: Hats and sunglasses should also be removed before entering temple buildings or halls where religious ceremonies are held. Wearing them is considered disrespectful.

Tattoos: If you have visible tattoos, try to cover them as much as possible. Tattoos, especially those with religious or offensive imagery, can be considered disrespectful.

Visitors who arrive at the Grand Palace and do not meet these dress code requirements may be denied entry or asked to rent appropriate clothing available at a rental booth near the entrance. 

Grand Palace Guide

Getting To The Grand Palace

How to get to the Grand Palace by MRT (Mass Rapid Transit): The MRT is a convenient way to reach the palace. The nearest MRT station is “Sanam Chai,” which is part of the MRT’s Blue Line. Once you arrive at the Sanam Chai station, exit the station, and you’ll be within walking distance of the palace. It’s about a 10-15 minute walk from the station to the palace’s entrance.

How to get to the Grand Palace by bus: Buses are available in Bangkok, but routes can be complex. Identify your starting point in Bangkok and find a bus that will take you to the “Sanam Luang” or “Grand Palace” bus stop. Buses like 3, 9, 32, 57, and more pass by this area. Once you reach the bus stop, alight, and you can easily walk to the palace’s entrance.

How to get to the Grand Palace by taxi: Taxis are widely available in Bangkok. Simply hail a taxi and provide the driver with the address of the Grand Palace. Most drivers are familiar with this popular tourist destination. Be sure to ask the driver to use the meter for a fair fare. Keep in mind that Bangkok’s traffic can be congested, so try to travel during non-peak hours.

Grand Palace Tips

Where Should I Go Next?

A visit to Wat Pho after the Grand Palace is an enriching journey into the heart of Thailand’s artistic heritage. This revered temple, also known as Wat Phra Chetuphon, is often considered one of Bangkok’s most important cultural and historical sites. It houses the famous Reclining Buddha, a colossal gold-plated statue that stretches over 46 meters in length.

Additionally, the proximity of Wat Pho to the Grand Palace makes it a seamless addition to your exploration of Bangkok’s royal treasures.

Grand Palace FAQ

Actionable Information

Visiting the Grand Palace can be a worthwhile experience, but it comes with some considerations. The palace is undoubtedly a stunning architectural marvel with a rich historical and cultural significance, and its intricate details and vibrant colors are a sight to behold. However, it’s essential to be prepared for large crowds, particularly during peak tourist seasons.

If you have a keen interest in Thai history, culture, and art, the Grand Palace can offer a unique insight into the country’s heritage. Exploring the palace complex, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is a cultural immersion in itself. However, if you’re looking for a quieter or more budget-friendly experience, you might consider visiting during less crowded times or exploring other historical and cultural sites in Bangkok. 

The best time to visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok is early in the morning, right when it opens. Arriving around 8:30 AM or even earlier, if possible, is recommended. This timing offers several advantages:

Beat the Crowds: The Grand Palace is a major tourist attraction and can get extremely crowded, especially later in the day. By arriving early, you’ll have a chance to explore the complex with fewer crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

Milder Weather: Morning temperatures in Bangkok are relatively cooler compared to the scorching midday heat. Exploring the palace in the morning will be more comfortable.

Better for Photography: The soft morning light is ideal for photography, allowing you to capture the intricate details, vibrant colors, and beautiful architecture of the Grand Palace.

The entrance fee for the Grand Palace in Bangkok is 500 baht. This fee includes entry to the palace complex, where you can explore its stunning architecture and historical sites. Additionally, the ticket includes access to a 30-minute traditional khon (Thai masked dance) performance at the Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theater. Furthermore, your ticket grants you entry to the Bang Pa-In Palace in Ayutthaya, which remains valid for 7 days. 

A visit to the Grand Palace in Bangkok typically takes around 2 to 3 hours to explore thoroughly. However, the actual duration can vary depending on factors such as the crowd size and your level of interest in admiring the intricate details, historic significance, and cultural richness of the palace complex. 

We recommend that you allocate sufficient time to appreciate the stunning architecture, ornate decorations, and the remarkable Ramakien murals. Additionally, exploring the nearby attractions like Wat Pho can extend your visit to a half-day or more if you wish to delve deeper into the history and artistry of these iconic Thai landmarks.

Avoiding scams at the Grand Palace in Bangkok is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Below are some of our top tips to help you steer clear of scammers:

Official Tickets: Purchase your entrance tickets only from the official ticket counters at the Grand Palace. Be wary of touts or individuals selling tickets at lower prices, as these are likely to be counterfeit.

Dress Code Awareness: Be aware of the dress code requirements, which include covering your shoulders, arms, and knees. If you don’t meet these requirements, you may be approached by scammers offering to rent or sell you clothing items at inflated prices. Dress appropriately before arriving.

Ignore Unsolicited Advice: Be cautious of strangers who approach you offering unsolicited advice or claiming that the Grand Palace is closed for a special ceremony. These are common scams to divert tourists to gem shops or other businesses where they can be pressured into making purchases.

Trust Official Information: Rely on official signs and information provided at the palace for guidance. Don’t trust individuals who claim to be official guides or staff unless they have proper identification.

Be Wary of Tuk-tuk Drivers: Tuk-tuk drivers might offer to take you to “secret” or “less crowded” entrances to the Grand Palace. These drivers may have ulterior motives, so stick to the main entrances.

By staying vigilant, following official guidelines, and being aware of common scams, you can enjoy your visit to the Grand Palace without falling victim to fraud.

The Grand Palace is a remarkable historical and architectural site with many intricate details, so having a knowledgeable tour guide can enhance your understanding of its significance. Guides can provide valuable insights into the history, art, and culture of the palace.

However, it’s not mandatory to hire a tour guide, as the Grand Palace also offers audio guides for rent, and there are informative signboards at various points within the complex. Many visitors also explore the palace independently and appreciate the freedom to move at their own pace.

If you have a keen interest in the history and cultural significance of the Grand Palace and want a deeper understanding, a tour guide can be beneficial. On the other hand, if you prefer to explore at your own leisure and enjoy the serenity of the place, you can visit independently and still have a meaningful experience.

Interactive Map

Grand Palace's Location

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