[THAILAND] Bangkok - Wat Arun, Wat Pho & Grand Palace

13:10 Travel Bunny 0 Comments

Clustered along the mighty Chao Phraya River, the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun form an iconic trio that encapsulates the grandeur of the Chakri Dynasty and the enduring devotion of the Thai people.
The day began with a generous buffet breakfast at the hotel. 
After a buffet breakfast at the hotel, we crossed the Chao Phraya River from Sathorn Pier to the glorious Wat Arun. 
First stop, and perhaps the most fun of the day, was a stop at Mahasane to rent a beautiful traditional Thai costume. I chose to be dressed in the vibrant red silk fabric. The Thai costume rental was cheap, only THB 200 per adult and THB 150 per kid. They also provide make-up (THB 300) and hairdo services (THB 50). We also hired their photographer for an hour (THB 2500). 
With my new look, we headed to the majestic Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan (The Temple of Dawn). Standing proudly on the Thonburi west bank of the Chao Phraya River, its towering central prang (spire), adorned with colorful porcelain and seashells, truly takes my breath away. Its architecture beautifully fuses Khmer and Thai styles. The intricate details of the temple was perfectly captured by the photographer.
The photo shoot was fun. The photographer really made an effort to teach us how to pose for the camera. He captured some really great photos of us against the stunning prang! If you have the chance, I highly recommend trying this! It makes the temple experience even more special.

Later we had some time taking photo by ourselves after the photo shooting session ended. 
Wat Arun 
Opening hours: 8:00AM - 6:00PM daily
Admission fee: THB 200 for foreigner adult
Next, we crossed the river to Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan, more commonly known as Wat Pho. This temple is famous for housing the magnificent Reclining Buddha, a gold-leaf covered statue measuring 46 meters long and 15 meters high. Seeing its sheer scale and the serene expression on its face is a humbling experience. The reclining Buddha symbolizes the Buddha's entry into Nirvana. Wat Pho is also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage!

Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan
Opening hours: 8:00AM - 7:30PM daily
Admission fee: THB 300 for foreigners

No trip to Bangkok is complete without visiting The Grand Palace. Once the official residence of the Kings of Siam (and later Thailand), the complex is a dazzling display of architectural brilliance. We spent hours marveling at the vibrant pavilions and courtyards. The detail in the golden chedi (stupas) and the ornate rooflines is simply astonishing.

The Grand Palace is home to the sacred Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), Thailand's most revered religious icon and the palladium of the kingdom. Photos of the Emerald Buddha is not allowed. It is a breathtaking showcase of Siamese craftsmanship and opulence.

Important Note: When visiting the Grand Palace and major temples, be sure to adhere to the strict dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered. 

Grand Palace
Admission fee: THB 500 for foreigners
Opening hours: 8:30AM - 3:30PM daily

The weather was too hot! We bought some mango smoothies to cool ourselves.

After a long day of historical exploration and walking, it was time to relax and refuel. We headed to Siam 77 restaurant for dinner. The atmosphere was welcoming, and the Thai seafood dishes bursting with authentic flavors were the perfect way to cap off a truly epic day. 

Siam 77
Opening hours: 10AM - 12AM

If you're planning a trip to Bangkok, I highly recommend building your day around these three iconic temples and the palace.

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