Getting to Bangkok

Places of Interest in Bangkok

Dusit Palace was the brainchild of King Rama V. Inspired by his European tour in 1897, King Rama V envisioned a new palace with a difference. It was actually a huge palace complex consisting of 13 royal residences and three throne halls set in wide beautiful gardens. The present Dusit Palace is much smaller though since many buildings were transformed into government buildings. The present residence of the reigning king is Chitralada Royal Vila.

The important throne hall of Dusit Palace is Vimanmek Mansion. Built in 1900, this is the world s largest golden teak mansion. With an L-shape, Vimanmek Mansion perfectly combines Western and Thai architectural styles. Today, Vimanmek Mansion serves as a museum and it displays a vast collection of historical and valuable artifacts from the reign of King Rama V.

The Golden Mount ranks as one of Bangkok s most outstanding icons. Located in Wat Saket, it was built in the reign of King Rama III and the construction was completed in the reign of King Rama V.

Standing at around 78 meters high, this man-made mount has a glittering golden pagoda on its summit in which Buddha relics are enshrined. From the top visitors can also enjoy a panoramic view of the capital.

Opening hours 08.30-17.30 hrs. Admission to the summit: 10 Baht

The Grand Palace. Chakri Maha Prasat Hall was built by king Chulalongkorn (RAMA V). It is used for the reception of foreign ambassadors. It is a beautiful blend of European and Thai architecture.

Wat Ratchanatdaram. King Rama III ordered the construction of this temple as a gift to MC Somanas, who was later elevated by King Rama IV to the rank of HRH Princess Somanas Vadhanawadi.

Ubosot: The main chapel is built in the style of the King Rama III with rectangular pillars and stucco gable ends. The principal Buddha image was cast in copper, and King Rama IV named it Phra Settutamuni.

Phra Sumeru Fortress, built in the reign of King Rama I, is the largest existing fortress of all 14 which now only two exist. The other is the Mahakan Fortress. The large area was established as a public park on the occasion of the 6th cycle of King Rama IX on the December 5th, 1999. Entrance is free for all; prohibited areas are the fort itself (octagon shaped buildings with wall surrounding) and the Thai-style pavilion, which is for royal ceremonies.