Grand Palace, Wat Pho & Wat Arun Guided Tour Bangkok

The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

Built from 1782 when King Rama I moved the capital to Bangkok, the Grand Palace was the residence of Thai kings for 150 years and is still used for royal ceremonies. Its golden spires, mythical guardian statues and mirrored mosaics make it the most spectacular sight in the city.

Inside the grounds stands Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Thailand's most sacred temple. The small green statue, carved from a single block of jade-like stone, wears robes changed by the King three times a year. A Grand Palace guided tour helps you make sense of the murals of the Ramakien epic along the galleries. Plan about two hours here.

Wat Pho and the Reclining Buddha

A short walk south, Wat Pho is one of Bangkok's oldest temples and houses the famous Reclining Buddha, 46 metres long and 15 metres high, covered in gold leaf. The soles of its feet are inlaid with mother-of-pearl showing 108 auspicious symbols.

Wat Pho also holds more than a thousand Buddha images, colourful chedis decorated with ceramic tiles, and is considered the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, with a school still active in the grounds. Visiting Wat Pho early in the day is quieter and cooler. Drop a coin in each of the 108 bronze bowls along the gallery for good luck.

Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn

From the pier near Wat Pho, a short boat ride crosses the Chao Phraya River to Wat Arun. Its central prang, around 80 metres tall, is covered with pieces of coloured porcelain and seashells that sparkle in the sun.

Steep steps lead up the lower terraces for views across the river to the Grand Palace. Wat Arun takes its name from Aruna, the Hindu god of dawn, and is one of the most photographed landmarks in Thailand, especially from the river. Despite its name, the temple looks most striking at sunset, when it is lit against the evening sky.

Dress Code and Tips for Bangkok's Temples

The Grand Palace has the strictest dress code in Thailand: shoulders and knees must be covered, with no see-through clothes, short skirts or tight leggings. Shoes are removed before entering temple halls.

Grand Palace opening hours are usually from the morning to mid-afternoon, and all three sites get crowded by late morning, so our tour starts early. Bring water, sunscreen and cash for the entrance tickets, and be wary of strangers claiming the palace is closed: it is a well-known scam. Sarongs can usually be rented at the entrance if your clothing is not suitable.