The Emerald Buddha
Thailand's holiest temple, inside the palace.
Original image: Ninara from Helsinki, Finland. Edit: TSP — CC BY 4.0 · Nawit science — CC BY-SA 4.0 · This Photo was taken by Supanut Arunoprayote. Feel free to use any of my images, but please mention me as the author and may send me a message. (สามารถใช้ภาพได้อิสระ แต่กรุณาใส่เครดิตผู้ถ่ายและอาจส่ — CC BY 4.0 · Basile Morin — CC BY-SA 4.0
Thailand's most famous landmark: a lavish royal complex of palaces, halls and temples, the official residence of the Kings of Siam since 1782 and still the setting for royal ceremonies and state functions, visited by more than eight million people a year. Its long white walls enclose a world of gilded roofs, ornate spires and guardian statues. At its heart is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the country's holiest temple, housing a small figure carved from green jade whose golden robes the King changes with each season. Around it run long, colourful murals of the Thai version of the Ramayana epic, gleaming golden stupas, and throne halls that blend Thai architecture with European style. Tickets for foreigners are about five hundred baht; the complex opens daily from half past eight, with ticket sales ending around half past three, and it sometimes closes for royal occasions. Modest dress is strictly enforced: covered shoulders and long trousers or skirts, no shorts. Come at opening time before the heat and crowds, and allow two to three hours. Ignore anyone at the gate who says the palace is closed today; it is a well-known ruse to steer you to shops. Wat Pho is a few minutes' walk south.
Thailand's holiest temple, inside the palace.
Gilded palaces and throne halls.
A colourful epic along the walls.
Rattanakosin Island, the heart of old Bangkok
Clothes covering shoulders and knees: a sleeved top and long trousers or skirt. Anyone in short clothing is turned away or asked to rent clothes at the entrance, so it is simplest to arrive modestly dressed.
