The Grand Palace in Bangkok

Grand Palace is one place You must visit when you are coming to Bangkok. Grand Palace is a place where the central government had become the Kingdom of Thailand, famous for its beauty typical Thai architecture and carvings.
Located on Na Phra Lan Road, Rattanakosin, the Grand Palace is easily accessible from all city of Bangkok. Bus, or ride a boat, but we choose rose Tuktuk, because of Khaosan Road is not too far away, only Bt 60 only.
From outside the Grand Palace complex, it is surrounded by high walls, only the roof tops of towering showcase the beauty, make more curious to immediately enter into it. This grand palace also save the Emerald Buddha (Buddhism’s holiest in
Thailand). This royal complex that most often visited by tourists. Here we can see typical Thai architecture, such as the chedi and stupas, and ancient paintings depicting the story of Ramayana. The story of Ramayana is also depicted in the statues of Hanuman who prop stupa. In addition, there is also the Royal Thai Decorations and Coin Pavilion which stores the royal medals and coins since the 11th century.
Opening hours: 8:30 to 15:30, admission 200 baht (includes admission to the Vimanmek Mansion and the Coin Pavilion.) Please dress modestly and not wear sandals. Location: Na Phralan Road, near Sanam Luang. Ferry: Tha Chang Pier is the nearest, N9.

Layout and Orientation

The palace complex, like the rest of Ratanakosin Island, is laid very similar to the palaces of Ayutthaya, the glorious former capital of Siam which was raided by the Burmese. The Outer Court, near the entrance, used to house government departments in which the King was directly involved, such as civil administration, the army and the treasury. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is located in one corner of this outer court. The Central Court is where the residence of the King and halls used for conducting state business were located. Only two of the throne halls are open to the public, but you’ll be able to marvel at the exquisite detail on the facades of these impressive structures.
The Inner Court is where the King’s royal consorts and daughters lived. The Inner Court was like a small city entirely populated by women and boys under the age of puberty. Even though no royalty currently reside in the inner court, it is still completely closed off to the public. Despite the proximity of the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, there’s a distinct contrast in style between the very Thai Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the more European inspired design of the Grand Palace (the roof being the main exception). Other highlights are Boromabiman Hall and Amarinda Hall, the original residence of King Rama I and the Hall of Justice.

The Grand Palace in Bangkok

reference : www.bangkok.com photo credit : Greg Knapp