While Bangkok is well-known for its shopping and food scene, it also boasts an incredibly rich and unique history. If you want to immerse yourself in Bangkok’s beautiful culture but you don’t know where to start, one of the places that you need to add to your  Bangkok itinerary is the Grand Palace.

Located in the old city of Bangkok on the banks of the famous Chao Phraya river, this majestic, sacred landmark is nothing short of breathtaking. We recommend that you visit this along with other famous sites such as Wat Arun and Wat Pho, which are all a short distance from each other.

Before embarking on your journey, please note that there is a very strict dress code that you need to adhere to or you will not be able to enter the palace grounds. If you are not dressed properly, you will not be allowed to enter the palace and you may have to purchase clothes to change into onsite.

Men are expected to wear long pants with shirts that have sleeves. Women, on the other hand, should be modestly dressed in clothing that covers the shoulders and legs. Covered shoes are recommended but if you want to wear sandals, it is advisable to wear socks with them.

When we visited the temple, the temple was filled with throngs of people and it was very crowded, so for those of you who hate crowds, do take note of this before you visit the place.

Entry tickets cost 500 baht per person.

WAT PHRA KAEW (THE TEMPLE OF THE EMERALD BUDDHA) 

The Grand Palace houses Wat Phra Kaew, which translates to ‘The Temple Of The Emerald Buddha’. This is one of the most sacred places in the whole of Thailand and the small Buddha statue that resides in the temple is believed to be more than 2000 years old. The Buddha was created in India and has been moved a number of times before it was re-discovered in 1434 in a temple in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand.

Despite being called The Emerald Buddha, the Buddha is actually made from green jade. The robes of the buddha are also changed according to the seasons by His Majesty the King of Thailand.

Do take note that guests are not allowed to take photos of The Emerald Buddha within the temple or you will be fined.

GORGEOUS ARCHITECTURE 

What we love the most about the Grand Palace is its stunning and intricate architecture. We could honestly spend a whole day here just admiring the detailed handiwork of these breathtaking structures and it is just surreal thinking of how the people in the past had managed to construct these beauties with limited tools and machinery.

Feel free to take a few snapshots with the gorgeous architecture as a memento but do take note that as the palace grounds are usually very crowded, it can be quite hard to do so without having someone wander into your shot.

EXPLORE EVERY NOOK AND CRANNY 

The palace grounds are massive and it is pretty easy to get lost while you explore the place. We ourselves ended up going in circles before finding our way out of the grounds. However, take this chance to properly explore every inch of the palace. Every wrong turn led us to something interesting like detailed murals, majestic statues and gold speckled structures.

ROYAL RECEPTION HALLS 

On the way out, do pay a visit to the grand Royal Reception Halls where important ceremonial occasions like coronations are held at. The Royal Reception Halls also houses the Dusit Hall, the antique throne as well as a museum that has information on the restoration of the Grand Palace as well as numerous Buddha images.

The Grand Palace 
Na Phra Lan Road
Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang
Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand
Tel: +66 2 623 5500
Daily: 8.30am – 3.30pm

Most avid travellers have been to Bangkok and other touristy destinations in Thailand such as Phuket, Pattaya and whatnot. But have you heard of Koh Kood Island or even Nong Khai? Well, perhaps some of you have – but we bet that most of you are completely clueless.

From Chiang Rai, Kanchanaburi to Sukhothai, here is our guide to 8 Underrated Destinations in Thailand you never knew about; these places are amazing gateways to exciting discoveries!

Source: Visit Thailand Travel

#1 CHIANG RAI

If the capital of Bangkok’s hustle and bustle is too much for you to handle, then head to Chiang Rai, a relaxed city located in the Mueang Chiang Rai District. There are many religious sites such as revered Buddhist temple Wat Phra Kaew and 500-year-old Wat Klang Wiang.

Source: Guide and Go

#2 KANCHANABURI

Situated in western Thailand is Kanchanaburi, a scenic resort town nestled in lush greenery. It is the perfect pitstop for travellers for wish to explore the surrounding cultural, historical and natural attractions. From visiting the magnificent jungles to white water rafting, there is so much to do and see at Kanchanaburi; an ideal weekend escapade to catch up with loved ones!

Source: I Am Koh Chang

#3 KOH KOOD ISLAND

Koh Kood is Thailand’s forth largest island and truly a paradise. Characterised by glistening clear turquoise waters and snow-white sand, Koh Kood is unsurprisingly a hot spot amongst couples. In fact, many wedding ceremonies have been held here! Keep yourselves occupied with a selection of adrenaline-pumping water sports such as kayaking and snorkelling.

Source: Random Travel Blog

#4 NONG KHAI

Northeastern Thai city Nong Khai actually lies on the southern bank of Mekong River, where it is only a mere 20 kilometres away from Vientiane, the capital of Laos. It is the gateway to witness the stunning Naga Fireballs phenomenon in October during full moon. You must visit Sala Kaew Ku, a park featuring Buddhism and Hinduism inspired statues of sheer sizes.

Source: Nomads Wind

#5 PAI

Located in northern Thailand’s Mae Hong Son Province, Pai is a tiny Thai town that is exceptionally popular amongst community of backpackers. The picturesque Kong Lan is a sighting not to be missed, where it is akin to the Grand Canyon of Thailand. Other iconic landmarks include World War II Memorial Bridge and Wat Phra That Mae Yen temple.

Source: Time Travel Turtle

#6 PHETCHABURI

Spanning across 6,225 km², Phetchaburi is a province situated in central Thailand and is most famous for the country’s largest national park called Kaeng Krachan. The region is also where you can find khanom mo kaeng, an exotic and sweet Thai dessert made primarily from eggs.

Source: E Samy

#7 SUKHOTHAI

Sukhothai was Thailand’s very first national capital and it literally means rising of happiness when translated. The province is approximately 400 kilometres away from Bangkok and is home to partially restored palaces that were erected during the 13th and 14th century periods.

Source: Luc Ockers

#8 SURIN

City life ain’t your cup of tea? Then perhaps you should visit Surin instead. This underrated destination is what one would consider off the beaten path – do however be warned that most natives are unable to speak English. From the annual Elephant Roundup to ancient sites, immerse yourselves in the rural area and absorb all that the province has to offer.

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.