The Grand Palace in Bangkok
The Grand Palace (Phra Borom Maha Ratcha Wang) was established 1782 and it houses the royal residence and throne halls, surrounded by four walls, 1900 metres long. The palace was build after King Rama I’s ascension to the throne 1782. For various reasons the King considered the former capital Thonburi to be unsuitable and decided to establish a new capital on the east side of the river. By his command, a new place was built to serve not only as his residence but also the site of some administrative offices. Since then, the royal compound has been known as the Grand Palace.
When you go here there are a few things to think about. You have to have long pants (or at least below knee shorts), a shirt/top/t-shirt that covers your shoulder and you have to wear shoes with a heel, i.e. flip-flops are not allowed. You can borrow clothes when you get there but usually it’s very crowded and it’s easier just to dress appropriate with your own clothes. It’s also good to remember that they close the entrance already 3:30 pm so don’t go there to late, it’s also better to be there early to avoid crowding. Entrance fee is about 250 baht per person.
It’s pretty common when tourists go to the Grand Palace that they meet “officials” outside who says it’s closed or that there is some ceremony going only in which only Thai people are allowed. Then, friendly as they are, they offer you a cheap tuktuk to another temple close by. The problem is that this is a scam and they only want to drop you off at some tailor or jewellery store. So don’t listen to these “officials” (they are dressed as staff as well), the Grand Palace is more or less always open.
So, take a taxi, tuktuk or a boat (the compound is located close to the pier Tha Chang) to get there, you will not be disappointed.
It is impressive indeed but I also have to say it's a tourist trap.
5 star article man
Grand Palace is well worth a visit if you are in Bangkok.