Grand Palace, Temples, and Canal Private Tour [Optional Luxury]

The Grand Palace served as the royal residence for the Kings of Thailand during the Rattanakosin period, spanning from the reign of King Rama I (King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke the Great) to King Rama V (King Chulalongkorn). Situated in the Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang Subdistrict of Phra Nakhon District in Bangkok, this historic palace, though no longer the residence of the monarchy, remains a vital site for significant royal ceremonies held annually. Today, the Grand Palace stands as Thailand's most visited and beloved tourist attraction.

The Emerald Buddha, a revered national treasure, is meticulously carved from a block of jasper. Depicted in a meditative pose, this statue is enshrined on a high, tiered base within an altar of gilded wood, designed to symbolize the Busabok aerial chariot of heavenly beings. Its rich green color has earned it the name "Emerald Buddha." The statue, including its base, measures 66 cm in height and 48.3 cm in width from knee to knee. It is believed to be the craftsmanship of northern Thailand, dating back to the 15th century.

Wat Pho (the Temple of Reclining Buddha) is attracting more visitors as a result of its registration with the UNESCO as one of the “Memory of the World”. Wat Pho is well known for its gold-leaf covered “the Reclining Buddha Image”, the gigantic statue with 46 meters in length and 15 meters in height. Moreover, the feet of the Reclining Buddha Image are beautifully inlaid with mother-of-pearl carved with holy signs.

The Maharaj (or the Maharaj Pier), situated along the Chao Phraya River, offers picturesque views of the river and historic architecture. Dining here provides a relaxing atmosphere with beautiful waterway scenery. The pier hosts a variety of restaurants and food stalls, offering a wide range of Thai and international cuisines, including traditional Thai dishes, fresh seafood, and Western food. Eating at Maharaj Pier immerses tourists in the local culture, allowing them to observe bustling boat traffic and interactions between local vendors and residents.

Wat Arun, a prominent landmark situated along the Chao Phraya River, features a stunning pagoda that rises approximately 280 feet into the sky. This magnificent temple captivates visitors both day and night. Stroll around the temple grounds and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Chao Phraya River from the top of the Prang.

The main bridge connecting Thonburi to the city provides breathtaking views of the Chao Phraya River on both sides. With walkways on either side of the bridge, it becomes a popular spot in the late afternoon for people to exercise, take in the scenery, or capture photos.

The Bang Luang Canal Community is a historic neighborhood located near the Bang Phai BTS station, nestled along the Bangkok Yai Canal. This canal, once a crucial waterway, branches off from the Chao Phraya River near Wichai Prasit Fort and extends to the Mon Canal, opposite the mouth of the Chak Phra Canal. A key attraction in the community is the 'Artist's House, Bang Luang Canal.' This unique structure is a two-story wooden L-shaped building in the Manila style, constructed around an ancient twelve-angled chedi. The chedi is thought to be one of the four that delineate the boundaries of a nearby temple.

Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, located in Thonburi and surrounded by canals including Bangkok Yai, Khlong Dan, Khlong Phasi Charoen, and smaller waterways, is an ancient temple dating back to the Ayutthaya period. During the reign of King Rama VI, the temple fell into significant disrepair. In response, the Sangha appointed Phra Mongkol Thepmuni (Sodh Candasaro), also known as "Luang Pu Sodh," who was then at Wat Pho, to lead Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen in 1916. Since then, the temple has become a vital spiritual center for Buddhists.

Beyond its monastic areas, the temple boasts notable architecture and attractions, such as the Phra Maha Chedi Maha Ratchamongkol, the Tripitaka Hall, garden relaxation areas, riverside zones, and spots for feeding birds and fish.