Bangkok’s Treasures: Temples & the Majestic River of Kings

Bangkok , Thailand

Bangkok’s Treasures: Temples & the Majestic River of Kings

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About this experience

Feel like a king on the River of Kings, gliding through the waters of the Chao Phraya River on a longtail boat. Experience famous sights and hidden gems through the eyes of a local. Prepare to be wowed by Bangkok’s Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho. Marvel at the dazzling Grand Palace and revered Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew. Discover secret Thai communities that live amongst the ‘khlongs’ or canals.

Available options

Private Tour

Small Group Tour

What's included

Discover hidden gems and famous landmarks, all through the eyes of a local

Explore Bangkok by Longboat & Foot: Temples, Palaces & Hidden Gems

Admire Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Entrance Fee Included)

Marvel at the Grand Palace (Entrance Fee Included)

Visit Wat Pho Temple and the Golden Reclining Buddha (Entrance Fee Included)

Get insider tips on what else to see, do, and eat during your stay.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Meet your guide at the bottom of the escalators, Exit 1 (Museum Siam) inside Sanam Chai MRT station. If arriving by taxi, enter through Museum Siam and take two escalators down.

Stop 2

Start your Bangkok tour with a walk to the pier, where you’ll board a longtail boat along the Chao Phraya River, also known as the River of Kings. Discover why Bangkok is called the 'Venice of the East' as you glide through its khlongs (canals).

Stop 3

Next, head to the Grand Palace, where strolling through its stunning grounds feels like stepping into an Asian version of Alice in Wonderland—so beautiful, it almost feels unreal.

Stop 4

Next, visit Wat Pho, home to the iconic golden reclining Buddha and the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, a key temple in Thailand's Buddhist heritage.

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and Drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

95 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

45 reviews

5★

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Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age is 6 years

Dress requirements to enter the Grand Palace are very strict. Please ensure your clothes cover your shoulders and waist (scarves or shawls worn over sleeveless tops are not permitted). Trousers must be ankle-length, and skirts below the knee, plus covered shoes/sneakers (no sandals).

Closure of sites: The order of touring and route of the khlong (canal) tour may change depending on the water levels in the river and individual khlongs.

Please note that this tour covers 5 km of Boat Ride and 1.5 km (1 mile) of walking.

Local Impact: How you will help the local community by joining this tour: This tour hires local longtail boatmen who own their own boats directly. These boatmen rely on tourism to supplement their income as modern transport routes mean fewer locals need to use their boats.

Dress Code During Mourning Period (24 Oct 2025 – 24 Jan 2026) Thailand is observing a 90-day mourning period following the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit on 24 October 2025. While not mandatory for foreign visitors, it is highly recommended to show respect for local customs by: Wearing black or subdued colors (dark grey, navy, brown, white). Avoiding bright or festive colors. Dressing modestly, especially at temples, royal sites, and government buildings. Wearing a black ribbon, easily available in Thailand.

Meeting point

Inside Sanam Chai MRT station at the bottom of the escalators of Exit 1 (Museum Siam). If you come by taxi please enter the MRT station in the grounds of Museum Siam and go down 2 sets of escalators.

Important notes

Closure of sites
The order of touring and route of the khlong (canal) tour may change depending on the water levels in the river and individual khlongs.

Dress Code
Dress requirements to enter the Grand Palace are very strict. Please ensure your clothes cover your shoulders and waist (scarves or shawls worn over sleeveless tops are not permitted). Trousers must be ankle-length, and skirts below the knee. Please do not wear ripped, torn or see-through clothes or items that are very tight fitting such as yoga pants or leggings. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the predominantly hot and humid Bangkok climate.

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About Bangkok

Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is a dynamic blend of traditional culture and modern urban life. Known for its ornate temples, bustling street markets, and world-class street food, Bangkok offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

Top Attractions

Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is a complex of buildings that served as the royal residence from 1782 to 1925. It is a stunning example of Thai architecture and houses the Emerald Buddha.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours 500 THB

Wat Arun

Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is a stunning temple located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. It is famous for its beautiful porcelain decorations and the iconic prang (spire).

Religious/Architecture 1-2 hours 50 THB

Chatuchak Weekend Market

One of the world's largest markets, Chatuchak Weekend Market offers a vast array of goods, from clothing and accessories to food and antiques.

Shopping/Cultural Half day to full day Varies

Chao Phraya River

The Chao Phraya River is the lifeblood of Bangkok. Taking a boat tour along the river offers a unique perspective of the city and its many temples and palaces.

Nature/Scenic 1-3 hours Varies

Chatuchak Park

Chatuchak Park is a large and lush urban park that offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. It is home to a variety of plants, animals, and recreational facilities.

Nature/Relaxation 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pad Thai

Stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, shrimp, and a sweet and tangy sauce, garnished with crushed peanuts and lime.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Tom Yum Goong

A spicy and sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili.

Dinner Contains seafood.

Som Tum

A spicy green papaya salad made with shredded papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and a tangy dressing.

Lunch/Snack Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Mango Sticky Rice

Sweet ripe mango served with sticky rice and coconut milk.

Dessert Vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Erawan National Park Kayaking on the Chao Phraya River ATV tours in Hin Lek Fai Spa and massage treatments Boat tours on the Chao Phraya River Visiting temples and parks Visiting temples and historical sites Attending traditional Thai performances

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the most pleasant time to visit with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. It's peak tourist season with lively festivals and events.

22°C to 34°C 72°F to 93°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Thai
Widely spoken: English, Chinese
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Thai Baht (THB)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Bangkok is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime, scams, and traffic accidents can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests.
• Avoid unlicensed taxis and tuk-tuks.
• Be wary of jet ski rentals and gem shops.

Getting there

By air

Suvarnabhumi Airport • 30 km from city center
Don Mueang International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Hua Lamphong Railway Station, Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal

By bus

Mo Chit Bus Terminal, Ekamai Bus Terminal, Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai)

Getting around

Public transport

Clean, efficient, and air-conditioned, the MRT is a convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Khao San Road Sukhumvit Chinatown (Yaowarat) Silom Banglamphu

Day trips

Ayutthaya

80 km from Bangkok • Full day

Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam. It is known for its stunning temples and historical ruins.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

105 km from Bangkok • Half day to full day

Damnoen Saduak is one of the most famous floating markets in Thailand, offering a unique shopping and dining experience on the water.

Maeklong Railway Market

80 km from Bangkok • Half day to full day

Maeklong Railway Market is a unique market where vendors set up their stalls on the railway tracks, and a train passes through several times a day.

Festivals

Songkran • April 13-15 Loy Krathong • Full moon night in November Vegetarian Festival • September/October (dates vary by year)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Thai phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Use the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway to avoid traffic and get around the city quickly and efficiently.
Haggle and bargain when shopping at markets and street stalls, but do so politely and respectfully.
Try street food, but choose stalls with high turnover and good hygiene practices.
Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites.