Grand Palace Guided Walking Tour – History & Culture

Bangkok , Thailand

Grand Palace Guided Walking Tour – History & Culture

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About this experience

The Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Tour offers a captivating journey through two of Bangkok’s most revered cultural and historical landmarks. Located in the heart of the city, the Grand Palace is an architectural masterpiece that served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam since 1782.

A key highlight of the tour is Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, where you will encounter the revered Emerald Buddha statue, carved from a single block of jade. This sacred figure is a symbol of Thailand and plays a significant role in religious ceremonies. Your guide will share the fascinating history behind the palace and the temple, including their symbolic importance to the Thai monarchy and Buddhism.

The tour is a perfect blend of cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and deep historical insights, making it a must-visit for anyone in Bangkok.

Available options

Private Tour with Guide

Pickup included

Joined Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Return Hotel Pick Up and Drop Off

Entry to The Grand Palace

Professional, English speaking local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

A Grand Palace Guided Tour offers an immersive experience into one of Thailand's most iconic landmarks, located in the heart of Bangkok. The Grand Palace, built in 1782, was once the official residence of the Kings of Siam and is now a major cultural and historical site.

On the tour, you’ll explore the ornate and intricate architecture of the palace complex, which includes royal halls, pavilions, and courtyards. A highlight of the tour is a visit to Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, home to Thailand’s most revered Buddha statue. Your guide will provide insights into the palace’s royal history, the significance of the Emerald Buddha, and the complex’s stunning mix of traditional Thai and European-style architecture.

Visitors will also learn about Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, the monarchy, and Buddhist customs, making it a fascinating journey through Thai history.

Stop 2

The Emerald Buddha, known as "Phra Kaew Morakot," is one of Thailand's most revered religious and cultural treasures. Housed in the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) within the Grand Palace in Bangkok, this statue is made of jade rather than emerald, but its deep green color gives it its name. The statue measures about 66 cm (26 inches) in height and is seated in a meditative posture.

Legend says that the Emerald Buddha was discovered in Chiang Rai in 1434, hidden beneath a stucco exterior, and has since traveled through various Thai cities before being enshrined in Bangkok. The Buddha is adorned with different seasonal costumes, which are ceremonially changed by the Thai King three times a year, corresponding to the summer, winter, and rainy seasons. This sacred statue symbolizes the divine protection and prosperity of Thailand, making it an important cultural and religious icon.

What's not included

Any food or drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

TH EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children 3 years and under are complimentary (must be under 120 cms.)

Important notes

I Asia Thailand will contact you after your booking to reconfirm your booking. Please ensure that you have entered the correct contact details upon booking.

If you have not been contacted by I Asia Thailand, please call us at +66 96 821 3089 (hours of operation are from 08.00am to 18.00pm Monday to Friday and 09.00am to 17.00pm Saturday and Sunday) or email to guest@iasiathailand.com

If you will not be arriving at your destination with sufficient time to ensure reconfirmation, please contact the local service provider prior to travel.

Please present your confirmation/voucher or photo ID in exchange for your activity.

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.