With intricate architecture, sacred temples and all the pageantry of a royal court, the Grand Palace is a top site for visitors to Bangkok, Thailand. This complex of buildings dates to 1782 and served as home to Thailand's royal family for 150 years. Although the palace delights a number of tourists each day, understanding some of the rules and what is expected of visitors will help you make the most of your day at the Grand Palace.
The Grand Palace is located next to the Bangkok National Museum on Rattanakosin Island. The island, created by a series of canals, sits at the heart of Bangkok and is served by several bus lines. The Thai Tourism Office suggests getting to the palace by taking a skytrain to Saphin Taksin Station and then taking one of the Chao Phraya River's express boats to the Chang Pier. From there, follow the walkway a short distance to the palace's entrance.
When you first enter the Grand Palace, you'll be in the outer court where the administrative buildings and treasury used to be. At the eastern corner of the outer court stands the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This temple is one of the most sacred in Thailand and houses a Buddha carved in the 15th century. From the temple, you can visit the central court. Before stepping into one of the two throne rooms you can visit, stop to admire the detailed facades of the royal reception hall and other buildings in this area. The majority of the palace complex is occupied by the inner court that was once the home of the royal family. This area is off limits to tourists.
Because the palace includes places of worship and respect, visitors are expected to adhere to a dress code. No visitor can wear shorts, tight pants or short dresses. Tops cannot be see-through, must have sleeves and those sleeves cannot be rolled up. Also, leave the sweatshirts, sweatpants, pajamas and tracksuits in your hotel room. As far as footwear, you'll want comfortable shoes for walking around. However, sandals that do not have heel or ankle straps will not be allowed. Your best bet for dressing for your visit is to dress as you would to go out to a nice dinner. If you only have a sleeveless dress, pick up a shawl to cover your shoulders on your way to the palace.
Because you won't be able to wear your shorts or sleeveless tops, try to visit the palace early in the day to avoid the heat of the afternoon. If you wake up late, wear a hat to shade yourself from the sun since there is little shade within the palace. When you enter the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, remember that it is a place of worship and to show respect by not talking loudly or taking photos. People will kneel before the statue upon entering. If you are uncomfortable with this, you may stand, but it is most respectful to stand so your toes do not point toward the statue.
