Bangkok is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Thailand. The bustling metropolis is a traveler's delight, because it has many tourist attractions to its credit. The city is home to a number of world-famous temples and is one of the best places in the country to explore about the Thai culture and its heritage. With a number of museums and spectacular palaces, Bangkok serves as a hotspot in South-East Asia. Go through the following lines and learn more about the popular tourist attractions in Bangkok.
Tourist Attractions in Bangkok
Grand Palace
Your visit to Bangkok visit would be incomplete without going to the Grand Palace, which is located on the eastern banks of the Chao Phraya River. The palace served as regal residence of the King of Thailand, from 18th century AD to the mid 20th century. Now, it is a complex that encompasses some of the most magnificent buildings of Bangkok.
Giant Swing
The legendary Giant Swing is a religious structure in Bangkok. Located in front of Wat Suthat temple, the Giant Swing was originally constructed in 1784. The 88-ft high teak frame used to be the center of attraction during an Indo-Brahman religious ceremony held every year, in December after rice harvest.
National Museum
Bangkok National Museum is the largest museum in South-East Asia. It holds a special place in Thai history as well. The museum preserves an exquisite collection of objects including prehistoric art, murals and objects, which were used by the royal families of Thailand. The museum also hosts a valuable collection of antiquities.
Chao Phraya River
Exploring Bangkok by cruising along Chao Phraya River can be a highly thrilling experience. It is the main river of Thailand and flows down south through the country's Central Plains, for more than 220 miles to the Gulf of Thailand. Shopping at the floating markets including Damnoen Saduak, Taling Chan and Wat Sai should not be missed while enjoying a boat ride.
Other Attractions
Wat Pho
Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is one of the most popular religious places in Bangkok. It is also known as Wat Phra Chetuphon. Wat Pho is the largest temple in Bangkok. It is dedicated to Lord Buddha, whose deity is 46 meters long and covered in gold leaf. Traditional Thai massage is the highlight of the temple.
Wat Pra Kaeo
Wat Pra Kaeo is the Temple of Emerald Buddha. Here, the deity is seen in the meditating position. The idol of Buddha is a magnificent piece of architecture that dates back to 15th century AD. It is carved out of a single block of emerald, which makes it one of most spectacular sights in Bangkok.
Khao San Road
Khao San Road is a busy street thronged by tourists from all over of the world. Food outlets, cocktail bars and clubs can be seen at every nook and corner of the street. Nightlife at Khao San Road is worth watching.
Wat Suthat
One of the oldest temples of Bangkok, Wat Suthat was built in the early years of the Chakri dynasty, under the aegis of King Rama I and was completed only when Rama III began to rule the country. The temple, along with the Giant Swing adjacent to it, together makes a perfect religious spot to visit, when you are traveling to Bangkok.
Vimarnmek Palace
Vimarnmek Palace is a beautiful four-storey building. It is home to an extensive collection of furniture, paintings, jewelry and many other things belonging to the royal family, acquired by King Rama V. The palace is famous for being the largest teak structure in the world.
