Grand Palace
พระบรมมหาราชวัง
The glittering royal complex at the heart of old Bangkok.
Address
Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon
About
The Grand Palace is the former royal residence of the Chakri kings and the most-visited single attraction in Bangkok. Construction began in 1782 when King Rama I moved the capital across the river from Thonburi; almost every successor has added a hall, throne room, or chapel since. The complex still hosts state ceremonies on royal birthdays and other auspicious dates, which is why parts of the grounds close to the public on short notice.
Inside the walls is Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha), the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. The two are usually treated as one visit and one ticket. The combined complex also includes the Phra Maha Monthien throne hall group, the European-influenced Chakri Maha Prasat, and the Inner Court — historically the king's private quarters, now closed to the public.
Practical: the dress code is enforced. Shoulders, knees, and feet must be covered; sleeveless tops, shorts, ripped jeans, and flip-flops won't pass the gate. There's a sarong rental booth near the entrance for anyone caught out. Tickets cost ฿500 and include access to Wat Phra Kaew. Open 8:30 to 15:30 — the gates stop selling tickets earlier than the closing time. Best timed for opening so you finish the temple complex before mid-day heat.
The most common Bangkok scam targets people walking toward the Grand Palace gate. A well-dressed local will tell you it's "closed today for a Buddhist holiday" and offer to drive you to other temples (which inevitably end at a gem store). The Grand Palace is essentially never closed mid-day; if someone tells you it is, walk past them.
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings right at 08:30 opening, before tour buses
Tips
Dress conservatively — shoulders and knees covered. Sarong rentals available at the gate. Avoid touts outside claiming it is closed; it is not.
Nearest transit
Tags
- Must see
- Unesco adjacent
- Royal
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