Royal Palaces
The first impressions are of glittering gold,
beautiful well-kept buildings. In all palaces
and temples visitors are required to dress
appropriately with shoulders and legs covered.
No shorts, leggings, ¾ trousers, mini
skirts, see-through tops, sleeveless T-shirts
or sweatshirts. Long skirts can be hired
but are sometimes free. Shoes must be taken
off before entering the building. There are
toilet facilities at all of the buildings.
Royal Grand Palace
Also known as Phra Borom Maha Ratcha Wang
in Thai, this impressive city landmark features
some of the most spectacular architecture
in South East Asia. The glittering golden
rooftops and soaring chedis (pagodas) of
this palace and temple complex can be seen
as visitors travel along the Chao Phraya
River, The Grand Palace was built in 1782
and was home to the Thai Royal Family for
150 years. Although Chitralada Palace is
now the main royal residence, this is still
used for ceremonial purposes. Wat Phra Kaew
and the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles
can be found in the grounds. Unfortunately,
the museum was closed due to a Royal ceremony
at Wat Phra Kaew in the afternoon.
Vimanmek Mansion
Vimanmek Mansion is the world's largest
building made entirely of golden teak. Removed
from Srichang Island in Chonburi province,
it was rebuilt in the Dusit Palace in 1900
by the command of King Rama V. Recently renovated
by HM Queen Sirikit, it contains a collection
of antique furniture, porcelain and photographs
documenting the reign of King Chulalongkorn
at the end of the Nineteenth Century.
The mansion grounds also contain a number
of small museums, including a house previously
occupied by one of the princesses that now
houses a collection of photos taken by the
current king, who is a photographic enthusiast.
The Abhisek Dusit Hall, houses a collection
of handicrafts created by rural people. (You
can get free entry with a current Grand Palace
ticket. No photos inside the buildings)
Ananta Samakorn Throne Hall
This is sited alongside the Vimanmek Mansion.
It’s an amazing exhibition of the finest
arts and crafts from the 9th reign of the House of Chakri, created by
the Queen Sirikit Institute. (Queen Sirikit
formed the Institute to revive and maintain
the old crafts skills before they died out
completely). The exhibition includes royal
thrones, models of royal barges, carved screens,
embroidered silks and paintings. The workmanship
and quantity of gold is staggering and the
whole exhibition is truly awesome.
Dress code is very strict. Longyis (long
skirts) are compulsory and available to buy
for 150 Baht. Unlike other Royal buildings
shoes do not have to be remove. No photos
can be taken.
