Day 3 - The Grand Palace

So with proper attire it was a repeat walk towards the Grand Palace. We passed by the Museum and our friend gave us a wave. The crowd of tourists began to thicken as we approached the main gates to the palace. We were mightily relieved to have changed into our own trousers. The unfortunate souls who turned up with shorts had to borrow ghastly, pyjama type pants that even MC Hammer would be too embarrassed to wear.

Outside view of the Grand Palace.

Walking through the main gates and our first close up glimpses of the Grand Palace on the left. A number of different architectural spires calling for your attention. It is easier to see already why this place was included in the "Unforgettable places to see before you die" book.

After purchasing the entrance ticket we went through the turnstiles towards the main palaces. You are instantly confronted with an amazing array of colour and sights. Your senses are overwhelmed, not knowing where to look first. Its an incredible place. Each entrance is guarded by massive giant statues with multi-coloured ceramic tiles and glass. Without a guide we drifted around in a daze, not knowing where to go next, trying to take in all the sights.

Amazing sights within the Grand Palace.

The Grand Palace was built in 1792 to be the royal residence and government offices of King Rama I. Within the walls of the Grand Palace are many buildings, the most famous being Wat Phra Kaew, home of the fabled Emerald Buddha. The statue has a colourful history and has been the trophy of many wars. It stands only 75cm tall on an elevated altar, deep inside the chamber making it hard to see. It is made from Jade not emerald and was just another normal Buddha image until the 15th Century. Apparently it was covered in plaster to hide the Jade interior and was housed in Chaing Rai. The image fell to the ground and part of the plaster chipped away revealing its hidden beauty. After being displayed in various temples in Northern Thailand it was then taken by an army from Laos in the mid 16th century. King Taskin of Thailand fought against the Laotians some 200 years later and recaptured the Buddha. It remained in the then capital Thornburi before it was moved permanently to its present location, the fabulous Wat Phra Kaew.

The Emerald Buddha.

The inside walls of the palace are home to the numerous murals that depict the Ramakian. This is an epic story (the Thai version of the Indian epic Ramayana apparently) that details the many wars, starting with Rama of Ayodthaya waging war to rescue his wife who had been abducted by Thotsakan (Ravana), King of Longka. The detail is incredible and would probably take you a week to admire all the scenes of the entire story.

Giant Guards.


Murals that cover the walls.

The visit finished with a look at some of the outer buildings. Many tourists seemed fascinated with the armed guards standing stationary in there posts whilst visitors stood next to them for their souvenir photo. There seemed to be a lot of activity just a few 100 metres away. Hundreds of Thai people dressed in black were making there way to a series of buildings behind a metal barrier. On approaching it became clear that this was not open to tourists. A sign stating "Lying in State" was attached to the barrier. We had no idea who it was that many of the Thai people where coming to pay their last respects to.