Grand Palace Guided Walking Tour – History & Culture

4 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

The Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Tour offers a captivating journey through two of Bangkok’s most revered cultural and historical landmarks. Located in the heart of the city, the Grand Palace is an architectural masterpiece that served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam since 1782.

A key highlight of the tour is Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, where you will encounter the revered Emerald Buddha statue, carved from a single block of jade. This sacred figure is a symbol of Thailand and plays a significant role in religious ceremonies. Your guide will share the fascinating history behind the palace and the temple, including their symbolic importance to the Thai monarchy and Buddhism.

The tour is a perfect blend of cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and deep historical insights, making it a must-visit for anyone in Bangkok.

What's Included

Return Hotel Pick Up and Drop Off
Entry to The Grand Palace
Professional, English speaking local guide
Any food or drinks

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Pick up from central Bangkok Hotels

Itinerary

Duration: 4 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    A Grand Palace Guided Tour offers an immersive experience into one of Thailand's most iconic landmarks, located in the heart of Bangkok. The Grand Palace, built in 1782, was once the official residence of the Kings of Siam and is now a major cultural and historical site. On the tour, you’ll explore the ornate and intricate architecture of the palace complex, which includes royal halls, pavilions, and courtyards. A highlight of the tour is a visit to Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, home to Thailand’s most revered Buddha statue. Your guide will provide insights into the palace’s royal history, the significance of the Emerald Buddha, and the complex’s stunning mix of traditional Thai and European-style architecture. Visitors will also learn about Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, the monarchy, and Buddhist customs, making it a fascinating journey through Thai history.

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 2

    The Emerald Buddha, known as "Phra Kaew Morakot," is one of Thailand's most revered religious and cultural treasures. Housed in the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) within the Grand Palace in Bangkok, this statue is made of jade rather than emerald, but its deep green color gives it its name. The statue measures about 66 cm (26 inches) in height and is seated in a meditative posture. Legend says that the Emerald Buddha was discovered in Chiang Rai in 1434, hidden beneath a stucco exterior, and has since traveled through various Thai cities before being enshrined in Bangkok. The Buddha is adorned with different seasonal costumes, which are ceremonially changed by the Thai King three times a year, corresponding to the summer, winter, and rainy seasons. This sacred statue symbolizes the divine protection and prosperity of Thailand, making it an important cultural and religious icon.

    15 minutes Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Children 3 years and under are complimentary (must be under 120 cms.)
Supplied by I Asia Thailand

Tags

Half-day Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Walking Tours
City Tours
Water Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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