Bangkok
When Dan and I visited Bangkok, it wasn’t our first time in Thailand. We’ve enjoyed Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Phangan, Phi Phi, Kraby and Puhket in the past, but we never really took the time to properly explore the city of smiles. This time we weren’t up for partying, instead, we wanted to fully enjoy Bangkok’s culture and its majestic temples.
Thailand’s capital features a clash between tradition and modernity; well known for its great food, amazing skyscrapers and vibrant street life it’ll be impossible to forget. For first timers it can be a lil’ bit overwhelming but not for long, as most Asian capitals it’ll steal your heart in no time!
Now buckle up for our top sights…
Wat Pra Kaew and Grand Palace Complex
Located on an artificial island by the Chao Praya River, includes Wat Phra Kaew – the Temple of the Emerald Buddha an The Grand Palace, built in 1782 and for 150 years was home of the Thai King, the Royal court and the government administrative seat.
Wat Po
Featuring a stunning 46 meter long reclining Buddha, Wat Po and also is the home of the largest collection of Buddha images in the country. This temple is considered the earliest centre for public education in Thailand; it houses a school of Thai medicine, and is also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage which is still taught and practiced at the temple.
Wat Intharawihan
The Wat is a royal temple categorized as Class III, which was built at the beginning of the Ayutthaya period. Its main architectural depiction is 32 meter high, 10 meter wide standing Buddha statue referred to as Luang Pho To. Devotees who visit the temple for worship offer mackerel, a boiled egg and a garland of flowers, which they place with reverence at the foot of the Buddha image.
Ayutthaya
This city in Thailand, about 80 kilometers north of Bangkok was capital of the Kingdom of Siam, and a prosperous international trading port. The ruins of the old city now form the Ayutthaya Historical Park, an archaeological site that contains palaces, Buddhist temples, monasteries and statues. An absolute must if in Bangkok! It will end up being your favourite temple by far as it has lots of similarities with the famous ruins of Angkor Wat.
