Royal Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha & Temples

Visiting: Royal Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha Temple or Wat Phra Kaeo, Chakri Maha Prasat, Wat Trimit, Wat Pho

Duration: 6 hours

No trip to Bangkok is complete without taking in the splendour of the Royal Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha Temple, and our day trip allows you to do just that, including return transportation from your port of call.

Situated in the heart of the city, this sprawling complex was initiated by King Rama I in the late 18th century and has been renovated extensively since. Without a doubt, the complex’s most famous building is the Emerald Buddha Temple, or Wat Phra Kaeo, considered one of the most beautiful Buddhist temples in Thailand. It houses a highly revered Buddha image, known as the Emerald Buddha, that has been carved from a single block of jade, as well as stunning paintings depicting scenes from the epic “Ramayana”.

The largest palace in the complex is the Chakri Maha Prasat, built by King Rama V in 1882, which blends both Thai and Western styles of architecture. You will have plenty of time to explore the Royal Pantheon, the Coronation Throne Hall, the Royal Reception Hall and the Royal Funeral Hall, and discover the history and significance of each.

Don’t miss a visit to Wat Trimit (the Temple of the Solid Golden Buddha), Wat Pho (the Temple of the Reclining Buddha) and Wat Benchamabopit (the Marble Temple), each exhibiting intricate architectural details and sublime beauty.

NOTE: This tour is only possible for cruise ships arriving between 4am and 9am. Please note that if your ship docks at Leam Chabang, it takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours one way between the port and Central Bangkok.