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The Grand Palace, Bangkok: Hours, Best Time, and More

The Grand Palace

The Grand Palace Bangkok serves as a magnificent representation of Thai royal heritage and national history. The royal family of Thailand used the Grand Palace as their architectural symbol starting from the time King Rama I established Bangkok. Once the royal residence, it now hosts royal ceremonies and dignitaries. The Royal Grand Palace contains two main sections, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Phra Kaeo Morakot) and the royal residence with its Outer Court, Middle Court, and Inner Court sections. 

The Outer Court contains official state offices, yet the Middle Court serves as the venue for royal ceremonies, including royal coronations. The royal family's female members used to live within the Inner Court. The Pavilion of Regalia displays royal coins and regalia, which visitors should not skip. You must visit the Grand Palace because of its unique designs and royal background, as well as the Emerald Buddha Temple's presence.

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Grand Palace Bangkok Timings

The opening hours of the Grand Palace Bangkok are from 8.30 to 3:30 pm. It is advised to check the schedule before visiting to avoid any closures.

How to reach the Grand Palace Bangkok

  • By BTS

Reach the Grand Palace through Saphan Taksin Station on BTS, where Exit 2 leads to the destination. Walk to the Chao Phraya River from that point to reach Sathorn Pier at the base of the bridge. The Grand Palace can be reached through the Chao Phraya Express Boat with the orange flag by getting off at Tha Chang (N9). The Royal Palace will be visible to your right.

  • By MRT

The MRT Sanam Chai Station has an Exit 1 for visitors to the Grand Palace. Access the Grand Palace through Exit 1 of Sanam Chai Station by taking any of the buses 3, 9, 44, 47, 53, or 82.

  • By Bus

Various buses, including 1, 3, 9, 15, 25, 30, 32, 33, 43, 44, 47, 53, 59, 64, 80, 82, 91, 203, 503, 508, and 512, stop directly at the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew.

  • By Car 

The Grand Palace Bangkok is accessible through Google Maps for users of private cars. The parking options include spaces at Wat Mahathat and Tha Maharaj Soi Thapphen, as well as the City Pillar Shrine, Rajadamnern Road Car Park, and Soi Wat Pho.

Best time to visit The Grand Palace

The best time to visit the Grand Palace Bangkok is early in the morning, as soon as it opens. You can avoid the large crowds and the midday heat if you visit in the morning. Arriving early allows you to explore the palace peacefully and enjoy its beauty before it gets too crowded. If you can, try visiting on a weekday for an even quieter experience. Avoid peak hours between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM when the palace gets busiest.

Highlights

  • Observe the magnificent architecture of the Grand Palace Bangkok, which combines traditional Thai and European design elements.

  • One must see the Emerald Buddha at the Temple of the Emerald Buddha because it is Thailand's most sacred statue.

  • The palace halls display magnificent murals that illustrate the story of Lord Buddha.

  • Experience serene moments while exploring its outer courtyards and lush gardens. 

  • The Outer Court lets visitors see the Royal Reception Halls together with the state buildings.

  • Admire its magnificent decorations, including the distinctive spires and elaborate details

FAQs about The Grand Palace

The entrance fee of the Grand Palace Bangkok is 500 baht.

The Grand Palace in Bangkok was the residence of Siam’s kings for centuries. It features Thai architecture and houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha - Thailand's most sacred relic. 

You will find the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and several royal buildings, including throne halls and the Royal Pantheon. Each court has distinct functions that represent Thailand's royal and religious heritage.

The best time to visit the Grand Palace is early morning when it opens or late afternoon to avoid large crowds and heat. You can plan your visit on weekdays as they are less crowded than on the weekends. 

The Grand Palace Bangkok has a dress code. Visitors should wear long pants or skirts and long-sleeved shirts to cover their arms and legs. Scarves or sarongs are also available, but it may take extra time to queue.