Day 2 – Our Full Day Trip To Grand Palace, Icon Siam & More : Bangkok, Thailand (Jul’22)
On day 2 we explored Grand Palace, then lunch at Indian Restaurant. In the evening we spent time at IconSiam near the riverside and evening party again at Cheap Charlie Bar.
The Bangkok Grand Palace is Thailand’s most iconic landmark, known for its stunning architecture and sacred temples. This travel guide covers tickets, dress code, timings, and everything you need to know before your visit.
About the Bangkok Grand Palace
On the second day of our Bangkok adventure, we immersed ourselves in the city’s rich cultural tapestry, starting with a visit to the Grand Palace. Established in 1782, this expansive complex not only served as the royal residence but also housed government offices and the revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Spanning 218,000 square meters and encircled by walls stretching 1,900 meters, the palace stands as a testament to Thailand’s architectural grandeur. Originally, the royal seat was in Thonburi, on the Chao Phraya River’s west bank. However, King Rama I, upon ascending the throne, deemed it unsuitable and commissioned the construction of this new capital on the river’s opposite side.
Bangkok Grand Palace Tickets & Entrance Fee
The Bangkok Grand Palace entrance fee for foreign visitors is around 500 THB. Tickets include access to Wat Phra Kaew, the Emerald Buddha, and selected palace halls. Thai nationals can usually enter for free. You can buy tickets at the official entrance or book them online in advance to avoid queues.
Bangkok Grand Palace Timings
The Grand Palace Bangkok timings are typically 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM daily. However, timings may change during royal ceremonies or special holidays. It is best to arrive early in the morning to avoid large crowds and enjoy cooler weather.
Bangkok Grand Palace Dress Code
The Grand Palace Bangkok dress code is strict because it is a religious site. Visitors must dress modestly:
✅ Men: Long pants and shirts with sleeves (no tank tops).
✅ Women: Skirts or trousers covering knees, and tops covering shoulders.
❌ Not allowed: Shorts, ripped jeans, sleeveless tops, short skirts, see-through clothing.
If you arrive in inappropriate clothing, you may need to rent or buy suitable clothes at shops near the entrance.
Tips for Visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok
Arrive early to avoid crowds.
Carry water and wear comfortable shoes (a lot of walking required).
Hire a licensed guide for detailed history.
Beware of scams — always enter through the official gate, as touts outside may say “Palace closed” (which is never true during official hours).
Grand Palace
Lunch at Royal India Restaurant in Pahurat Market
After our palace tour, we ventured to the Pahurat Market area for lunch at the Royal India Restaurant. Renowned for its authentic Northern Indian cuisine, the establishment delighted our palates with dishes like succulent Chicken Tikka, masterfully prepared by chefs hailing from India.
Royal India Bangkok has mastered the art of preparing Authentic and Homestyle Northern Indian cuisine without missing out on its exotic flavor and genre. Indulge yourself in the spices of India, which are chiefly prepared by our Chefs hailing from India. Whet your appetite by digging into the succulent tender and spicy pieces of Chicken Tikka, which remains an all-time favorite appetizer.
Spent the Evening at IconSiam
Our evening unfolded at IconSiam, aptly dubbed the “Mother of All Malls.” Boasting over 500 shops and 100 restaurants representing more than 30 countries, IconSiam offers a shopping experience like no other. Beyond retail, the complex features an auditorium with 3,000 seats and the IconSiam Heritage Museum, developed in collaboration with Thailand’s Ministry of Culture’s Fine Arts Department. Notably, the complex includes Thailand’s tallest building, the 70-floor Magnolia Waterfront Residences, and the 52-floor Mandarin Oriental Residences. Situated along the Chao Phraya River, IconSiam also offers a riverside park spanning over 10,000 square meters, providing a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Night Party at Cheap Charlie Bar
Concluding our day, we enjoyed a lively evening at Cheap Charlie’s Bar, reflecting on the day’s experiences and the vibrant city around us.
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Q1. What is the Bangkok Grand Palace famous for?
The Bangkok Grand Palace is famous for its beautiful architecture and as the home of the Emerald Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Kaew), one of Thailand’s most sacred sites.
Q2. How much is the Bangkok Grand Palace entrance fee?
The entrance fee for the Bangkok Grand Palace is usually around 500 THB for foreigners. Prices may change, so it’s best to check before visiting.
Q3. What is the dress code for the Bangkok Grand Palace?
Visitors must dress modestly. No shorts, sleeveless tops, or short skirts are allowed. Long pants and covered shoulders are required.
Q4. What are the Bangkok Grand Palace timings?
The Grand Palace is generally open daily from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. However, timings may vary during holidays or royal ceremonies.
Q5. Can you buy Bangkok Grand Palace tickets online?
Yes, visitors can buy tickets online in advance or at the official ticket counters near the palace entrance.
