Wat Phra Kaew is the most magnificent and largest temple in Thailand. Its main building houses a highly revered Emerald Buddha (photography is prohibited). The temple and the Grand Palace are located right next to each other, and tickets are usually sold together for both sites (though it is possible to purchase tickets for only one). Wat Phra Kaew, with its many intricately decorated elements, is a true feast for the eyes and a paradise for photography enthusiasts. It is guarded by statues of giants and yakshas (kinnari beings, half-woman, half-bird).

Open daily from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. I recommend visiting in the morning, as the complex closes around noon several times a year due to royal ceremonies. Please note that as this is a royal residence, appropriate attire is required. Covering shoulders and knees is not always sufficient, so it is advisable to dress a little more elegantly than usual. The entrance ticket, which includes entry to Wat Phra Kaew, costs 500 baht. Since 2019, the price also includes admission to a Khon performance, a traditional Thai mask theater that you shouldn't miss!

Beware of tuk-tuk drivers who tell you the Grand Palace is closed and offer to take you to other attractions instead. They are usually lying and trying to lure you into jewelry stores where they collect commissions and the gemstones they offer are often fake. This is one of Bangkok's classic scams.

Wat Phra Kaew is a temple, and when visiting a temple in Thailand there are some rules to follow: appropriate clothing (knees and shoulders should be covered), take off your shoes when entering the building, be quiet, do not hug or kiss, do not point your feet at the Buddha statue, do not smoke.

How to get there

How do you get to Wat Phra Kaew? Beware of tuk-tuk drivers who claim the Grand Palace is closed and want to take you to other attractions instead. They're usually lying and trying to lure you into jewelry stores where they collect commissions and the gemstones they offer are often fake. This is one of Bangkok's classic scams.