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The Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew)

Located within the Grand Palace, The Temple of the Emerald Buddha or Wat Phra Kaew was constructed in reign of King Rama I in 1783 around the same time of the establishment of Rattanakosin.

Phra Sri Rattana Chedi

The bell-shaped chedi was constructed in 1855 during the reign of King Rama 4 to enshrine relics of the Buddha. It was made of the brick and mortar but later covered with gold mosaic tiles imported from Italy during the reign of King Rama V to mark the centenary of Bangkok in 1882. A hundred years later, the chedi was retiled as part of the major renovation of the temple for the bicentenary of Bangkok during the reign of King Rama IX.

The Emerald Buddha

In 1778, King Taksin of Thonburi era defeated Laos and brought the Emerald Buddha to enshrine in themTemple of Dawn or Wat Arun. When King Rama I established Bangkok as the new capital and built the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) to house the statue, where it has remained ever since.

Seasonal Robes

The Emerald Buddha has 3 different sets of gold robes, changed by the King of Thailand three times a year in accordance with season change.

1. Summer Robe – Gold robe with enameled decoration and gemstones.

2. Rainy Season Robe – Gilded monk’s robe.

3. Winter Robe – Gold robe with embedded diamonds and decorations.

The Grand Palace

In 1782, the new King decided to move the capital city to the left bank of the Chao Phraya River for strategic purposes and use the canals to the west as defenses for the new city. A palace was constructed, whose grounds currently cover an area of 218,000 square meters that are enclosed by crenellated walls measuring 1,900 meters.

Similar to palaces in the former capitals of Sukhothai and Ayudhaya, this palace is also laid out with Halls of Residence and Throne Halls as well as administrative buildings and a temple that serves as the Chapel Royal. The Ground Palace of King Rama1, the royal residential complex of Phra Maha Monthain and Phra Maha Prasad complex still exist to the present day.

💡Things to know before you visit to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Dress code: dress respectfully due to the entry strict rules (no shorts or tank tops)

💰Admission fee 500 baht