Thai Heritage and Culture

Popular city centre attractions

Erawan Shrine

Home to a statue of Phra Phrom, the Thai representation of Brahma; the Hindu god of creation.

Traditional dance performances are popular with tourists. You’ll see local Thais praying here throughout the day.

The sweet smells of flower garlands and the heady scent of joss sticks permeate the air all day and into the night. The shrine began as a spirit house for the ill-fated Erawan Hotel in the 1950s. You can easily access the Erawan Shrine from the BTS SkyTrain at Chidlom station.

Bangkok's greatest treasure

The Grand Palace is Bangkok’s most valued historical, architectural and spiritual treasure. The vast compound includes the former permanent residence of the Thai monarch, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and many other buildings of significance.

Construction began in 1782 by the order of King Rama I,  founder of the Chakri Dynasty.

All visitors must adhere to the strict dress code; gentlemen must wear long trousers and formal shirts; ladies must cover their shoulders and wear a full-length dress or skirt. Visitors may rent clothes from the office at the main entrance to the compound.

A symbol of Bangkok's history

Temple of Dawn or Wat Arun dates back to the ancient battles between former Siam and neighbouring Burma. Despite having fallen to the Burmese, Ayutthaya was reduced to rubble and ashes; General Taksin and survivors vowed to march 'until the sun rose again' and build a temple at the precise location.

Wat Arun is the latter temple to become the site of a royal palace and a private chapel. The temple provides stunning views as the sun sinks over the Chao Phraya River. You can access the temple by boat to the jetty.