The capital and the largest city of Thailand, Bangkok is one of the top South-east Asian cities as well as a world's foremost tourist destination. Also known as Krung Thep in Thai, Bangkok is situated in the central region of the country, on the low-flat delta of the Choa Phraya River.
Bangkok was founded in 1782 when King Rama I of the King Rama I of the Chakri Dynasty made it as the capital of the country. The city has been now transformed into the political, economical, and education center of the region. Additionally, Bangkok serves as the headquarters for many of the country's leading financial institutions and banks. Bangkok International Airport is regarded as the major gateway to the whole of Thailand.
Bangkok's attractions are a blend of historic and contemporary. Everything from palaces, temples, museums, and monuments to zoo, parks, and library are included in the city's landmarks.
Palaces
The Grand Palace is not only the prominent of the shrines but also a great landmark of the city. Located in a huge compound on the Na Phra Lan Road, the palace boasts of a host of buildings, each of which are noted for their intricate architectural designs. The centerpiece of the palace is Wat Phra Kaeo, a shrine housing the Emerald Buddha, which is considered the most revered image of Lord Buddha in the country. Also, located within the precincts of the palace are the Royal Thai Decorations and Coin Pavilion. The pavilion has on its display some exotic coins and interesting monetary exchange used in the country since the 11th century AD.
Another great palace in the area is Vimanmek Palace, which is credited to be the largest building in the world that is entirely made of golden teak. The palace's highlights include more than 80 rooms, ante-rooms, and halls, apart from terraces and verandahs. Additionally, seen here is Royal Carriage Museum whose specialty is 13 royal horse-drawn carriages, which was once used during the rule of King Rama V. On the eastern wing of the palace is the Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall, which is now the Support Museum, with a selection of handicraft items.
Other popular palaces in the area are Chitraladarahotarn Palace, Ladawan Palace, and Suan Pakkad Palace.
Temples
It is estimated that there are more than Buddhist wats or temples in the region and few among them are Wat Ratchabophit, Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn), Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha), Wat Sa Ket (The Golden Mount), and Wat Mahathat (Temple of the Great Relic.) Apart from Buddhist temples, the city is also home to a number of other shrines including Wat Ratchapradit, Wat Suwannaram, and Wat Thepthidaram. Each of the shrines found here is unique and has its own specialties.
Museums
No visit to Bangkok is complete without taking a tour to the city's interesting museums such as the National Museums, displaying a substantial number of artifacts dating back to the Neolithic periods; Royal Barges Museums, which displays barges that were once used during the royal occasions; the National Gallery Museum, exhibiting both traditional and contemporary works; the Geological Museum, with minerals and rocks of the old ages; and Philatelic Museum, boasting of Thai and foreign stamps of the old ages.
Zoos
Significant of the zoos and farms in the city are Dusit Zoo, with tropical animals including grey kangaroos, mouse deer, Siamese crocodiles, and American bisons; crocodile farm, where both fresh water and saltwater crocodiles can be seen; and Pasteur Institute or the Snake Farm.
Activities
When comes to activities, Bangkok has more than enough to keep the tourists busy for a week or more. A cruise through the celebrated Chao Phraya River as well as some of the incredible canals on the Thon Buri would be a great experience. For those interested in the traditional art of the region, one of the best options would be to spectacle the Thai boxing. One can also enjoy some of the region's best arts and shows, with a plenty of options in the form of the National Theater, Music Art Center, Bangkok Playhouse, and Thailand Cultural Center. Above all, the city's nightlife is vibrant.
