Temple of the Emerald Buddha

This temple, the Wat Phra Kew, is a gorgeous facility erected as a shrine to the Emerald Buddha, a 65-centimeter-tall statue made from jasper quartz or jade that dates back at least to the 15th century. There are more than 100 buildings on the grounds, and the walls of the compound are lined with murals that date from the end of the 18th century. The Royal Thai Decorations and Coin Pavilion on the temple grounds are open to visitors. Also here is the Grand Palace, former residence of Thailand's monarchs, which is not open to the public. Visitors are asked to dress respectfully, and those who wear shorts or sleeveless shirts may be refused entrance. Sandals are not permitted either; visitors must wear closed-toed shoes, which they must remove when entering the main chapel or sanctuaries.

Wat Pho

Near the Temple of the Emerald Buddha/Grand Palace complex is Wat Pho, Bangkok's oldest and largest temple. Wat Pho features a 46-meter long statue of a reclining Buddha, the largest such reclining Buddha in the country. The temple also has the largest collection of Buddhas in the country. This is Thailand's center for the teaching and preservation of traditional Thai medicine, including massage and herbal therapy. Visitors who wish to do so may arrange for a half-hour or one-hour Thai massage at this facility. Rama I, the king who founded Bangkok, is buried here.

Across the street from the temple of the Emerald Buddha is the Sanam Luang, the Royal Fields. Royal cremations take place here, and each year, the monarch celebrates the beginning of the rice-growing season with a Ploughing Ceremony. Most of the time, however, the Royal fields serve as a public park for picnic and recreation. At the southern end of the Sanam Luang is the Lak Meuang, the City Pillar, erected by Rama I at the founding of the city. The spirit of the pillar is considered to be the Bangkok's guardian deity. Many worshippers come here each day; some commission Thai dances to be performed. The dances take place each day between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.