Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
now rules as the city's most famous at-
traction. It is best appreciated with a
hired guide (available at the ticket
kiosk) or an audio guide (200B for two
hours), both of which will explain the
ins and outs of Thai Buddhism and reli-
gious symbolism. Don't miss the
temple's beautiful murals.
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Finish
Sanam Luang
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Distance
5km
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Duration
Four hours
Wat Pho
Head to the temple with the most superlatives, including the giant reclining Buddha.
This is a shady and subdued attraction with lots of quiet nooks and crannies. There
are also on-site traditional Thai massage pavilions carrying on the temple's primary
purpose as a repository for traditional healing. Where else can you tend to your soul
and your soles?
Wat Arun
Catch the cross-river ferry from Tha Tien to this military-looking temple boasting a
Khmer-style
chedi
(stupa). This temple served as the precursor to Bangkok after
the fall of Ayuthaya. A closer look reveals that the granite-looking spire is really
covered in ornate porcelain mosaics.
Trok Tha Wang
Return to the east bank and explore this narrow alleyway containing classic
Bangkok architecture and riverside accoutrements, like many Asian port cities.
Amulet Market
Scoot north on Th Maha Rat and turn left into crowded Trok Mahathat to discover
this cramped market where amulets are bought, sold and seriously inspected. Fol-
low the alley all the way towards the river to appreciate how extensive the amulet
trade is. As you continue north alongside the river, amulets are replaced by food
vendors and amulet shoppers get crowded out by uniformed university students.
Sanam Luang
Exiting at Th Phra Chan, cross Th Maha Rat and continue east, passing even more
traditional Thai medicine shops and amulet vendors until you reach the 'Royal
