A city that attracts visitors to a multitude of attractions, Bangkok is the capital of Thailand - a country that lives up to its name as the 'Land of Smiles'. During the era of the Ayutthaya Kingdom (1350-1767), Bangkok was just a small port town on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River.
Nowadays, this metropolis is home to about 11.2 million people and balances modernity and tradition through its stunning landmarks. The largest temple complex in Bangkok, Wat Pho, is laid out with tranquil gardens, ornate stupas and curved finials, with the tranquil Emerald Buddha temple at its heart. One of the most fascinating ways to uncover Bangkok is while sailing in a long-tailed wooden boat along the canals known as klongs.
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Join us for an amazing 18-day expedition through southeast Asia, exploring the wonders of Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. From Bangkok's gleaming golden temples and tranquil waterways, head into the Thai countryside to uncover the emotive past of the bridge on the River Kwai. Journey through Laos by modern train to mystical Luang Prabang to...
The Grand Palace is the official residence of the Kings of Thailand, a position it has held since it was completed in the late 1780s. The opulent complex covers an area of 2,350,838 square feet (218,400 square metres), and King Rama IX - the current King - performs many royal rituals here every year. Although Rama IX chooses not to live here, it is where all of the state ceremonies, such as weddings, are held. Adjacent to the Grand Palace is Wat Pho, a magnificent temple that is one of the oldest and largest in Bangkok. It is perhaps best known for being the temple of the Reclining Buddha.
Decorated with a gold plated body and mother of pearl for his eyes and feet, the Reclining Buddha is 46 metres long and 15 metres high. Wat Pho is also renowned for being the birthplace of the traditional Thai massage, and a school for time-honoured medicine and massage was set up in the temple in 1962. Both the temple and the school attract many visitors every year.
