Bangkok (Krung Thep Maha Nakhon or City of Angels)

Bangkok is known as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon or the ‘city of angels’ in Thai. It is the largest city in Thailand, and also the centre of Thai culture and tradition. Divided into 52 khets or districts, the first thing that strikes you about this city is its hot climate and heavy pollution. However, it is only when you explore the city a little that you become aware of the real Bangkok.

Bangkok is city full of exotic flowers such as orchids, bougainvillea, and frangipani bloom. The city is a riot of colors, thanks to its vibrant architecture, fruits and spices in the market, as well as the clothing of the locals. The sights and sounds of the city may make you forget all about sightseeing here. But you will have to come out of the Thai reverie, so that you don’t miss out on other equally compelling aspects of the city.

If you want to explore the city by sightseeing, hiring a cycle would be the best way to do it. In fact, you can sign up for one of the numerous cycle tours of the city. Irrespective of the tour you take, your first stop should be the Royal or the Grand Palace. Constructed by King Rama I, the palace’s most interesting feature is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It is known as Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram in the native language. Situated in the northeastern corner of the Palace, this temple houses the Emerald Buddha. It is also used to perform various royal religious ceremonies. Be sure to be properly attired before you enter the temple. Apart from the temple, the Palace has other interesting aspects to it such as the Thrones, the City Pillar Shrine.

In case you want to learn more about the royal family, you may visit the Anantasamakhom Throne Hall. Although a Renaissance building, it is the venue for several royal and state ceremonies. It is adorned with pictures of the royal activities taken place here in the past. This building even served as the National Assembly till the time the new building was constructed. For more dose of history, visit the Ancient City. It is home to various historical sites, as well as being a source of the disappearing Thai arts and culture.

If you want to experience the exotic side of Bangkok, go to the Rare Stone Museum. This museum displays thousands of rare stones both from Thailand and the world over. There are several Thai temples that you can visit, such as The Temple of the Dawn or Wat Arun. The Temple of the Dawn is famous for its porcelain-encrusted pagoda, 79 meters high. The pagoda shines brightly in the sunlight. For people who prefer the outdoors, there are several parks and botanical gardens in Bangkok. Animal lovers will find the Dusit Zoo or the Safari World irresistible.