Destination where the dreams take you briefs on Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum, Islands in Pattaya, Naklua Beach, Jotimen Beach, Pattaya Beach, Pattaya, Chiang Mai
Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum
Islands in Pattaya
Naklua Beach
Jotimen Beach
Pattaya Beach
Pattaya
Chiang Mai
The city was founded in the year 1296 by the king Mengrai. The city has an amazing history. Chiang Mai is one of the well known tourist destinations in Thailand. The city is home to a number of Buddhist temples and other destinations. Some of the well known temples of Chiang Mai are Wat Phra Doi Suthep, War Chiang Man, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, Wiang Kum kam, Wat Suan Dok and Wat Ched Yot. Chiang Mai is one of the well known for its beautiful natural landscape and gardens. Dokmai garden and Elephant Nature Park are some of the well known landscape areas of Chiang Mai. Doi Ithanon which is the highest mountain in Bangkok is also a popular destination in the city.
Chiang Mai also houses a number of festivals round the year. You will surely have a great time here during those festivals. Some of the well known festivals include Loy Krathong, Songkran and flower festival. The people of Chiang Mai celebrate these festivals with joy and gusto. Chiang Mai is also home to numerous museums among which Tribal Museum, Chiang Mai National Museum and Chiang Mai Art and Culture Center are a delight to visit. You are sure to have a great time visiting this wonderful city of Chiang Mai.
Major Tourist Destinations of Thailand
Bangkok is one of the major tourist destinations of Thailand. Apart from being the capital of Thailand, Bangkok is also the cultural and financial center of the country. The city is also notable as a popular shopping destination. The nightlife of Bangkok is also rated highly by the tourists. The city is home to the largest international airport in Thailand. The Bangkok airport welcomes millions of tourists to the country every year and thus it is a major tourist gateway of Thailand. With its great sightseeing, shopping and entertainment facilities Bangkok is a must see destination in Thailand.
Pattaya is a popular beach destination in Thailand. Tourists from all over the world come to relax at the beautiful beach destination. The pristine beaches, amazing accommodation facilities, great food, amazing shopping and enthralling nightlife options of this tourist destination are sure to make your vacation in Pattaya worth remembering.
Phuket is a island destination of Thailand where you can have a perfect vacation. The island is well known for its amazing beaches and landscapes. The beach destination also has a plethora of sightseeing options. During your trip to this island destination in Thailand you are sure to have a great time.
Apart from these amazing destinations Thailand also has a number of places to see. These places include Ayutthaya, Sukothai, Chiang Mai and many more. Do not forget to visit these destinations while visiting Thailand.
Buddhist Temples in Thailand
Thailand is well known for its Buddhist temples that are works of art in themselves. These temples are the best specimens of Thai architecture. They also reflect the richness of Thai culture. There are two different types of temples in Thailand. One type of temple is used as the abode of god while the other temples are used as the quarters of the monks. There are more than 31000 temples in Thailand. the temples can also be divided in to two categories – the royal temples and the common temples. The royal temples are building on royal patronage or by the royals themselves. The common temples are built by the common people of Thailand. There are over 200 royal temples in Thailand.
Some of the well known temples of Thailand include, Wat Pho, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Phra Chetuphon in Bangkok, Wat Arun, Wat Suthat, Wat Phra Buddhabat. Buddhamonthon and Wat Bang Phli Yai Klang. During your trip to Thailand you should schedule a time to visit these temples in your itinerary. You are sure to have a great time visiting these Thai temples.
Destination: Thailand
Thailand is a beautiful tropical country which is as much known for its natural beauty as for its cultural heritage. Tourists have wonderful time visiting its lush green plains and pristine beaches. The country has a rich cultural heritage that is highly influenced by Buddhism. This influence is reflected in the temples, shrines and monasteries in the country.
Thailand is a country that offers something for everyone. Those who take interest in history can have a great time visiting the well known historic venues of the country. One can see the ruins of Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand, The Grand Palace, the official residence of the royals of Thailand and many other palaces and Royal residences in the country. Those who want to know about Buddhism can visit one of the many temples and monasteries in Thailand including Wat Pho, Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok and The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya. One can also enjoy the rich cultural traditions of the country through different Thai dances and music. Food lovers can enjoy the spicy Thai cuisine that has rich aroma and richer taste.
For those who want to have a leisurely vacation with sea, sand and sun the beaches of Thailand are the ideal destinations. These Beach destinations have amazing nightlife and entertainment facilities. Bangkok too is known for its vibrant nightlife. It has also earned a reputation as a shopping destination. Thailand is also famous for its spas and is a relaxation haven to the leisure tourists.
The Ancient City
The ground of the Ancient City represents the precise shape of Thailand. The ancient city features replicas of all the historically significant structures of the country. There are more than 116 of such small replicas of historically significant monuments that are located in their proper geographic location. The monuments include palaces, bell towers, chedis, pavilions, halls, temples, floating markets, shrines and Buddha images. However, some of these buildings exists no more and the small replicas are nothing but the reconstruction of the earlier historical sites.
While in the ancient city situated in the outskirts of Bangkok you should pay a visit to the garden of stupas. This will give you an idea about the impact of Buddhism in Bangkok culture. You should also visit the replica of ancient Ayutthaya era theatre which bears intricate detailing and artistic grandeur of that time. The famous Garden of Gods is also worth a visit. Here a three dimensional bronze tableau of Hindu gods Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva is kept. A visit to this place is sure to nourish your spiritual side. This beautiful tourist destination near Bangkok has its roots deep into the culture and architecture of Thailand.
Bangkok Folk Museum
Bangkok Folk museum is a beautiful museum in the city of Bangkok. Unlike other museums in Bangkok, the folk museum is not situated in any old palace, royal residence or a teak house. The building that houses this museum is an ordinary Bangkok Family house. This Bangkok family house is the greatest attraction of this museum. The Bangkok family house is almost 70 years old and is decorated with traditional Bangkok furniture.
Inside this Bangkok Folk Museum you will see a lavish display of things that relate to the day to day lively hood in Bangkok. The items include household items which include utensils and items with ceremonial significance. These items relate to the life and culture of the common people of Thailand. As the items displayed in this museum dates back to almost the time of World War II, this museum has a historical significance as well. The museum presents a living scenario of middle class citizens of Bangkok during the period of World War II. Each of the items are classified and exhibited carefully and precisely to give the visitor a clear idea of that era. The owner of the museum is Mrs Waraporn Surawadee. Admission to the museum is free during the weekends.
National Museum in Bangkok
The National Museum of Bangkok is situated in the former grounds of Wang Na Palace, which was built during the 18th Century. This museum was opened by King Rama V to display the antique and gifts that his father gave to him. The Sivamokhaphiman Hall houses a Thai History Gallery where the Thai History of Sukothai and Rattanakosin periods is depicted through antiques and historic collections. The museum also houses the archaeological and Art history collection includes items from Sukothai and Autthaya areas of Thailand. The museum also houses numerous sculptures, weapons, treasures, khon masks, gold treasures and some traditional musical instruments.
The National Museum in Bangkok remains open from 9 am in the morning to 4pm in the evening from Wednesday to Sunday. If you want to have an in –depth knowledge about the culture and history of Thailand then there is not better place than this where you can know so much in so little time. So, do not forget to include a trip to this museum in your itinerary.
Contemporary Art Museum in Bangkok
Bangkok Art and Culture Center is a contemporary art museum situated in Bangkok. The planning of this beautiful modern art museum in Bangkok was initiated by Mr. Bhichit Rattacul who at that time was the Governor of Bangkok. Actually the construction of this art museum was started in the year 2000. But due to lack of funding and corruption the construction was withheld in no time. Later the project was reinitiated in the year 2005. The original name of the museum was Bangkok Metropolitan Museum. But the original name was changed to Bangkok Art and culture center at the time of opening. The museum opened in the month of July in the year 2008.
In this Bangkok museum you can check out the contemporary arts. These art works are produced by more than 300 artists of national and international fame. You can also visit the exhibitions that are held in the museum premises from time to time. Visiting this museum you will have an in-depth knowledge about the contemporary Thai art. Any art lover will love to visit this Bangkok museum that has a number of surprises in store for you.
Trip to the Mall
The river runs through Bangkok
The Chao Phaya River has a rich and vivid history. But apartfrom its historical importance the river still plays an important role in the lives of the people of Bangkok. The river feeds a number of canals and is flanked by several temples and mansions. Due to its beautiful canals Bangkok has earned the title of Venice of the East. More than 50000 people everyday uses the ferries on the river. There are several slow barges that carries cargoes t the upstream.
The city of Bangkok has developed on both the sides of Chao Phraya River. You can find a number of luxurious hotel, restaurants and temples on both the banks of the river. Sailing along the river you can get a memorable view of Bangkok that offers you a perfect blend fo traditional and trend. You can find historic mansions and temples as well as specimens of modern architectures along the river.
During your trip to Bangkok do not forget to enjoy a boat trip on the Chao Phraya River. There are as many as six different types of boats in the river. But if you want to visit all the interesting places in a comfortable and leisurely way then the tourist boat trip in Bangkok will be the ideal way to travel Bnagkok.
Wat Pho – The Temple of the Reclining Buddha
You are sure to find the history of this temple very interesting. Before the construction of the temple the site was used as a center for education for Thai medicine. In this site there were different statues in different yoga poses. In the same site there was a temple named Wat Phodharam in an earlier time. The present temple Wat Pho was created as a restoration of Wat Phodharam. The construction of the present temple started in the year 1788. Later during the reign of King Rama III the temple was further restored and extended. The temple was restored again in the year 1982 to retain its original form. Since the year 1962, the temple houses a school for Thai medicine and massage. The temple is said to be the birthplace of Thai massage.
Wat pho or the Temple of The Reclining Buddha is one of the oldest and the largest Buddhist temples in Bangkok. The temple houses more than a thousand images of Lord Buddha. It also houses one of the largest single Buddha images of the world – The Reclining Buddha. This statue is forty six meters long and fifteen meters high. The entire statue is decorated with gold plating and mother of pearl. It is a great experience to see this enormous Buddha statue in Bangkok. You are sure to remember this overwhelming experience for the rest of your life.
The temple of Emerald Buddha
The temple of Emerald Buddha is among the finest examples of architectural splendors of Thailand. The temple is the abode of Lord Buddha. The construction of the temple began in the year 1785 during the rule of King Rama I.
The central Ubosoth is the main part of Wat Phra Kaew and it houses the Emerald Buddha. Though the size of the statue is small it is the most prominent icon to the Thai people. The legend has that the statue of Emerald Buddha was originally from India. The statue of Emerald Buddha is not actually made from emerald. It is a jade stone statue that is further decorated with gold and precious stones.
There are three doors to enter the Bangkok temple. Only the King and the Queen of Thailand are allowed to enter the temple through the center door. There is a white wall surrounding Wat Phra Kaew which has scenes from Ramkian or the Thai version of Ramayana painted on it. Apart from this painted wall there are several statues inside the temple that represent the characters of the epic. There are two five meter high statues of mythological giants Yaks or Yakshas who are guarding the entrance to the temple. There are also statues of monkey kings and chedis that have also originated from the epic.
One of the finest Bangkok architecture, Wat Phra Kaew is a must-see place for the national and international tourists. The grandness of the architecture is sure to take your breath away.
Historical venues in Bangkok
The Grand palace is a complex of historical buildings in Bangkok which is the official residence of the Kings of Thailand since 18th Century. The palace was built during the reign of King Rama I who moved his capital from Thonburi to Bangkok. The construction of the palace started in the year 1782 and there was a constant expansion of palace since then. Many new structures were also built apart from the main palace over time to give it its present look. This official residence of the Kings of Thailand is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Bangkok. However, King Rama IX, the present King of Thailand does not reside in the Grand Palace. At present he resides at the Chitralada Palace.
The Grand Palace in Bangkok is designed following the design of the old palace in Ayutthaya. The palace is rectangular in shape. It is also divided into three quarters - the outer quarters, the middle quarters and the inner quarters. Some of the must visit areas inside the Grand palace include Chakri Mahaprasad hall, Prasat Phra, debidorn, phra Sri Ratana Chedi and Wat Phra Kaew.
Though the present King of Thailand does not reside in this palace, the Grand Palace is still very much in use. Some annual rituals and the Royal ceremonies like royal funeral, marriage, coronations and state banquets are held at this palace.
Beautiful Bangkok
Known as Krung Thep or the city of angels, Bangkok is the most well known tourist destination in South East Asia. The capital of Thailand, Bangkok offers travelers a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. The opulence and elegance of the city has made it one of the leading tourist destinations of the world.
Apart from being the 22nd largest city of the world, Bangkok is also known as one of the most well known political social as well as economic center of South East Asia. The city with its rich history, culture and tradition plays an influential role in the art, politics, education and entertainment in Asia. The city is also known as an important financial center not only in Thailand but also in Asia as a whole.
In spite of being a cosmopolitan city Bangkok still preserves its old heritage well. The city houses the most visited historical venues in the country. The major tourist attractions of Bangkok include Historical monuments and temples like Grand Palace, Wat Arun and Wat Pho. The Rattanakosin area of the city houses several monuments of historical importance. The modern Bangkok also houses a number of modern architectures and amusement facilities.
Bangkok airport being the largest international airport in the country, welcomes the major portion of international tourist volume in Thailand. There is a wide array of accommodation options in Bangkok ranging from luxury hotels, business hotels to budget hotels where one can enjoy a comfortable stay.
Bangkok nightlife is also vibrant with numerous bars, discos and nightclubs. There is ample scope of enjoying more traditional forms of entertainments like theater, music and dance performances as well as movies in the city. Bangkok is often described as shoppers’ paradise. There are a number of shopping malls along with colorful markets where one can buy interesting artifacts and souvenirs.
Bangkok offers a great combination of tradition and trend that makes the tourist destination different from any other tourist destination of the world. With its amazing historical venues, luxurious Bangkok hotels, vibrant nightlife, great shopping experience and a rich cultural heritage, the city lives up to its name – Krung Thep or the city of Angels.