The Grand Palace, Bangkok

A bit of a tourist trap. 500 baht entry for both grand palace and temple. Dress code is very strict - no sarongs for men and women cannot wear wraps over there shoulders (must be another shirt or cardigan). Guards weren't too friendly and very hot in the grounds. Spent 1 hour looking at both the temple, palace and museum dedicated to his majesty. A guide or signs with information would have been valuable, otherwise not much you can learn on your own. We got there at 8.45 and it was already getting busy - recommend getting in as early as possible. Gates open at 8.30.

The palace is so beautiful. it’s open 930-330pm and costs 500BHT to get in. Lots to see and appreciate in the fine buildings. You can spend a few hours walking around the complex. Just remember to dress appropriately otherwise you wont get in. No open shoulders and no shorts -even men Close to other attractions which you can do all in one day. This is very busy place in the Bangkok. Beautiful architecture of Thai culture. There are many shopping sites nearby this Palace. This is grand place, but a bit crowded!!

This was breathtaking. It was like standing in a religious Disney Land. The colors, the statues and the art were mesmerizing. This we truly a visual indulgence. I have not seen anything like it in my travels. Having said that, please remember that it is a sacred space for Buddhist people. I was really distracted by the yelling guards and irreverent tourists. I love finding the quiet corners to just immerse myself in the unique beauty of this place. When entering the palace from the river, it is a longer walk than you imagine. Follow the signs until you come around the corner at the long white wall and see the Exit. At this point for some reason everyone crossed to the other side of the street where there was a crazy crush of tourists and hawkers. But you can stay on the other side of the street and pop into the entrance without all the fuss! It is pricey. It is crowded. It is lovely.

There is no denying the incredible opulence and the staggering detail of the Golden Palace. It is overwhelming how much effort was put into its 300 year life, from the gold-leafed murals to its statues, temples, roofs.... it is simply a visually overwhelming experience. None of the signage (apart from the do’s and donuts) is in English so I’d recommend getting at least the audio guide, but better yet a local guide as the amount of things to take in learn is huge. Dress code is strict. You must wear pants and/or socks that cover the ankles and cover your shoulders at the very least. Entry fee is 500 baht, and you can pay by credit card on the side ticket office, sparing you Thailand’s vicious ATM fees. Now for the downside: the site is one of Thailand’s biggest attractions, so crowds are to be expected, but the explosion in tourism in Asia means that this is now as much a spectacle of architecture as it is of tourism. There are THOUSANDS of tourists here even on a quiet day and often from very early on. There are no guidelines for numbers or things like umbrellas, so it is an intense experience with the crowds, with everyone trying to record and share the experience. I’d maybe consider going at lunchtime when people take a break or towards the end of the day.

If you are an architectural designer or enthusiast, this place is a must visit. But if not, don't waste your time here. The Grand Palace is indeed beautiful, but you don't have access to the insides of the palace. Technically, you are roaming around in the palace ground looking at couple of architectural beauties. It is extremely hot and there are chances of getting dehydrated, so I would suggest taking an umbrella or hat, along with a bottle of water. There is a canteen at the end of the trip, where they provide ice creams and drinks. Please make sure that you are dressed appropriately for the visit. Wear a shirt with sleeves and full length pants or skirt.