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The Chao Phraya River, called “The River of Kings,” rushes through Bangkok on its way from the highlands in the north to the gulf of Thailand, near Bangkok. For centuries it was the center of activity in the ancient cities, providing transportation and supporting agriculture and commerce. Klongs, or canals, branched off to form the “Venice of the East” until most of the klongs were filled in to provide roadways for automobiles. You can still enjoy the remaining klongs, and staying along the river in one of the many luxury hotels is a great way to get the feel for the city and its history.
River taxis and tour boats ply the waters of the river, and you can hire your own longtail boat for a personalized tour of river sites and klongs. Many of the most ancient and important historical sites are located along the river, and many of them can be accessed by boat. The main pier for hiring a boat or joining a tour is at the Central Pier (there is also a SkyTrain station here, Saphan Thaksin).
The old royal city of Rattanakosin is home to the Grand Palace with its Wat Phra Kaeo that houses the Emerald Buddha. There is much to see here, with grand palace and temple buildings, the golden Phra Si Ratana Chedi which houses a breast bone of the Buddha, and the Amarin Vinitchai Throne Hall.
Near the Grand Palace complex lies Wat Po, the largest and oldest temple in Bangkok. Wat Po houses the impressive and enormous Reclining Buddha, whose feet are beautifully inlaid with intricate symbols in mother-of-pearl.
North of the Grand Palace complex is the National Museum, a complex of several buildings that house an extensive collection of Thai and Southeast Asian art and treasure. Be sure to stop in at the Royal Barge Museum, on the east side of the river. The Royal Barges are intricately carved and decorated. When the barges are in use for special occasions, they are powered by oarsmen in beautiful costumes.
The east side of the river is dotted with ancient wats, including the distinctive Wat Arun, one of the river’s oldest landmarks. Wat Rakang is the bell wat, with a collection of bells that are rung every morning.
Shopping is minimal along the riverside, though you can find antiques and upscale items at Riverside, near the Royal Orchid Sheraton. At night, dinner cruises provide an excellent and memorable way to view the city. Historic buildings, temples, and palaces are dramatically lit for effect, and the millions of lights from highrises that dot the riverbank sparkle back from the water. |
