Top Attractions Not To Be Missed in Bangkok
Did you know that Bangkok is one of the most visited cities in the world? Bangkok, the capital of Thailand is an intriguing concoction of experiences. It is a vibrant city, a city of throbbing night markets, serene temples, and bustling shopping malls. Bangkok is also the gateway to the exotic beaches and islands that dot Thailand. The major feeder cities for international passenger traffic to Dubai are Singapore, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, among others. Also Mumbai to Bangkok flights carry a lot of tourists from India.
What are the attractions that attract tourists to Bangkok? Here is a list of top attractions that make Bangkok a popular travel destination.
The Grand Palace
Palaces anywhere in the world awe you with their grandeur and majesty. The Grand Palace in Bangkok is no exception. As you leave the modern city of Bangkok and enter the gates of the sprawling precincts of the Grand Palace, you enter a different world. As you walk amidst the large gardens and beautiful building you will feel transported to a different time in history. The Grand Palace has been the official residence of the kings of Thailand from the year 1782. The Grand Palace covers a total area of 218,400 metres and is surrounded by large walls on all four sides. The Grand Palace is not a single structure but is made up of residential buildings of the royal family, courts, public offices, temples, pavilions, gardens and courtyards.
Wat Arun
A beautiful temple on the banks of the river Chao Phraya, the Wat Arun is known for its distinctive Phrang or spires. Arun refers to the Hindu Sun God and very aptly the temple presents a glorious sight when the first rays of the morning sun caress its exteriors. The central spire is more than two hundred and eighty feet high and is inlaid with white porcelain. In ancient times the Wat Arun housed the statue of the Emerald Buddha which was later shifted to the Wat Phra Kaew.
Wat Phra Kaew
Wat Phra Kaew is known as the temple of the Emerald Buddha. This temple is considered to be the most auspicious and sacred of the Buddhist temples in the whole of Thailand. The statue of the Emerald Buddha which occupies pride of place in the Wat Phra Kaew originated in India. It is believed that the Emerald Buddha would bring peace, prosperity, and well being to any country where it resided. The Emerald Buddha is a dark green statue of a seated Buddha which is about twenty six inches in height. The statue has been carved from a single jade stone. It is interesting to note that there is a cloak around the statue which is changed thrice a year by the king. The colour of the cloak corresponds to the three seasons, summer, winter, and monsoon. The changing of the cloak is a very important ritual of the temple.
Safari World
Safari World offers a range of experiences to the visitors, young and old. The highlight of Safari World is undoubtedly the Safari Park. A drive through the Safari park which takes about forty five minutes takes one close to the wild animals of the jungle including lions, bears, tigers, zebras, and giraffes. The best part of watching the wild animals in the Safari Park is the fact that they move freely unlike a zoo and live in natural environs.
Marine park is another within the Safari world which will attract the attention of children.
The Marine Park houses many aquatic animals and also conducts different shows which include shows involving the antics of Sea Lions. Then the Jungle Cruise, a ride in a boat on a man-made river where the creatures of the jungle come alive, dangerous tribals lurk in the bushes, and explosions in the water shake your. A clever use of animatronics and other special effects leave the visitors awed with the whole experience.
The Wild West come alive in Hollywood style in a brilliantly choreographed and staged stunt show which sees extreme action. Horses, gunfights, action on all fronts, keep your attention riveted.
Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World
The Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World provides a great experience of the fascinating underwater world. Interactive and innovative techniques ensure that visitors have a great time. There is a walk where one can see sharks swimming separated by only a thin sheet of transparent acrylic sheet. There is also a section known as the Coral Reef zone which opens up an intriguing world pf corals and rainbow hued creatures that will thrill young and old alike.
One can also see the camouflaging abilities of the Giant Pacific Octopus and the Giant Spider Crab in their rocky hideout. One must also visit the Ice Adventure zone, which is a simulation of the Antarctica, here one can see the cutest creatures on earth, the penguins.
These are a few glimpses of Bangkok. Attractions that one cannot afford to miss when in the city. Of course there is much more to Bangkok, to experience and travel back home with wonderful memories.
