Wednesday, July 9, 2014

The Stunning Temples of Bangkok


As we approach the final days of our Bangkok holiday, reality hits us that our trip will be ending in just a couple of days. Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end but on the bright side, we still have two more days! 

On our first full day in Bangkok, we discovered a Dean & Deluca Shop right in front of our hotel and decided that we had to go back one more time to find out what other delectables we needed to sample. And what better way to start off brunch than with a perfect cup of Latte. 


As most of our meals were predominantly Thai food, we decided it was time to lay off the spices, at least for brunch. After a good ten minutes trying to decide what to eat, I ended up choosing the grilled lamb sandwich. Perfectly toasted bread + perfectly grilled lamb = Heaven. 


I tried really hard to resist, I really did. But my friend insisted that I get the carrot cake mostly because I seemed to be in utter despair as I tried to ignore this beautiful slice of carrot cake calling out from behind  the glass display. He also knew that I would be regret it all day long if I didn't get it. He's one smart guy my friend.

By the way, the carrot cake was surprisingly not as sweet as I expected it to be as most carrot cakes tend to gravitate towards the sweet side. I don't think I've had a slice of carrot cake as light as this one and in a way, it was good because I didn't feel so bad eating it after a fairly large sandwich. 


After that absolutely delightful brunch, we headed off in the direction of the pier to once again take a boat ride, this time to see the famous temples of Bangkok. Wat Pho can be seen in the distance, but we'll visit that one later. 


It's been a few years since I've been back to Bangkok and longer since my last visit to the temple grounds. However once my eyes spot the elaborate stupas in the distance, I am reminded once again of the incredible beauty and grandeur of Thailand's temples. 


Wat Phra Kaew, located inside the grounds of the Grand Palace, is definitely a place that must be visited at least once. This temple is where the Emerald Buddha is enshrined and is also regarded as the most important temple in Thailand. 


Taking your time to explore and take a close look at the architectural details. Everything about this place is stunning and at time, breathtaking. 


I love walking along this long corridor lined with Buddha statues. The calm and serenity that pervades the temple grounds almost make you forget the chaos right outside the temple gates. 


Slowing down to take time and appreciate the details is the best way to enjoy this incredible place. Continue scrolling to enjoy the beauty of Wat Phra Keaw and the Grand Palace in peace.






The ornate and stunning Grand Palace combines European and traditional Thai architecture. 

A 10-minute walk from Wat Phra Kaew is Wat Pho, the home of the reclining Buddha. 


Measuring 46 meters long and completely covered in gold leaf, the Reclining Buddha is definitely a sight to see. Traditional Thai massages are also offered here as it is also a center for traditional massage and medicine.


After a tour of the Grand Palace and the temple grounds, it was time to take a boat across to Wat Arun, definitely my favorite temple in the city. 


Wat Arun lies on the other side of the river from the Grand Palace and is reached in a matter of just a few minutes by boat. 


Wat Arun has less visitors than the Grand Palace, making it a better choice for those who want a quieter temple experience.It's never crowded and feels so much more peaceful here than at the more popular Wat Phra Kaew. 

This temple is rather amazing. From afar, the temple takes on a greyish tone but up close and upon closer inspection, you'll be surprised to find out that every surface is covered and decorated with porcelain pieces. 


If you have the energy and the courage, climbing up these extremely steep stairs is a must. 


Once you climb up, you are rewarded to a bird's eye view of the Chao Phraya River and part of the Bangkok skyline. 

Naturally, there was food involved but I think I'll save it for another post as this one is already too long. So if you've read this far, thanks and as always, I hope you enjoyed this post of my adventures in Bangkok. 

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