Historically Rich Bangkok Riverside
Enjoy the culture of a city like no other
Bangkok, a place where everything glitters thanks to its royal palaces and its many skyscrapers! Quite often do travellers tend to forget that apart from the many things to see in its wondrous city limits, there are also a host of exciting things to do around Bangkok too. The Chao Phraya River constitutes a large part of the city’s attractions and as many agree is where its roots begin.
When speaking of the riverside, no holiday to Bangkok would be complete if not for a long, enjoyable or even a romantic ride on the Chao Phraya River. There are many tour operators who organize river cruises at reasonable rates. If travellers like, they may also go with properties like AVANI Riverside Bangkok Hotel that offer customized, safe and memorable barge rides across the river. A cruise atop a rice barge is guaranteed to grant participants splendid views of the glittery temples across it and many other natural scenes.
The riverside as it is commonly referred to reflects one scene at day and another at night. One of the most prominent historical and religious edifices is the Wat Arun. The illumination of the Wat Arun each night, lights up the Chao Phraya River as well, leaving travellers awe-struck. An iconic temple, the Wat Arun can be visited at a rate of 100 baht. After alighting the steep steps, one may witness enchanting views of the Chao Phraya River that are too good to miss.
After a visit to the famous Wat Arun, travellers may head over to the Royal Barges Museum. Long ago, the Chao Phraya River played an important role of travel and communication. Even Thai Royalty of the time used boats as their main mode of transport between cities. At the museum one can discover eight of the most intricately designed Royal Barges which are only used in times of state ceremonies and other auspicious gatherings. The barges depict figures of mythical creatures which are carved in gold and embedded with glass. These barges use approximately 50 oarsmen at one time. Many could witness the extremely rare yet charming Royal Barges Procession which takes place on the river.
Last but certainly not the least, the Bang Khun Phrom Palace. This palace occupies a special place within the city as it depicts European style architecture which was constructed in the 20th century. The palace lies on Samson Road close to the famous Rama VII Bridge. The palace was one which was constructed on the orders of King Chulalongkorn also known as King Rama V and was meant to serve as the residence for Prince Paribatra Sukhumbhand.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.