Do you know?

Bangkok offers a free bus tour around Rattanakosin Island!
If you're interested, follow us as we introduce you to this activity.
This activity is called "Following the Glorious Footsteps of Rattanakosin."
It is a collaboration between the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
and the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA).
They want to give people from other provinces who have come to pay their respects at the Grand Palace
the opportunity to experience the grandeur of Rattanakosin Island.
This free tour is not just for people from other provinces; locals can also enjoy it for free. Don't be upset!

This activity will take place from January 10th to 31st, 2017.
There will be shuttle buses available every day
from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The buses will depart from the National Museum bus stop
and make stops at various stations.
This will give the public the opportunity to visit temples, museums, and communities,
as well as important landmarks in the Rattanakosin Island area
and surrounding areas.
This activity is part of the "Travel Thailand, Everyone Can Travel" project.
The aim is to promote awareness and pride in Thai culture among the public.
Spread the word to your friends, family, and relatives.
Share this information with the world before the deadline.
Don't miss out!

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For further information, please contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Bangkok Office. Phone: 0-2276-2720 and 0-2276-2721.

The map of bus routes for each activity is shown in the picture... Where do you want to go? Which bus stop do you want to get off at? Choose the route that suits you.


The bus conductor will not be able to collect the fare from you if you follow these instructions.
Pay close attention to the bus; specifically, the front of the bus and the side of the entrance door should have the words "Following the footsteps of the glorious Rattanakosin era," as shown in the image below.
If you see it, hurry up and get on board; don't hesitate, it's free!



Now you know the origin of this activity.

Next, we will take you to explore various places that we have visited during our "Following the Footsteps of Rattanakosin's Glory" journey. Perhaps some of these locations might pique your interest and inspire you to follow in our footsteps.



1. Wat Bowonniwet Vihara

Built during the reign of King Nangklao, this temple is a must-visit for those who enjoy riddles. The temple's murals depict numerous riddles, and the Petchabun Palace, a blend of Western and Thai architecture, showcases fans designed by Prince Naris. The "Phra Pan Hya," a residence where King Bhumibol Adulyadej once stayed during his monkhood, is also located here. Visiting hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Don't miss out! In addition to Wat Bowon Niwet Vihara, the nearby Bang Lamphu district boasts historic shopping areas, the Bang Lamphu Museum, Phra Sumen Fort, and Santi Chai Prakan Park, offering stunning views of Rama VIII Bridge. If you have ample time, explore and shop to your heart's content.






2. Wat Ratchanadda Ram Worawihan

The metal castle is the third of its kind in the world and the only one still standing. Inside, large wooden poles are arranged in a spiral staircase leading to the top of the castle, where the relics of the Buddha are enshrined. His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej graciously granted permission for the enshrinement ceremony of the relics at this metal castle. It also offers a panoramic view from above. Opening hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The last time I visited, the metal castle was undergoing renovations, and it has changed. Personally, I think the old style was more beautiful and had more charm and character than the new one. But this is just my opinion. You should go see for yourself.

Nearby attractions include:
- Phlap Phla Chai Phra Pok Klao Monument and Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall
- Queen Sirikit Art Gallery
- King Prajadhipok Museum
- Choose the one that suits your interests and enjoy your visit.



3. Wat Suthat Thepwararam

The temple enshrines the Phra Si Sakyamuni Buddha statue, brought from Wat Mahathat in Sukhothai Province. The ordination hall houses the Phra Phuttha Trilokachet statue. It is the longest ordination hall in Thailand. The door and window arches are in the shape of a stupa, which is unique and beautiful. The temple is open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Nearby attractions include the Giant Swing, the Tiger God Shrine, the Sam Phraeng area, and the Pawaret Market.


4. Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan (Wat Chaeng)

This temple once housed the Emerald Buddha during the reign of King Taksin of Thonburi.
Later, during the reign of King Rama III, the construction of the Phra Prang of Wat Arun was ordered.
A symbol of Bangkok, it stands majestically on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River.
Opening hours: 08.00-18.00 hrs.

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It's more convenient to take a ferry from Photharam pier, you know.
The fare is only 4 baht per trip, which is cheaper than driving yourself.
Besides, if you drive yourself, you might get stuck in traffic for hours, wasting time and getting frustrated.


5. Wat Pho (Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram)

This temple served as the royal temple during the reign of King Rama I. It houses the third-largest reclining Buddha statue in Thailand. The murals in the Sala Rai depict various medical texts and postures, showcasing traditional Thai medical practices. The temple boasts four royal stupas adorned with beautiful tiles and ceramics, making it the temple with the most stupas in Thailand. Additionally, it features Chinese guardian figures and dolls adorning its various gates. The temple is open to visitors from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.


How's that for you? Free travel, full of merit, it really exists.

Here... only in Bangkok.
As I said, hurry up and share, hurry up and spread the news.
For those who don't know yet, hurry up and "follow the footsteps of the radiant... Rattanakosin."
Because in a few days, this activity will end...
It's a pity, you know... good activities like this should last until next year, right?

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