Lonely Planet Experiences: Grand Palace, Wat Pho & Chao Phraya Canal Cruise

After meeting your guide, head to the Grand Palace, which formerly served as the official residence of the King of Siam. Follow your guide on foot through the complex, built in 1782, and stand in awe before the revered Emerald Buddha—Thailand’s holiest religious statue carved from jade—housed in Wat Phra Kaew.

Next up is a longtail boat for a trip down the Chao Phraya River, translated as the River of Kings. Explore the khlongs (canals) of Bangkok and get a glimpse into the past as you learn about what was once a vast network providing transport throughout the city once known as the 'Venice of the East.’

Continue on to Wat Pho for a guided tour of this impressive temple complex. Home to the Reclining Buddha, the largest reclining Buddha image in Bangkok, Wat Pho was the country’s first public university and still functions as a center of learning for traditional Thai massage and medicines.

From here, you can continue exploring on your own or your guide can assist you in getting a taxi or public transport back to your hotel.

Experience the best travel stories for yourself! Join a local expert and uncover hidden gems on this Lonely Planet Experience powered by Urban Adventures.

Feel like a king on the River of Kings, gliding through the waters of the Chao Phraya River on a longtail boat. Experience famous sights and hidden gems through the eyes of a local. Prepare to be wowed by Bangkok’s Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho. Marvel at the dazzling Grand Palace and revered Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew. Discover secret Thai communities that live amongst the ‘khlongs’ or canals.

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Minimum age is 6 years
Dress standard: Dress requirements to enter the Grand Palace are very strict. Please ensure your clothes cover your shoulders and waist (scarves or shawls worn over sleeveless tops are not permitted). Trousers must be ankle-length, and skirts below the knee. Please do not wear ripped, torn or see-through clothes or items that are very tight fitting such as yoga pants or leggings. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the predominantly hot and humid Bangkok climate.
Closure of sites: The order of touring and route of the khlong (canal) tour may change depending on the water levels in the river and individual khlongs.
Not wheelchair accessible
Local Impact: How you will help the local community by joining this tour: This tour hires local longtail boatmen who own their own boats directly. These boatmen rely on tourism to supplement their income as modern transport routes mean fewer locals need to use their boats.
Effective Sept 1, 2021, travellers 18+ must show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Children 6-17 must present a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or lateral flow) conducted maximum 72 hours prior, proof of recovery dated up to 9 months or proof of vaccination. View full policy at urbanadventures.com/vaccine.
Most travelers can participate
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers