The historically rich landscape of Thailand has many ancient sites. One of the best tourist attractions in Thailand is home to lush forests, unscathed beaches, and architectural majesties. Once known as Siam, today’s Thailand has a rich history.
Thailand truly has an unsettled allure to it that entices people from across the world. Do you know Thailand is also known as the Land of Smiles? From a huge number of ancient landmarks and incredible sites, we have brought you some of the most stunning ones. So are you ready for a trip to an exotic and intriguing country!
Ayutthaya
The beautiful ancient city of Ayutthaya is a testament to this once prospering port settlement in Thailand. It was rich land having 403 palaces once upon a time. Today visitors can see a glimpse of giant ancient temples and Buddha statues. It was once the capital of Siam for 400 years.
Ayutthaya is proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. If you are interested in the history of this ancient city, you can get more information from the museums in Thailand. These museums house the original artifacts and antiques of Ayutthaya city. It is one of the great sites to take cool photos for your Instagram feed.
The Grand Palace Bangkok
The Grand Palace of Bangkok as the name suggests was the royal residence of the Chakri Dynasty. The wonderful Thai-style architecture is one of the most beautiful ancient sites in the country. Basically, there are a series of buildings used for variable purposes. Some are government offices, others are museums and monasteries.
At the moment, the Grand Palace Complex is divided into two main sections namely inner and outer courts. Keep in mind that not all the parts are open to the general public. Moreover, you have to abide by the rules as there is a strict dress code. Make sure to follow it. It will take three to four hours for a detailed visit.
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha
One of the oldest and most sacred temples in Thailand is the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. It is a first-grade royal monastery. Right next to the Grand Palace of Bangkok, this temple dates back to the late 18th century. The ashes of King Rama I who built the temple are also kept in this temple in his honor.
There are over thousands of Buddha images, but what makes this temple unique and most significant is the gold-plated portrayal of Buddha. It is 46 meters long and 15 meters high. To add more, it is the largest statue of Buddha in Thailand.
Temple of the Emerald Buddha
Thailand is rich in temples of amazing architecture and you will surely be mesmerized by the beautiful designs. Another one of its kind, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is in the heart of Grand Palace Bangkok. This temple is made up of a series of tremendous gold buildings.
The temple is famous for so many things and is among one of the best tourist attractions sites in Thailand. In the assembly hall of the temple, there is a legendary 2-foot-tall statue of Buddha. The Emerald Buddha is entirely made of jade. It dates back to the 14th century. The temple of the Emerald Buddha should be on your list if you are planning a trip to Thailand.
Kwai River Bridge
Yes, it is the same bridge as in the epic World War II film Bridge over the River Kwai in 1957. Kwai River Bridge is more than just an ordinary bridge. It is historically significant and was part of the meter-gauge railway. During World War II the Kwai River Bridge was built by the Japanese.
Another interesting fact about this ancient landmark in Thailand is that it was built by Asian slave laborers using POWs. In a nearby Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, there are remains of some 7000 laborers who lost their lives during the railway project construction.
Phra Pathom Chedi
Phra Pathom Chedi or the first or principal holy stupa is among the top tourist destinations in Thailand. It is the tallest stupa in Thailand, reaching up to 124 meters in height. Phra Pathom Chedi in itself is not that ancient, however, there has been a sacred site since the ancient times of emperor Ashoka.
The stunning stupa is a great tourist site you should consider while you are planning a trip to Thailand. Every year in November, Phra Pathom Chedi arranges a festival to collect funds needed for maintenance purposes. If viewed from the above site, it looks like a giant Buddha Mandala.
The amazing land of Thailand and the amazing people in Thailand are very welcoming. You will surely enjoy your time here. A country of rich archaeological history, architectural beauty, and amazing sceneries is calling you. Pack your bags and take the next flight to Thailand.
