Thailand
The Land of Smiles welcomes you with golden temples, tropical islands, and incredible cuisine
November-February
Thai
Baht (THB)
30-day visa exemption
Thailand is Southeast Asia's most popular destination, offering an incredible blend of ancient culture, stunning natural beauty, and modern amenities. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tranquil beaches of the southern islands, from the mountain temples of Chiang Mai to the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya, Thailand captivates travelers with its diversity and charm.
Known as the Land of Smiles, Thailand welcomes visitors with warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, affordable prices, and endless adventures. Whether you're seeking spiritual enlightenment at golden temples, relaxation on pristine beaches, adventure in jungle mountains, or culinary exploration in street food markets, Thailand delivers unforgettable experiences.
Flight Time from US
Best Time to Visit Thailand
Quick Calculations for Thailand
Need more detailed calculations?
View All ToolsExplore Thailand by Region
Discover the diverse landscapes, cultures, and experiences across different regions
Bangkok & Central Thailand
The vibrant capital offers golden temples, bustling markets, world-class street food, and modern shopping.
Top Highlights:
Northern Thailand
Chiang Mai and the mountainous north offer temples, hill tribes, elephant sanctuaries, and adventure.
Top Highlights:
Southern Islands - Andaman Sea
Phuket, Krabi, and Phi Phi Islands offer stunning beaches, limestone cliffs, and world-class diving.
Top Highlights:
Southern Islands - Gulf of Thailand
Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao offer palm-fringed beaches, full moon parties, and diving.
Top Highlights:
Northeast Thailand (Isaan)
Authentic Thai culture, ancient Khmer ruins, unique cuisine, and fewer tourists in this rural region.
Top Highlights:
Eastern Thailand
Pattaya, Koh Chang, and coastal areas offer beaches, water sports, and easy access from Bangkok.
Top Highlights:
Top Attractions & Things to Do
Discover the most incredible experiences, from ancient temples to pristine beaches
Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
Bangkok's most famous landmark, home to the Emerald Buddha and stunning Thai architecture.
Phi Phi Islands
Iconic limestone islands with crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and beach hopping.
Doi Suthep Temple
Sacred mountain temple overlooking Chiang Mai with stunning views and golden chedi.
Ayutthaya Historical Park
UNESCO World Heritage ancient capital with impressive temple ruins and Buddha statues.
Railay Beach
Stunning peninsula accessible only by boat, famous for rock climbing and pristine beaches.
Chiang Mai Old City
Historic walled city with over 30 temples, night markets, and authentic northern Thai culture.
Erawan Waterfalls
Seven-tiered waterfall with emerald pools perfect for swimming in lush jungle setting.
Koh Tao
Diving paradise with affordable certification courses and vibrant marine life.
Sukhothai Historical Park
First capital of Thailand with beautiful temple ruins set in peaceful parkland.
Distance Between Cities
Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew: Complete Travel Guide
The Grand Palace is Bangkok's most famous landmark and a must-visit for any traveler to Thailand. Built in 1782, this sprawling complex served as the official residence of Thai kings for 150 years. Within its walls lies Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Thailand's most sacred Buddhist temple. The palace showcases the finest examples of Thai craftsmanship with its golden spires, intricate murals, and ornate architecture that dazzles visitors from around the world.
How to Get There
Located in the heart of Bangkok's old city. Take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Tha Chang Pier (N9) or use Grab/taxi. The nearest MRT station is Sanam Chai (15-minute walk). Most hotels offer organized tours. Arrive early (opens 8:30 AM) to beat crowds and heat.
Nearest Airport: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
Distance: 32 km (45 minutes)
Essential Info
Entry Fee
500 Baht ($15 USD) includes entry to the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and several other buildings. Audio guides available for 200 Baht. Free for Thai nationals.
Best Time to Visit
November to February offers the coolest weather. Visit early morning (8:30-10 AM) or late afternoon (3-5 PM) to avoid peak crowds and intense heat. Avoid weekends and Thai holidays when it's extremely crowded.
Insider Tips
- Strict dress code: Cover shoulders and knees, no sandals or flip-flops
- Free sarongs and pants available at entrance if needed
- Allow 2-3 hours to explore the entire complex
- Bring water and sunscreen - it gets very hot
- Watch out for scams outside claiming the palace is closed
- Photography allowed but be respectful in temple areas
The Emerald Buddha
The centerpiece of Wat Phra Kaew is the Emerald Buddha, a 66-centimeter tall statue carved from a single block of jade. Despite its name, the statue is actually made of green jade, not emerald. The Buddha is dressed in seasonal costumes changed three times a year by the King of Thailand in an important ceremony. Only the King or Crown Prince may touch the statue. The Emerald Buddha is considered the palladium of Thai society and the protector of the kingdom.
Architecture and Design
The Grand Palace complex covers 218,400 square meters and is surrounded by four walls totaling 1,910 meters in length. The architecture represents the pinnacle of Thai craftsmanship, featuring golden spires, colorful mosaics, intricate murals depicting scenes from the Ramakien (Thai version of the Ramayana), and guardian demons (Yaksha) standing watch. The buildings showcase a unique blend of Thai, European, and Chinese architectural influences.
Historical Significance
King Rama I established the Grand Palace in 1782 when he moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok. The palace served as the official residence of Thai kings until 1925, when King Rama VII moved to Dusit Palace. Today, the Grand Palace is used for important ceremonies, royal weddings, and state functions. It remains a powerful symbol of Thai royalty and national identity.
Plan Your Visit
Use our travel tools to calculate distances, flight times, and costs for your trip to Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
Build Your Thailand Itinerary
Select attractions and activities to create your perfect trip plan
Suggested Attractions
Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
Temple
Ayutthaya Historical Park
Cultural
Chiang Mai Old City
City
Doi Suthep Temple
Temple
Phi Phi Islands
Beach
Railay Beach
Beach
Koh Tao
Beach
Erawan Waterfalls
Waterfall
Travel Time Calculator
Calculate distances and travel times between your selected destinations
Your Itinerary
Add attractions to start building your itinerary
Practical Information for Thailand
Everything you need to know to plan your trip
Getting There
Major Airports
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok)
- Don Mueang Airport (Bangkok)
- Chiang Mai International Airport
- Phuket International Airport
Flight Time from US
16-20 hours from US (with connections)
Major Airlines
Getting Around
Transport Options
Average Costs
Domestic flights $30-80, trains $10-50, buses $5-20, Grab rides $2-10
Tips
- Book domestic flights in advance for best prices
- Use Grab app for reliable, metered transportation
- Overnight trains and buses save accommodation costs
- Tuk-tuks are fun but negotiate price before riding
- Songthaews (shared trucks) are cheap local transport
Daily Costs
Hostels, street food, public transport
Hotels, restaurants, mix of transport
Resorts, fine dining, private tours
Currency: Thai Baht (THB) - $1 USD ≈ 35 THB
Safety for Americans
Overall Safety
Very safe for American travelers. Thailand is one of Southeast Asia's safest destinations.
Safety Tips
- Drink only bottled or filtered water
- Be cautious of tourist scams, especially in Bangkok
- Respect the monarchy - criticism is illegal
- Dress modestly at temples
- Watch belongings on overnight buses and trains
- Get travel insurance covering motorbike accidents
Emergency Number
191 (police), 1669 (ambulance)
Essential Travel Planning Tools
Use our free calculators and tools to plan every aspect of your trip
Flight Time Calculator
Calculate flight duration from your city
Distance Calculator
Find distances between destinations
Trip Cost Estimator
Estimate your total trip budget
Driving Time Calculator
Calculate road trip durations
Halfway Point Finder
Find meeting points for road trips
Time Zone Converter
Convert times across time zones
Plan Your Thailand Adventure
Use our travel tools to plan every detail of your trip
Distance Calculator
Calculate distances between Thai cities
Flight Time
Check flight times from your city
Trip Cost
Estimate your Thailand travel budget
Plan Your Trip
Build your custom itinerary
Made with Readdy