Thailands Wat Phra Kaew Temple

Frankly I could take or leave the Grand Palace, as I said last time it was mostly closed on my visit for state business however the temple complex which physically adjoins it is in every way stunning.

A visit here is a must however I suggest that you get here before it opens and wait at the gate. Sadly the Thai tourist board does nothing to regulate the number of visitors per hour and there are a constant stream of them making it very difficult to get good photos.

I'd also add that the centre piece the "Emerald Buhdda" sits in a large temple building where photography is prohibited so you'll either need to perform gymnastics with a good camera at the one door from which it can be seen from outside - or buy a postcard. Anyway here are the pictures:































not only are the main buildings stunning but the detail work in gold, ceramics and gold leaf murals that surround the courtyard are little short of incredible. You can only marvel at the level of craftmanship that must have gone into creating this place.

You have the choice to join a guided tour, and indeed touts will leap out at you as soon as you enter the complex; however if you push on to the ticket office there is a service next door which will lend you an audio guide for about 3 GBP in English and indeed almost any other language.

Ok I think that's all for Wat Phra Kew, the truth is I have about 30 more pictures, but them we'll both be here all day!

Mr C