Straddling the Chao Phraya River and situated just north of Chinatown, the Old City (Rattanakosin) is where you'll find Bangkok's most spectacular and revered historical attractions. Not only part of the Kingdom's rich past, but intrinsic to it, a day or two spent exploring here will give you a deep insight into the heart, soul and psyche of the Thai people, with shimmering, spire-shaped eye-candy on nearly every corner.
Founded by King Rama I in 1782 at the start of the Chakri Dynasty, it was originally carved out of a bend in the river to strengthen the defensive position of the new Siamese capital. Sights include the regal majesty of the Grand Palace, the awe-inspiring beauty of Wat Phra Kaew, and the traditional learning centres Wat Pho and Wat Mahathat, the latter widely considered one of Thailand's first universities and a centre for meditation. Sanam Luang, a historic park next to the Grand Palace traditionally used for important Royal or Buddhist ceremonies, and the National Gallery can also be found here.
The Old City: a charm that is all its own
Nowadays, the Old City has the same frenetic pace and kind of traffic you'll find elsewhere in the city. But, while the areas east of Rattanakosin - places like Silom, Siam and Sukhumvit - have been steaming headlong into the future for decades, the palaces, temples and old buildings of Rattanakosin have retained their perspective and pride of place. Without the intrusion of high-rises to disrupt the classic, low-rise skyline, the Old City has a charm that is all its own, and is a must for visitors wanting to delight in Thai culture and history at its most refined.
Close by is the incongruous traveller enclave Khao San Road, and the artsy ambiance of Phra Arthit Road. To find out more about Rattanakosin, read our Brief History of Bangkok. |
