Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Big Budha With Lunch

Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is a city that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern development. This comprehensive tour promises an immersive experience, taking visitors on a journey through the city’s iconic landmarks. From the grandeur of the Grand Palace to the serene beauty of Wat Arun and the majestic New Big Buddha, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the heart of Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. Complemented by a relaxing lunch cruise along the Chao Phraya River, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to uncover the essence of Bangkok.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Bangkok.

Key Points

• This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Bangkok’s iconic landmarks, including the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and the New Big Buddha.
• The tour includes a scenic van ride, guided tours, admission tickets, a lunch cruise, and bottled water, providing a hassle-free experience.
• Highlights include climbing the central spire of Wat Arun, exploring the intricate architecture and sacred temples of the Grand Palace, and visiting the New Big Buddha.
• The tour allows travelers to experience a blend of century-old classics and trendy spots, with the convenience of hotel pickup and transportation.
• The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility for travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This 9-hour tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Bangkok’s iconic landmarks, including the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and the New Big Buddha. Travelers will enjoy complimentary hotel pickup, guided tours, admission tickets, a lunch cruise, and bottled water.

The tour includes transportation by van, a ferry ride, and visits to each destination, allowing visitors to experience a blend of century-old classics and trendy spots. Highlights include the opportunity to wear Thai costumes for photos during the tour and a relaxing lunch cruise along the Chao Phraya River with stunning views and local cuisine.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a hassle-free way to discover Bangkok’s top attractions.

Itinerary Highlights

After hotel pickup, the tour begins with a scenic van ride lasting approximately 105 minutes.

The first stop is Wat Arun, where visitors are guided through the iconic temple for one hour. Then, it’s a quick 10-minute ferry ride to the Grand Palace, where the tour explores the complex for two hours.

Following the palace visit, guests embark on a 105-minute lunch cruise along the Chao Phraya River, savoring local cuisine while taking in the stunning riverside views.

The final destination is the New Big Buddha at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, allowing 45 minutes to admire the impressive statue before returning to Bangkok.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with a hotel pickup, where a van transports guests on a scenic 105-minute journey to the first destination. The van provides a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation, ensuring guests reach the sights without any hassle.

Along the way, guests can admire the vibrant city scenery and prepare for the day’s exciting activities. The transportation service is included in the tour package, making it a convenient and hassle-free experience for all participants.

Whether travelers are visiting Bangkok for the first time or returning for another adventure, the pickup and transportation service sets the stage for a remarkable day of exploration and discovery.

Guided Tour of Wat Arun

Next, the tour heads to Wat Arun, one of Bangkok’s most iconic temples. Guests will spend an hour exploring this stunning riverside shrine, admiring its intricate architecture and ornate details.

The 82-meter-tall central spire, known as a prang, is the temple’s centerpiece, decorated with colorful porcelain tiles and statues of Buddha. Visitors can climb the steep steps to the top, offering breathtaking views over the Chao Phraya River. The guide will share the history and significance of this important Buddhist site, allowing guests to appreciate the cultural and spiritual significance of Wat Arun.

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Exploring the Grand Palace

Following the guided tour of Wat Arun, the group then crosses the Chao Phraya River by ferry to explore the awe-inspiring Grand Palace, the former royal residence and one of Bangkok’s most significant historical landmarks.

Spanning over 2 hours, the guided tour takes visitors through the elaborate architecture, intricate murals, and sacred temples within the palace complex. Highlights include the iconic Emerald Buddha, the richly decorated Chakri Maha Prasat Hall, and the opportunity to don traditional Thai costumes for memorable photos.

The visit provides a deep dive into Thailand’s regal history and cultural heritage, leaving a lasting impression on all who experience it.

Lunch Cruise on Chao Phraya River

After exploring the grandeur of the Grand Palace, the tour continues with a relaxing lunch cruise on the Chao Phraya River. Lasting 105 minutes, the lunch cruise offers stunning river views and a chance to savor local Thai cuisine. Guests can sit back, unwind, and take in the sights as the boat glides along the historic waterway.

The set menu lunch features a variety of authentic dishes, allowing visitors to further enjoy the culinary delights of Thailand. This tranquil interlude provides a welcomed respite from the bustling city before the tour resumes its exploration of other iconic Bangkok landmarks.

Visit to New Big Buddha

After the leisurely lunch cruise, the tour now moves on to the final stop – a visit to the New Big Buddha at Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen. This colossal 69-meter-tall Buddha statue, completed in 2021, is an impressive sight to behold.

Visitors will have approximately 45 minutes to explore the temple grounds, admire the towering Buddha, and engage in personal reflection. The guide will share insights about the significance of this iconic religious site within the Thai Buddhist tradition.

This final stop provides a peaceful conclusion to the day’s tour, allowing guests to soak in the spiritual atmosphere before returning to Bangkok.

Additional Information

The tour isn’t recommended for individuals prone to motion sickness, as it involves ferry crossings and transportation by van. Customers are required to provide valid contact information when booking, as the guide will need to reach out before the trip. This allows the guide to confirm pickup details and ensure a smooth start to the day’s activities.

Guests should also be aware that the tour includes wearing Thai costumes for photos, adding an authentic touch to their Bangkok experience. The additional information provided aims to set proper expectations and ensure a hassle-free journey for all participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a specific dress code, but visitors should dress modestly as they’ll be visiting religious sites. Casual, comfortable clothing is recommended, and Thai costumes are available for photos during the tour.

Can I Modify the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

While the tour includes a set itinerary, you can discuss modifying it with the tour operator. They may be able to accommodate additional sites if time and logistics allow, though some changes may incur extra fees.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Temples?

Photography is generally allowed inside the temples, but visitors should be respectful and avoid flash photography. Some temples may have stricter rules, so it’s best to check with the guide or signs upon arrival.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Site Visit?

The tour allocates specific time slots for each site visit: 1 hour at Wat Arun, 2 hours at the Grand Palace, 45 minutes at the New Big Buddha, and 1 hour and 45 minutes for the lunch cruise.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t mention any discounts specifically for students or seniors. However, it’s best to check with the tour provider directly to inquire about any available discounts that may apply to these groups.

Recap

This comprehensive Bangkok tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks. Travelers will enjoy guided visits to the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and the New Big Buddha, as well as a relaxing lunch cruise along the Chao Phraya River. With hotel pickup, admission tickets, and bottled water included, this hassle-free experience allows visitors to fully enjoy Thailand’s rich history and cultural heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: