In
the midst of dynamic modern growth, Bangkok miraculously manages to preserve
its cultural heritage to a marked degree. The soaring roofs and gleaming
spires of the Grand Palace and the city's many historic temples - Temple
of the Emerald Buddha, Temple of Dawn and other evocative shrines - present
the visitor with a picture of medieval Oriental wonder; the very stuff of
Eastern fairytales. And contained within Bangkok's monuments and sights
are treasures of the nation's artistic and cultural endeavour that typify
the land and the people.
The
influence of the past and the enduring threads of the social fabric are
not limited to the static. They continue to pervade daily life. Files
of saffron-robed monks making their early morning alms round, for example,
present an image unaltered in essentials by the passing of time. Today's
backdrop of highrise buildings serve only to emphasize the exotic and
timeless scene, while the city draws definition from it.
Indeed, there is much to discover, and in addition to the city's most
famous monuments there are numerous lesser known sights of great interest.
The Chapel of the Emerald Buddha, which enshrines the national palladium,
rightly tops the sightseeing list, but Bangkok numbers more than 400 temples,
many of which have their own fascination.
A
similar selection can be made with museums. The National Museum is excellent
and comprehensive, but as impressive in their own way are the Jim Thompson
House, Vimanmek Mansion and Suan Pakkad Palace, all of which house fine
art collections within noteworthy settings.Not least, cruising the Chao Phraya river and the remaining canals which once made Bangkok the "Venice of the East" offers a glimpse of traditional riverine lifestyles, affording insights into the history and character of this wondrous city
Welcome to Bangkok - Things
to see & do - Planning your trip -
Festivals & events - Places to stay
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