Bangkok: Grand Palace, Temples & River of Kings Canal Cruise
Description
Feel like a king on the River of Kings, gliding through the waters of the Chao Phraya River on a longtail boat. Experience famous sights and hidden gems through the eyes of a local. Prepare to be wowed by Bangkok’s Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho. Marvel at the dazzling Grand Palace and revered Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew. Discover secret Thai communities that live amongst the ‘khlongs’ or canals.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Meet your guide at the bottom of the escalators, Exit 1 (Museum Siam) inside Sanam Chai MRT station. If arriving by taxi, enter through Museum Siam and take two escalators down.
Start your Bangkok tour with a walk to the pier, where you’ll board a longtail boat along the Chao Phraya River, also known as the River of Kings. Discover why Bangkok is called the 'Venice of the East' as you glide through its khlongs (canals).
Next, head to the Grand Palace, where strolling through its stunning grounds feels like stepping into an Asian version of Alice in Wonderland—so beautiful, it almost feels unreal.
Next, visit Wat Pho, home to the iconic golden reclining Buddha and the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, a key temple in Thailand's Buddhist heritage.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Minimum age is 6 years
- Dress requirements to enter the Grand Palace are very strict. Please ensure your clothes cover your shoulders and waist (scarves or shawls worn over sleeveless tops are not permitted). Trousers must be ankle-length, and skirts below the knee, plus covered shoes/sneakers (no sandals).
- Closure of sites: The order of touring and route of the khlong (canal) tour may change depending on the water levels in the river and individual khlongs.
- Please note that this tour covers 5 km of Boat Ride and 1.5 km (1 mile) of walking.
- Local Impact: How you will help the local community by joining this tour: This tour hires local longtail boatmen who own their own boats directly. These boatmen rely on tourism to supplement their income as modern transport routes mean fewer locals need to use their boats.
Reviews(152)
This was an amazing trip, it was a lot of fun. The tour guide was amazing. She was very knowledgeable, and very helpful. The boat ride was amazing, and we got to see a lot of cool stuff. Loved it! Highly recommend!
Tour guide was great. She could have explained attractions better but i understand that with language barrier it can be hard. Overall great experience
Fantastic tour - very knowledgable guides who made it fun and enjoyable. We have come away understanding a lot more about Thai culture.
Really good tour and very informative.
Pam was incredible. She did a great job explaining the history. Also was an incredible photographer
Wonderful day with Pam! She was very knowledgeable, fun, and helpful! Treated us to an amazing tour of some temples and the river!
My expectations were far surpassed. The magnitude of the royal and spiritual sites were unprecedented and it was incredible to learn of the history. Paul was an exceptional guide for us and we took away so much knowledge and appreciation from our time with him. If you want to get a well rounded tour of the cities canals as well as its most cherished heritage. Go on this tour.
The tour was exceptional met all our expectations. The guide was informative and outstanding.
Dear Richard, Thank you for your fantastic feedback! We're delighted to hear that your tour in Thailand was exceptional and lived up to your expectations. It's wonderful to know that our guide was both informative and outstanding. We truly appreciate your kind words and hope to see you on another Intrepid Urban Adventure soon! Warm regards, The Intrepid Urban Adventures Team
Fabulous tour! This allowed us to see two very different sides of Bangkok, from the opulence of the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, to the homes and businesses along the canals. The canal cruise let us enjoy a traditional longboat, and we got to see giant monitor lizards sunning themselves on stones and piers. The Grand Palace Was absolutely stunning, with its intricate stone work, statues, and Emerald Buddha. Wat Pho, Thailand's first university and home of the massive reclining Buddha, was truly a sight to behold. PK was a great guide. Thank you!
Had a great time learning more about Thai culture. PK was great and was super knowledgeable about everything. Also, the tour ran smoothly and seamlessly.
