Places To Visit In Bangkok: Chakri Maha Prasat Hall
About Chakri Maha Prasat Hall
Chakri Maha Prasat Hall is a part of the pre-eminent Grand Palace and its royally sponsored architecture, collections of ancient weapons and art are open to all tourists. As well as housing the Royal Guards, the hall also contains a small throne that was once used by the Chakri royalty of Thailand.
The entire Palace is filled with interesting statues including the statues of the Yak (giants) which guard the courtyards. Friezes of ancient Buddhist and Hindu legends and golden Chedis housing ancient relics help to make up this diverse display of Thai history and craftwork.
The hall reflects a combination of European and Thai architecture. Although it was designed by a European architect, it was decided that it should reflect more Thai culture and history. Consequently, the domed cathedral-like roof was replaced with an elaborate, pointy Thai-style roof. To this day, the Thais refer to it as “the westerner in a Thai hat.”
Overall, this hall and the surrounding palace complex falls into the category of a must-see attraction. The area provides perhaps the greatest display of Thai ingenuity, art and design as well as providing great examples of its history, culture and main religions.
Brief History Of Chakri Maha Prasat Hall
The hall was built in 1882 by the great Thai King, Rama V. It is located near the site of the Temple Of The Emerald Buddha which is considered one of the nation’s most precious artifacts and temples. It was built as a throne room and retains all the illustrious grandeur of the King who commissioned it.
Tips for visitors tp Chakri Maha Prasat Hall
An entry ticket costs 200 Baht or approximately $6 USD. This fee includes entry into the adjacent Temple Of the Emerald Buddha. These two sites are perhaps the two most important in Thailand and are not to be missed. However, if you plan on visiting them both, it is highly advisable to wear reasonably formal attire that covers your entire legs, shoulders, arms and feet.