Sawasdee Khrap!
A break from the regular snorkeling, para-gliding, shopping and partying, that a trendy Thailand is usually acquainted with, a modicum of intriguing history crossed my way on my visit to the
Grand Palace, home to the royal lineage of Siam (officially the kingdom of Thailand). An exquisite block of art, the monument startled me at the onset, with its dazzling facade of gold and silver! A very popular tourist destination, that took us about three-four hours to roam the castle and spend time learning its past.
The royal premise is divided into four main courts: Outer court, middle court, inner court and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The palace comprises of exquisite buildings, ceremonial antechambers, sprawling gardens, decorated courtyards and gemmed temples. The entire structure has evolved over the last two hundred years, during the several reigns it has witnessed.
The Temple of Emerald Buddha is located in the Outer Court. True to its name the statue of a glittering green Buddha is carved out of an impeccable jade and is embellished with gold clothing of sorts which changes according to the seasons. The idol is seated on a boat shaped gold throne topped by a massive nine tiered gold umbrella – it’s a treat to the eye!
The monuments differ significantly from each other in their built, structure and adornment. Owing to the additions and developments across a vast time span of two centuries, none of them really share any symmetry.
Located on the banks of Chao Phraya River, half of the palace continues to serve as a museum to tourists, while the other half still houses office from where the administration is run.
Each wall along the corridors were covered with fresco, depicting significant historical event from Thai history. The murals were painted with gold dust. I chanced upon some restoration work and actually watched some marvelous attempts at preserving the dainty art!
Steeped in history, full of wonder, every bit worth a 400 baht entrance fee, this grand discovery left me awed!