Rattanakosin Island - Important tourist and Cultural Area of Bangkok.

Rattanakosin Island Area of Bangkok - The Old city

The history of Rattanokosin Island dates back to year 1782 when King Rama I was throned and the Chakri Dynasty was formed. He ordered the building of the Grand Palace so that he was able to stay in Bangkok. Rattanakosin is the oldest area of Bangkok, and the historical buildings reflect that - whilst other parts of Bangkok reach skywards.

Rattanakosin Island is formed by the surrounding waterways of the Chao Phraya River, Khlong Bang Lamphu - The Bang Lamphu Canal - and Khlong Ong Ang (Ong Ang Canal).

During the last 200 years or so, the there has been a succession of Kings from the original King Rama I to the present time with the King Rama 9.

The Rattanakosin Island is an important cultural area - the centre of cultural heritage that is the basis of Thai quality life. Many places on the Island are an important part of the proud Thai heritage and way of life.

Rattanakosin can truly claim to be the centre of Bangkok, for it is at the City Shrine within Rattanakosin where measurement are taken to define how far anything is from Bangkok! The true centre of all that is historical Bangkok!

An important ingredient of Thai-ism is the collection of suitable 'Amulets'. They are to be found in the Amulet market in Phra Chan Road. the sale of amulets goes more or less with anything Bhuddist - see the nearby shops and stalls selling minuscule - or huge - Buddha replicas.

Wat Phra Kaew & Grand Palace Important Wat - Temple - which houses the Emerald Buddha. Well worth a visit for its majestic splendour.

Wat Pho is important because of it history of traditional Thai Medicine, and also famed Thai Massage. Wat Pho also houses the huge Reclining Buddha -

Bangkok National Museum Thailand has a complex and intriguing history. The National Museum in Bangkok describes all with attention to detail - accuracy.

Sanam Luang Area

The City Pillar Shrine is the centre of Bangkok, and an important place for Thais to go to pray for wellbeing. The City Pillars are housed within the shrine. The Hor Te Pa Rak - The Guardian hall is guarded by five Guardians.

Phra Chan Road, The Chang Piers and The Phra Chan Area. Great shopping area for those wishing to 'buy' a lucky future at the Amulets Market. Tens of thousands to choose from!

Santichaiprakarn Park

Khao San Road area of Bangkok - famous for its storyline in the film The Beach. A gathering place for backpackers and Thais to meet.

Wat Suthat Thepwararam

Sao Chingcha (The Giant Swing)

Sanam Luang - A good starting point for tour of all areas on Rattanakosin Island.

The Golden Mount - Wat Saket

Ratchadamneoun Klang Avenue - (Democracy Monument.)