Wednesday, December 19, 2012

December 18 (Part 2): Wat Arun & Grand Palace

Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn)

On the opposite side of the Chao Phraya River sits Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn), named because of the way the first light of the morning reflects off the porcelain.  On all 4 sides of the pagoda are stairs that we climbed to get to the third level.  These stairs are extremely steep and Sabrina wasn't crazy about the idea of climbing down once we got up.


We were dressed appropriately...even in the 97 degree heat!




                                                                              Not too trilled


Sabrina gripping onto the railing for dear life on her way down

Our first Tuk tuk ride

Grand Palace
The Grand Palace is a large complex of many building that used to be the residence for the many kings of Thailand. Throughout the years many kings continued to add new buildings to the palace. Many of the later buildings that were built by King Rama V have a western influence because, according to our tour guide, he was bored with the ornate Thai architecture. One of the major places of prayer is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The Buddha is carved out of one piece of Jade and it's clothes are changed according to the seasons.













 The Emerald Buddha






2 comments:

  1. It seems to me that there are not a lot of people at the places that you have visited. Is that true or is it just because the crowds are not visible in you pictures?

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  2. WOWOW those places look amazing! Such grandeur! Beautiful! And you guys look great too....looks like you're managing through the heat. & Sabrina must love all the gold!

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