Visit the Grand Palace & Wat Pho

Yes, this is firmly on the tourist circuit in Bangkok, and for good reason. Punctuating Bangkok’s skyline with colourful roofs, ornate carvings and tall spires, Grand Palace is a complex of buildings that was the official residence to Thailand’s Kings, and is still used for royal ceremonies and state functions. There are highly decorated buildings, tall, multi-coloured yakshis (mythical giants) who act as gatekeepers, and bejewelled statues. The complex comprises several courts, pavilions, pagodas and Thailand’s most revered Buddhist temple—Wat Phra Kaew (temple of the Emerald Buddha). The 66cm tall Buddha idol is made of jade and stands in an extremely high altar. Don’t forget to sprinkle yourself with holy water and make a wish outside. Wat Pho, just next door, is another temple complex that houses the giant statue of the Reclining Buddha. The Buddha's feet are inlaid with 108 panels of mother-of-pearl, depicting auspicious Buddhist symbols.