Cultural Excursion and Souvenir Shopping

ISSF Excursion Plan (30th January 2025)

Route 1:

  • Morning:
    Depart from Mahidol Wittayanusorn School by bus to visit the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
  • Afternoon:
    Continue the journey by bus to ICONSIAM, a world-class shopping and lifestyle destination.

Route 2:

  • Morning:
    Depart from Mahidol Wittayanusorn School by bus to visit Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, a historic and iconic landmark on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.
  • Afternoon:
    Travel to ICONSIAM via the Chao Phraya Tourist Boat, offering scenic views along the river.

Dress Code Reminder:
Visitors to the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and Wat Arun must adhere to the following dress code:

  • Not Allowed:
    • Sleeveless shirts
    • Vests
    • Crop tops or short tops
    • See-through tops
    • Short shorts or hot pants
    • Torn or ripped pants
    • Tight or bike pants
    • Mini skirts

Thank you for dressing respectfully to ensure a pleasant visit to these cultural and historical landmarks.

The Grand Palace

The Grand Palace, located in the heart of Bangkok, is one of Thailand’s most iconic landmarks and has been a symbol of Thai royalty, culture, and heritage since its establishment in 1782. Built by King Rama I, the Grand Palace served as the official residence of the Thai monarchs and the administrative seat of government until the late 19th century. Today, it stands as a ceremonial site and a major tourist attraction, showcasing the artistry and elegance of traditional Thai architecture blended with Western influences. The palace complex spans over 218,000 square meters and includes various halls, pavilions, courtyards, and gardens, each with unique styles and purposes. 

Within its grounds lies Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, one of Thailand’s most revered temples and home to the sacred Emerald Buddha statue. This temple adds to the significance of the Grand Palace, making it not only a royal residence but also a religious sanctuary and a national symbol of faith. The architecture of the Grand Palace is a stunning fusion of traditional Thai, European, and Chinese styles, symbolizing the cultural exchange that has shaped Thai history. Its golden stupas, intricate mosaics, and ornate statues reflect the skills of Thai artisans and their dedication to preserving the kingdom’s cultural identity.

The Temple of The Emerald Buddha

Commonly known as Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram in Thai or Wat Phra Kaew, it was established by King Rama I in 1782. This temple is located in the area of the Outer Palace to house the Emerald Buddha. The tradition of constructing a Buddhist temple in the precincts of the royal palace has existed in Thailand since the Sukhothai period, about 800 years ago. The unique aspect of the royal temple in the palace such as this temple is that it has no living quarters for Buddhist monks. The temple’s architecture and decorative style are renowned for their intricate detail, vibrant colors, and craftsmanship that embody Thai cultural aesthetics. The walls, stupas, and halls are adorned with colorful mosaics, gold leaf, and elaborate carvings. Inside the temple, the Emerald Buddha sits on a gilded pedestal in a specially designed chamber, where it is ritually dressed in seasonal costumes by the king or a high-ranking representative. 

This tradition reflects the importance of the Emerald Buddha, believed to bring protection and prosperity to the Thai kingdom. Wat Phra Kaew is not only a religious site but also a historical and architectural marvel that draws millions of visitors from around the world. Its beauty, spirituality, and cultural significance make it an essential destination for those seeking to understand the rich heritage of Thailand.

Wat Arun Ratchawararam

Wat Arun Ratchawararam, famously known as Wat Arun or the “Temple of Dawn,” is a spectacular landmark in Thailand that captivates visitors with its extraordinary architecture, which masterfully merges Thai and Chinese artistic styles. The centerpiece of this majestic temple is the towering Prang, an awe-inspiring structure admired by both locals and tourists from around the globe. Constructed from brick and cement, the Prang is embellished with intricate pieces of shells and vibrant Benjarong tiles, showcasing exquisite floral and leaf patterns. 

Soaring to a remarkable height of 81.85 meters, it proudly holds the title of the tallest Prang in Thailand and the world. This grand edifice is not just an architectural marvel but also a cherished symbol of Thailand’s rich cultural heritage and a beacon for its tourism industry. Visiting Wat Arun offers an unparalleled experience, inviting everyone to immerse themselves in its beauty and history.

ICONSIAM

ICONSIAM is a sensational riverside mixed-use shopping destination where the best of Thailand’s retail, entertainment, hospitality, and more come together as one. ICONSIAM is a must-visit destination that brings together the beauty of Thai culture and traditions. Located on the Chao Phraya River, it offers a perfect blend of art, performances, lifestyle, food, and shopping, from luxury to street brands. One of its highlights is “The ICONIC Multimedia Water Feature,” the longest water fountain in Southeast Asia, showcasing spectacular water shows daily. 

ICONCRAFT presents exquisite handmade crafts by Thai artisans, while the ALANGKARN ZONE offers a unique dining experience with a stunning 15-meter waterfall. SOOKSIAM is a vibrant marketplace featuring authentic Thai products from 77 provinces. The Art & Culture Space displays masterpieces by national and world-class artists, making ICONSIAM a true cultural gem and an ultimate destination for visitors worldwide.