Full Day Rattanakosin: The Old Bangkok

The first visit is to a unique structure on the Bangkok skyline, Wat Ratchanatdaram Worawihan (formerly Wat Ratchanadda), a Royal temple best known for the Loha Prasat. Just below the shrine on top is an open-air walkway from where there is a great view of the temple area and Wat Saket. The Loha Prasat of Wat Ratchanatdaram Worawihan is the only one of its kind in existence today and is under consideration by UNESCO for World Heritage Site status. A short walk brings you to Wat Thepthidaram, known as the Temple of the Heavenly Daughter, unique because it contains images of female disciples of Buddha. Wat Saket is easily recognized by its golden Chedi atop a fortress-like hill. The Golden Mount houses relics of Lord Buddha and affords visitors who climb its 318 steps a panoramic view of old Rattanakosin and the roofs of Bangkok.

For lunch we dine on traditional Royal Thai Cuisine at a restaurant with a classy, retro atmosphere. Next up, is Jim Thompson's House & Museum. Hailed locally as the 'Father of Thai silk', he was an avid collector of Thai art and antiques. His house, comprising six lovely teakwood homes acquired from Ayutthaya and Bangkok's Baan Krua community, is an unparalleled example of East meets West style.