GRAND PALACE

Bright and early this morning, and we were off to the Grand Palace. To show respect to the Thai people, and in memory of the deceased King #9, we were told to please wear long pants, sleeves, and dress all in black. Of course it was the hottest day yet, 35 C. 

The palace grounds are beautiful, like a gilded Disneyland. It was built in 1782, and has been beautifully maintained.

 

The original residence no longer houses the royal family. The deceased king is lying in state here, and the Thai people are lining up for 6-8 hours to have their allotted 5 seconds to show their respect. 

The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is also on the grounds. The actual statue is quite small, and was carved from a block of jasper in the 15th century. It is the most important Buddha image in Thailand. Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take a photo of it.