The 3 Essentials

Get picked up from your hotel by your private guide and head toward the notorious Wat Pho, the grand royal temple complex that holds a (151-foot) 46-m Reclining Buddha. One of Bangkok's oldest temples and the cradle of Thai Massage, Wat Pho was designated a royal monastery during the reign of King Rama I. Hear about the temple's role as a place of education for the public as you explore its pavilions and halls.

Continue your journey and cross the chao praya river by boat to reach Wat Arun, also called the temple of Dawn. With a 70 meter high khmer style spire, of colored glass and Chinese porcelain, this sacred temple is among the most famous photographed temple in all Bangkok.

Finally, discover the Royal Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, an astonishing 60-acre (25-ha) Bangkok landmark that features spectacular Thai architecture. Then, tour the complex's temples and pagodas, including the magnificent Wat Phra Kaew—the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

The official residence of the Kings of Siam and Thailand—the Royal Grand Palace, built in 1782. Your guide shares insight into the architectural styles and Thai decorative techniques on display in the riverside compound.

Cross the lawns and courtyards to reach Wat Phra Kaew. Regarded as the most sacred temple in Thailand, this temple's main building houses the 26-inch-tall (66-cm) Emerald Buddha, an astonishing, centuries-old statue carved from one large piece of jade. The Buddha's gold outfits are changed by the king during a special ceremony at the start of each new season to bring good fortune to the country.

Next, roam the complex of the Grand Palace with your guide, admiring the proud golden domes, inspirational spires, mosaics of glass or porcelain, and exotic, richly carved wall murals. Depending on religious ceremonies and royal visits, you might even be able to enter the Coronation Hall and Royal Funeral Hall before leaving,

Finally, a stop to shop at the Famous Gems Gallery on your way back to your hotel may also be done upon request.