Nearby Attractions
The Chao Phraya River
The Chao Phraya River or the River of KIngs, as King Rama I named it, is a major transportation artery of Bangkok. It is only 5 minutes walk from Uncle Loy's Boutique house. From Siriraj Pier (Wang-lang Pier) you can take an express boat or a ferry to Tha Chang and Tha Phrachan piers, which are on the opposite side of the river and have a short walk to the Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) and Pho Temple (Wat Pho).
The Grand Palace and Temple of The Emerald Buddha
The Grand Palace is the most visited and remembered landmark of Thailand. The construction of the complex began in 1782 when King Rama I decided to move the capital of Thailand from Thonburi to an area known as Rattanakosin island on the East side of the Chao Phraya river. Today the Palace is used for a number of Royal rituals, state banquets and other official functions.
Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which is located in the outer court of the Grand Palace, is regarded as the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand. It enshrines the Emerald Buddha, the most venerated image in the kingdom. The image was carved from a piece of jade.
Wat Arun
Wat Arun (or the temple of dawn) is 15 minutes walk from Uncle Loy's Boutique house. Wat Arun is one of the most striking rieverside landmarks of Thailand. It consists of massive elongated prang (Khmer-style tower), and is surrounded by four smaller prangs. The prangs beautifully decorated with tiny pieces of colored glass and Chinese porcelain placed delicately into intricate patterns. The temple is opeื daily from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm. Entrance fee: 100 baht.
Maharaj Pier
From Siriraj Pier (Wang-Lang Pier) you can take an express boat to Maharaj Pier. The pier is not only a great place for a leisurely stroll, but also a fantastic street-shopping destination. From here you can wallk to Wat Mahathat International Meditation Center, the Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha and Wat Pho. The Chao Phraya River tourist boats for a sightseeing tour along the Chao Phraya River can also be taken at Maharaj Pier.
Wang Lang market
It takes only 3 minutes to walk from Uncle Loy's Boutique house to Wang Lang market. Almost everything can be found there at a bargaining price such as bags, shoes, clothes, deliciouse food, etc.
Wat Pho
Wat Pho (or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha) is located behind the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It's one of the largest temple complexes in the city and famed for its giant reclining Buddha that measures 46 metres long. Wat Pho was the first public university in Thailand. It is now well-known as a centre for traditional massage and medicine. Opening hours are daily from 8 am to 5 pm. Massage is availabel until 6 pm. Entrance fee: 100 baht.