http://www.tourismthailand.org/See-and-Do/Sights-and-Attractions-Detail/The-Grand-Palace--52
Bangkok was proclaimed as the new capital of Thailand on 1782, the time when King Rama I decided to transfer in this place. This is the reason why the Rattanakosin Island in the Phra Nakhon District of Bangkok, Thailand was established. Some of the notable places that are found near Rattanakosin Island include the Chao Phraya River, Khlong Ong Ang, and Khlong Bang Lamphu. During its creation, King Rama I was adamant in increasing its defense that's why he ordered the installation of moats around the city center by having waterways excavated. The historical Rattanakosin Island is also where you can find The Grand Palace complex.
The Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) is the holiest place of worship for Buddhists in Thailand, however it is recognized for its official name, that is Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram. King Rama I made this temple so as to house the Emerald Buddha. This happened in 1778 when Thailand taken Vientiane. One can come across the Wat Phra Kaew inside the Grand Palace complex, which is situated in Rattanakosin Island in Bangkok, Thailand.
The Grand Palace is available for tourists and locals everyday. It's open from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. But, there are times The Grand Palace Bangkok is used for state function, hence it will be closed. This is exactly why you need to acquire reliable updates first if the Grand Palace is close or open on your planned date of visit. Tourists could be offered with an exclusive tour if the palace is closed. This tour is going to some places that they are not actually planning to go originally. This is a strategy for these providers to generate additional income. They will take you to their tie up shops, make you purchase some items, and in return, they will get a payment. On the other side, the formal and dependable tour provider offers a tour guide who can speak English, and this service is free. One other choice is to rent an audio guide for 100 Baht. This is if you don't like touring along with a tour guide. This audio guide will just be given if you could present a passport or credit card, which will function as a collateral. Keep in mind that before getting into The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, you'll need to pay 400 Baht as an entrance fee.
The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha have a tight dress code for all its visitors that you need to follow. Males are needed to don shirts that have sleeves and long pants. No tank tops are permitted. Females, on the other hand, are required to don decent clothes. No see through clothing or uncovered shoulders, etc. Entering on your feet alone with out socks is also not allowed. If you go to the front gate and do not meet the guidelines for the dress code, there is another booth near the entry that can provide you with clothes to cover up appropriately, but you may need to leave your passport or credit card as collateral.
The Grand Palace can be reached via a Chao Phraya River Express ride; leading to the Tha Chang Pier. From the pier, simply walk straight across the intersection. You'll be able to see the Grand Palace on the right side from that site. It is best if you sign up for The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew Tour for a simpler escapade and to have more excitement in your tour.
http://www.theguardian.com/world/thailand
