High on its golden altar made of gilt carved wood, the Emerald Buddha wears one of three seasonal costumes. This lanna style Buddha image is in a seated position in the attitude of meditation. The Emerald Buddha was first found in 1434 while covered in stucco. Years later, the stucco started to crumble away and several miracles occurred, giving the Buddha a reputation for bringing good fortune.

When King Rama I ascended the throne in 1782, he decided to move the capital city from the area on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, where the former Thonburi Palace was located, to the Eastern side of the river. The construction work lasted for three years. The Grand Palace was built then, with a temple or Royal Chapel located within the compound of the palace.

It features the largest reclining Buddha in Bangkok and the largest collection of Buddha images in Thailand. Wat Pho came regarded as 'the first university in Thailand' when King Rama III ordered texts to be inscribed on stone slabs around the temple which people can learn and read from.

Siam Water Park is merely a 30-minute drive from the Lat Phrao flyover, and is located in suburban Amphoe Minburi. The park features an extensive man-made sea with artificial surf, whirlpools, fountains and waterfalls, and towering water slides amid carefully landscaped gardens. Attractions include children's playgrounds, aviaries, an open zoo and botanical gardens.

On Si Ayutthaya Road not far from the intersection of Phaya Thai Road, used to be the residence of princess Chumbhol of Nagara Svarga, one of Thailand's leading art collector. There is a complex of five traditional Thai Houses, overlooking a beautifully kept garden. They house a large collection of Asian art and antiques. One building exhibits a collection of seashells, mineral crystal and painted pottery from Ban Chiang. Suan Pakkad Palace is open everyday except Sunday.