Giorno 2 — Bangkok
Breakfast. At 06:45 departure of the tour. At approximately 08:30 first stop at Samut Songkhram, a provincial capital set on the estuary of the Maekhlong River (known along its upper stretches as the River Kwai). During the Second World War this area was the scene of crucial clashes between the Japanese and Allied forces, culminating in the construction of the historic wartime railway. Samut Songkhram is famous for its market on the railway tracks, which grew up along the branch line running from Bangkok to here. Street traders display their goods directly on the rails, quickly withdrawing and replacing them as the trains pass: a curious spectacle that fascinates visitors from all over the world. At approximately 09:00 continuation to the nearby floating market of Damnoen Saduak, in the province of Ratchaburi. Here, on the fertile plains crossed by canals, one of Thailand's most famous markets takes place, frequented by traders and tourists from all over the world. Free time to explore the market and return to Bangkok. Lunch not included. At approximately 13:30 new pick-up for the afternoon tour. At 14:00 start of the visit to the Royal Grand Palace, the royal residence built at the end of the 18th century, when Bangkok became the capital of Siam. Used as a royal palace and seat of government until 1925, the complex is home to the famous Wat Phra Kaew, the temple that houses the greatly venerated Emerald Buddha, a symbol of the Thai monarchy. According to legend, the statue came from India and, passing through Angkor and the Lanna kingdom, reached Laos (Vientiane), from where it was brought to Siam in 1779. The Grand Palace also includes: the Montien Group, once the private residence of the kings and today the guardian of the royal ashes; the Dusit Maha Prasat Audience Hall; the Chakri Throne Hall, designed by English architects for King Rama V at the end of the 19th century (which can only be seen from the outside). The Dusit and the Montien are sometimes also accessible inside, but entry is not always guaranteed. Next, a visit to Wat Pho, the oldest Buddhist monastery in Bangkok. Inside are: the sacred "Bot", which houses a venerated image of the Buddha, protected by double walls; four imposing stupas containing part of the ashes of the first kings of the current dynasty. Wat Pho is above all famous for the giant statue of the Reclining Buddha, which symbolises the Buddha's victory over evil, linked to a legend found only in South-East Asia. It is also home to the oldest school of Thai massage. Return to the hotel at the end of the visits. Dinner free.
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