The Grand Palace has served as the residence of the kings of Thailand since the 18th century. Construction of the palace began in 1782, during the reign of King Rama I, when he moved the country's capital from Thonburi to Bangkok. The palace was constantly expanding; over time, many new buildings and structures for various purposes were built.

Dusit Palace is one of the most striking examples of architecture from the beginning of the Ratanakosin era (late 18th century). Its snow-white facade is decorated with an Italian arched portico, and the building is crowned with a pointed Thai roof with a spire (chedi). It houses the luxurious throne of Rama I, made of teak wood and inlaid with mother-of-pearl. The palace hosts annual ceremonies on Coronation Day.

The wooden building of the Aphonhimok pavilion was built under King Rama IV. Here the king dressed in ceremonial robes.
The Chakri Throne Palace (Mahaprasat Chakri) was built in 1182 by order of King Rama V and designed by the English architect John Chinitz. On the first floor there are halls for audiences, on the second floor there are front rooms and private quarters of the queen, on the third floor there are urns with the ashes of the kings of the Chakri dynasty. Around the palace are statues of four elephants.

Nearby are the private state rooms of the king - Phramah Mont Thien. In the hall of Amarin Ainichai, intended for solemn ceremonies, there is the throne of Rama I, made in the form of a ship. The royal chambers adjoin the hall. The new king must spend at least one night in this chamber.

To the east of the palace buildings are the luxurious gardens of Sivalai. Here is the personal temple of King Rama IV - Phra Putha-Ratana-Sathan, lined with gray marble and decorated with white and blue mosaics.
Currently, the palace is not used for the residence of the kings of Thailand. King Rama IX resides in the Chitralada Palace. However, the palace is still used by the royal family. It hosts annual royal ceremonies, as well as royal weddings, funerals and state receptions.