ASEAN rally visits the Grand Palace in Bangkok

The official residence of the Kings of Siam (and later Thailand) since 1782, the Grand Palace is the epitome of Thai Wat, which means monastery or temple. The essential element in Wat architecture is Chofah, a decorative ornament that adorns the top at the end of Wat and palaces roof. It resembles a tall thin bird and looks hornlike. The Chofah is generally believed to represent the mythical creature Garuda, half bird and half man, who is the vehicle of the Hindu god Vishnu. Resplendent with Chofa, the palace’s asymmetry and eclectic styles come courtesy of its organic development, with additions and rebuilding being made by successive reigning kings over 200 years of history. Take a virtual tour of the palace along with the ASEAN rally participants.