Bangkok's royal and spiritual riches dazzle in this private tour. Visit the Grand Palace as well as the beautiful Wat Pho and Wat Traimit temples, where the star attractions are Buddha statues – each one special in its own way.

The morning kicks off at the Grand Palace, located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Wander round the courtyards, temples, pagodas and gardens but make sure to visit the impressive Temple of the Emerald Buddha – home to a Buddha statue carved from one piece of solid, translucent jade. Next, you'll then head to the city's oldest temple, Wat Pho, famed for its huge Reclining Buddha.

Next up is Wat Traimit. Here, you'll find the Golden Buddha, with an intriguing story to tell. Weighing as much as an elephant, this solid gold statue is believed to be about seven centuries old though it was only in 1954 that it was discovered to be made of gold. You'll round off the tour with a stop to a local lapidary factory to see authentic handicraft.