The city of Bangkok was formally founded in 1782 with the consecration of the city’s founding pillar at Lak Muang. Rama I wanted his city to reflect the once glorious Ayuthaya, palaces were built with brick salvaged from this city and temples filled with Buddha’s from the ancient capital. It was at this time that the name was changed to Krung Thep, the first two syllables of a tongue-twisting name that is believed by the Guinness Book of Records to be the longest place name in the world and meaning ‘City of Angels.’ Thais still call the city by this name although foreign cartographers never ceased to name the city Bangkok. The city today is an exciting mixture of beautiful ancient Buddhist temples, golden royal palaces, riverside houses on stilts, traditional markets and a bustling modern city of skyscrapers and air-conditioned shopping malls.
Tailor-made tours and holidays in Bangkok

- Tailor-made
- Tailor-made
The Heart of Thailand
12 days 11 nights
From £3,495
This private holiday takes you into the heart of Thailand, from the bustle of Bangkok and the jungle of Khao Yai to the palm-fringed beaches of Hua Hin
Bangkok & the Northern Kingdom
12 days 11 nights
From £2,995
Discover the spiritual and regal highlights of Bangkok, then head north to the old Lanna kingdom, including its cultural heart: Chiang Mai