The Chakri Group features the Chakri Maha Prasat building that you see towards the end of your visit to the Grand Palace. This is a Great Throne Hall with two large wings, built in 1882 during the reign of King Rama V.
Today, this building is reserved for reception with foreign ambassadors and ceremonies with foreign Heads of State. However, you can still see the impressive facade, which features both Thai and European architectural design. The rooftops are highly decorative and we like the large elephant statues in front of the purple shaded lampposts. These are seen near the stairways leading the the main entrance of the building.
It seems we were lucky during our last visit, being able to witness a special changing of the guards ceremony. This was interesting and worth sticking around for those who happen to come across this event, passing by the Chakri Maha Prasat, during visits to the Palace.
After you have seen the Chakri Group, you can also have a visit to the Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) Museum, located just past the Chakri Group, prior to making your way out of the Grand Palace complex.