Located in the centre of the country on the famous Chao Praya River, close to the Gulf of Thailand, the sprawling greater Bangkok Metropolis covers a staggering 1,600 square kilometres.
What makes Bangkok different from other big Asian cities is its rich traditional culture. Everything that one associates with the exotic Orient glittering temples and palaces, beautiful Buddha images and opulent art, are all to be found here in abundance.
East meets west, albeit tentatively in this chaotic city and the senses are assailed by the many sights, sounds and above all, smells of this bustling place. Soak up the entire experience, from the wonderful food to the motorbikes perilously weaving in and out of the rush hour traffic laden with vendors carrying all manner of wares. A real eye-opener and a true slice of Asia for first time visitors!
Over the last ten years Bangkok has blossomed into a metro-like city, although the heat and traffic congestion will be a huge challenge for walkers. However, those who can bear the stifling temperatures and the exhaust fumes will be rewarded by the treasures of this Asian metropolis.
TemplesSituated near the Chao Phraya is Wat Arun or Temple of Dawn, which is reputed to be one of the tallest religious structures in the country. The steps leading to the temple are rather steep and can be a little off-putting to those suffering from vertigo; however those who persevere will be rewarded with great views of the Bangkok skyline. What makes this temple interesting is the ceramic tile ornaments made from Chinese crockery which adorn the temple walls - take the ferry from Tha Tian.
Wat Po houses the longest reclining Buddha in the world, covered with gold leaf with feet intricately inlaid with mother of pearl. A quick stop temple visit, ideal for those with little time.
Wat Phra Kaeo, better known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is located in the Chapel Royal at the Grand Palace - where the country's most sacred Emerald Buddha image resides. Believed to bestow good fortune on the kingdom, the 30 inch image is displayed high on a block, protected by a nine-tiered umbrella with crystal balls representing the sun and the moon. The small stature of such a revered object surprises many visitors. The Thai king visits the Grand Palace three times a year to preside over the changing of the Emerald Buddha's robes.
Note: As a sign of respect to Thai culture and religion:
Proper attire is a must at all temples
Never point the bottom of the feet towards an image of Buddha
Take off shoes before entering a temple
Thai monks observe strict chastity and will not allow women (not even their
mothers) to touch them.
Photographs of temples, monks, images (except for the Emerald Buddha) and all Buddha ceremonies may be taken. Most of the temples close at about 3.30 pm so plan your visits in the early part of the day to avoid disappointment.
The golden temple, Wat Pho
The Grand Palace was the first major architectural complex built in Bangkok
and visitors never fail to be impressed by the dazzling collection of ornately
adorned buildings and the intricate attention to detail.
Distinctive buildings inside the compound include the Prasad Phra Tepidon or Royal Pantheon, which holds the statues of the first eight Chakri kings and the Library which contains the Tripataka or holy Buddhist scriptures. The tallest structure is the Phra Si Rattana Jedi or shrine, covered with gold tiles.
Northwest of the compound is the Grand Palace Museum, which contains a collection of beautiful Buddha images made of crystal, silver, ivory and gold.
If you are going to venture to the Grand Palace and have the time, then Vimanmek Teak Mansion, a wonderful golden teak building, is worth a visit - free entrance is included in the ticket for the Grand Palace. Leave plenty of time if planning to see both attractions.
It's always good to stop at the Royal Barge Museum after visiting Wat Po and Wat Arun to glimpse the most important vessels in the 51-barge royal fleet, which undertake grand royal processions on special occasions every year. You will also see the oldest and most beautiful barge with the graceful, bird-like head and a long beak called Suphannahongse. The most striking point about this royal boat is that it was built during the reign of Rama I from a single piece of teak 45 yards long.
Note: The king of Thailand is highly revered amongst the majority of the population in order not to make enemies in this country, always show due consideration and respect to the monarchy.
The National Museum (Wednesday to Sunday 9 am- 4 pm) is reputed to be the largest in Southeast Asia and displays a wide range of artifacts. The collection will take you on a journey into Thailand's historical past and includes huge, gilded royal funeral chariots, weapons used in elephant warfare, puppets, Thai textiles and images of Thai and Hindu gods.
Thailand can be a shoppers paradise. Prices of handicrafts, textiles, gems, jewellery, art and antiques sometimes rival those in Hong Kong and Singapore. There are a few well-known department stores like Central Department Store, Sogo, Robinsons and Yaohan, although many visitors find that electronic products, brand name clothes and handbags are cheaper in other parts of Asia.Prices are usually fixed in department stores; elsewhere bartering is the norm and you can obtain a final figure up to thirty percent lower than the original price depending on your bargaining skills and the shopkeeper's mood.
Muay Thai boxing
The famous entertainment district of Patpong, is a lively night market where
youre sandwiched between girlie bar show touts and fake watch vendors. Apart
from pirated goodies like brand name shirts, shoes, handbags, VCD and DVDs,
there are plenty of bars to choose from as well. The shop vendors can get quite
aggressive and pushy so always bargain with a smile. An interesting night spot
and shouldnt be missed.
The best place to shop is at the Chatuchak Weekend Wholesale Market. This is a shoppers dream come true where everything from cheap souvenirs, clothes, handicrafts to antique reproductions and even exotic animals can be found here. The maze of narrow alley ways is not for the claustrophobic as a minimum of space is reserved for walkways and wallets and purses should be closely guarded. A good sense of navigation would also help as its not easy to look for a shop again if youve given up on a purchase. Bring cash only and be prepared to literally shop till you drop. Open from 9am-6pm and easily accessible by Sky Train exit at Mo Chit Station.
Other wholesale markets include the garment market in Pratunam and Sum Pang in Chinatown. You can find all sorts of T-shirts, clothes and accessories at very affordable price but dont expect to find any high fashionable items here.
Opened in 2003, the Suan Lum Night Bazaar on wireless road is Bangkoks latest addition to the night market scene. The choices here are endless and although prices are slightly higher the experience is much more comfortable than the weekend Chatuchak market. Most stalls are opened from 6pm and some stay open till 10 pm while al fresco cafes are around till past 11 pm.
Khao San Road offers everything to suit all budgets from internet cafes, stalls selling second hand goods, jewellery and tie-dye to cosy boutiques and travel agencies offering competitively priced air-tickets. Restaurants spill out onto the streets creating a very laid back atmosphere. Formerly devoted solely to the student/backpacker market, in recent years, this area has changed much of its image to accommodate many different tastes and budgets.
Another favorite stop is Mah Boon Krong, a local shopping mall with floors upon floors of shops and eateries where you can eat and shop in air condition comfort. For something hip and trendy, Siam Square has many amateur clothing shops that carry their own design. Within walking distance from Siam Square is the Siam Discovery Center here you will find plenty of familiar upscale boutique stores.
The World Trade Center is a grand shopping complex but its not very exciting. There are quite a few sports, souvenir and factory outlets shops that cater mostly to tourists. Prices are usually fixed but you can still end up with some good bargains if sales are on. Many locals come here for the ice skating ring and video arcade games.
If youre looking for some upscale shopping head to the Emporium Mall at Sukhumvit or Central Chitlom Department store along Ploenchit Road.
Warning: Some unlicensed shops sell fake brand name electronic goods.
Thai boxing may not be everybody's favourite but it has a certain uniqueness. There are two boxing stadiums in Bangkok: Lumpini and Ratchadamneon. Schedules vary and it is always best to check with the Tourism Authority of Thailand for the latest schedule.Before each fight, a dance is performed by the boxers to the accompaniment of loud Thai music to pay homage to their respective teachers. Ten bouts are always fought, each comprising five three minute action packed rounds. This is definitely not for the faint hearted as fights are often fast paced and quite violent, with the boxers kicking and punching their opponents, often into a bloody pulp. Not a family night out, although check with the Tourism Authority of Thailand as the much tamer junior boxing is held at certain times.
Celebrating Kings Birthday
Situated between Chareon Krung and the river, Chinatown or Yaowarat used to
be Thailand's centre point for business when Chinese immigrants flocked to Bangkok
during the Ratanakosin period.
Today Chinatown remains bustling but is also very noisy and amidst the crowd and heat, you may feel slightly disoriented. Take a walk to San ChaoKao or the Old Shrine, passing spice shops with sticks of cinnamon and other herbs, the odd Chinese lantern shop and the beautiful old colonial-style school. Drop by Pak Klong Talad, the colorful and vibrant flower wholesale market that stays open till past midnight.
Although a little bit dirty, the Phutalet Market or Talad Mai with its distinct European feel, is rich with the scents of seafood, Chinese foodstuff and pastries.
Before leaving Chinatown, go to Chareon Krung Road for a slice of old China. Items such as paper funeral clothes, huge incense sticks, shrines and paper money are sold here in various shops.
Located across from the National Stadium, Jim Thompson's house comprises six Ayutthayan teak houses, creating an archetypal Thai-style home. Built after World War II, the house belonged to an American intelligence officer who made his fortune by introducing exotic Thai silk to the Western world. The house elicits as much interest as the man himself, as Thompson mysteriously disappeared in the 1960's in the Malaysian jungles while on an afternoon walk. His collection includes clothes, evening gowns, neckties and handbags made from Thai silk be aware that prices here are as high as international brand named goods.
Many tourists also visit to view Thompson's old collection of Asian artifacts including both Thai and Khmer art and his distinctive Chinese collection from the Ming Dynasty.
Reptile lovers should not miss the immensely popular snake farm at the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute. An actual working institute, daily milking/feeding takes place highly informative if snakes are your thing.
List of Bangkok hotels. Also, see hotels listed as 5 star hotels in Bangkok, 4 star hotels in Bangkok, or 3 star hotels in Bangkok.
13 Coins Airport Grand Resort - 3737/1-339 Rama 9 Road Soi 57 Suanluang Bangkok
10250
13 Coins Resort Bangna Bangkok - 27/817-9 Moo 12 Bangna Bangkok 10260
13 Coins Tower Nyamwongwan Bangkok - 30/19 Moo 9 Bangkhen Muangnontaburi Muangnontaburi
Nonthaburi Bangkok
13 Coins Tower Ratchada Bangkok - 252/3 Ratchadapisek Road Huaykwang Huaykwang
Bangkok 10310
Airport Suites Hotel Bangkok - 88/117 Viphavadee Rangsit Road Don Muang Bangkok
10210
Amari Atrium Hotel Bangkok - 1880 New Petchburi Road Bangkapi Huay Kwang Bangkok
10320
Amari Boulevard Hotel Bangkok - 2 Soi 5 Sukhumvit Road Bangkok 10110
Amari Don Muang Hotel Bangkok - 333 Chert Wudthakas Road Don Muang Bangkok 10210
Amari St. James Hotel Bangkok - 18 Sukhumvit 26 Klongton Klongtoey Bangkok 10110
Amari Watergate Hotel Bangkok - 847 Petchburi Road Pratunam Rajthevee Bangkok
10400
Ambassador Hotel Bangkok - 171 Sukhumvit Road Bangkok
A-One Hotel Bangkok - 9 Soonwijai 4 New Petchburi Road Huaykwang Bangkok 10320
Ariston Hotel Bangkok - 19 Sukhumvit Soi 24 Bangkok 10110
Arnoma Hotel Bangkok - 99 Rajadamri Road Pathumwan Bangkok 10330
Ascott Bangkok Sathorn - 187 South Sathorn Road Yanawa Sathorn Bangkok 10120
Asia Airport Hotel Bangkok - 99/2 Moo 8 Phaholyothin Road Lamlukka Pathumthanee
Bangkok 12130
Asia Hotel Bangkok - 296 Phayathai Road Bangkok 10400
Avana Hotel Bangkok - 23/1 Moo 12 Soi 14/1 Bangna-Trad Road (Km.2) Bangna Bangkok
10260
Baiyoke Sky Hotel Bangkok - 222 Rajprarop Road Rajthevee Bangkok 10400
Baiyoke Suite Hotel Bangkok - 130 Rajprarop Road Rajthevee Bangkok 10400
Bangkok Centre Hotel - 328 Rama IV Road Bangkok
Bangkok City Inn - 43/5 Rajdamri Road Pathumwan Bangkok 10330
Bangkok Palace Hotel - City Square 1091/336 New Petchburi Road Bangkok 10400
Banyan Tree Hotel Bangkok - 21/100 South Sathorn Road Bangkok 10120
Bel Aire Princess Hotel Bangkok - 16 Sukhumvit Soi 5 Sukhumvit Road Bangkok
10110
Best Western Swana Hotel Bangkok - 332 Visuttikasat Road Bannpantom Pranakorn
Bangkok 10200
Bhiman Inn Bangkok - 55 Phra Sumen Road Banglampu Bangkok 10200
Boonsiri Place Hotel Bangkok - 55 Buranasart Road Pranakorn District Bangkok
10200
Buddy Boutique Bangkok - 265 Khaosan Road Taladyod Pranakorn Bangkok 10200
Century Park Hotel Bangkok - 9 Ratchaprarop Road Pratunam-Victory Monument Bangkok
10400