Bangkok is a city of contrast with something to do and see at its every turn. It has the most scintillating mix of magnificent temples, grand architecture, buzzing street markets, raving nightlife, and abundant scenic natural beauty. The humble local people and their warm hospitality make the Capital even more touristic. Catch a tuk-tuk to explore the bustling Chinatown or take a boat and sail through the floating markets, relish local cuisine at street stalls, or enjoy a six-course meal at romantic rooftop restaurants. Whatever activities you have planned in your ‘Things to Do’ list, rest assured that you will not encounter even a second of boredom in this city. To help you plan your perfect vacation in Bangkok, here is a list of places you can.
Located at the heart of the bustling capital is the dazzling Grand Palace. It is one of the oldest and most famous landmarks in Bangkok. It was built in the year 1782and was the home of the Thai King for over 150 years. The visitors who visit the palace stay in awe of its beautiful architecture and intricate design. Within the palace complex is the Wat Phra Kaew which contains the greatly revered Emerald Buddha. You must be properly dressed to be allowed to enter the temple. The Grand Palace also has an interesting museum located inside it. Your trip to Bangkok shall be considered incomplete without a visit to the Grand Palace located at Na Phra Lan Rd in Phra Nakhon.
The centerpiece of the world’s most beautiful avenue, Champs-Élysées. Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall is a two-story structure built-in 1915. The white marble palace is situated comfortably at the end of Dustin’s long Royal Plaza which is often a seat of royal celebrations. The Royal Reception Hall is known for its unique neoclassical architecture. Its walls contain fresco depicting the Chakri Dynasty Monarchs. Located on the U-Thong Nai Road, it is surrounded by lush green gardens that are to be found at the entrance. A visit to this hall is a must for history lovers and those who would love to take a journey back in time. This hall occupies a significant social place in being the chosen destination of important ceremonies.
A paradise for food lovers it is a bustling hub selling mouth-watering cuisines. The market is a continuous length of food shops, filled up to its brim with tourists and locals who come here to explore vibrant street-side cuisine. Chinatown lures you with its smells of exotic dishes and sights of yummy street food being prepared and served. This is your chance to relish authentic Thai cuisine.
A major tourist attraction in Bangkok, the place contains two famous parks namely Safari Park and Marine Park. Two of Thailand’s greatest open zoo and leisure park. The place is a must-visit for wildlife lovers. Located on the outskirts of Bangkok, where you’ll encounter the best of endangered species. The zoo has animal shows that include marine park, orangutan boxing, and a cowboy stunt display.
If you love things that are challenging then a ride up on the majestic Ferris Wheel in Asiatique is a must for you. The dazzling and spectacular view of the skyline will forever be etched in your memories. The wheel has 42 gondolas and rises to a height of 60-meters. The ride is surely one of the most thrilling to do while in Bangkok.
Bangkok is a city with a golden hue emitted by its many beautiful temples. One of the most popular among them all is Wat Arun, ‘Temple of Dawn’. An auspicious location where the new king of Thailand had built his royal palace, Wat Arun symbolizes triumph and the rich legacy of Thailand. The temple dates back to the seventeenth century and is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. As the morning sunshine falls on the temple it shines in all its glory and a climb to the top of the prang will reward you with the best view of sunset you must have seen in your entire life. The temple complex houses more than 100 images of Lord Buddha and the temple mondop contains a copy of Lord Buddha’s footprint.
Built by King Rama I, the temple has been historically known as a place for healing. Located behind the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the temple is famed for its massive statue of reclining Buddha that measures 46 meters long and is bathed in golden leaf. The place is excellent to rest your senses and enjoy some Thai massage. It was one of the first public universities in Thailand and is now a center for traditional massage and medicine.
Nothing can match up to the feeling of a luxurious and romantic river cruise along the Chao Phraya River watching the main attractions as you sail. The night view of the Grand Palace and Wat Arun is awe-inspiring from the river. Dinner cruise engages the guests with feasts and buffet comprising mouth-watering authentic Thai dishes and irresistible desserts. Enjoying the panoramic view of the city while relishing a delicious five-course meal is an experience you will never forget.
One of the major attractions in the whole of Thailand is its unique floating stalls. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is one of the oldest and most popular floating markets in Thailand. It leaves you speechless with its diverse colors and range of merchandise on sale. being offered for selling in boats loaded with an infinite variety of articles, both fancy and useful. It is about a two-hour drive in the southwest direction of the capital. The market is a great place to visit even when shopping is not your main agenda. The market offers a closer look into the local lifestyle of the people of the country.
The famous Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Famous for its beautiful dark green statue of Lord Buddha, it is one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in Thailand. The statue of Lord Buddha dates back to the 15th century. It is believed to have housed in various countries before being found in the abode in Bangkok in 1784. The architecture of the temple is intricate and impressive with ornate Buddhist motifs carved alongside representing mythological creatures. The temple is truly a testament to Thai craftsmanship.
A peaceful temple exhibiting beauty and religion. It dates back to the Ayutthaya Era. Also known as the ‘The Temple of the Golden Mount’ it houses murals that depict the likes of Buddhist heaven and hell. Located outside old Rattanakosin island, it is one of the city’s oldest temples. The structure of the city is unique due to its 80-meter high mountain, called Phu Khao Thong. The peak offers an amazing view of the whole city.
The temple is located at the end of Chinatown’s Yaowarat Road. It houses the world’s largest gold seated Buddha. Discovered by accident the temple and the statue has an interesting story associated with it. The statue was accidentally dropped while being moved, revealing, under a coating of plaster, a beautiful solid gold Sukhothai style Buddha. The pieces of plaster are still kept on display for tourists.
The happening weekend market. It is one of the largest shopper’s heavens on the continent. It is a great place to buy anything ranging from jewelry, purse, clothes to animals and yummy street food items. The market has about 15,000 stalls that offer just anything you can wish for. If your trip to Bangkok is somewhere around a weekend then you cannot fail to check out this market.
Originally known as the World Trade Centre, the mall has a tragic past similar to the original one. Unfortunately, on 19th May 2010, Central World was set on fire by anti-government personnel. It took months to repair the shopping complex and get it up and running. It is now the 11th largest shopping mall in the world.
It was the home of the famous American entrepreneur who was a prominent figure in the Thai silk industry. He had spent considerable time during the end of World War II in Thailand as a serviceman. Jim Thompson was awarded the prestigious Order of the White Elephant, which was a significant honor given to foreigners in for their worthy contribution to the country. The house is now a museum. It comprises six traditional Thai teakwood houses transported from Ayutthaya and Bangkok’s Baan Krua community. Jim Thompson was an architect by training and has an innate flair for designs. This is well evident in every wall and feature of his elegant house.
A religious structure in Phra Nakhon and located in front of Wat Suthat. It was constructed in 1784 by King Rama I. An annual swing ceremony, Triyampavai-Tripavai, used to take place in the Giant Swing until 1935. The swing is surrounded by many other attractions like the Wat Suthat ThepWararam, Tiger God Shrine, Lan Kon Mueng, and Devasthan shrine.
A serene oasis in the middle of a chaotic Bangkok traffic. The manicured lawns are ideal places to hang out in the haven of fresh air and shade under the shade of a Chinese pagoda. The park is the habitat of various flora and fauna. The place is the favorite among the tourists for outdoor leisure activities.
Popular is known as a backpacker’s paradise. One of the most happening places in Bangkok which stays jam-packed with food vendors, clothing stalls, souvenir shops, go-go bars, and more. The place keeps buzzing with travelers and tourists all day long. The place lets you enjoy the typical street life in Bangkok. You are sure to be tempted by the range of stalls selling diverse items. Book lovers will love to check out the bounty of books in a used-book store. If tired by all the haggling and exploring then you can grab some delicious Thai street food and treat your taste buds to some exotic flavor.
Bangkok is heaven for shopaholics. The city has a never-ending array of trendy street markets and high-tech malls. One of the most popular shopping malls in the Siam Paragon. It is a great place to stack up some high-end brands. The mall also houses Southeast Asia’s largest aquarium and 16-screen Cineplex. The mall has over 250 shops with brands ranging from Jimmy Choo, Versace, Rolex, and more.
The interesting concept of the mall makes it a top favorite among all tourists. The mall brings several world-famous cities under one roof. You can wander in the maze of shops in Tokyo City, London’s Carnaby Street, Istanbul zouk, Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, and so many more. This can be your chance to shop from all the major fashion capitals in the world that you could have dreamt of.