Bangkok
Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Bangkok, known to the locals as 'Krung Thep' or the 'City of Angels,' stands as a juxtaposition of the ancient and the ultra-modern. From the gilded spires of the Grand Palace to the bustling alleys of Khao San Road, Bangkok is a city that effortlessly weaves tradition with modernity. As the sun rises, saffron-robed monks traverse its busy streets, collecting alms and blessing the day, while by night, neon signs light up, beckoning visitors to explore its vibrant markets, upscale malls, and eclectic nightlife. The tantalizing aroma of street food, featuring flavors that range from spicy to sweet, fills the air, making every corner an invitation to indulge. A hub of culture, commerce, and endless adventures, Bangkok beckons with its blend of history, innovation, and unmistakable Thai charm.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Bangkok largely depends on your personal preferences, especially in terms of weather and crowd sizes. However, taking into account the climate and tourism trends, the following insights might help:
Cool Season (November to February):
This is generally considered the best time to visit Bangkok. The weather is relatively cooler and less humid than other times of the year. Daytime temperatures hover around 25-30°C (77-86°F).
Tourist attractions can be quite crowded during this period, especially around Christmas, New Year, and Chinese New Year.
This is a great time for sightseeing, shopping, and outdoor activities.
Hot Season (March to June):
As the name suggests, temperatures during this time can be intensely hot, sometimes rising above 35°C (95°F).
If you can tolerate the heat, you'll find attractions less crowded than in the cool season.
Songkran, the Thai New Year water festival, takes place in April. It's an exciting, fun-filled event but can be quite chaotic.
Rainy Season (July to October):
Monsoon rains are prevalent during these months, leading to high humidity. While the rain can be heavy, it's often limited to short bursts in the afternoon or evening.
The upside is that Bangkok is less crowded with tourists, and the landscape is lush and green.
If you're a fan of shopping, the Amazing Thailand Grand Sale typically takes place during these months, offering significant discounts in shops and malls.
How to Get There
Getting to Bangkok is relatively straightforward due to its status as a major international hub in Southeast Asia. Here's a general guideline on how to reach Bangkok:
By Air:
Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK): This is Bangkok's main international airport and one of the busiest in Asia. It serves numerous international flights from around the world. From the airport, you can take a taxi, the Airport Rail Link, or a bus to reach central Bangkok.
Don Mueang International Airport (DMK): Once the primary international gateway to Bangkok, Don Mueang now primarily serves domestic flights and several low-cost carriers. From here, you can take taxis, buses, or a combination of train and other transit options to reach the city center.
When booking flights, check which airport you'll be landing at, especially if you have connecting flights within Thailand.
By Train:
If you're traveling from neighboring countries, especially Malaysia, you can take a train to Bangkok. The main railway station in Bangkok is Hua Lamphong. From here, you can connect to the city's MRT (subway) or take a taxi to your destination.
By Bus:
International buses run from countries like Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia to Bangkok. Most long-distance buses arrive at either the Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit), the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai), or the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai).
By Car:
If you're driving from a neighboring country, you can enter Thailand via several border checkpoints. Ensure you have the necessary documentation, understand Thai road rules, and are prepared for left-hand driving.
How to get Around
Getting around Bangkok can be both an adventure and a challenge given the city's dynamic nature and notorious traffic congestion. However, there are various modes of transportation that can help you navigate the city efficiently:
BTS Skytrain:
The BTS Skytrain is an elevated rapid transit system and is one of the most convenient ways to travel around the central parts of Bangkok.
There are two main lines: the Sukhumvit Line (running north to south) and the Silom Line (running west to east).
It's particularly useful for avoiding street-level traffic.
MRT (Metropolitan Rapid Transit):
The MRT is Bangkok's subway system.
It complements the BTS, serving areas that the Skytrain doesn't reach.
It's useful for avoiding traffic and is interconnected with the BTS at certain stations.
BRT (Bus Rapid Transit):
The BRT is a dedicated bus line that operates in dedicated lanes, offering faster travel times than regular buses.
Taxis:
Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive.
Ensure the meter is turned on when starting your journey. If the driver refuses to use the meter, it's best to find another taxi.
Be prepared for traffic, especially during rush hours.
Tuk-Tuks:
These are three-wheeled open-air vehicles.
Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey, as tuk-tuks don't have meters.
They are fun for short distances but can be pricier than taxis.
Buses:
Bangkok has an extensive bus network that is cheap but can be confusing for first-time visitors.
Buses can get crowded and can be slower due to traffic.
Chao Phraya Express Boat:
The river boats ply the Chao Phraya River and can be a scenic way to travel.
There are various lines, including a tourist boat. Stops include popular destinations like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.
Motorcycle Taxis:
These are great for short distances or cutting through traffic.
They're identifiable by their colored vests. Agree on a fare before you ride.
Always wear the provided helmet for safety.
Canal Boats:
Bangkok has several canals (or "klongs"), and there are boats that operate on some of these, offering an alternative mode of transport.
Car Rentals & Ride-Sharing:
Renting a car isn't common for tourists given Bangkok's traffic and the availability of public transport. However, it's an option for those who prefer it.
Ride-sharing services, like Grab, operate in Bangkok and can be a convenient way to get around.
Tips for Getting Around Bangkok:
Purchase a Rabbit card or stored value card for BTS and MRT to avoid buying single-journey tickets each time.
During rush hours, the roads and public transport can get very crowded. It's wise to plan your travels accordingly.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Bangkok
Top 15 Attractions in Bangkok
Bangkok, a city rich in history, culture, and modern attractions, offers a plethora of sights and activities. Here are some of the top attractions in the city:
The Grand Palace: Once the royal residence, this complex is a stunning example of Thai architecture. Within its walls, you'll also find the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew).
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha): Located close to the Grand Palace, this temple houses a giant reclining Buddha statue and is also a renowned massage school.
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn): Situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this temple's spire offers a panoramic view of the city, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Khao San Road: it's bustling with nightlife, street food, shopping stalls, and a lively atmosphere.
Chinatown (Yaowarat): A bustling area with a maze of streets filled with shops, food stalls, and markets. It comes alive at night with its famous street food.
Asiatique The Riverfront: A large open-air mall by the river, combining shopping, dining, and entertainment.
MBK Center: One of Bangkok's most famous shopping malls, known for affordable goods and electronics.
Chatuchak Weekend Market: One of the world's largest weekend markets with over 15,000 stalls selling everything from clothing to antiques.
Jim Thompson House: A museum dedicated to the American who revived Thailand's silk industry. The traditional Thai house showcases Asian art and antiques.
Erawan Shrine: A popular Hindu shrine that attracts numerous visitors daily, offering prayers and watching traditional dance performances.
Lumphini Park: a large park where locals jog, practice tai chi, or relax by the lakeside.
Bangkok National Museum: Offers a comprehensive overview of Thai history and culture.
Chao Phraya River Cruise: Enjoy the city's landmarks from the water either by day or on a dinner cruise at night.
Soi Cowboy and Nana Plaza: Famous red-light districts with a vibrant nightlife, bars, and clubs. They're part of Bangkok's modern lore and are popular with tourists looking for a night out.
Floating Markets: While most famous ones like Damnoen Saduak are located outside the city, Taling Chan is closer and offers a glimpse of the traditional way of shopping on water.
Top 20 Activities to do in Bangkok
Bangkok is a city teeming with activities that cater to diverse interests. Here's a list of top activities to immerse yourself in while visiting:
Street Food Tasting: Explore areas like Chinatown (Yaowarat), Bang Rak, and Victory Monument to savor the rich flavors of Thai cuisine from street vendors.
Thai Massage: Experience traditional Thai massage or spa treatments. Wat Pho even has a renowned massage school where you can get an authentic experience.
Rooftop Bar Hopping: Visit rooftop bars like Sky Bar at Lebua, Moon Bar at Banyan Tree, or Vertigo to enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Cooking Classes: Enroll in a Thai cooking class to learn how to prepare your favorite dishes from local chefs.
Temple Hopping: Explore the city's historic temples such as Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and Wat Saket.
Canal Tours: Take a long-tail boat tour through Bangkok's klongs (canals) to witness daily life and old-style wooden houses.
Muay Thai Boxing: Watch a live Muay Thai match or even take a beginner's class in the national sport of Thailand.
Explore Art & Culture: Visit the Bangkok Art and Culture Center (BACC) or the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) for contemporary Thai art.
Night Market Visits: Explore night markets like Asiatique, Train Night Market Ratchada, and Patpong Night Market for shopping, food, and entertainment.
River Cruise: Take a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River, enjoying the lit-up cityscape and traditional dance performances.
Visit a Jazz Bar: Enjoy live music at venues like Saxophone Pub, The Bamboo Bar, or Brown Sugar.
Cycle Around Bang Krachao Park: it's a great spot for cycling and escaping the city's hustle and bustle.
Explore Local Markets: Apart from Chatuchak, explore local markets like Pak Khlong Talat (flower market) or Or Tor Kor (premium fresh market).
Visit a Traditional Thai Puppet Show: Artist House (Baan Silapin) in Thonburi hosts traditional puppet performances.
Tailoring Experience: Bangkok is known for its high-quality and affordable tailoring services. Get custom-made clothing in areas like Sukhumvit or Silom.
Tuk-Tuk Night Tour: Experience Bangkok's iconic landmarks illuminated at night via a traditional tuk-tuk ride.
Visit Theme Cafés: Bangkok has numerous quirky and themed cafes like the Unicorn Café, Caturday Cat Café, and the Hello Kitty Café.
Participate in a Meditation Retreat: Experience tranquility in the heart of the city by joining short meditation sessions or retreats at local temples.
Explore Creative Districts: Wander around areas like Charoenkrung and Talad Noi, which are becoming hubs for art, creativity, and local businesses.
Take a Food Tour: Join guided food tours to explore hidden culinary gems and learn about Thai cuisine's history and culture.
Best Shopping
Bangkok is a shopping paradise, offering everything from upscale malls to bustling street markets. Here's a breakdown of some of the best shopping experiences in the city:
Shopping Malls:
MBK Center (Mahboonkrong): One of Bangkok's most famous shopping malls, MBK is a haven for bargain hunters. With eight floors packed with 2,000 shops, you can find electronics, clothing, accessories, and more. Bargaining is common here.
Siam Paragon: An upscale mall in the heart of the city, it houses high-end brands, a vast food court, an aquarium (SEA LIFE Bangkok), and even a luxury car dealership.
CentralWorld: The sixth-largest shopping complex in the world, it has a mix of branded stores, a massive ZEN department store, and various entertainment options.
EmQuartier: Located in the Sukhumvit area, this luxury mall offers a curated selection of international high-end brands, gourmet dining, and a beautiful rooftop garden.
ICONSIAM: A relatively new addition to Bangkok's shopping scene, it is a massive riverside complex with luxury shops, a traditional Thai shopping zone, and a floating market.
Terminal 21: Each floor in this mall is themed after a different city or region (e.g., Tokyo, London, Istanbul). It offers a unique shopping and dining experience.
Street Markets:
Chatuchak Weekend Market: Possibly the most famous of all Thai markets, it boasts over 15,000 stalls selling everything from clothing to pets. It's a must-visit, even if just for the experience.
Pratunam Market: A wholesale market known for clothing and textiles. It's a bustling area, especially popular for budget shopping.
Asiatique The Riverfront: A night market by the river combining shopping with entertainment. It's a great place to buy souvenirs, dine, and enjoy cultural performances.
Khao San Road: Famed as a backpackers' haven, it's lined with shops selling clothes, handicrafts, and souvenirs. The night market vibe here is vibrant and youthful.
Specialty Markets:
Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market): Experience a riot of colors and fragrances in Bangkok's primary flower market. It's most lively after midnight and in the early morning.
Bo Bae Market: A massive wholesale clothing market where you can get some great deals, especially if buying in bulk.
Amarin Plaza: Located near Chit Lom BTS, it hosts a weekday craft market, perfect for authentic Thai handicrafts and souvenirs.
Night Markets for Shopping and Dining:
Train Night Market Ratchada: Also known as Talad Rot Fai Ratchada, it offers vintage goods, unique finds, and a plethora of food options.
Patpong Night Market: Located in Bangkok's red-light district, it's a place to haggle over knock-off items and souvenirs.
Tailoring:
Bangkok is famous for its affordable and quality tailoring services. There are numerous tailor shops, especially in Sukhumvit and Silom areas, where you can get custom-made clothing.
Tips for Shopping in Bangkok:
Bargaining is standard practice in street markets. Always negotiate with a smile.
Beware of scams, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
Most malls have VAT refund facilities for tourists. Keep your receipts and ask about the VAT refund process if you're planning significant purchases.
It's handy to carry a portable bag while shopping, as the Thai government has encouraged retailers to stop giving out single-use plastic bags.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Bangkok's nightlife is renowned for its vibrancy, diversity, and sheer energy. The city offers everything from rooftop bars with panoramic views to bustling night markets, high-end clubs, and cultural performances. Here's a comprehensive guide to the nightlife and entertainment scene in Bangkok:
Bars and Clubs:
Rooftop Bars: Bangkok is famous for its rooftop bars which offer incredible city views. Notable ones include Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower (featured in "The Hangover Part II"), Vertigo and Moon Bar at Banyan Tree, and Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar at the Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit.
Thonglor and Ekkamai Areas: Known for upmarket bars, clubs, and restaurants, these neighboring districts are popular among the city's well-heeled and hipster crowds. Clubs like Beam and Bars like Iron Fairies and Rabbit Hole are top picks.
Royal City Avenue (RCA): Recognized as one of the top nightlife spots, RCA is home to some of the city's most popular clubs like Route 66 and Onyx.
Soi Cowboy and Nana Plaza: These are the city's famous red-light districts with a concentration of go-go bars. They have become part of the city's tourist attractions, drawing visitors looking to experience a racier side of Bangkok nightlife.
Night Markets:
Asiatique The Riverfront: A night market combined with shopping, dining, and entertainment venues. There are also cultural performances and the iconic Ferris wheel.
Train Night Market Ratchada: A place for shopping, dining, and local live music. It's famous for its vintage atmosphere, retro finds, and street food.
Khaosan Road: Khaosan Road comes alive at night with street food, bars, music, and street performers.
Cultural Entertainment:
Siam Niramit: This cultural performance showcases Thai history, culture, and traditions through a spectacular show with over 100 performers.
Calypso Cabaret: Located at Asiatique, it's one of Bangkok's most famous cabaret shows, with lip-synced performances by transgender artists.
Muay Thai Boxing: Bangkok offers genuine Muay Thai boxing matches at venues like Lumpinee Boxing Stadium and Rajadamnern Stadium. Some bars in the touristy areas also showcase exhibition matches.
Live Music:
Saxophone Pub: Located near Victory Monument, it's known for jazz and blues.
Adhere the 13th Blues Bar: A tiny, intimate venue in the old town, it offers authentic blues music nightly.
Brown Sugar: A renowned jazz bar, it's been in operation for decades and continues to draw crowds.
River Cruises:
Chao Phraya Dinner Cruises: Several companies offer nighttime river cruises which include dinner and cultural performances. It's a great way to see the city's landmarks illuminated at night.
Alternative and Underground Scenes:
Soi Nana in Chinatown: Not to be confused with Nana Plaza, this area in Chinatown has become a hotspot for quirky, alternative bars like Teens of Thailand (a gin bar) and Tep Bar (which offers cultural performances).
Tips for Enjoying Nightlife in Bangkok:
Dress Code: While casual attire is accepted in many places, some high-end clubs, rooftop bars, and cultural performances may have a strict dress code.
Safety: Stick to well-lit areas, watch your drink, and be wary of scams, especially in the red-light districts.
Local Laws: Respect local customs and laws. For instance, lèse-majesté laws in Thailand make it a serious offense to insult or defame the royal family.
Transport: Taxis are abundant, but ensure they use meters. Ride-sharing apps like Grab are also operational and offer a reliable mode of transportation during the night.
Local Cuisine
Thai cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its flavorful and aromatic dishes that strike a balance between sweet, salty, sour, and spicy. Rooted in centuries of tradition, Thai food offers a rich tapestry of tastes and textures. Here's an introduction to the local cuisine:
Curries:
Green Curry (Kaeng Khiao Wan): Made with green chili paste, coconut milk, chicken or beef, and vegetables.
Red Curry (Kaeng Phet): A spicier curry made with red chili paste, often cooked with duck, chicken, or beef.
Massaman Curry: A southern Thai dish with influences from Malay cuisine. It’s made with beef or chicken and flavored with spices like cinnamon and star anise, along with roasted peanuts.
Panang Curry (Phanaeng): A rich and creamy curry, usually with beef or chicken, accentuated with kaffir lime leaves and peanuts.
Noodles and Rice:
Pad Thai: Stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, peanuts, bean sprouts, lime, and either shrimp, chicken, or tofu.
Khao Pad (Fried Rice): Typically stir-fried with chicken, shrimp, or pork, along with vegetables and egg.
Khao Soi: A northern Thai curry noodle soup, usually made with chicken or beef.
Salads:
Som Tam (Green Papaya Salad): Made from shredded unripe papaya, tomatoes, green beans, chilies, lime juice, fish sauce, and peanuts.
Larb: A spicy meat salad, often made from minced pork or chicken, seasoned with lime juice, fish sauce, roasted rice powder, and herbs.
Soups:
Tom Yum Goong: A spicy and sour soup with prawns, flavored with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and bird’s eye chili.
Tom Kha Gai: A milder, creamy coconut milk-based soup with chicken, seasoned with similar herbs to Tom Yum.
Appetizers and Sides:
Satay: Skewered and grilled meat (often chicken or pork) served with peanut sauce and a small serving of a pickled cucumber-onion salad.
Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls stuffed with vegetables or sometimes meat, served with a sweet dipping sauce.
Street Food
Bangkok is often hailed as the street food capital of the world. Almost every corner of the city offers delectable delights. However, some places stand out due to their sheer variety, authenticity, and popularity. Here are the most renowned street food areas in Bangkok:
Yaowarat Road (Chinatown):
Best visited in the evening, Chinatown is lit with neon signs and filled with street food vendors. You can find everything from fresh seafood to traditional Chinese dishes and Thai desserts.
Must-try: Bird's nest soup, Poh Pia Sod (fresh spring rolls), and satay sticks.
Khao San Road:
This area offers both Thai and international street food options. You can also find some exotic offerings like fried insects.
Must-try: Pad Thai, Mango Sticky Rice, and deep-fried scorpions for the adventurous!
Sukhumvit Soi 38:
A haven for food enthusiasts, this street is lined with vendors offering a wide variety of Thai dishes.
Must-try: Mango Sticky Rice, Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), and various noodle dishes.
Silom Soi 20:
This is a breakfast and lunchtime spot offering traditional Thai dishes.
Must-try: Jok (rice porridge), various types of Roti, and Khao Man Gai (chicken rice).
Ratchawat Market and Sriyan Market:
Located not far from each other, these local markets offer a traditional Thai street food experience away from the main tourist areas.
Must-try: Roasted duck, beef noodles, and various stir-fried dishes.
Or Tor Kor Market:
This upscale fresh market also has stalls selling ready-to-eat meals. The food here is slightly pricier, but the quality and hygiene standards are top-notch.
Must-try: Som Tam (papaya salad), Sai Oua (northern Thai sausage), and various seafood dishes.
Victory Monument:
Surrounding this military monument is a plethora of street food stalls, especially famous for noodle dishes.
Must-try: Boat noodles, Hainanese chicken rice, and Moo Satay (pork satay).
Chatuchak Weekend Market:
While primarily known as a shopping destination, this massive market also offers a wide variety of food options.
Must-try: Coconut ice cream, Paella, and deep-fried pork belly.
Pratunam:
Situated in a busy shopping area, the streets of Pratunam offer delectable street food, especially in the morning and early afternoon.
Must-try: Khao Gang (curry on rice), fresh fruit smoothies, and grilled seafood.
Tips for Street Food in Bangkok:
Hygiene: Always look for stalls that are busy, especially with locals. High turnover means fresh ingredients.
Spiciness: Thai food can be very spicy. If you're not used to it, you can ask for "Mai Pet" (not spicy).
Drinks: Wash down spicy dishes with local drinks like "Cha Yen" (Thai iced tea) or fresh coconut juice.
Respect: Some streets or stalls may have plastic stools for sitting. Once you're done eating, it's customary to clear up for other customers due to the limited seating.
Accommodations
Bangkok is a sprawling metropolis with various neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience. The best area for you to stay in largely depends on your interests and the nature of your visit. Here are some of the most popular areas to stay in Bangkok, along with what they're best known for:
Sukhumvit:
Best for: Shopping, nightlife, and dining.
Highlights: High-end malls like Terminal 21 and EmQuartier, lively nightlife in areas like Soi Cowboy and Thonglor, and a plethora of dining options ranging from street food to upscale restaurants.
Accessibility: Well-connected via the BTS Skytrain.
Siam:
Best for: Shopping and family activities.
Highlights: Major malls like MBK, Siam Paragon, and CentralWorld. Also, attractions like SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World.
Accessibility: A central BTS Skytrain hub, making it easy to access other parts of the city.
Silom and Sathorn:
Best for: Business travelers and nightlife.
Highlights: Bangkok’s central business district, vibrant night market at Patpong, and rooftop bars like Sky Bar at Lebua.
Accessibility: Both BTS Skytrain and MRT underground service this area.
Khao San Road and Rattanakosin:
Best for: Budget travelers and cultural enthusiasts.
Highlights: Khao San Road is the backpacker's haven, with budget accommodations, bars, and street food. Rattanakosin, also known as the "Old City", is home to historic sites like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun.
Accessibility: Not directly connected by BTS or MRT, but easily reachable by taxi, tuk-tuk, or riverboats.
Riverside (Chao Phraya River):
Best for: Romantic stays and cultural sightseeing.
Highlights: Luxurious five-star hotels, beautiful views of the river, and historic sites like Wat Arun. Also, the Asiatique Riverfront night market.
Accessibility: Riverboats and ferries are a unique and scenic way to explore. Also, accessible by BTS.
Chinatown (Yaowarat):
Best for: Food enthusiasts and cultural experiences.
Highlights: Bustling markets, gold shops, and some of the best street food in the city, especially in the evenings.
Accessibility: Closest MRT station is Wat Mangkon.
Pratunam:
Best for: Budget shopping and central location.
Highlights: Wholesale fashion markets, Platinum Fashion Mall, and the nearby CentralWorld mall.
Accessibility: BTS Skytrain (with a bit of walking) and a short distance to the Airport Rail Link.
Thonglor and Ekkamai:
Best for: Dining, nightlife, and an upscale local experience.
Highlights: Trendy bars, chic cafes, and a variety of excellent restaurants ranging from local to international cuisines.
Accessibility: Connected by BTS Skytrain (Thong Lo station).
Tips when choosing a place to stay:
Transport: Bangkok can have heavy traffic, so staying near BTS or MRT stations can save you a lot of travel time.
Budget: Bangkok offers a wide range of accommodations from budget hostels to luxurious five-star hotels. Define your budget first and choose accordingly.
Purpose: If you're in Bangkok for shopping, stay in Siam or Pratunam. For cultural sights, the Old City or Riverside might be more appropriate.
