Bangkok

Photo by Paul Szewczyk on Unsplash

Updated, June 2023

City

Bangkok is Thailand’s capital. It is a dynamic and bustling city, famed for its rich culture, delectable cuisine, and majestic temples. Ancient temples including as Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Arun, and Wat Pho, which houses the iconic reclining Buddha.

With large markets and contemporary malls like Siam Paragon and Terminal 21, the city is also a shopper’s delight. The Chao Phraya River runs through Bangkok, and taking a boat tour or dinner cruise is a terrific opportunity to get a fresh perspective on the city.

Bangkok is also well-known for its vibrant nightlife, which includes everything from street-side bars to high-end nightclubs. Despite its modernisation, Bangkok has its distinct charm, with a blend of traditional, and modern characteristics.

Best time to visit: The greatest time to visit Bangkok is between November and February, when the weather is cooler and drier, making sightseeing and outdoor activities more enjoyable.

Take notes

Bangkok has a population of approximately 8 million people.
The official language is Thai, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
It is a popular tourist destination, with millions of visitors each year.
The local currency is the Thai Baht (THB), and the current exchange rate is around 1 USD = 30 THB.

When traveling to Bangkok, remember to respect the local customs and traditions, dress modestly when visiting temples, be cautious of scams, and drink bottled water.

Explore the vibrant street food scene, visit iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, and indulge in Thai massages and shopping at bustling markets.

Finally, take note of the local traffic and plan your transportation accordingly to avoid rush hours.

Getting In & Around

Getting in

Suvarnabhumi Airport:
30 km from city centre, address: 999 Moo 1, Nong Prue Subdistrict, Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan Province 10540, visit website, phone: +66 2132 1888, Metro: Suvarnabhumi Airport City Line: THB 15 – 45, from basement B, Bus: public bus: 554, 555, 558 for about THB33-38, take free shuttle bus to reach Public Transportation Center, there is a shuttle bus to Don Mueang Airport as well. Taxi: metered taxi, fare depends on distance and traffic, its around THB250 to 350

Don Mueang International Airport:
24 km from city centre, address: 222 Vibhavadi Rangsit Rd, Sanambin, Don Mueang, Bangkok 10210, Thailand, visit website, phone: +66 2535 1192, Train: 3rd class THB 5, 2nd class THB 11, 1st class: THB 21, Bus: THB 20-50, Shuttle: free shuttle bus between terminal, and there is a shuttle bus to Suvarnabhumi Airport as well. Taxi: metered taxi, fare depends on distance and traffic, its around THB250 to 300

Getting around

Public Transport
There is Metro, Skytrain, Buses, Taxi and Ferries in the system.
Tickets: Metro: distance based tickets from THB 16. Skytrain: single fare from THB16 – THB59, one day pass for THB 140, visit here.., Bus: THB 8 – 25 visit here for more, There are tuk-tuks, taxis, Grab app and Uber app as well.

Bangkok

See & Do

Bangkok has a wealth of attractions and activities to suit a wide range of interests. Begin with the Grand Palace, a magnificent complex that includes the revered Wat Phra Kaew temple as well as beautiful Thai architecture. Explore Wat Pho, which houses the iconic Reclining Buddha statue as well as a traditional Thai massage school.

Visit the floating marketplaces in Damnoen Saduak or Amphawa to buy for fresh vegetables and local goods from merchants in traditional wooden boats and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. Take a relaxing longtail boat ride down the Chao Phraya River, passing by prominent monuments like Wat Arun and admiring the city’s cityscape.

Shopaholics can indulge in retail therapy at Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the world’s largest markets, or visit sophisticated shopping malls such as Siam Paragon and Terminal 21, which feature international brands as well as unique Thai designer stores.

Foodies should not miss out on discovering Bangkok’s culinary treasures. Visit Chinatown for delicious street food, authentic Thai delicacies at local restaurants, or take a culinary tour to enjoy a range of flavours and dishes.

Head to Khao San Road or Sukhumvit for a taste of the city’s nightlife, where you’ll discover a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Getting a traditional Thai massage, seeing a thrilling Muay Thai boxing match, visiting the gorgeous grounds of Lumphini Park, and exploring the modern art scene at galleries like the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre are all worthwhile experiences.

Remember to plan your route carefully, keeping traffic in mind, and to dress modestly when visiting temples. Stay hydrated and be open to immersing yourself in Bangkok’s vibrant and diverse atmosphere.

The Grand Palace
The Grand Palace, one of Bangkok’s most recognisable monuments, is a complex of opulent buildings that was formerly the residence of Thai royalty. Getting in: Located in the heart of Bangkok, it can be reached by public transportation or taxi. Opening hours: 8:30am-3:30pm. Tickets: 500 baht. Address: Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand. Website: www.palaces.thai.net/grandpalace/. Phone: +66 2 623 5500.

Wat Arun
Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is one of Bangkok’s most beautiful temples and is best seen at sunset or sunrise. Getting in: Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, it can be reached by riverboat or taxi. Opening hours: 8:30am-5:30pm. Tickets: 100 baht. Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10600, Thailand. Website: www.watarun.org . Phone: +66 2 891 2978.

Chatuchak Weekend Market
One of the largest outdoor markets in the world, Chatuchak Weekend Market offers a vast array of goods, including clothing, food, and souvenirs. Getting in: Located in the northern part of Bangkok, it can be reached by public transportation or taxi. Opening hours: Saturdays and Sundays, 9am-6pm. Address: Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand. Website: www.chatuchakmarket.org . Phone: +66 2 272 4813.

Khao San Road
Known as Bangkok’s backpacker hub, Khao San Road is a lively and bustling street with a diverse selection of restaurants, bars, and stores. Getting in: Located in the heart of Bangkok, it can be reached by public transportation or taxi. Opening hours: 24 hours. Address: Khwaeng Talat Yot, Khet Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand.

Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha):
Getting in: Wat Pho is located near the Grand Palace and can be reached by taxi, tuk-tuk or public transportation. Opening hours: Daily from 8:00am to 6:30pm. Tickets: 100 THB per person. Address: 2 Sanamchai Road, Grand Palace Subdistrict, Pranakorn District, Bangkok 10200, Thailand. Website: www.watpho.com . Phone: +66 2 226 0335

Jim Thompson House
Getting in: Jim Thompson House is located in central Bangkok and can be reached by taxi, tuk-tuk or public transportation. Opening hours: Daily from 9:00am to 6:00pm. Tickets: 200 THB per person. Address: 6 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand. Website: www.jimthompsonhouse.com . Phone: +66 2 216 7368. Email: [email protected]

Chao Phraya River
Getting in: The Chao Phraya River can be accessed by various piers along its banks, including Sathorn, Ratchawong, and Tha Chang. Opening hours: The river is accessible 24/7, but boat services may have different schedules. cost: Varies

Wat Saket (Golden Mount)
Getting in: Wat Saket can be reached by taxi, tuk-tuk or public transportation. Opening hours: Daily from 7:30am to 5:30pm. Tickets: 20 THB per person. Address: 344 Chakkraphatdiphong Road, Bang Bat, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok 10100, Thailand. Phone: +66 2 222 3835

Lumpini Park
Getting in: Lumpini Park is located in the city center and can be reached by taxi, tuk-tuk or public transportation. Opening hours: Daily from 4:30am to 9:00pm. Tickets: Free Address: Rama IV Road, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.

Terminal 21 Shopping Mall
Getting in: Terminal 21 is located near the Asoke BTS station and can be reached by BTS, taxi, or tuk-tuk. Opening hours: Daily from 10:00am to 10:00pm. Tickets: Free. Address: 88 Soi Sukhumvit 19, Sukhumvit Road, Klongtoey Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand. Website: www.terminal21.co.th/en/asoke/. Phone: +66 2 108 0888. Email: [email protected]

Chinatown
Getting in: The easiest way to get to Chinatown is by taking the MRT to Hua Lamphong Station, then walking for about 10 minutes to reach the main Yaowarat Road. Opening hours: open daily, but the best time to visit is in the evening. Address: Yaowarat Road, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100, Thailand.

Asiatique The Riverfront
Getting in: The easiest way to get to Asiatique is by taking the BTS to Saphan Taksin station, then taking the free shuttle boat from the pier directly to Asiatique. Opening hours: Open daily from 5:00 pm to 12:00 am. Tickets: Free Address: 2194 Charoen Krung Road, Wat Phraya Krai, Bang Kho Laem, Bangkok 10120, Thailand. Website: www.thaiasiatique.com/en . Phone: +66 2 108 4488. Email: [email protected]

Siam Paragon
Getting in: The easiest way to get to Siam Paragon is by taking the BTS to Siam Station, then walking for a few minutes to reach the mall. Opening hours: Siam Paragon is open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm. Tickets: Admission to Siam Paragon is free, but prices for shopping, dining, and entertainment vary. Address: 991 Rama I Road, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand. Website: www.siamparagon.co.th/en/. Phone: +66 2 610 8000. Email: [email protected]

Erawan Shrine
Getting in: The easiest way to get to Erawan Shrine is by taking the BTS to Chit Lom Station, then walking for a few minutes to reach the shrine. Opening hours: Erawan Shrine is open daily from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm. Tickets: Free, but donations are accepted. Address: 494 Thanon Ratchadamri, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand. Phone: +66 2 255 8805.