Destination Guidebook for Bangkok, Thailand
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You need not travel far in Bangkok to find that it's an exciting—and sometimes exhausting—blend of modern civilization and historic treasures. Bangkok's temples, despite being in the center of a thriving 21st-century metropolis, are some of the finest in all of Asia. The most spectacular are centered in Ko Rattanakosin (in English, Rattanakosin Island, even though it is not an island) and include the Grand Palace complex (the old royal city, from which the king and a vast number of relatives ran the country until 1932). The complex includes the Grand Palace itself and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew). Equally impressive is Wat Pho, which houses an enormous reclining Buddha. Wat Pho is also famous for its traditional massage school.
Be sure to see the National Museum, which houses Thai art and artifacts from Neolithic times to the present; the Vimanmek Teak Palace; and the Royal Barges Museum. Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn) is on the other side of the Chao Phraya River. Very popular with locals and camera-toting foreigners, the small Erawan Shrine at the corner of Ratchadamri and Ploenchit roads is a nice place to witness classical Thai dancers who perform whenever a devotee makes a suitable donation.
The Skytrain, MRT subway and taxis are convenient and inexpensive ways to see Bangkok's attractions. Special day passes offer a good value. The key is to work out where the stations are located in relation to the places you want to visit. Take the train to the closest point, and then walk or take a bus or a taxi for the final leg. The Skytrain and MRT avoid traffic, and, for very little, one can cross the city in minutes. Also consider cruising down the river and canals on an extremely cheap commuter ferry or a modestly priced long-tail boat. Or you can enjoy evening dining on a luxurious, restored teakwood rice barge and see the riverside temples lit up in all their glory. If you're walking, drink plenty of fluids, wear comfortable shoes and take a good map with you.
Know that admission prices to the various museums and temples change frequently (most cost very little). If you intend to vist temples, ensure that you are dressed politely—no shorts or tank tops. | Historic Sites | Top  |
King Rama V commissioned this statue in 1908 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of his ascension to the throne. Cast by a French sculptor in Paris, it is located in the center of the Dusit Palace garden in front of the Anantasamakhom Palace. Ratchadamnoen Road, Bangkok. This large, open-air shrine was built in 1956 to appease the evil spirits dogging the construction of the original Erawan Hotel (now replaced by the Grand Hyatt Erawan). Once the shrine opened, accidents that plagued the building site are said to have ceased. Dedicated to Brahma, the four-faced Than Tao Mahaprom shrine has become popular with Bangkokians. The shrine is a good place to see traditional Thai dance performed throughout the day for those who make a donation. Accessible 24 hours a day. Free. Located on the northwest corner of the Grand Hyatt Erawan property, near the Chitlom stop on the Skytrain, Bangkok. Located behind the Swissotel Nai Lert Park, this famous Buddhist shrine was once a spirit house built by Nai Lert, the hotel's original owner, for Jao Mae Taptim, a female spirit thought to live in a large ficus tree in the garden. The shrine is noted for the collection of wooden and stone phallic sculptures that surrounds it. Women seeking to conceive leave offerings of flowering jasmine and lotus blossoms. Open daily during daylight hours. Nai Lert Park, 2 Wireless Road (behind the Swissotel Nai Lert Park), Bangkok. Phone 02-253-0123. Also called the City Pillar, Lak Muang sits in a small shrine near the Grand Palace. The gilded pillar is considered the foundation stone of the city. It attracts many locals who believe the pillar has the power to grant wishes. (They also pay for traditional Thai dances to be performed at the shrine.) Accessible 24 hours daily. Free. On the southeast corner of Sanam Luang (the grassy area in front of the Grand Palace, between Na Phra That and Ratchadamnoen roads), Bangkok. This monument was erected in 1939 to commemorate the 24 June 1932 coup that ended the 150-year-old absolute monarchy and introduced a constitutional government to Thailand. One of Italian sculptor Corrado Feroci's most striking monuments, it has four arched columns at the center, surrounded by a ring of 75 cannons. Ratchadamnoen Road at Pracha Thipatai Road, Bangkok. Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the Grand Palace is one of the most famous attractions in all of Thailand. It's actually a large complex that includes many structures, including the Grand Palace itself, with its fantastic spires and ornamentation, and Wat Phra Kaew. Originally built for King Rama I in the late 1700s, the compound has evolved into a vast, golden city that's a top destination for this country's predominantly Buddhist population. The Grand Palace was the king's official residence until 1946. Wat Phra Kaew, the most important structure inside the walled compound, houses the ancient Emerald Buddha (carved from a single block of jade). Don't wait until your last day in town to see the Grand Palace—most people want to see it more than once. A few rules for visiting the Grand Palace: No shorts, sleeveless shirts or flip-flops (trousers, socks and plastic shoes are available to rent); no photography inside Wat Phra Kaew; women must not touch the monks. Daily 8:30 am-5 pm (tickets available until 3:30 pm). 250 baht (includes admission to the Vimanmek Teak Palace in the Dusit area). Main entrance is on Na Phralan Road (if you take the Chao Phraya Express Boat, it's within walking distance—east and south—from the Tha Chang pier), Bangkok. Phone 02-623-5500 ext. 3100 or 02-224-3273. http://www.palaces.thai.net. Designed by Italian sculptor Corrado Feroci, this monument consists of an obelisk ringed by statues representing the army, navy, air force, police and civilians. It was built to commemorate Thailand's victory in its 1940-41 border war with France over land in present-day Cambodia and along the Thai-Laos border. At the junction of Phaya Thai, Phahon Yothin and Rachawithi roads, Bangkok. http://www.bma.go.th/bmaeng/ratchatewi/victory.html. This is one of the best-known and most photographed landmarks in Bangkok. The name means Temple of Dawn, and the structure consists of one elongated prang (Khmer-style tower) surrounded by four smaller ones. The main prang, 269 ft/82 m high, is decorated with mosaics made of porcelain that glisten in the sun. Unlike many of Bangkok's other temples, this one looks better from a distance, especially when viewed from across the river. Despite its name, the best photographs are taken as the sun sets behind it. Daily 8:30 am-5:30 pm. 20 baht adults. 34 Arun Amarin Road (by water taxi from Tha Tien pier, at the end of Thai Wang Road near Wat Pho, or from Tha Chang pier, at the end of Na Phralan Road near Wat Phra Kaew), Bangkok. Phone 02-466-3167. http://www.watarun.org. Sometimes called the Marble Temple, this holy site features splendid, symmetrical architecture with gold and lacquer decorations. It has numerous Buddha images in the courtyard, all representing famous styles from other Buddhist countries. Unlike other temples, the monks there stand in a long row (at 6 am) to accept alms rather than roam the streets to seek them. Daily 8 am-5:30 pm. 30 baht. Corner of Si Ayutthaya and Rama V roads, Bangkok. Phone 02-281-2501. http://www.watbencha.com. Next to the Grand Palace, this is one of Bangkok's oldest temples, and it's famous for its numerous ceramic-tiled stupas and its gold-plated reclining Buddha—it's one of the largest Buddhas in Thailand (152 ft/46 m long and 49 ft/15 m high). Walk its whole length—the mother-of-pearl inlay on the soles of his feet is sensational. As you explore the temple, you'll see much smaller images of Buddha everywhere. One of Thailand's most-respected teaching centers of traditional Thai massage, Wat Pho also offers massage and reflexology to tired tourists for a reasonable fee. Vistors can also sign up for courses to learn the art of massage. Daily 8 am-6 pm. 20 baht. The entrance is on Chetuphon Road (within walking distance from Tha Tien pier), Bangkok. Phone 02-222-5910. http://www.watpho.com. This temple is noted for its superb 19th-century murals in the main chapel. The main hall houses a beautiful 13th-century, 26 ft/8 m bronze Buddha image. The ashes of King Rama VIII, brother of the current king, are contained in its base. The distinctive giant swing outside the temple was once used in Brahmanic ceremonies, long since discontinued. The original swing, known as sao ching chor, was replaced to honor the King of Thailand. Nearby shops stock a comprehensive range of Buddhist religious supplies—it is a fascinating part of town to wander through. Open daily 8:30 am-9 pm. Admission 20 baht. Located on Bamrung Muang Road, Bangkok. Phone 02-221-4026. http://www.watsuthat.org. This temple houses the famous 14th-century Golden Buddha. Made primarily of gold and weighing more than 10,000 lb/4,500 kg, it was discovered under an unremarkable concrete veneer in 1954, where it lay hidden for hundreds of years. It is believed that the statue was initially covered in concrete to protect it from Burmese invaders and was then forgotten. Daily 8 am-5 pm. 20 baht. Near intersection of Yaowarat Road and Charoen Krung Road, close to Hualamphong Station (eastern edge of Chinatown), Bangkok. Phone 02-623-1226. This expansive (320 acres/115 hectares) outdoor museum not far outside Bangkok consists of small-scale replicas of Thailand's most famous buildings, monuments and temples. It has even been laid out to simulate the geographic shape of the country. Vehicles are available on-site to take you around, but we recommend hiring a car and driver for the day so that you can go at your own pace. Daily 8 am-5 pm. 300 baht adults. Bikes are available, free. Kilometer 33 on the Sukhumvit Highway, Bangpoo, Samut Prakan. Phone 02-709-1644. http://www.ancientcity.com. Located inside Bang Khun Phrom Palace, in the same compound as the Bank of Thailand, the museum building is one of the finest examples of architecture from the King Rama V period. The palace was used as a governmental office 1932-45 when it became the Bank of Thailand. It was turned into the Bank of Thailand Museum in 1982. It has 14 rooms spread over two floors. The first floor houses rooms of ancient coins, the Phot Duang or Thai bullet coins, modern Thai coins and banknotes, gold and foreign currency. The second floor houses rooms commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Bank of Thailand, banknote printing and several other interesting exhibits. Open Monday-Friday 9:30 am-noon and 1:30-4:30 pm. Free. Advance booking required. Bangkhunprom Palace, Samsen Road, Bangkhunprom, Bangkok. Phone 02-283-5285. http://www.bot.or.th. The museum is located inside Queen Sirikit Park and was established under the royal initiative of Her Majesty the Queen. The Children's Discovery Museum includes three exhibition buildings and an open-air activity ground. It features a range of fun activities to teach children about life, science, culture and society, nature and the environment. Open Tuesday-Friday 9 am-5 pm, Saturday and Sunday 10 am-6 pm. Admission 150 baht adults, 120 baht children. Queen Sirikit Park, Kamphaenphet 4 Road (opposite Chatuchak Weekend Market), Bangkok. Phone 02-615-7333 ext. 102, 134 or 148. http://www.bkkchildrenmuseum.com. This complex of six teak houses was built for Thailand's most famous farang (foreigner), the U.S. citizen credited with revitalizing Thailand's silk industry. The house is filled with Thompson's rare art and antiques collection. Since Thompson's puzzling disappearance in Malaysia in 1967, his former residence has become a popular tourist attraction. The James H.W. Thompson Foundation also opened a store and cafe next door. Daily 9 am-5 pm. Last guided tour 4:30 pm. 100 baht adults, 50 baht children (includes tour in English). 6 Rama I Soi Kaseman 2 (near the National Stadium BTS station), Bangkok. Phone 02-216-7368. http://www.jimthompsonhouse.com. Kamthieng House was originally built in Chiang Mai more than 160 years ago. The traditional northern-style house was later donated to the Siam Society and was reconstructed in Bangkok. It serves as a folk and ethnological museum exhibiting the northerners' way of life and various household items and equipment they used. The Siam Society, under Royal Patronage, was established in 1904 by Thai and foreign residents of Bangkok to further the study of artistic, scientific and other cultural affairs in Thailand and Southeast Asia. It holds regular lectures by visiting scholars and features a library, exhibition space and shop. Open Tuesday-Saturday 9 am-5 pm. Admission 100 baht. 131 Soi Asoke, Sukhumvit 21 Road, Asok (inside the compound of the Siam Society), Bangkok. Phone 02-661-6470. http://www.siam-society.org. Located at the office of Tilleke and Gibbins International Law Company Limited, at the end of Lang Suan Soi 3 Road, the museum was established in 1989 to educate the public about counterfeit goods and promote the value of intellectual rights. Various kinds of fake goods are on display inside the museum, such as clothes, watches, bags, shoes and perfume, food, cars and much more. Since it opened, the museum has attracted a great deal of interest and major foreign television broadcasting companies, including CNN, BBC, and Australian and Danish National Television have featured it in documentaries highlighting counterfeiting in Thailand. Open Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm. Admission free. 64/1 Soi Tonson, Ploenchit Road, Bangkok. Phone 02-263-7700 or 02-254-2640. http://www.tillekeandgibbins.com. This is the museum of the macabre, featuring medical anomalies, injuries and sensational criminal cases. The most notorious—and popular—is the mummified body of Si Ouey, a notorious cannibal who murdered children and ate their organs. Open Monday-Saturday 9 am-4 pm. 40 baht. Siriraj Hospital, 2 Prannok Road (Express Boat Pier N10 Tha Wang Lang), Bangkok. Phone 02-411-2003. At this museum you'll find examples of every Thai stamp ever issued, along with a large collection of foreign stamps. Open Monday-Friday 9 am-4 pm. First Floor, Sam Sen Noi Post Office, Saphan Kwai (between Soi 3 and Soi 5 Pathon Yothin Road), Bangkok. Phone 02-271-2439. This charming private museum is one of Bangkok's hidden treasures. It houses a vast collection of artifacts from prehistoric through Rattanakosin (the emergence of Bangkok as the capital) periods. Various examples of architectural styles are represented, including a smaller version of the National Museum's Red Palace and a replica of Wat Yai Suwannaram's Ho Phra. Advance booking is required. Open daily except Monday 9:30 am-3 pm. 500 baht adults. 9 Krungthep Kritha Soi 4A (about a 45-minute taxi ride east of downtown, near the Krungthep Kriitha Golf Course), Bangkok. Phone 02-379-3601 or 3607. This museum houses about 50 ornately designed longboats once used by Thai kings. The boats are a spectacle, even on land. Be sure to see the one called Sri Suppanhong (golden swan). The barge is arguably the most impressive, with a swan figurehead carved into the bow; its crew included 50 paddlers, seven umbrella holders, two rudder controllers, two navigators, a flagman and a conductor. Khlong (canal) tours often stop at the museum. Daily 9 am-5 pm. 30 baht (plus an additional 100 baht if you want to take pictures). On the bank of Khlong Bangkok Noi (near Phra Prinklao Bridge on the western side of the Chao Phraya River), Bangkok. Phone 02-242-0004. http://www.bangkoksite.com/RoyalBarges. This exhibition center features a number of educational, science-based attractions, including a planetarium and an aquarium, as well as permanent exhibitions on sports science, communication technology and the natural environment. Open daily except Monday and public holidays 8:30 am-4:30 pm. The planetarium presents a one-hour show at 11 am and 2:30 pm with additional shows on Saturday and Sunday at 10 am and 1:30 pm. Admission to the exhibit center and planetarium is 20 baht adults, 10 baht children. Next to the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai BTS) on Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok. Phone 02-392-5951-5. http://www.sci-educ.nfe.go.th. This interesting exhibition charts the history of the Thai people and the different aspects of Thai culture, from prehistoric times to the present. The museum covers five topics; the evolution of the Thai nation, rice and the Thai way of life, Thai language and literature, Thailand and the world, and important achievements and events in Thai society. Open Monday-Friday (except public holidays) 9:30 am-4:30 pm. Admission free. Located in the Thailand Cultural Centre on Ratchadaphisek Road, Huay Kwang, Bangkok. Phone 02-247-0028 ext. 4223-4. Operated by the Foundation for the Preservation of Thai Arts, this museum features a large private collection of Buddha images. The exhibition charts the art of Buddha images throughout Thai history, with high standards of presentation that include light, sound (chanting) and incense. Besides Buddha images and artifacts from different periods, there is also a shrine. Open Monday-Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm. Advance reservations required. Admission 250 baht. 104 Soi 40, Phatthanakan Road, Suan Luang, Bangkok. Phone 02-321-0048-50. In 1884, King Rama V turned these buildings into a museum to display his vast collection of art and artifacts from around the country (as well as items he picked up during his travels abroad). The collection has grown over the years, and it's now considered the largest in Southeast Asia. With artifacts ranging from Neolithic to modern times, the collection also includes everything from royal cremation chariots and weaponry to delicate textiles and ivory carvings to giant shadow puppets. Volunteers give free English-language tours on Wednesday and Thursday. Open Wednesday-Sunday 9 am-4 pm. 40 baht adults. 4 Na Phrathat Road, reached by bus No. 30, 32, 47 and 53 (opposite Sanam Luang and between Thammasat University and the National Theatre), Bangkok. Phone 02-224-1402. http://www.moe.go.th/finearts/natmus.htm. The world's largest teak building, this structure was built by King Rama V in 1868 on the island of Koh Si Chang as a summer palace and was moved to its current location in 1910. With 81 rooms and priceless antiques and paintings, it's a fine tribute to Thai architecture and art. You can't walk around on your own, but there are free guided tours in English every half-hour starting at 9:30 am. Free demonstrations of Thai dance in the foyer daily at 10:30 am and 2 pm. Daily 9:30 am-4 pm. Last tickets sold at 3:15 pm. No shorts, flip-flops or skimpy clothes. 100 baht adults (free if you have an entrance ticket to the Grand Palace). Rajavithi Road, Dusit, Bangkok. Phone 02-628-6300. http://www.vimanmek.com. The name is sometimes translated as the "Chinese cabbage palace," and indeed the land that this group of traditional Thai houses sits on was once used to grow the vegetable. The five-building compound, set in beautiful landscaping, houses the treasures of its former owner and avid collector, Princess Chumbhot of Nagor Svarga. Don't leave without seeing the large collection of Ban Chiang pottery in the Lacquer Pavilion. Open Monday-Saturday 9 am-4 pm. 150 baht adults. 352-354 Sri Ayutthaya Road, Bangkok. Phone 02-246-1775. http://www.suanpakkad.com. | Neighborhoods & Districts | Top |
Yaowarat Road is the backbone of Chinatown, but the spirit of the district lies in the sois that branch off this traffic-ridden road. In the interwoven mesh of alleys and lanes that crisscross the canals, you'll find some fantastic fresh-food hawkers, a seemingly limitless number of street-side merchants and traders, and the occasional Chinese temple. Sampaeng Lane is the best known of these areas and can be a great place to buy bolts of linen and other fabrics. Chinatown is also famous for its food, so keep an eye out for clusters of noodle and rice stalls that set up after the markets and shops close at sundown. Pahurat (Little India) lies just northwest of Chinatown and is also a well-known spot for fabric purchases. Supposedly, silk can be bought at the lowest prices in the city at the market there—but you'll have to bargain hard. We like walking along Pahurat Road, north of the market, to see the stores filled with glittering Thai dance costumes and masks. Beware of pickpockets in both areas and take the most detailed map you can find. The old foreign quarter of Bangkok makes for a pleasant afternoon stroll. Once home to European consulates and trading companies, the four-block area between Charoen Krung 34 (also known as New Road) and the Oriental Hotel on Charoen Krung 40 is an interesting mix of cultures and architectural styles. As you explore, be sure to stop inside the beautiful 1910 Assumption Cathedral. Also check out the area around the Haroon Mosque and Cemetery. The maze of narrow alleys in this tiny Muslim community is home to a couple of breathtakingly beautiful (and dilapidated) Rattanakosin-era wooden Siamese houses. A backpacker's mecca in Southeast Asia, this road is a 10-minute walk north of the old part of town (where the Grand Palace is situated) in the district of Banglamphu. Backpackers flock there because it has the least expensive (and grittiest) accommodations in Bangkok, as well as the least expensive restaurants and bars. The road is full of pedestrians 24 hours a day and lined with anything backpackers might need: massage parlors, travel agents, restaurants, bars, all manner of shops, and Internet joints. Makeshift stalls sell food and souvenirs. Among the Westerners, you'll find an increasing number of young Thais attracted by the low prices. Khao San Road is intense and gaudy, and it has to be seen to be believed. Much is made of Patpong, one of the city's most notorious red-light districts. The two privately owned roads, Patpong 1 and Patpong 2, don't really feel sleazy unless you actually go into one of the clubs. These days Patpong is also noted for its busy night market, and there are many cheap souvenir stalls lining the streets. The streets are closed to vehicle traffic after sundown, and you'll find everything from counterfeit designer watches to T-shirts, silk, DVDs and crafts. | Parks & Gardens | Top |
Also known as the Queen's Park, this small park is sandwiched between the Emporium shopping center and the Queen's Park Imperial Hotel. It's a nice place to take a break from the wall-to-wall commerce. The park is also popular with joggers in the early morning and evening hours. Daily 5 am-9 pm. Free. Sukhumvit Road (between Soi 22 and Soi 24), Bangkok. Phone 02-262-0810. Located close to the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market, this park features nine pieces of sculpture. The pretty park is also popular with joggers. Open daily 5 am-8 pm. Admission free. At the junction of Phahonyothin and Vibhavadi Rangsit roads, Bangkok. This inner-city park provides a respite from Bangkok's congestion and noise. There are good walking paths and even an artificial lake in the middle (you can rent a rowboat, but keep an eye out for the gigantic 3-ft-/1-m-long monitor lizards in the water). Try to visit in the early morning (around 6 am) to see locals practicing tai chi and ballroom dancing. Daily 4:30 am-8 pm. Free. Rama IV Road, Bangkok. Phone 02-252-7006. Spread over 200 acres/80 hectares, Bangkok's largest and nicest park is full of lakes and greenery. Part of the park has been designated an agricultural research center. Visit the park if you have a day or afternoon to spare—it's situated in the north of the city near the parliament. Daily 6 am-6 pm. 10 baht. Rama V Road, Bangkok. Phone 02-328-1385. http://www.suanluangrama9.or.th. The park is on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, near Phra Sumen Fort. It opened in 1999 to mark the auspicious occasion of the sixth cycle birthday anniversary of His Majesty the King. The pleasant park provides a scenic view of the Chao Phraya River and the Rama VIII Bridge. It is popular with Thais and foreigners, especially from the nearby Banglamphu/Khao San area. Open daily. Admission free. Located on Phra Athit Road, Bangkok. | Zoos & Wildlife | Top |
If you yearn to see crocodiles, this place has more than 60,000 of them, as well as lions, snakes, elephants and other animals. The most popular show is crocodile wrestling, held hourly. It's a bit out of the way and rather touristy. Also, be aware that the animals are not well-looked after, and the animal shows should be a thing of the past. Daily 7 am-6 pm. 300 baht adults, 200 baht children. 555 Taiban Moo 7 (about 20 mi/32 km south of Bangkok), Samut Prakan. Phone 02-703-5144. Home for many rare species of animals, the zoo was established in 1939 in the private botanical garden of King Rama V. Adjacent the Royal Plaza, it receives more than 2 million visitors per year. Daily 8 am-9 pm. 100 baht. 71 Rama V Road, Bangkok. Phone 02-281-2000. http://www.zoothailand.org. At this facility, which is run by the Thai Red Cross as a center for collecting venom (to make antitoxin), you can watch as handlers milk poison from cobras, black mambas and other fearsome snakes. Open Monday-Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm, Saturday, Sunday and public holidays 8:30 am-noon. Venom extraction Monday-Friday at 11 am and 2:30 pm, holidays at 11 am. Slide presentation in English Monday-Friday at 10:30 am and 2 pm, holidays at 10:30 am. Admission 200 baht adults; 50 baht children. Rama IV and Henri Dunant roads (adjacent to the Red Cross building), Bangkok. Phone 02-252-0161-4. http://www.thailandguidebook.com/snakefarm.html. The complex actually contains two parks: Safari Park and Marine Park. Safari Park offers drive-through viewing of Asian and African animals, as well as daily shows featuring birds, orangutans and elephants. Marine Park has dolphins and sea lions. It's a good place to take children. Daily 9 am-5 pm. 700 baht adults, 450 baht children. 99 Ramindra 1 Road (about 20 minutes outside Bangkok), Minburi. Phone 02-518-1000. http://www.safariworld.com. The largest aquarium in Southeast Asia exhibits more than 30,000 marine animals from around the world, including a wide range of rare and exotic species. The aquarium spans more than 107,639 sq ft/10,000 sq m, as wide as two football fields, giving visitors a rewarding underwater experience. The aquarium offers a "Dive with the Sharks Program" where you can scuba dive with sharks and rays. There is also a 4-D theater. Open daily 9 am-10 pm. Theater open daily 10:30 am-8:30 pm. Admission 450 baht adults, 280 baht children. Movie tickets 250 baht. 991 Rama I Road (on floors B1-B2 of Siam Paragon department store, access from Siam BTS station), Bangkok. Phone 02-687-2000. http://www.siamoceanworld.com. | Other Options | Top |
The 2 acre/1 hectare Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium is comprised of four main sections: a touch-screen computer area introducing the garden, a minitheater for a presentation on insects and the ecological system, an exhibition area and breeding room for butterflies and insects, and a 12 572-sq-ft/1,168-sq-m cage with a 49-ft-/15-m-high dome. Open daily except Monday 8:30 am-4:30 pm. Admission free. In the southeastern area of Vachirabenjatas Park (Railway Park), on Kamphaeng Phet 3 Road, Bangkok. Phone 02-272-4359-60. A trip through the khlongs (canals) on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya offers a glimpse into the Bangkok of centuries past. On the banks of the big canals (Khlong Bangkok Noi, Khlong Mon and Khlong Ban Ya), you'll see old-style Thai wooden houses, temples and fruit orchards. Although you could just ride the public water taxis along the river, long-tail boats are available for hire independently, or you can book one through any reputable tour company. The piers ( tha) close to the Royal Orchid Sheraton (Tha Sri Phaya) and the Shangri-La (Tha Sathorn), as well as Tha Tien and Tha Chang, are good places to hire them. Cost is determined by bargaining. About 300 baht per hour (per boat) is fair. Though early mornings are pleasant, Bangkok's steamy climate is a deterrent to those who enjoy watching and participating in most outdoor sports. Lumpini Park is a good spot for an early-morning walk or jog. There is a weight-lifting section as well. Interest in health and fitness has mushroomed over the past few years, and all of the major hotels offer air-conditioned fitness facilities. Most also have swimming pools, and many have racquetball or tennis courts. Also, an increasing number of hotels feature spa retreats or spa-related treatments. Golf is growing in popularity as well, with more than 150 prime golf courses within close reach of the city. (For the Thailand Golf Association, see http://www.tga.or.th.) Although Bangkok has a reputation for traffic-clogged streets, there are plenty of opportunities for recreation away from the hustle and bustle. Several local companies offer cycling tours that explore the lesser-known parts of the city. This top course offers some very difficult holes, especially the par-5s. Water hazards on every hole add to the challenge. Open daily. Greens fees: 2,000 baht Monday-Friday, 3,000 baht Saturday and Sunday. Caddy fee is 250 baht. 92 Bang Na-Trat Moo 3 (about an hour from central Bangkok), Samut Prakan. Phone 02-312-5883. http://www.greenvalleybangkok.com. This place offers both an 18-hole and a nine-hole course. Open daily. 1,850 baht Monday-Friday, 2,700 baht Saturday and Sunday. Caddy fee is 200 baht. 516 Krungthep Kretha Road (15 mi/24 km east of the city center), Bangkok. Phone 02-379-3717. This 27-hole course has a luxurious clubhouse, a large caddy corps and many refreshment stands on the course. It's located about an hour's drive from the center of Bangkok. Open daily. Greens fees: 1,850 baht Monday-Friday, 2,700 baht Saturday and Sunday. Caddy fee is 250 baht. 99/1 Bang Na-Trat Moo 11, Samut Prakan. Phone 02-312-6278. http://www.lakewoodcountryclub.co.th. Considered one of the best courses in Bangkok, the beautiful 36-hole layout features mature trees, wide fairways and water along almost every fairway. Open daily. Greens fees: 1,150 baht Monday-Friday, 2,200 baht Saturday and Sunday before 12:30 pm (1,200 baht after 12:30 pm). Caddy fee 250 baht. 42 Moo 8, Suwintawongse Rd, Lumtoiting, Nongjok, Bangkok. Phone 02-988-7555. http://www.president.co.th. | Spas and Health Clubs | Top |
Meditation is an essential practice in Buddhism, and Bangkok has three centers where meditation classes are held in English for foreigners. Massage also is a Thai tradition for both men and women, taken for granted as one of life's simple joys.
Traditional massage is an ancient and honorable art that includes more twisting and bending of the body than you might expect. After the not-so-tender ministrations of a qualified masseuse (most massage is performed by women), you'll feel truly relaxed and rejuvenated. Rates start at 200 baht in street-side parlors (where you can get some of the best massage available) and rise to several thousand baht in the fancy hotels. If you want to experience a traditional massage, we recommend Wat Pho. Most massage parlors also offer foot massage using reflexology, which is pure heaven after a day of sightseeing.
This is one of the best massage parlors in Bangkok and offers a wide range of services. Try a traditional Thai massage, foot reflexology, facial, oil massage or spa treatment. Open daily 9 am-1 pm. Around 380 baht for a standard two-hour massage. 37/10-14 Soi Suriwongse Plaza, Suriwongse Road, Bangrak, Bangkok. Phone 02-235-2142-3. http://arimaonsenthailand.net. Peace, calm and relaxation await at this ideal day spa. The spa is set in lush tropical greenery with 12 private treatment rooms. The rain-shower bed is just like lazing in the garden during a heavy downpour. 3,500 baht for two and a half hours. 88 Sukhumvit Soi 51, Bangkok. Phone 02-662-6171. http://www.beingspa.com. The Cascade Club is a prestigious, purpose-built health and lifestyle club in Bangkok's central business district. The 37,674-sq-ft/3,500-sq-m club is equipped with state-of-the-art sports equipment, cardiovascular machines and a wide variety of weight-training gear. The visually striking facility is truly world-class and unique within Asia. Its main exercise areas are framed by an expanse of glass, affording stunning views across the city while exercising. The gym features a strength-training zone, a cardiovascular zone and two group-exercise areas where group workouts such as yoga and Pilates are held. On-staff personal trainers will help design a fitness program that's right for you. The Ascott Sathorn Bangkok, 187 South Sathorn Road, Yannawa (within walking distance of the Chong Nongsi and Surasak BTS stations), Bangkok. Phone 02-676-6969. http://www.cascadeclubandspa.com. This Buddhist meditation and healing center offers regular Sunday meditation classes for beginners and experienced practitioners, in addition to retreats and group sessions. Open for scheduled courses and by appointment. 26/9 Lardprao Soi 15, Jatujak District, Bangkok. Phone 02-511-0439. http://www.houseofdhamma.com. Renowned American interior designer Tony Chi created this spa experience. Nestled in the garden on the fifth floor of the hotel, appointments can include fitness, cuisine and the ultimate in relaxation. There are six spa cottages on-site for treatments. Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok, 494 Rajdamri Road, Bangkok. Phone 02-254-1234. http://www.isawan.hyatt.com. The first Sunday of every month, the center presents a free public program in English on Buddhism. The program includes a Buddhist forum, meditation instruction and practice. 616 Benjasiri Park, Soi Medhinivet, Sukhumvit 24, Bangkok. Phone 02-661-1284. http://www.wfb-hq.org. The sky-view luxury suite includes a shower steam room, plunge pool and Jacuzzi. There are additional treatment rooms on-site. The name Vareena is derived from the "Thai Varee," which means "stream." Additional facilities include a hydrotherapy room with bath and Vichy shower bed, as well as a steam room with seating for six. 1,200 baht one-hour massage, 1,800 baht aromatherapy massage. Westin Grande Sukhumvit, 259 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok. Phone 02-207-8000, ext. 8450. Located near Thammasat University, the temple houses Mahachulalongkorn Buddhist University, one of the two highest seats of Buddhist learning in Thailand. It also offers meditation classes for foreigners. Open daily 9 am-5 pm. Na Phra That Road (near Sanam Luang Park, between the Grand Palace and the National Museum), Bangkok. Phone 02-623-6326. Massage is taught as well as given at Wat Pho, Bangkok's oldest temple. You can be assured that the massages there are authentic. Daily 9 am-4 pm. 300 baht for a one-hour massage. You can even sign up for the 30-hour course in traditional massage, which costs 8,500 baht. 2 Sanam Chai Road, Pranakorn, Bangkok. Phone 02-221-2974. http://www.watpho.com. | Other Options | Top |
Staffed by professional therapists, the Grande Spa is an inner-city sanctuary with an understated beauty and style that reflect the gentleness and genuine charm of Thai hospitality. The spa offers an extensive menu of massage and body services. Signature treatments designed to aid relaxation and increase general well-being include the Herbal Grande Pound, which uses a blend of 19 organic Thai herbs applied as a hot poultice to improve circulation and ease aching muscles. The hot herbs and moist heat prepare the body for the relaxing aromatherapy massage that follows. The spa includes a fitness club, complete with whirlpools and saunas, a fabulous swimming pool set in a tropical garden, and a poolside restaurant and bar. Open 8 am-10 pm. The Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, 250 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok. Phone 02-649-8888. http://www.sheratongrandesukhumvit.com. Bangkok's "anything at any time" reputation has been severely hampered by the strict enforcement of the government's 2 am closing law—a policy implemented ostensibly to discourage drug consumption. It's a law that has restricted Bangkok's nightlife potential, and many establishments have adapted to the changes by opening earlier. After 2 am, you can still find a scattering of places open. These mostly consist of massage parlors for men only, videoke shops (which serve food and alcohol) and traditional street-side eateries. In Banglamphu and Sukhumvit, the backpacker area, you will find some bars open illegally after-hours, as well as the ubiquitous 7-Elevens, which sell wine and beer as well as snacks and sundries. Licensing laws ban the sale of alcohol 2-5 pm and midnight-5 am in convenience stores. Cigarettes are no longer allowed to be displayed, but shops are allowed to have a "Cigarettes for Sale" sign.
Prostitution continues to thrive in Bangkok, especially in the areas of Pat Pong, Soi Nana and Soi Cowboy. However, there's a growing awareness that the city has more to offer than the sex-tourist trade. As Bangkok sheds its old ways, the nightlife scene is becoming more upscale and trendy. New cocktail bars and clubs are opening all the time, hosting some remarkable young Thai bands that play blues and rock. Ad-hoc street markets (as well as the more established night markets such as Suan Lum Night Bazaar on Rama IV near Lumphini Park) sell knockoff clothes, handicrafts, amulets and silver jewelry, offering strollers plenty to see. And then there are late-night eateries to take the edge off your hunger. Never let it be said that you can be bored (or hungry) in Bangkok. | Bars, Taverns & Pubs | Top |
This open-air cocktail and relaxed dining venue has an electronic canopy in case it rains. Chill out in the lush tropical garden complete with a koi-filled pond. Daily 11 am-midnight. Four Seasons Bangkok, 155 Rajadamri Road (near Rajadamri BTS station), Bangkok. Phone 02-250-1000. http://www.fourseasons.com/bangkok. A British-style pub with class, Barbican attracts a mixed crowd of mostly Westerners for its tapas bar and its extensive beer selection. It's spacious and private, and this is one of the late-night bars where you can actually talk over the low background music (and one of the few places with a smoke-free section). Daily from 11 am. No cover. 9/4-5 Thaniya Road, Silom (near Saladaeng BTS station), Bangkok. Phone 02-234-3590. This is Bangkok's only Irish pub that is Irish-owned and Irish-managed. It is used more by locals (Thais and expats) than tourists. Open daily. 440 Sukhumvit Road (near Phrom Phong BTS station), Bangkok. Phone 02-204-1841. http://www.dublinerbangkok.com. Very popular with expats as well as locals, this drinking hole with pool tables and numerous TVs is located in the backpack area of Bangkok. It also has a branch in Sukhumvit (6 Sukhumvit Soi 5). Daily 11 am-midnight. Corner of Th Kao San and Th Chakraphong, Banglamphu, Bangkok. Phone 02-629-1988. http://www.gulliverbangkok.com. This fine-dining lounge offers more than 150 cocktails and has cozy corners where you can see and be seen. Located in The Ascott, 187 Sathorn Tai (near Chong Nonsi BTS station), Bangkok. Phone 02-676-6676. http://www.huuinasia.com. This recently rebranded Irish-style bar (it was formerly the Irish Exchange) is one of Bangkok's most popular boozers. With a great range of beers, an extensive menu of classic Western dishes and tasty Thai favorites, all the best sports channels and friendly service, many local expats see Molly Malone's as a home-away-from-home. Open 9 am-1 am. $$. 1/5-6 Convent Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok. Phone 02-266-7160. http://www.mollymalonesthailand.com. This standard Irish pub comes complete with the usual atmosphere: wooden decor, Irish memorabilia, good stout and Guinness, boisterous drunk Westerners and live bands every night (a quieter, smoke-free section is upstairs, with some TV screens). Daily from 8 am. No cover. 62 Silom Road (near Saladaeng BTS station), Bangkok. Phone 02-632-7515. This small space converted into an intimate two-tiered club sports opulent decor. Both floors have lively bar and dance areas. There's a live bongo artist on weekends. Daily from 8 pm. Ground level no cover; first floor 400 baht cover on weekends when it's packed. 114/7 Silom Soi 4 (near Saladaeng BTS station), Bangkok. Phone 02-234-4737. This is one of Bangkok's famous gay pickup joints. True to its name, the bar has phones on every table for calling other tables. Popular with both foreigners and Thais. The food is surprisingly good. Daily from 8 pm. No cover. 114/11-13 Silom Soi 4, Bangrak (near Saladaeng BTS station), Bangkok. Phone 02-234-3279. http://www.telephonepub.com. This pub sells the only pub-brewed bitter in Bangkok. The service is good and the food adequate, but the beer selection is truly extensive (for Bangkok, anyway). Huge TVs broadcast major sports events. Daily from 11 am. No cover. Basement of UBC II Building, Sukhumvit Soi 33 (near Phrom Phong BTS station), Bangkok. Phone 02-261-0238. http://www.the-londoner.com. | Dance & Nightclubs | Top |
An innovative and visually dramatic club with a unique ambience, fine food and wine, and a selection of music designed to appeal to the over-30 crowd. With its eat-play-dance concept, BarSu has quickly established a reputation as the coolest club in the city. An impressive selection of wine is served in a stylish wine bar. In the main bar, skilled bartenders mix drinks from an extensive menu of classic and adventurous signature cocktails. The cuisine was created by Michelin-star chef Yves Mattagne, and | | |