Bangkok is one of the most fascinating cities in Thailand and the best choice for a short getaway. Here is a list of the best experiences to help you make the most of your trip to this scenic capital.
[rpi]VISITING TEMPLES – THE SACRED PILGRIMAGE
As Thailand is the most popular pilgrimage destination in Asia, Bangkok is the perfect city for temple hopping. In Bangkok, there are countless famous and unique temples for visitors to see such as the ancient Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) with a huge golden reclining Buddha statue, the splendid Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) located right next to the palace and the mysterious Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) located alongside the Chao Phraya River.
| Top tips: Due to strict temple dress code in Thailand, visitors are required to cover their shoulders and are not permitted to wear shorts or mini skirts inside any temple complex. |
LEARNING ABOUT THAI CULTURE
Located in the heart of Bangkok City, the Grand Palace built-in 1782 under King Rama, is the largest ancient architectural complex in the land of Golden Temples. The inside of the palace impresses visitors with its unique and sophisticated carvings representing the luxurious and noble life of Thailand. While visiting this vast ancient architectural complex, visitors should not miss the Emerald Buddha Statue, Phra Sri golden Tower and Phra Mondop Library Building.
EXPLORE CHATUCHAK MARKET IN BANGKOK
Chatuchak Market will certainly make for a more interesting weekend in Bangkok. Visiting the bustling market, you will have the chance to explore and shop to your heart’s content. Chatuchak is expansive and there is a vast array of different stalls. The market sells all kinds of commodities, so do not forget your wallet to hit up the Chatuchak weekend market. There are plenty of massage parlours scattered throughout the market for you to stop and take a rest.
| Top tips: Keep a close eye on your personal belongings as Chatuchak Market is always crowded. If you intend to buy a few trinkets, do not hesitate to bring a small bag with you. |
DAMNOEN SADUAK FLOATING MARKET – A DIFFERENT TASTE OF BANGKOK
Aside from many busy shopping centres, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is the ideal shopping destination for Bangkok locals and tourists from around the world. More than 100km from Bangkok capital, the ancient market of Damnoen Saduak sits on a network of interlacing canals and offers a variety of goods from fruits, vegetables, meat, fish to traditional Thai dishes. Sitting on a small boat bobbing along the canal, taking in the scene of this vibrant yet idyllic market is a wonderful way to spend a morning in Bangkok.
| Top tips: To completely enjoy the atmosphere at the floating market, you can book a tour for approximately $20 or rent a boat for around $85. |
VISITING JIM THOMPSON HOUSE
Located on Rama I Street in Bangkok, the Jim Thompson House is the most unique museum in the city. The museum is home to a vast collection of impressive works of art by American architect – Jim Thompson, who has had a strong connection with Thailand for many years. As soon as you enter, you can clearly marvel at Western architecture mixed with East Asian traditional culture. Each nostalgic and delicate line of Buddha statues, sculptures and many valuable antiquities form a truly remarkable cultural space.
| Address: 6 Rama I Rd, Khwaeng Wang Mai, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand Top tips: Ticket price: THB200/adult, THB100/ person under 22 and free for children. Opening hours: 9am – 6pm |
ERAWAN SHRINE – A SACRED DESTINATION IN BANGKOK
Erawan is a Hindu shrine with a sacred golden four-faced statue of Thao Mahaprom. This Hindu deity represents kindness, compassion, sympathy and fairness expressed through each statue’s face. Built in the 1950s at the intersection of Ratchadamri Road, the shrine attracts a large number of local and foreign tourists because it is believed that the shrine will make all your dreams come true.
| Address: Thanon Ratchadamri, Khwaeng Lumphini, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand Top tips: Erawan Shrine is surrounded by three big shopping malls including Central World, BigC Supercenter and Siam Paragon. |
GO ON SAFARI IN BANGKOK
Located about 40km from the city centre, Safari World Bangkok allows visitors to discover a more wild world with a variety of animals from the different continents. Going on safari always brings excitement mixed with a little fear as you find yourself next to huge giraffes, giant rhinoceroses and even ferocious lions hunting for food. At Safari World Bangkok, you can also see a dolphin and sea lion performances.
| Top tips: The performance schedule can change during the day, so be sure to check the information in advance at the ticket office or at the information booth at the park. Ticket price: THB650/adult, THB550/child. |
ENJOYING THE BANGKOK LIFESTYLE WITH A CUP OF COFFEE
Nothing is better than enjoying a morning cup of coffee after waking up in Bangkok. A strong cup will put you in cheery mood to prepare for a long day of unique Thai experiences. Bangkok is famous for its countless cafes which are brimming with delicious food and drink and you can easily snap beautiful pictures. Give yourself plenty of time to get lost when you explore fun things and you will be rewarded with a different experience at every turn.
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