BANGKOK

Bangkok was established as Thailand’s capital in 1782. Over the next two centuries, it developed in many ways reflecting the modern dynamism; however, its ancient glories were well maintained, especially in the old areas around the Grand Palace. Today, Bangkok has become the principal gateway and prime tourist attraction for both domestic and international travelers.

Attractions

Grand Palace – This city landmark should be the first place on any visitor’s itinerary. It is a huge compound on Na Phra Lan Road consisting of several buildings with highly decorated architectural designs. Wat Phra Kaew in the same compound enshrines the Emerald Buddha image, most revered by the people. The complex is open daily from 8.30 a.m. – 3.30 p.m. Admission is paid for entrance and including a ticket to Vimanmek Royal Mansion. Proper attire is essential.

Sanam Luang – This huge public ground in front of the Grand Palace is used for royal cremation ceremonies and other special events including the Royal Ploughing Ceremony, Celebration of the King’s and Queen’s birthdays, and the New Year Festival. Other nearby monuments include the Statue of the Earth Goddess, erected in the reign of King Rama V to provide public drinking water, and the City Pillar Shrine or San Lak Muang, a temple-like structure erected by King Rama I

National Museum – Within walking distance of the Grand Palace, this complex was once a palace consisting of several old because Thai Style buildings. It houses a vast collection of artefacts found in all parts of the country ranging from Neolithic times, Sukhothai, Ayuttaya to the Bangkok period. The museum is open from Wednesdays to Sundays, 9.00 a.m – 4.00 p.m. and closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and annual holidays. Admission fee is paid. Guided tours in English, French, German, and Japanese are provided to visitors on certain days of the week.

Wat Pho – This world famous temple is located on Thai Wang Road next to the Grand Palace. It is Bangkok’s oldest and largest temple. The gigantic gold plated reclining Buddha with inlaid mother-of-pearl soles is highly revered among Buddhists. Also regarded as the first centre of public education, or sometimes called “Thailand’s first university”, the temple houses mural paintings, inscriptions, and statues which educated people on varied subjects, for example, literature, warfare, archaeology, astronomy, geology, meditation, medicine, and Thai Traditional massage.

 

Wat Arun – Located on the west bank of Chao Phraya River, this temple can be reached either by Arun Amarin Road or by boat from Tha Tien Pier, near Wat Pho. It was restored during the brief Thonburi period to be the Royal Chapel of King Taksin. An important structure is a 79-metre-high pagoda or “Phra Prang” decorated with ceramic tiles and fragments of multicoloured porcelain. The name of Wat Arun literary means “Temple of the Dawn”, but the most beautiful view of it can be seen from the east side of the river at sunset.

The Golden Mount – With the entrance on Boriphat Road, this is an artificial hill topped by a gilded pagoda. The mount is 260 feet in height from its base. Begun by King Rama III and completed in the reign of King Rama IV, it is one of the most celebrated landmarks in Bankgok’s old area and offers a panoramic city view from the top.

 

 

Vimanmek Royal Mansion – Located on Ratchawithi Road behind the National Assembly, this is the world’s largest building made entirely of golden teak. Removed from Ko Sichang in Chonburi province, it was rebuilt in the Dusit Palace in 1900 by the command of King Rama V. Many rooms currently maintain the atmosphere of the past. A guided tour is provided to visitors.

Most of the buildings in the same compound are now used as museums. The outstanding one is Abhisek Dusit Hall, which exhibits H.M. Queen Sirikit’s collection of handicraft masterpieces created by rural people. The other displays various items and art objects including H.M. King Bhumibol’s photography, paraphernalia of rank and portraits, ancient cloth, clocks, and royal carriages.

The compound is open daily from 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. Admission fee is paid. Proper attire is required. Traditional Thai dancing commences daily at 10.30 a.m and 2.00 p.m.

Dusit Zoo – This zoo is managed by the Zoological Park Organisation. It houses various species of tropical animals. There is a pond where visitors can enjoy paddling a boat. The area is pleasant and shady, and is suitable for a picnic. It is open daily everyday from 8.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m.

Suan Pakkad Palace – Located on Si Ayutthaya Road near the Phayathai intersection, this used to be the residence of Princess Chumphot, one of Thailand’s leading art collectors. Five traditional Thai houses overlooking a beautifully kept garden display a large collection of Thai arts and antiques. It is open everyday except Sundays from 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. Admission fee is paid.

Pasteur Institute or Snake Farm – This interesting spot is located at the corner of Henri Dunant and Rama IV Roads west of Chulalongkorn Hospital. It is a section of the Thai Red Cross, where one can have cholera, smallpox, and typhoid inoculations, as well as rabies treatment. The institute has become a popular tourist attraction because of its large collection of live poisonous snakes. It is open from 8.30 a.m – 4.30 p.m. on weekdays and 8.30 a.m.-12.00 a.m. on holidays. The extraction of venom from the snakes is demonstrated at 10.30 a.m and 2.30 p.m. on weekdays, and at 10.30 a.m. on holidays. Admission fee is paid.

King Rama IX Royal Park – The 200-acre park on Si Nakharin Road commemorates His Majesty King Rama IX’s 60th birthday in 1987. It comprises extensive botanical gardens, and a building displaying the works and life of King Rama IX.

Special Interests

Cruising along the Chao Phraya River
A cruise along the legendary Chao Phraya River and some canals on the Thon Buri side is the most pleasant way to explore the city once dubbed “Venice of the East”. The majestic charm of the Chao Phraya adds perspective to your exploration of the city’s premier attractions. Tourists can book such a tour through travel agents or rent a boat at Tha Chang, a pier near the Grand Palace.

Thai Boxing
Thai boxing is both a spot and means of self-defense. Contestants are allowed to use almost any part of their body; feet, elbows, legs, knees, and shoulders. The playing of traditional music during bouts makes even greater excitement. There are two venues in Bangkok for this type of sport.

Ratchadamnoen Stadium – Ratchadamnoen Nok Road, open every Monday and Wednesday at 6.00 p.m., Thursday at 5.00 and 9.00 p.m., and Sunday at 4.00 and 8.00 p.m.

Lumphini Stadium - Rama IV Road, every Tuesday and Friday at 6.00 p.m. and Saturday at 5.00 p.m.