Bangkok

Bangkok – 10 Places to visit – How to reach

Bangkok is the capital and largest city of Thailand. It is a vibrant, bustling metropolis that is home to over 10 million people and is known for its rich culture, historical landmarks, and street food. Some of the most famous tourist attractions in Bangkok include the Grand Palace, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), Chatuchak Weekend Market, and many others. Additionally, Bangkok is also famous for its lively nightlife scene, with a variety of clubs, bars, and rooftop lounges that cater to a wide range of music tastes and crowds. Overall, Bangkok is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the rich culture, history, and energy of Thailand.

Places to visit in Bangkok

Grand Palace:

The Grand Palace in Bangkok is one of the most famous and recognizable landmarks in Thailand. Built in 1782, this stunning palace served as the official residence of the Thai King for over 150 years. Visitors can admire the intricate architecture and intricate details of the buildings, including the throne halls, the Coronation Hall, and the magnificent Emerald Buddha temple.

Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn):

Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is a beautiful temple located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The temple is named after the Hindu god Aruna and is known for its stunning Khmer-style architecture and multi-tiered prangs (towers). The temple is especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset, when the sun lights up the colorful glass and Chinese porcelain decorations.

Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha):

Wat Phra Kaew is the most sacred temple in Thailand and is considered the spiritual heart of the country. The temple houses the Emerald Buddha, a revered Buddhist artifact that dates back to the 14th century. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the temple’s architecture, including the colorful murals and the ornate gilded details.

Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha):

Wat Pho is a large temple complex in Bangkok that is known for its giant reclining Buddha statue, which is 46 meters long and 15 meters tall. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the statue, as well as the other beautiful Buddhist artifacts and temples located within the complex.

Chatuchak Weekend Market:

Chatuchak Weekend Market is the largest outdoor market in the world, and is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves shopping, street food, and experiencing local culture. The market covers an area of over 35 acres and offers a dizzying array of goods, including clothing, accessories, home decor, and more.

Siam Paragon:

Siam Paragon is one of the largest and most popular shopping malls in Bangkok, offering a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Visitors can browse through the latest designer collections at luxury boutiques, enjoy a meal at one of the many international restaurants, or catch a movie at the IMAX theater.

Wat Saket (Golden Mount Temple):

Wat Saket is a temple located on a man-made hill in the Phra Nakhon district of Bangkok. The temple is known for its golden chedi (stupa), which houses a relic of the Buddha, and offers panoramic views of the city. Visitors can climb the 300 steps to the top of the hill to enjoy the views and pay their respects at the temple.

Chatuchak Park:

Chatuchak Park is a large park located in the heart of Bangkok, and is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with plenty of green space, walking paths, and picnic areas. Visitors can also see the Chatuchak Park Orchid and Butterfly Garden, which is home to a collection of exotic orchids and colorful butterflies.

Jim Thompson House:

The Jim Thompson House is a museum located in the heart of Bangkok, showcasing the life and work of American architect and entrepreneur Jim Thompson. The museum is housed in a traditional Thai-style teak house, and features a collection of Southeast Asian antiques and artifacts, as well as Thompson’s personal art collection.

Khao San Road:

Khao San Road is a lively street located in the Banglamphu area of Bangkok, and is a popular destination for backpackers and budget travelers. The street is lined with street vendors, shops, bars, and restaurants, and is known for its lively atmosphere and budget-friendly prices. Visitors can shop for souvenirs, sample street food, or simply soak up the energy of this unique and vibrant area.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Bangkok depends on what type of weather and conditions you prefer.

• November to February: This is the cool and dry season in Bangkok, with temperatures ranging from 22-32°C. This is considered the best time to visit, as the weather is pleasant and there is little rainfall.
• March to May: This is the hot and dry season, with temperatures reaching as high as 38°C. This time is still considered a good time to visit, as the weather is mostly sunny and there are fewer crowds compared to peak tourist season.
• June to October: This is the monsoon season in Bangkok, with high levels of rainfall and humidity. Although the weather may not be ideal for some, the city can be less crowded and prices for hotels and tours may be lower.

Overall, the best time to visit Bangkok depends on personal preference, but the cool and dry season from November to February is generally considered the most popular and the best time to visit for most visitors.

How to reach

Bangkok is well-connected by air, land, and water, making it easy to reach from various destinations. Here are some ways to reach Bangkok:

1. By Air: Suvarnabhumi Airport is Bangkok’s main international airport and is located about 30 kilometers from the city center. There are direct flights to Bangkok from major cities around the world, making it a convenient and efficient option for many travelers.
2. By Land: If you’re coming from neighboring countries such as Laos, Cambodia, or Malaysia, you can take a bus or a train to Bangkok. The government-run buses are air-conditioned and offer a convenient and affordable option, while trains offer a more scenic and relaxed way to travel.
3. By Water: Bangkok is located on the Chao Phraya River, which is a major waterway in Thailand. There are several options for river transport, including public ferries, river taxis, and tourist boats, which can be a fun and unique way to explore the city.

Once you arrive in Bangkok, there are several options for getting around the city, including taxis, tuk-tuks, public buses, and the Skytrain (BTS) and Subway (MRT) systems. It’s recommended to plan ahead and choose the best transportation option based on your travel plans and budget.

Where to stay

Bangkok offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and style. Here are some popular areas to stay in Bangkok:

1. Sukhumvit: Sukhumvit is a popular area for tourists and expatriates, offering a range of accommodation options, shopping, dining, and nightlife. Sukhumvit is also home to several shopping centers, including Terminal 21 and EmQuartier.
2. Silom: Silom is a business district located in the heart of Bangkok, and is a popular area for travelers who want to be close to the city’s financial and shopping districts. Silom is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a range of bars, clubs, and street food stalls.
3. Khao San Road: Khao San Road is a popular area for budget travelers and backpackers, offering a range of budget-friendly accommodation options, street food stalls, and shops. The area is also known for its lively atmosphere and is a great place to meet other travelers.
4. Siam: Siam is a shopping and entertainment district in Bangkok, and is home to several popular shopping malls, including Siam Paragon and MBK. Siam is a great place to stay for those who want to be close to the city’s shopping and entertainment options.
5. Old Town (Rattanakosin): Old Town is a historic district in Bangkok, and is home to several of the city’s famous temples, including Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Pho. Old Town is a great place to stay for those who want to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Regardless of where you choose to stay, it’s recommended to book your accommodation in advance to ensure availability and get the best rates.