Thailand

Bangkok

It isn't conventional charm that keeps us coming back to Bangkok. The Thai capital doesn't have an Old Town like Hanoi, the modernity of Hong Kong, or the density of temples like Siem Reap (though few places in Southeast Asia are as spectacular as Wat Arun at sunrise).

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A CLOSER LOOK

Top places to visit

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The National Museum

This building was originally a palace until it was converted into a museum in the 1880s. It is a treasure house of Thai art and archaeology. The Red House initially home to the sister of King Rama I is a must see in addition to the Phuttaisawan Chapel which reflects the magnificence of Buddhist temple architecture. The Old Transportation Room houses an interesting collection of ivory carvings, palanquins for Thai Royalty and Elephant Chairs. The Museum also displays Thai gold jewelry, ceramic pieces, sculptures, wood carvings, stone carvings, textiles, Thai dress, musical instruments and Buddhist icons.

Temple of Dawn

This is one of Bangkok's most renowned temples. Numerous steps have to be climbed and while the ascent is strenuous the stunning view more than compensates for that. The Grand Palace, the Temple of the Holy Jewel Image and the Chao Phraya River- the main landmarks of the city are visible from 260 feet above the ground.

The Golden Mount

This mount is an important cite for Buddhists since the Golden Chedi that sits atop it houses a relic from the subcontinent gifted to King Rama IV by the British. The view is lovely and Bangkok's rooftops as well as the Rattanakosin Island are visible from it. Tourists visiting in the month of October/ November should not miss the festival that occurs here annually when the temple is wrapped in red sheets and a number of stalls and theatrical performers appear to entertain.

Ban Thai Museum

This is a fantastic museum showcasing Thai culture and living across various time periods. The garden is not to be missed; beautiful native Thai flowers are grown here. This museum was Jim Thompson's House. Thompson who hailed from New York was stationed in Thailand during WW II and later settled in Bangkok where he revived the Thai silk industry. Art pieces collected by Jim Thompson are also exhibited here in addition to his personal belongings. These include porcelain, sculptures, Thai scroll paintings and wood carvings.

Dusit Palace Park

This park is beautiful and located within it is the world's largest teak mansion as well as the Royal Elephant Thai Museum. Traditional dancing performances are also an item to look out for and occur twice daily after 10 A.M and after 2 P.M. These performances are exotic and give tourists a good idea about what traditional Thai culture entails.

Temple of the Great Relic & the Amulet Market

This is arguably the oldest Buddhist temple in Bangkok. Next to it is the amulet market where different amulets, talismans, icons and other religious symbolic pieces are available which are said to bring good luck and good fortune to the person using them. It is very interesting to see these.

The Golden Buddha

This is an important site for Thai locals. Dating back to the 1200s the image of Buddha is spectacular. This 10 foot statue weighing in at over 5 tons consists of solid gold. The story of its discovery is a famed legend that when it was found it had been covered with plaster, probably to protect it being sacked by foreign invaders. Beneath the plaster was this fantastic statue of gleaming gold.

Erawan Shrine

This is an exotic shrine popular amongst locals as well as foreigners. People pay their respects to Brahma and take in the grandeur of this shrine.

Temple of the Holy Jewel Image

This is located within the grounds of the Grand Palace. It is home to a statue of Buddha made of green jasper and referred to as the Emerald Buddha. This is a fantastic image of Buddha passionately revered by the Thais that sits atop a massive 11 meter tall gold altar, protected by a nine-tiered umbrella. The surrounding murals depicting different scenes from the Thai version of the Ramayana mythology, the Ramakian and the intricate pearl designs in the doors are beautiful and worth a look. This statue is draped in a cloak that is changed thrice a year in an important religious ritual performed by the King himself. Statues of elephants; symbols of independence and power are also present in this sanctuary and millions of visitors rub it for good luck.

Temple of the Reclining Buddha

This temple dates back to the 1500s and is the oldest in Thailand. The reclining Buddha located in the northern section was made in the 1800s and is almost 150 feet long and 15 feet high. It is made of cement-covered brick and coated with gold leaf. The soles of the feet are inlaid with mother-of-pearl with 108 signs, marks and qualities by which a true Buddha is recognized. It is considered good luck to drop coins into the begging bowls that lie by Buddha's spine. There are a vast number of chedis located nearby as well. Visitors can also opt for Thai massages here.

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THE LOCAL TABLE

Halal restaurants in Bangkok

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Somboon Seafood

Famous for its delicious seafood dishes this is a good choice for seafood lovers. There is a large aquarium stationed outside where guests can view the kinds of seafood served, from crab, lobster, shrimps to prawns and diverse varieties of fish. The dishes are well seasoned and spicy.

The Chinese Restaurant

This restaurant serves delicious sea food dishes. The lobster and the crab dishes are especially delectable. This eatery serves Chinese food with a twist and the items listed in the menu are far from the conventional and well known Chinese dishes.

May Kaidee

This is a very famous restaurant in Bangkok which has its very own clientele. The food is more than affordable and more importantly absolutely delicious. All dishes are vegetable based so this is definitely the place to go to for veggie lovers! Soups to salads to noodles to curries- you name it, will be listed on the menu.

Deen Restaurant

Cuisine: Thai

Roti- Mataba

Curries are the specialty here where dishes listed on the menu are a fusion of Thai and sub-continental food. Prices are more than reasonable for such excellent quality food.

MBK Food Court

Cuisine: Chinese

MBK Food Court

This is a popular food court amongst locals and foreigners alike. With a collection of street food stalls in one place, guests can choose from a diverse menu. Vegetarian dishes are the specialty here.

Le Normandie

The interior of this restaurant is chic and stylish. The view is stunning with guests being able to look out upon the Chao Phraya River. The food is quite simply delicious and of excellent quality. The menu incorporates all traditional French dishes including French cheese and renowned French desserts. The prices are exorbitant but the food and location will be unforgettable.

Shahrazad Restaurant

This average priced halal eatery serves Arabic and Middle Eastern food. Items on the menu include hummus, kababs, nan bread, lamb and more. The place is known to be quite busy but it is well worth the wait, since the food is highly recommended and the service is exemplary.

Le Dalat

The interior of this restaurant is simple and elegant and dotted with antiques placed all over. Seating is both indoors and outdoors where the lovely garden is quite enchanting. Meat and seafood dishes are both listed on the menu though the latter are particularly delectable.

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Where to stay in Bangkok

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Narai Hotel

This is a popular choice amongst tourists. Rooms are not at all luxurious or stylish but are sufficient none the less. Hotel facilities include restaurants, pool, fitness club, dry cleaning and laundry services as well as a shopping arcade. In room facilities include satellite TV and AC in addition to a fridge and mini-bar.

City Lodge

These twin lodges are extremely reasonably priced. A major benefit is this lodge's affiliation with the Amari Boulevard Hotel which allows for customers to enjoy many of the facilities in the Amari. The rooms are comfortable and simple even if not elegantly furnished. Hotel facilities include a coffee shop, access to Amari's rooftop pool, a fitness centre, babysitting services, dry cleaning and laundry services. In room facilities include a TV, AC, mini-bar and a fridge.

Niagara Hotel

This hotel has a good location and is extremely affordable. While the hotel exterior and interior are unimpressive furnishing wise, the rooms and bathrooms are clean and adequate. Located outside the hotel are a number of authentic Thai food stalls and roadside joints. The hotel is close to Silom Road, Silom Plaza and the Sky Train. In room facilities include satellite TV and an AC.

The Oriental

This hotel has had quite a colorful history. It dates back to the 1860s and has played host to some of the most prominent names in literature such as Conrad, Maugham, Greene and Le Carre. The service is outstanding and tourists will not leave this hotel disappointed. Hotel facilities include restaurants, bars, spas, Jacuzzis, tennis courts, room service, swimming pools, babysitting, dry cleaning and laundry services as well as a shopping arcade and a Thai beauty treatment centre as well as a fitness centre. In room facilities include satellite TV, AC, hairdryer, fridge and a mini-bar.

The Sukhothai

This hotel is located in the Business District and has its very own distinctive style. The decor is simple, elegant yet sophisticated. The interior is minimalist yet luxurious. The bathrooms are huge and extravagant with excess wardrobe space. The ambience is very calm and serene with the hotel gardens dotted with lotus pools. Hotel facilities are plentiful. In addition to restaurants, bars, spas, Jacuzzis, a swimming pool, tennis court, room service, dry cleaning and laundry services the hotel consists of a fitness centre, massaging service, a salon and also provides babysitting services and aerobics classes. In room facilities include a fax machine, internet access, satellite TV, AC, fridge and safe.

Sathorn Heritage Hotels

The Sathorn Heritage Hotel has much to offer guests in terms of luxury and convenience. The hotel is located in the heart of the city - a ten minute walk brings you to Silom shopping area, BTS Chong Nonsi & Surasak Station and MRT Lumpini from Saladang & Silom station - which is a convenience for both leisure and business travellers.

Grand Hyatt Erawan

This is arguably the most luxurious hotel in town. This beautiful building dates back to 1956. This hotel has been host to a number of political personalities and other celebrities. The service is excellent and efficient. Rooms are spacious with beautiful interiors and sophisticated furnishings. Hotel facilities include restaurants, bars, spas, Jacuzzis, tennis courts, squash courts, room service, a swimming pool, babysitting, dry cleaning and laundry services as well as a shopping arcade. In room facilities include satellite TV, AC, hairdryer, safe, a mini-bar and internet access.

Bangkok Marriott Resort & Spa

This is located on the Chao Phraya River and is the ideal choice for those tourists who wish to be inside of Bangkok and at the same time outside of it. The resort is a wonderful area where guests can unwind after a strenuous day of sight-seeing. The hotel landscape is dotted with a number of lily ponds and fountains which have a calming effect. A safe distance away from the hustle and bustle of central Bangkok, this hotel is still close by. Hotel facilities include restaurants, a bar, swimming pool, Jacuzzi, tennis courts, room service, babysitting, laundry/ dry cleaning services, a shopping arcade and a spa. In room facilities include satellite TV, an AC, a fridge, mini-bar and safe.

*Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit

This hotel suits business travellers and is located in the fashionable Thonglor district of Bangkok, Thailand. Its location offers easy access to the city centre and popular shopping centres. All rooms are spacious and suit tourists and business travellers, with high-speed Wi-Fi, luxurious bedding and amenities. The hotel offers delicious dining options. It also provides approximately 5000 square feet of open space for a truly unforgettable experience if you wish to hold a party or event.

Siam City Hotel

This hotel has an excellent location within walking distance of major shopping areas, major monuments/ sights of Bangkok and famous restaurants. Rooms are spacious, inviting and elegant. Hotel facilities entail restaurants, a pool, Jacuzzis, spas, sauna, fitness centre, babysitting, laundry and dry cleaning services and a salon. In room facilities entail satellite TV, AC, mini-bar and a fridge.

History and today in Bangkok

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When to go

When to go Bangkok

Fast Facts

Fast Facts Bangkok

Visa Information

A tourist visa is needed to stay in Bangkok for up to 30- 60 days. Stay can be extended for another 30 days at the nearest immigration office. Such visas are only issued to those vacationing in Bangkok and not for those who intend to live or work there.

Exchange Rates

Exchange Rates Bangkok

Public Holidays

Public Holiday Bangkok

Annual Temperature

Annual Temperature Bangkok

Bangkok's Residents

BangkokÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Residents Bangkok

Bangkok Today

Bangkok today Bangkok

Bangkok History

Bangkok back then Bangkok

Useful information

Shopping

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Patpong Night Market

This night market comprises of a number of stalls where anything and everything is available from clothes, accessories, handbags and watches to CDs and DVDs. Some wonderful knock offs of renowned fashion houses are on sale here though more recently there has been a major crackdown on this thriving black market.

Sukhumvit

Another famous shopping district of Bangkok- the following brands have set up shop here:

Chinatown

There are a number of gold shops located here. Look out for Ban Mo Jewelry Street and Phahurat Cloth market where traditional Thai jewelry and fabrics are on sale. These are unique and exotic and worth the buy.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

This weekend market comprises of a number of stalls where everything you can possibly think of is available from clothes, accessories, handbags and watches to CDs and DVDs. Also available here are flowers, vegetables, fruits, seafood, ceramics and pottery. Pets can also be bought at this market. It is quite popular amongst both locals and foreigners and is worth a trip to.

Siam Square

Siam Square is a major shopping area of Bangkok. A number of malls and shops are situated here. These include:

Pantip Plaza

Pantip Plaza is the biggest indoor IT shopping mall located on New Phetchaburi Road in Ratchathewi district. The mall has been divided into two parts, IT City which occupies the top floor, and Data IT on the mezzanine level. There are hundreds of small shops specializing in computer hardware, software and accessories, including parts, repair, modifications, networking, and secondhand laptops, Macintosh and peripherals, music, movies, mobile phone and digital cameras.

Address of Suan Lum Night Bazaar

Address of Suan Lum Night Bazaar: near Lumphini Park, Rama IV Road

Khao San Road Area

Tourists ought to browse through the various shops and stalls that make up the Khao San Road Market. All sorts of goods are available from handicrafts, antiques and souvenirs, to books, clothes and crockery. Prices are negotiable too.

L' Arcadia

This shop sells beautiful antiques and collectibles that have come from all over East Asia including Thailand. These include furniture items such as cabinets as well as sculptures, wood carvings and boxes etc.

Suan Lum Night Plaza

Beautiful trinkets and other traditional Thai souvenirs are on sale here. The atmosphere is lively with live music playing in the background. The food stalls set up all over make for a good evening out.

Signature sights in Bangkok

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Royal Elephant Thai Museum

This is a very interesting museum. It houses various exhibits pertaining to Thailand's most prized animals, elephants. The museum displays shed light on the significance of elephants in Thai culture and society as well as the importance that is ascribed to white elephants which are all deemed royal property and kept in stables built in Dusit Palace.

City Pillar Shrine

When Bangkok became the capital in 1782, King Rama I ordered the construction of this shrine. Inside are the four gods revered by the Thais including Phra Seua Muang, Phra Song Muang, Phra Lak Muang and Phra Siam Devathiraj. All four are thought to be the protectors and guardians of the city of Bangkok.

The Royal Barges

Take a boat along the Chao Phraya River and stop over at the Royal Barges where visitors will be treated to the view of unique sailing vessels elaborately designed and painted with different etchings. These vessels are used by the Royal Family during state ceremonies as well as religious rites and rituals. The Garuda and the Dragon are mythological creatures commonly found etched on these barges.

Siam Ocean World

This is a fantastic aquarium that is absolutely massive. Children and adults alike will love to watch the sharks and penguins being fed and can gaze for hours on end at the under water creatures through the glass which encloses the deep reef zone.

Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall

This royal building was commissioned by King Chulalongkorn. The exterior and interior of this building is an amalgamation of Thai and Western architectural styles. This particular king was one of the first Thai Royals to travel to Europe which is where the inspiration probably came from. As with the grand palace visitors are required to wear appropriate dress.

The Grand Palace

This is arguable the most famous of Bangkok's attractions. The Grand Palace which once housed the Thai Royal Family is a sight to behold. Built by King Rama i in 1782 when Bangkok became the capital, there is a dress code to be observed when visiting this place and visitors are required to have their legs and arms covered. King Rama's son's tutor Anna [famed by the film The King and I] lived over here. There are many important sites located within the Palace Gates; these include the Pavilion for Holy Water [Thai Monks swore allegiance to the King and purified themselves here], the Disrobing Pavilion where the Royal Elephants were kept and where the King mounted his before processions, the funeral Hall where Thai royals who have passed away are kept in for a year before their bodies are cremated, the Chakri Maha Prasad built for King Rama the IV.This structure is architecturally unique since it combines Thai and Victorian architectural styles. This building houses a collection of weapons, the ashes of deceased royals and the throne room. Last but not least the Forbidden Quarters are also located here where traditionally the wives of the Royals would pass their time. Tourists should spare enough time to explore this Palace to the utmost.

Festivals and events in Bangkok

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Bangkok Countdown

People gather at the Central World Plaza in Bangkok to welcome the New Year. Thais and foreigners alike love partying hard. Music and some amazing laser light shows are to be looked forward to.

International Swan Boat Races

This is an extremely interesting and adventurous festival that is unique to Bangkok. The venue for this annual event is the Chao Phraya River along which the city is situated. Over 20 international teams take part in this competition. Tourists should not miss the sight of these beautifully decorated and painted boats that take the shape of swans.

International Festival of Dance and Music

The Thailand Cultural Centre is host to this annual event that showcases the performing arts- these include ballet, opera, singing, dancing, jazz and symphony. Local and foreign talent from around the globe participates in this wonderful festival.

Royal Ploughing Ceremony

This is an annual event. This festival entails the King partaking in an ancient Brahman ritual to welcome the rice planting season. The venue is Sanam Luang.

Chinatown Festival

This is an annual event held on Yaowarat Road. Multiple shows go on side by side; cultural shows, fashion shows, screening of Chinese films, etc. Be sure to try out some of the delectable food available here.

Bangkok tours and experiences

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Custom Designed Tours

The following travel agencies can be contacted as they often arrange for tourists to be given tours around the city’s main attractions. These tours are usually custom designed so it’s the tourists who get to decide which places will be visited and also decide on the duration of the tour. Often a car, driver and guide can be hired who will transport tourists to their destination.

Grand Pearl Cruises

A number of cruises are also embarked on a daily basis where tourists are taken for a ride on the Chao Phraya River. The following operator should be contacted for details:

Bangkok masjids and Muslim travel

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Amanatul Islam Mosque

Prawet, Bangkok Province, Thailand

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Nurukya Mosque Yard

Soi Suk Sawat 14/21 (Chumchon Nurunyaki), Chom Thong, Bangkok, Thailand

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Islamic Cultural Center of Thailand

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Nurulloz Mosque

Min Buri, Bangkok Province, Thailand

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Al-Kubaro Mosque

Suan Luang, Bangkok Province, Thailand

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Khai RI Ya Tun Islamiya Mosque

Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan, Thailand

Transportation

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Buses

Buses are a popular mode of travel in Bangkok. Using the bus is advanatgeous since the entire city of Bangkok is covered by the bus network. Prices are extremely reasonable and most of these buses are air-conditioned. The price ranges from 6 Baht to 20 Baht depending on the distance traveled. The cheapest buses cost 3.5 baht and are not air conditioned.

Bangkok's Skytrain [BTS]

BangkokÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s Skytrain [BTS] Bangkok

Mass Rapid Transportation [MRT]

Mass Rapid Transportation [MRT] Bangkok

Taxi

Bangkok's streets are dotted with taxis a popular mode of travel amongst locals and tourists alike.

Tuk-Tuk

These are like modernized tricycles, covered at the top and open at the sides.They are normally a cheaper mode of transportation than a taxi. Fares should be agreed upon before passengers get in as these are not metered and the drivers are known to charge exorbitantly. These should be opted for where only a short distance is to be covered as the bumpy ride you are likely to experience is not very comfortable. Another downside of this is that they are noisy and open to exhaust fumes. However if you want to experience something novel, do opt for a short ride which will cost anywhere between 10-40 Bahts.

Car for hire

Car for hire Bangkok

From the airport

From the airport Bangkok

Driving tips

Drivers should carry with them at all times an International Driving License. They should have at least one year driving experience. They should have on them documents pertaining to the car at all times. Drivers should carry their passports as well. Some traffic police are extremely corrupt and looking to make some extra cash so if bothered too much simply hand over a 100 Bahts or so. It should be noted that driving in Bangkok is a hassle because of frequent traffic jams, unclear road signs and reckless drivers on the roads. Driving oneself is not advisable.

Health and Safety

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Health And Safety

Health And Safty Bangkok

Special offers

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Save up to 33% with three nights for the price of two, plus breakfast, minibar, wellness access, and late checkout.

Bangkok stay three nights and pay for two

Members of Shangri-La Circle can book a minimum three-night Bangkok stay that prices as three nights for two, saving up to 33%, with breakfast and minibar included; bookings are open until 26 December 2026 for stays through 30 June 2027.

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