Whether you are wanting a base for you South East Asian adventures or simply have a few days layover, Bangkok is the chaotic hub of Thailand and jumping point for the surrounding countries.
These are my top five sights in Bangkok, please leave a comment if you have more advice for other readers!
WAT ARUN
WAT ARUN
Named after Aruna, the Indian God of Dawn, this Buddhist temple is an incredible place to photograph and explore. Overlooking the Chao Phraya River, this temple is the perfect place to watch the sunrise of sunset.
If you are not scared of heights, climb the unbelievably narrow and steep steps up the Wat Arun!
TEMPLE OF THE RECLINING BUDDHA (Wat Pho)
TEMPLE OF THE RECLINING BUDDHA (Wat Pho)
Founded in the 16th century, the Reclining Buddha was bigger and more beautiful than I had imagined! As you gaze up at the golden Buddha, who’s feet are the size of a small car you will hear the ding of visitors at the coin prayer pots that snake along the back wall.
Buddhists believe there are 108 actions and symbols that lead Buddha to perfection, for 20 Baht (or so) you can buy cups with 108 coins to drop in each pot, it is a cathartic ritual whether it resonates with your religion or not.
An easy walk from the Grand Palace, expect crowds but be consoled with the free water you receive on entry!
THE GRAND PALACE
THE GRAND PALACE
Golden stupas, temples, statues, columns, there is gold everywhere the eye can see in the opulent Grand palace which was the official residence of the Kings of Siam (now Thailand) from 1782 to 1925.
Allocate a minimum of half a day to visiting the Outer Court buildings, dress very conservatively and be aware the complex closes at 3:30pm.
Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew)
Within the walls of the Grand Palace, this royal chapel is considered the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. The seated meditating Buddha glows in golden costumes changed seasonally by the King, the statue is made of jade or jasper not emerald as its name suggests.
Click here to visit the official website of Grand Palace.
Click here to visit the official website of the Chapel of the Emerald Buddha.
CHATUCHAK WEEKEND MARKET
CHATUCHAK WEEKEND MARKET
Every time I stop over in Bangkok I head to this market and indulge in some shopping heaven! Located on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, there are 15,000 stalls selling endless goods search for clothing, books, furniture, food, pets, antiques, plants and tourist knick-knacks.
Spend at least half a day wandering the labyrinth and keep your up your water in take, the sheer amount of stalls and people make the heat unbearable in the summer.
As the name suggests, visit on the weekend, on Wednesday it is mostly flowers and on Friday it is wholesale.
Click here to visit the official website of Chatuchak Weekend Market.
KHAO SAN ROAD
KHAO SAN ROAD
If Bangkok is the hub of South East Asia, Khao San Road is the hub of Bangkok’s tourist scene.
Hotels, bars, restaurants, delicious street food, shops, tour operators, money exchanges, everything you need is along Khao San Road.
NEED MORE ADVICE? Keep reading…
HEY ADVENTURER!
Get your weekly dose of travel stories and insider knowledge directly into your inbox.
Follow @travelling_notebook on Instagram!
So who am I…? Hi! My name is India.
I am a nomadic Australian who has wandered the world full time exploring over 60 countries and 5/7 continents.
After ten years on the road, I have launched my own website – Travelling Notebook – to share the knowledge I have gained on the road and the images I have collected over the years with fellow adventurers. Keep reading…
I am a freelance travel writer, photography and videographer, based in London. If you need specific travel advice or would like to collaborate please send an email my way!
Always say yes to adventure!
x India
Leave A Comment