Sightseeing / Attractions
Halal Restaurants in Bangkok
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- Himali Cha Cha Restaurant
1229/11 Charoen Krung 47/1,
Bangrak, bkk 10500
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- Makyak Muslim Restaurant
497/16 Petchburi Rd.,
Rathewee, Bkk
Tel (662) 612 9028-9
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- Hasan Roasted Duck
Charoen Krung Rd. Opposite
Thong Tara Hotel
Tel (662) 089 2080
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- Sha Hor Zad Restaurant
6/8 Sukhumvit 3/1, Wattana,
Bkk 10110
Tel (662) 251 3666, 254 7392
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Location of Mosques in Bangkok
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Sathorn District
- Mosque Yawa
707 Moo 4, Soi Roong Nam Keng, Sathorn Tai Road, Yanawa,
Sathorn, Bkk 10120.
Tel (66 2) 211 1748
Bangrak District
- Mosque Ban Auu
63 Soi Ban Auu, Charoen Krung Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bkk 10500
Tel (66 2) 873 5338
- Mosque Harroon
2 Soi Charoen Krung 36, Sipraya, Bangrak, Bkk 10500
- Mosque Bruroon Na Si Yah
76 Soi Vitri, Silom Road, Bangrak, Bkk 10500
- 4. Mosque Bruroon E-Mamh
Surawong, Bangrak, Bkk 10500
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Bangkok Night Markets
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Take a tuk tuk to Suan Lum Night Market for an evening of bargaining and fun
Shopping in Bangkok is far easier and cooler by night. As well as the much appreciated drop in temperature, the sights, sounds, colours and smells always seem somehow more vivid once the sun has set. The range of markets is quite large and each one has their own various specialities and unique features.
The Suan Luam Night Bazaar is a good place to start your shopping odyssey. Its modern and intimate stalls are home to a good range of products shipped in from all corners of Thailand. Another great feature of this night market are the beer stalls and restaurants dotted around it. Visitors can rest their weary legs and enjoy a much needed cold beer while listening to some of the live music on offer here. The food available here ranges from Thai and Vietnamese to Italian and Middle Eastern cuisines.
The Pratunam Market Complex, situated near to the famous Pantip Plaza is a great place to seek out those designer goods. Huge amounts of stalls offer a large range of handbags, accessories, T-Shirts and fashion. This indoor market enjoys the cooling relief of air-conditioning. As well as this indoor market, the surrounding streets are full of interesting stalls that also have a good range of designer goods such as handbags and purses. The inside market is open 24 hours a day.
Patpong Night Market is very popular with tourists. Situated within the notorious district of Patpong, a place of sex shows and go-go bars, the Patpong Night Market is full of stalls selling fake designer goods at rock-bottom prices. Bargain hard and visitors can bag themselves a very cheap 'Rolex' watch or 'Armani' handbag. The goods here are of decent quality but tend not to be the real thing. You will unfortunately be on the receiving end of some hard sell in this area, both from stall owners and proprietors of the notorious bars whose glittering neon lights dominate the landscape.
The Banglamphu area of Bangkok is home to the backpacker mecca of Khao San Road, which is lined with some great stalls and markets. There is a huge amount of goods on offer here, all at reasonable prices. From swimming shorts to gold, Khao San Road is a great place to pick up some bargains and soak up the atmosphere at the same time. Books, CD's, movies, trainers, flip-flops, bags and traditional Thai goods can all be found here. Stalls here tend to close around 1:30am.
Buanglamphu Market is also positioned within the area. Mainly used by locals, the market is a good place to buy food and clothing. Another notable market near here is Bo-Be Market, a bustling place that is great for wholesale clothing and fabric.
The Memorial Bridge Night Market is another night-market which sells a large range of different products. Very good bargains can be found here, as the market is less popular with tourists than some of its fellow markets.
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Ancient City - Bangkok
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The Ancient City has reproduced some temples that no longer stand A typical 'floating market' has been recreated
at the Ancient City
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Just outside of Bangkok in Samut Prakan province is the Ancient City, a spacious historical theme park that provides a good option for a day's getaway from Bangkok. Featuring replicas of many of Thailand's most important historic sites, The Ancient City is quite large, covering some 320 acres of land and is commonly billed as 'the world's largest outdoor museum'.
The Ancient City features 109 replicas of famous monuments and architectural attractions in Thailand. The considerable expanse of Ancient City is shaped to replicate the basic geographic locations of Thailand itself and the monuments are placed roughly according to where they are located in Thailand.
The reproductions in Ancient City are accurate, with their construction having been overseen by experts from the National Museum, providing visitors who may not get a chance to see all of Thailand's architectural attractions with an impressive sampling of what they're missing, and in some cases wonders that no longer exist. One of the more impressive works in this regard is the recreation of the former Royal Hall of Ayutthaya, which was destroyed by the Burmese in 1767.
While there is quite an impressive showing of Thailand's royal history on display at the Ancient City, there are also several examples of different styles of Thai houses from the past and distinct to different regions of the country. In addition to the recreations on display at Ancient City are actual architectural structures purchased by the park, and reassembled here, such as the wooden temple located in the northern section of park, which was purchased from a hill-village in the North of Thailand.
The Ancient City contains numerous small food shops offering basic Thai fare, however, for a bit of a more traditional Thai experience the park also offers lunch in a restaurant set on a recreation of a Thai floating village. A small model Thai village in the Ancient City has ceramics, paper umbrellas and lacquer items produced by craftsmen for sale.
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Chatuchak market Bangkok
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Get lost among the 15,000 stalls of Bangkok's Chatuchak market
Every weekend the Chatuchak market comes alive in Bangkok, and it is absolutely huge. If you are a keen bargain hunter you will be in your element here: the seemingly endless labyrinth of shops and stalls would defeat all but the most meticulous and determined shopper. There are around 15,000 shops in the market and once you get stuck into the browsing you can soon become overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the place. It's become a tourist attraction in Bangkok and well worth a visit even to simply window shop and people watch!
Many of the stalls sell souvenirs and handicrafts so it's a great place to stock up before you return home; reams of luxurious Thai silk are on sale at rock-bottom prices; fake designer clothes can be bought which are barely distinguishable from the genuine articles; jewellery, ornaments, watches, DVDs, CDs... the list is endless and if you want to seek out every potential bargain perhaps you'd better come to the market on both Saturday and Sunday!
If you're particularly sensitive to animal cruelty be warned, you may be appalled by the squalid conditions in which some of the animals are kept in the many pet shops in the market.
If you need a break from the haggling and the shopping, there are many food stalls in and around the market selling a wide range of cheap Thai food. Usually it is of the snack variety, so expect barbequed satays, phad thai (fried noodles) and noodle curry. Or if you are feeling particularly adventurous, a bag of fried grasshoppers or crickets can be purchased from one of the insect stalls.
Since the market appeals mainly to Bangkok's Thai population, the prices of the goods on sale here are extremely low, and you will often be cursing yourself for paying double the Chatuchak price for something elsewhere in Bangkok. But even the first price quoted to you can be lowered by haggling with the shop's proprietor: usually the 'real' price will be about ½ to 2/3 of the price first given. Be careful not to be too stubborn with your haggling though. It's not worth being picky over 10 or 20 baht, it just causes friction and both buyer and seller lose face - not a situation anyone wants.
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Chinatown Bangkok
Yaowarat the Chinese legacy
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Chinatown Bangkok or Yaowarat was started when King Rama I decided in 1782 to establish the capital on the eastern bank of the Chao Phrya River. The Chinese immigrants who were originally settled in what is now the Grand Palace had to move out to a strip of land two km down the river.
Over the years the settlement grew. Today Chinatown Bangkok or Yaowarat covers a square bounded by Phadung Krung Kasem Canal to the east, the Ong Ang Canal to the west, Luang Road to the north and the Chao Phraya River to the south, an area of about 2 sq km.
The casual visitor to Chinatown would probably only have the time and energy to cover the main street Yaowarat Road where most of the activities are concentrated. The other road of interest is Rachawong Road which is off Yaowarat Road.
If you are coming to Chinatown by road the most convenient way to start your tour of this Bangkok legacy is to take the underground to the Hua Lam Phong underground station located on the eastern bank of the Phadung Krung Kasem Canal.
Yaowarat Road, the main street in Chinatown Bangkok, was built in the reign of King Rama V. The crowded street winds through the bustling heart of Chinatown like a mythical dragon rearing its head at the Odean Gate, an auspicious sign to the residents.
Traveling to Chinatown became more convenient, business picked up rapidly and Yaowarat soon became the city's first commercial district. It still does brisk trade today.
Shop signs in both Thai and Chinese give the visitor a clear indication that he's in Chinatown.
Every year during the Chinese New Year, Yaowarat Road is closed to traffic for street festivities, lion dances and food fairs. A member of the royal family graces the occasion to the joy and pride of the Yaowarat community.
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Erawan Museum - Three Headed Elephant statue
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Seldom on the tourist itinerary but certainly worth a stop on your way to the Ancient City, this bizarre giant three-headed elephant on a lofty plinth took 10 years to finish and has become a local merit making icon. The interior of the plinth is fabuluously decorated with all sorts of complex Buddhist and hindu symbolism, the personal indulgence of the same man who developed the Ancient City and Pattaya's remarkable Sanctuary of Truth. Well worth the visit, or a drive by. 99/9 Moo1, Bangmuangmai, Samut Prakan 10270, Tel: 02 380 0305, 371 3135, Fax: 02 380 0304, |
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Bangkok Floating Market
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Floating Market is a favorite with tourist
The Floating Market gained world-wide recognition after it was used in a legendary James Bond scene. It was here that Roger Moore zipped around in a souped-up longtail boat evading crooks and wowing cinema-goers around the world. Today it is a major tourist attraction in the Bangkok area despite being remotely located in Samut Songkhram, an hour's drive southwest of the city.
Situated at Damnoen Saduak, the Floating Market (of Bangkok) is made up of a number of small canals which are patrolled by small boats piloted by crafty ladies always ready to sell their wares and jockey for position with their competitors. The market is hot, sticky and busy; but an amazing amount of fun! You also have to get up really early to experience it at its best.
Today, this Bangkok Floating Market deals with more tourists than it does local people, but that does not prevent it from being a truly memorable experience. The boats are piled high with an enormous amount of produce; from fruit and vegetables to handicrafts. If a visitor is feeling peckish, they can simply hail a passing noodle-boat, complete with stove and condiments, all seeming to be precariously placed near the rather grimy water.
Most visitors to Bangkok Floating Market choose to take part in an organized tour rather than finding their own way to the market. Whilst the second choice is possible, using a tour company will probably ensure a better experience. Perhaps the best of both worlds is to take a private car from Bangkok and then a private boat around the market. This ensures guests can do things at their own pace. Visitors should be aware that the market opens at 06:30 and ends around 10:00. After 08:00, the market becomes incredibly busy, so early birds will get the best photos and produce.
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Jim Thompson's Thai House
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This is an extremely popular tourist destination in Bangkok, conveniently located near Siam Square, but tucked down a lane beneath the National Stadium BTS station. The property features the home of legendary businessman and pioneer in the silk industry, Jim Thompson. The property is home to a series of traditional Thai houses that were a venue to many legendary social soirees during the 1940s and 50s. There is a large amount of information here, as well as some truly amazing pieces of art. An adjoining museum allows visitors to purchase all manner of top-quality silk. 6 Kasemsan 2 Lane Rama 1 Road, Wangmai, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Tel: 02 216 7368, Fax: 02 6123744, Open: 09:00-16:30 Daily. |
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Songkran Festival Bangkok
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Experience the demonstration of the Songkran Festival in 4 regions at Wat Pho as well as enjoy demonstrstions of Thai food and local desserts, feast your eyes on cultural performances.
Moreover, in the Songkran Festival, TAT would like to invite you to dress Thai attire, visit and participate in the event of "the 9 Sacred Places ". the 9 royal temples in the Rattanakosin Square. To experience the wonderful treasure and enjoy the Songkran Festival in authentic Thai syle.
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Suan Pakkad Palace
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Tucked away on a peaceful little oasis in central Bangkok is the former palace of a Nineteenth Century royal and today houses an odd collection of Thai artefeacts the most interesting being the Thai traditional musical instruments of Prince Paributra. It's another example of typical regal Thai houses of the era and the easiest of those on offer to get to in Bangkok. 352-354 Sri Ayudhya Road, Rajathevi, Bangkok 1040, Tel: 02 246 1775-6 #229, 245 4934, Fax: 02 245 6369, 247 2079, Open: Daily 9a.m.-4p.m. |
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The National Gallery
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A must-see for art lovers, and is located near the Grand Palace. The gallery is home the finest collection of traditional and contemporary art in the country. The building is separated into two distinct areas. The first of these contains traditional art, including some wonderful examples from the Ayuttaya style of the 17th Century and the 19th Century Bangkok style. The contemporary section houses examples of cubism, surrealism and modern-art. The National Gallery is helpfully places near to the Tha Athit pier. Tel: 02 281 2224, 282 2639-40, No. 4 Chao-Fa Road, across from National Theatre, Open: Wed-Sun |
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The National Museum
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This is without a doubt the most important of its kind in Thailand. Thailand's first museum, was originally established under the reign of King Rama IV, who used the building as a place to house his extensive private collection. It also served previously as a the Privy counselor's residence beside the Grand Palace on the edge of the Sanam Luang ground. The museum is now home to the finest collection of art and historical displays in the region. All the exhibits contain English information and the guides and staff are always helpful and friendly. Some of the highlights include a wonderful display of ancient musical instruments and some incredible wood carvings and statues from throughout Thailand history. Several free tours depart daily from the entrance. Phra Borommaharatchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Tel: 02 224 1333, Fax: 02 224 1404. Open 09:00 - 16:00 (Wednesday - Sunday); Admission Fee: Thai 20 Baht, Foreigner 100 Baht.
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The Prasart Museum
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Home to a huge collection of historic artifacts. Thailand's history is traced from the pre-historic to the Bangkok periods. It is however located some way south of the CBD in Bang Kapi. Set in lush gardens it has an excellent collection of Siamese and Colonial era artifacts and luxuries. 9 Krung Thep Kritha Road, Soi 4, Bang Kapi, city limits, Tel: 02 379 3601 (Museum), 253 9772 (Office), Open: Tue-Sun 9a.m.-3p.m. |
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The Royal Barges National Museum
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The elegant royal barges are on display near the Grand Palace
Another popular destination for locals and visitors alike, located in sheds across the river from the Grand Palace. The museum houses the intricately designed barges that are only used for Royal processions along the river. All of the barges have been designed with the ultimate skill and care, and are a real treat to the eye. Some of the barges measure a huge 50m and are all adorned with different mythical heads. Arun Amorin Road, Siriraj, Bangkoknoi, Bangkok 10700, Open: Daily 9a.m.-5p.m., Closed: Dec 31 & Jan 1, Admission Fee: Thai 10 Baht, Foreigner 30 Baht. Tel & Fax: 02 424 0004
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The Vimanmek Mansion Museum
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Located within the Dusit Palace compound and is the world's largest building constructed from golden teak. This three-storey building contains a wealth of incredible architecture and art and is a true rendention of how the Thai monarchy lived at the turn of the twentieth century. Amongst its 81 rooms are some fine examples of Thai art and furniture. In some of the nearby buildings, guests can witness a collection of King Bhumibol's photography and Queen Sirkit's collection of rural handicrafts. 16 Ratchowithi Road, Dusit, Dusit, Bangkok 10300, Tel: 02 628-6300-9, Fax: 02 281 6880, Open Hours: Daily 9:30a.m.-4p.m
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Wat Arun Bangkok
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Wat Arun or Temple of the Dawn is name after the Indian god of the dawn-Aruna. (???????) The riverbank Landmark is opposite Wat Po and diagonally opposite the Grand Palace. It is Best Known for a porcelain encrusted 79 meter high central pagoda which sparkles in the sun. Open: Daily from 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Admission: 20 baht
Wat Arun is on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya river. You can take a boat from the Tha Tien Pier near Wat Po which is on the Bangkok Side.
The Prang adopted mixed influence from both Khmer and Thai but uses Chinese porcelain and tiles for decoration. Indeed, the sight of Wat Arun's Prang is amazing both day and night
Every now and then, Wat Arun would have light and sound presentation. The show starts every 15 minute during the night. The show brings up different perspective of the already beautiful Prang. Most importantly, the show is free of charge. It gives a brief history of the area.
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Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace, Bangkok
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Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace together are probably the number one tourist attraction in Bangkok, and hence probably in all of Thailand. If you are only going to see one sight in Bangkok this should be it - the stunning grandeur of the temples inside the complex is unforgettable.
The grounds of Wat Phra Kaew actually comprises of many 'wats' (Buddhist temples), all of which are superb examples of classical Thai Buddhist temples from the current Rattanakosin style era. Polished gold stupas rise up among ornate pillars and roofs which are studded with small mirrors and cut glass, which on close inspection has the appearance of an intricate mosaic, but from afar simply glitters and sparkles. The chief attraction here is the Wat Phra Kaew itself, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which was erected in 1782. This is the most sacred temple in the complex and Buddhist ceremonies are often held here. Adjacent to it is the Grand Palace - one of several Royal residences.The Emerald Buddha is perhaps the most revered and valued Buddhist icon in all of Thailand and attracts thousands of tourists and Thai pilgrims every day. In fact it is rather diminutive in size, measuring just 75cms in height and isn't actually made of emeralds, but rather jade or jasper. It also has a rather tumultuous background.
The origins of the Emerald Buddha are unknown but earliest records begin with a non-descript Buddha of marble and gold leaf in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand, which cracked open in a fall to reveal the present 'emerald Buddha' inside. In the late fifteenth century it was moved to a temple in nearby Lampang (both of these temples are also called ' Wat Phra Kaew '), and later to Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai at the zenith of the Lanna Kingdom's power. But in the sixteenth century, raiders from the Lan Chan (Laos) Kingdom took the Emerald Buddha to Vientiane and installed it in a temple there. It was not until 200 years later that it returned to Thailand after King Taksin defeated the Lao. It originally found a new home in the new capital of Ton Buri but was moved across the river when Bangkok became the new capital, and the present Wat Phra Kaew was built especially for it.
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