In this article I will give you some indications on what to see in Bangkok, a city that perfectly embodies the incredible mix of tradition and modernity that characterizes Thailand. From ancient temples to glittering skyscrapers, from traditional markets to luxury shopping malls, Bangkok offers a unique experience that will catapult you into a world of fascinating contrasts. In this article, we’ll explore the wonders of this breathtaking city and discover why Bangkok deserves a prominent place on your trip to Thailand.
- Why visit Bangkok?
- Temples and monuments
- Bangkok Street Food
- Markets and Shopping Centers
- Nightlife
- The Fascinating Canals
- What to see in Bangkok?
- Grand Palace
- Wat Pho
- Wat Arun
- Chatuchak Weekend Market
- Cruise on the Chao Phraya River
- Floating markets
- Sampeng Lane in Chinatown
- History and curiosities about Bangkok
Why visit Bangkok?
Bangkok is a city that enchants visitors with its fascinating fusion of ancient culture and modernity. It’s a place where you can explore ancient temples in the morning and shop at world-class malls in the afternoon. Its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine and the warm hospitality of its inhabitants make this city an unforgettable experience. Here are some reasons why Bangkok should be on your list of destinations to visit:
Temples and monuments
Bangkok is dotted with majestic temples and monuments that narrate the history and spirituality of the country. Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) is home to the famous Buddha statue carved from a single block of jade, while Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) with its stupa-like structure is a sight not to be missed.
Bangkok Street Food
If you are a food enthusiast, Bangkok is a paradise for you. From street food stalls to floating markets, the city offers a wide range of traditional dishes and exotic delicacies. You can’t leave Bangkok without enjoying dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (spicy prawn soup) and Som Tum (green papaya salad).
Markets and Shopping Centers
Bangkok’s markets are a feast for the eyes and shopping. The Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the largest in the world, with over 8,000 stalls selling everything from clothes to art. On the other hand, malls like MBK and Siam Paragon offer the experience of luxury shopping.
Nightlife
Bangkok transforms when the sun goes down. Night markets such as Asiatique Market and Khaosan Road are popular spots for shopping and nighttime entertainment. The rooftop bars of the skyscrapers offer spectacular views of the illuminated city.
The Fascinating Canals
Bangkok is crisscrossed by a network of canals, known as “klongs”. A boat ride along these canals will allow you to discover the daily life of the people who live along the banks and admire the ancient traditional houses.
What to see in Bangkok?
Among the Asian capitals, Bangkok is certainly one of those that offers a greater variety of things to do and see and is usually always the first stop on every tour to Thailand.
Grand Palace
The Grand Palace is a monumental complex of extraordinary beauty and elegance. The royal palace represents the focal point of the complex and was the official residence of the kings of Thailand for many years.
Inside the Grand Palace you can also admire the famous Temple of the Emerald Buddha, a statue of Buddha carved from a single block of jade. The beautiful architecture and intricate details of the temples will leave you speechless.
Wat Pho
Wat Pho, or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is one of the oldest and most important temples in Bangkok. Its imposing statue of a reclining Buddha is a marvel to behold and measures 46 meters in length. The temple is also home to the oldest traditional Thai massage school, where you can enjoy a relaxing treatment.
Wat Arun
Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is one of Bangkok’s most recognizable icons. Its impressive central stupa, decorated with porcelain mosaics, shines under the sun’s rays, creating a breathtaking image. You can climb the steep steps of the stupa to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the Chao Phraya River.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
If you are a shopping enthusiast, you can’t miss the Chatuchak Weekend Market. With over 8,000 stalls selling everything from clothes to art, this market is a shopper’s paradise. It covers a huge area and offers a wide range of products, giving you a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.
Cruise on the Chao Phraya River
A cruise on the Chao Phraya River will allow you to explore the city from a unique perspective. Admire the monuments illuminated at night or enjoy a peaceful experience during the day as you pass ancient temples and modern skyscrapers.
Floating markets
Floating markets are an iconic feature of Bangkok, where you can purchase fresh fruit, street food and souvenirs directly from traditional boats. The most famous is the Damnoen Saduak market, a fascinating glimpse into daily life along the canals.
Sampeng Lane in Chinatown
Sampeng Lane is a narrow pedestrian street that runs through the heart of Chinatown and is famous for its chaotic and crowded markets. Here you will find stalls selling a wide range of products, from fabrics to clothes, household items to culinary delights. It is the ideal place to shop and discover unique objects.
Chinatown is also renowned for its delicious Chinese cuisine and street food. Here in the evening you will find a myriad of stalls and small restaurants serving authentic and irresistible dishes. Be sure to savor specialties such as Chinese “Pad Thai”, “Dim Sum” and grilled fish morsels.
History and curiosities about Bangkok
Bangkok, initially called “Krung Thep” by its inhabitants, has ancient origins dating back to the 15th century. The city was founded in 1782 by King Rama I, who moved the royal capital from nearby Thonburi to its current location on the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the city, which holds the record for the longest name in the world, is
Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Yuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit
which translates to
The city of angels, the great city, the eternal jewel city, the impregnable city of the god Indra, the great capital of the world endowed with nine precious gems, the happy city, rich in an enormous royal palace which recalls the celestial abode where The reincarnated god reigns, a city gifted by Indra and built by Vishnukarma
Over the centuries, Bangkok has undergone profound changes under the rule of various kings and dynasties. During the reign of King Rama IV in the 19th century, the city began to open up to international trade, attract foreigners and embrace modernization. The opening of the Klong Toey Canal and the construction of the first railways marked the step towards economic growth and urbanization.
Today, Bangkok is a breathtaking city that enchants visitors with its unique blend of contrasts between ancient and modern.
In short, there is certainly no shortage of things to see in Bangkok, you are spoiled for choice!