Thailand

Bangkok, the lively and sometimes chaotic capital of Thailand, is often criticized by travelers who prefer the treks of the north or the beaches of the south. However, skipping Bangkok during your trip to Thailand means missing out on the incredible cultural diversity of Thailand. Crossed by the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok lives to the rhythm of water taxis gliding on the water, tuk-tuks weaving through traffic, bustling markets, and hands weaving freshly cut flowers by the roadside.

Almost obligatory as a starting point for any trip to Thailand, Bangkok will immerse you in the Thai frenzy where almost everything seems possible.

History

Bangkok received its status as the capital of Siam in 1782, the year General Chao Phraya Chakri ascended to the throne. He changed his name when he became sovereign and was called Rama I. He built the new city in the image of Ayuthaya, which was destroyed by the Burmese in 1767.

Many buildings were built, including the Grand Palace and the temple of Wat Pho. Later, when Rama II (1809-1824) and Rama III (1824-1851) ascended to the throne, other buildings were erected, including Wat Arun, Wat Bowon Niwet, and Wat Yan Nawa. Furthermore, with the arrival of Rama IV (1851-1868) in power, Bangkok received new streets, and a new moat was dug to reinforce the first canal previously built.

Today

Traversed by the Chao Phraya River, the city of Bangkok offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Indeed, on one side of the river, one notices the numerous religious sanctuaries that reflect the city's past, and on the other side, contemporary buildings, shopping centers, markets, etc., which testify to the city's constant dynamism.

What can one do during a stay in Bangkok?

Visit the city's temples

Bangkok's temples are among the city's must-see attractions. Among the most visited and well-known are Wat Pho, Wat Phra Kaeo, Wat Saket, Wat Traimit, Wat Arun, and Wat Benchama Bophit.

Wat Pho

Regarding Wat Pho, which is one of the most popular among travelers, it houses the famous reclining Buddha. The statue in question is simply gigantic, measuring about 43 meters long and approximately 15 meters in height. In this Buddhist sanctuary, you will find a renowned traditional massage school that has been teaching this therapy since 1962. The establishment has also specialized in the teaching of traditional medicine.

Wat Arun

Let yourself be captivated by a spectacular view of Wat Arun temple.

Wat Phra Kaeo

The Royal Palace of Bangkok is also a must! It houses the temple of the Emerald Buddha locally called Wat Phra Kaeo. This sanctuary owes its name to the Buddha statue it houses, which is not made of emerald but rather jadeite.

Take a boat trip on the Chao Phraya

Among the favorite activities of tourists during their visit to Bangkok, a boat ride on the Chao Phraya is a must. River taxis are widely used by the inhabitants of Bangkok. You can easily take a short boat ride by boarding at one of the stops and getting off at the stop of your choice.

Cruising on the river or through the canals allows you to discover the city differently and immerse yourself in the daily life of the people of Bangkok.

Visit Chatuchak Market

This commercial venue is located in the north of the city and is an ideal place to buy some souvenir items during your stay in Thailand. It is best to visit Chatuchak Market on the weekend and preferably in the morning, as there are many more people in the afternoon. To better navigate the market, you can pick up a market map from the tourist offices.

The products sold there are very diverse; you will find interior decorations, handicrafts, antiques, clothing, etc. Don't hesitate to negotiate prices. In general, to make a good deal, you need to have a friendly attitude and always keep smiling. If you can't reach a compromise with the seller, pretend to stop bargaining and slowly head towards the exit to make it seem like you're no longer interested. In most cases, the seller will call you back to agree to the price you proposed, otherwise, at least you will have tried.

Discover Lumphini Park

This place will undoubtedly appeal to families, as it has several playgrounds and numerous paths. This public park also houses an artificial lake that can be explored by a small boat or pedal boat ride. It is also populated by reptiles, including monitor lizards and geckos. You can go cycling there, but only between 5 am and 3 pm. For a little anecdote, this park was created in 1920 by King Rama VI and covers approximately 57 hectares. Its name refers to the birthplace of Buddha in Nepal.

Visit the Jim Thompson House

It is located in the heart of a park, in the modern district of the city, and has been transformed into a museum. This building was built in 1950 by Jim Thompson, an American businessman and adventurer. He worked in the Thai silk market and aimed to revive this declining industry. In this house, you can see collections of furniture and Bencharong ceramics.

Stroll along Khao San Road

If you want to meet other travelers, head to Khao San Road. It is in this part of the city that you will find budget accommodation establishments. The street is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops specializing in selling items for travelers…

The very lively street can sometimes deter some travelers looking for peace and authenticity.

However, the parallel streets are very pleasant and less crowded. You can discover good small restaurants and cheap accommodation.

Climate

Bangkok has a tropical climate divided into 2 seasons, the dry season and the rainy season. The dry period often extends from November to April, while the rainy season generally begins in May and ends in October.

What's the best time to visit Bangkok?

January to March represent the ideal period for exploring Bangkok. During these months, the sun shines generously, offering up to nine hours of sunshine per day, with summer temperatures reaching up to 34 °C. During this season, rainfall is rare, if not nonexistent.

How to get there?

By plane

Access to Suvarnabhumi International Airport

Located 25 kilometers east of Bangkok, Suvarnabhumi International Airport is easily accessible by taxi or public transport, notably via the Airport Rail Link train line. It takes 30 to 45 minutes to reach the city center. The taxi fare from the airport is around 300 Baht.

Access to Don Muang Airport

It is located about 20 kilometers north of the city center. Buses connecting to Bangkok are relatively slow. Taxi is the best option. The journey to the city center costs around 200 Baht.

By bus

To get to Bangkok by bus, you can use the city's main bus terminals. For trips to the northeast, go to the North and Northeast Terminal (Mor Chit) by taking a taxi from the center or using metro stations (Kamphaeng Phet or Mo Chit) with an exit followed by a taxi.

For trips to the north, also use the North and Northeast Terminals (Mor Chit).

For destinations to the east, go to the East Terminal (Ekamai), accessible by taxi from the center or by taking exit 2 from the Ekkamai metro station.

For trips to the south, use the South Terminal (Sai Tai Mai), also accessible by taxi from the center.

By train

Hualamphong Station is Bangkok's main railway terminal, offering direct access to the metro network (MRT) at Hua Lamphong station.

How to get around the streets of Bangkok?

In Bangkok, you have several options for getting around:

By Tuk-tuk

This vehicle is perhaps the most representative of Bangkok. It is a three-wheeled scooter equipped with a rear bench and a rigid roof. It can accommodate up to 3 people and is especially useful if you're in a hurry. Thanks to its small size, the tuk-tuk can weave through traffic and save you from getting stuck in traffic jams. As for the fare, it is affordable and negotiable.

By metered taxi

If you prefer comfort, opt for a metered taxi. These are easily recognizable by their bright colors. Most taxis in Bangkok have air conditioning. To avoid any disputes between you and the driver at the end of the journey, ask them to start the meter as soon as you get into the back of their vehicle. It's worth noting that some drivers deliberately don't activate it, and once you reach your destination, they double the fare.

By boat

This mode of transportation is used on the Chao Phraya River and is another way to appreciate the charm of Bangkok. If you want more privacy during your river excursion, you have the option to rent a private boat.

By metro

The MRT, or Mass Rapid Transit (underground metro),

This line has 18 stations equipped with automatic ticket machines, open every day from 6 a.m. until midnight.

The BTS, or Bangkok Mass Transit System

This is Bangkok's elevated metro, which has two lines, namely the Sukhumvit and Silom lines, which were put into service in 1999. These lines serve most of Bangkok's roads and have more than twenty stations equipped with automatic ticket machines.