Wat Maha Phruettharam Worawihan is a historic Buddhist temple located in the Bang Rak district of Bangkok, Thailand. The temple’s origins are not precisely documented, but it is known to be an ancient monastery that has undergone several renovations over the centuries.
Top Tips: This temple is a short walk from The Train Museum and gives you the opportunity of seeing a reclining buddha which although much smaller than the one at Wat Pho is still very interesting.
It’s a little known temple but contains a Reclining Buddha. The temple is usually very quiet but is worth a visit. There are several buildings to explore at the temple. Remember to dress accordingly when visiting temples.
It’s also not too crowded compared to other tourist attractions, which makes it a nice, relaxed spot to spend a few hours. Plus, it’s free, so it’s a great option if you’re lon a budget.
How to get there.
Wat Maha Phruettharam Worawihan is walking distance from The Train Museum, Wat and River City in the Bang Rak area of Bangkok.
Wat Traimit Witthayaram Worawihan, often referred to as the Temple of the Golden Buddha, is a renowned Buddhist temple located in Bangkok’s Chinatown district. The temple is internationally recognized for housing the world’s largest solid gold Buddha statue, known as Phra Phuttha Maha Suwanna Patimakon.
Did you know? Wat Traimit Witthayaram Worawihan, often referred to as the Temple of the Golden Buddha, houses the world’s largest solid gold Buddha statue.
It’s estimated that it’s worth over $300 million dollars and the exact origins of the Golden Buddha statue are not definitively known, but it is believed to have been crafted during the Sukhothai period (13th-15th centuries). To protect it from potential theft during times of conflict, the statue was covered in plaster, disguising its true value. In 1955, while being moved to its current location at Wat Traimit, the plaster coating was accidentally chipped, revealing the solid gold beneath. This remarkable discovery unveiled a statue standing over three meters tall and weighing approximately 5.5 tons, making it the largest known solid gold Buddha image in existence.
The Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute (QSMI) in Bangkok, commonly known as the Snake Farm, is one of the world’s oldest such facilities, established in 1923. It specializes in the husbandry of venomous snakes, extraction of snake venom, and production of antivenom, playing a crucial role in public health by treating snakebite victims across Thailand.
Our Thoughts: A very interesting educational museum and well worth a visit. It’s central location makes it easy to reach. You can see venom being extracted from snakes and a snake handling show which is very informative. Check show timings to avoid dissapointment.
During your visit, you can explore indoor and outdoor serpentariums, observe live demonstrations of venom extraction, and learn about various snake species and their behaviors. The facility also offers educational exhibitions detailing snake anatomy, toxicology, and the importance of snakes in the ecosystem.
The Snake Farm is not only a tourist attraction but also serves as a vital center for research and education, aiming to foster a better understanding of snakes and promote snakebite prevention strategies.
It’s also not too crowded compared to other tourist attractions, which makes it a nice, relaxed spot to spend a few hours. Plus, it’s not expensive, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for something educational without breaking the bank and ideal on a rainy day.
How to get there.
The Snake Farm is quite close to Sala Daeng or Si Lom BTS and MRT stations. Its a well known landmark so taxi’s know where it is.
Chang Chui Plane Market, often referred to as the “Plane Night Market,” is a unique creative space in Bangkok’s Bang Phlat district. Established in 2017, it seamlessly blends art, dining, shopping, and entertainment, all centered around a decommissioned Lockheed L-1011 TriStar airplane.
Highlights of Chang Chui Plane Market:
Artistic Ambiance: The market showcases modern, urban, and often whimsical art installations, making it a haven for art enthusiasts.
Diverse Dining Options: Visitors can indulge in a variety of cuisines, from traditional Thai dishes to international fare. Notably, the market features a restaurant within the airplane itself, offering a unique dining experience.
Live Entertainment: The market often hosts live bands, presenting light acoustic music or jazz, enhancing the overall atmosphere.
Shopping: A variety of shops offer boutique fashion items and artistic handicrafts, providing visitors with unique shopping opportunities.
Transportation: While public transport options are limited, visitors can reach the market by hiring a taxi directly to the venue.
Operating Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM; closed on Wednesdays. In our opinion the best time to visit is in the evening
Location: 460/8 Sirindhorn Rd, Bang Phlat, Bangkok 10700, Thailand.
Located within Bangkok’s old main railway hub, Hua Lamphong Station, the Thai Railway Museum provides visitors with a glimpse into the nation’s rail heritage. The museum is situated to the left of the station’s main entrance. It operates from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with free admission. The exhibits include artifacts spanning over a century, though they are displayed without extensive explanatory signage.
Our Thoughts: The building itself which used to house Bangkok’s main railway station is well worth a look. It dates back to 1916. Everyone will love the old steam trains on display and the museum itself is interesting.
The museum is small but is actually on three floors this fact is easily missed so climb the stairs on the left hand side to the second floor to explore the rest of the museum. Third floor access is via a spiral staircase so may not suit everyone. The museum is usually quite quiet and when we visited the staff spoke english.
Head into the main hall of the station which in itself is very nice and has a real historic feel to it albeit is now a shadow of it’s former self.
Continue through onto the platforms you will see a selection of old trains dating back to the steam era.
Some trains still run from here but they seem to be on the platforms on the left and right of the station.
It’s also not too crowded compared to other tourist attractions, which makes it a nice, relaxed spot to spend an hour. Plus, it’s free, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for something educational without breaking the bank and ideal on a rainy day.
Even if you aren’t a massive train fan it’s still an interesting trip especially on a rainy day. Expect to spend about an hour here.
How to get there.
Hua Lamphong Station has it’s own subway station so can easily be reached using the MRT. Its a well known landmark so taxi’s know where it is. Taxi’s are available on the left hand side of the station when you leave.
Museum Siam in Bangkok is a super fun and interactive place to explore Thai culture and history! It’s not your typical, old-fashioned museum—it’s designed to be engaging, educational, and a bit quirky. Located near the Sanam Chai MRT Station, it’s an easy spot to visit, especially if you’re into museums that offer something a little different.
Our Thoughts: Fantastic Museum even if museums aren’t your thing. We had a great time there and it explains Thai culture very well. From old school rooms through to the modern day.
The museum’s exhibits focus on the story of Thailand, from its ancient past to the modern era, and it’s presented in a very creative way. There are hands-on displays, multimedia presentations, and even some funky, immersive experiences that make learning about Thai culture feel more like an adventure than a lecture. For example, you can step into a “virtual Thailand,” learn about the country’s traditional customs, or interact with giant, colorful displays that tell the story of the nation’s evolution.
One of the coolest parts of Museum Siam is how it mixes both traditional and contemporary ideas. You’ll get to know Thailand’s history, but you’ll also see how the country has adapted and changed over time, all while having fun with interactive exhibits. It’s perfect for families, friends, or anyone who loves to explore culture in a hands-on way!
It’s also not too crowded compared to other tourist attractions, which makes it a nice, relaxed spot to spend a couple of hours. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for something educational without breaking the bank.
In short, Museum Siam is a great spot if you’re curious about Thailand’s past, present, and future, and it’s one of those places where you’ll leave feeling like you learned something cool—and had fun doing it!
This is a museum like no other. It gives you an insight into Thai Culture in a fun and interesting way. A great way to spend a few hours.
It was established as a model of a pleasant learning resource to help raise the standard of learning management in a new way for the people, especially Thai children and youth, about creating a sense of self-knowledge, and knowing about the neighbours and the world. It also creates a “new concept and image” of the Museum in a society of learning through modern technology and creative activities, so learning about history and stories is more enjoyable. This also includes the permanent exhibition of “Decoding Thainess”, rotating exhibitions and creative learning activities. The format of the permanent exhibition “Decoding Thainess” comprises 14 exhibition rooms using modern technology media and museum media that emphasises the interaction of storytelling that makes it enjoyable and fun throughout the visit. This presents the learning of Thai perspectives from the past and their development to the present in the aspects of history, culture, traditions, society, dress, food, architecture, etc. Furthermore, it displays the development of Thainess that has changed according to the social context from the beginning of Rattanakosin to the present. Open Tuesday – Sunday 10.00 – 18.00 hrs. Entrance fee : Adults 100 baht, Student (15 years old) 25 baht, Elderly (60 year older) free. For further details contact, Tel. 0 2225 2777; website: www.museumsiam.org.
The temple is notable for its 17-story tall pink cylindrical building with a gigantic red-and-green dragon sculpture curling around the entire height. The interior of the dragon feature is hollow and contains a spiraling flight of stairs. It also contains a huge Buddha statue as well as many additional Buddhist statues. The Wat Samphran is 80 meters high because Buddha died at the age of 80 years old.
The view from the top is amazing and there is a lift for those not wishing to walk up the stairs or up through the inside of the dragon. There are multiple levels with different things to see at each level.
The dragon that encompasses the building from the bottom to the top symbolises a human’s journey from sorrow to happiness and from hell to heaven. According to a Thai story, Phaya Naga (a serpent), was declined spiritual power by Buddha. The serpent then approached Buddha for ordinance by assuming a human form and was permitted to be a monk who wore white, unlike the other monks who wore yellow.
At the footsteps of the main building are seven small shrines dedicated to Buddha for each day of the week. The seventeen floors signify the heavenly realms that one reaches in the afterlife based on the strength and quality of their past karma. Making a wish before climbing up the temple through the dragon belly is considered to bring good fortune.
You can take the BTS to Bang Wa station, then change to the MRT to Lak Song station. From there, you can take a taxi to the temple. You could also get a Taxi from Bang Wa or direct from the City Centre
Khlong Bang Luang is a charming and lesser-known canal (khlong) located in the Thonburi area of Bangkok, Thailand. It’s renowned for its traditional Thai wooden houses, cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene.
Most floating markets have vendors selling wares from boats (saphans) but this market doesn’t. If you are looking for an authentic floating market in Bangkok then take a look at Tanling Chan Weekend Floating Market. Nevertheless this market is close to Bangkok and very much worth a visit.
It’s a bit off the beaten path compared to some of Bangkok’s more famous canals, offering visitors a glimpse of authentic local life away from the tourist crowds. Along the banks of Khlong Bang Luang, you’ll find well-preserved wooden houses dating back to the early 20th century. These houses feature traditional Thai architecture, with intricate wooden carvings, pitched roofs, and elevated stilts to protect against flooding.
Khlong Bang Luang has emerged as a hub for local artists and artisans, with many of the historic houses transformed into galleries, studios, cafes, and performance spaces. Visitors can explore these creative spaces, meet artists, and purchase unique handmade crafts and artworks.
The canal is also known for its cultural events and performances, including traditional Thai puppet shows (Hun Lakhon Lek), live music concerts, and dance performances. These events often take place in atmospheric venues along the canal, providing a memorable experience for visitors.
Exploring Khlong Bang Luang by boat is a popular activity for tourists and locals alike. You can take a leisurely boat ride along the canal, passing by historic houses, temples, and local communities. Some boat tours also include visits to nearby attractions such as Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen and Wat Kuhasawan.
In addition to its artistic and cultural attractions, Khlong Bang Luang is home to traditional markets where you can sample local street food, snacks, and handicrafts. These markets offer an authentic taste of Thai cuisine and provide opportunities to interact with local vendors.
Overall, Khlong Bang Luang offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of central Bangkok, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Thai culture, art, and heritage along its scenic waterways. It’s a hidden gem worth exploring for anyone interested in experiencing the authentic charm of old Bangkok.
How to get there
Khlong Bang Luang is situated in the Phasi Charoen district of Thonburi,
At taxi is the best way of getting there although if you ask the Canal tour operator they may drop you off there. It’s usually towards the end of the canal tour.
The Thai Railway Museum provides visitors with a glimpse into the nation’s rail heritage. The museum is situated to the left of the Hua Lamphong Station’s main entrance.
Chang Chui Plane Market, often referred to as the “Plane Night Market,” is a unique creative space in Bangkok’s Bang Phlat district. Established in 2017, it seamlessly blends art, dining, shopping, and entertainment, all centered around a decommissioned Lockheed L-1011 TriStar airplane.
The Thai Railway Museum provides visitors with a glimpse into the nation’s rail heritage. The museum is situated to the left of the Hua Lamphong Station’s main entrance.
Museum Siam in Bangkok is a super fun and interactive place to explore Thai culture and history! It’s not your typical, old-fashioned museum—it’s designed to be engaging, educational, and a bit quirky. Located near the Sanam Chai MRT Station, it’s an easy spot to visit, especially if you’re into museums that offer something a little different.
Wat Pho, also spelled Wat Po, is a Buddhist temple complex known for it’s famous Reclining Buddha, its official name is Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan
Iconsiam is a luxurious shopping complex located along the Chao Phraya River. Opened in November 2018, it has quickly become one of the city’s premier shopping destinations and is known for its impressive architecture and wide range of offerings.
Terminal 21 is a unique set of shopping malls. The first and most famous is in the Sukhumvit area near Asok. They are renowned for their distinctive design, which features an airport terminal theme, complete with various floors representing different international cities, such as Tokyo, London, Paris, and Istanbul amongst others. At the time of writing there is another Terminal 21 in Rama 3 and other cities like Korat and Pattaya also have Terminal 21 Malls.
MBK Center, also known as Mahboonkrong, is one of Bangkok’s most popular shopping malls, renowned for its extensive range of products and vibrant atmosphere. Located in the Siam area, MBK Center offers a unique mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences.
The Jim Thompson House is a unique cultural and historical site it is the former residence of Jim Thompson, an American businessman who is credited with revitalizing the Thai silk industry in the mid-20th century. After moving to Thailand, Thompson built this beautiful traditional Thai-style house in the 1950s using several teak wood houses that he collected from various parts of the country.
Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in Bangkok, Thailand. Located on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is famous for its stunning architecture and intricate details that reflect traditional Thai design.
The Erawan Museum (not to be confused with the Erewan Shrine in central Bangkok) is a remarkable cultural and artistic destination located in Samut Prakan, just outside of Bangkok. It is known for its stunning architecture and impressive collection of art, particularly highlighted by the giant three-headed elephant statue, which is an iconic symbol of the museum.
The Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) is a prominent cultural venue located in the heart of Bangkok, dedicated to promoting contemporary arts and cultural activities. Opened in 2008, the BACC serves as a hub for artists, art enthusiasts, and the general public, providing a space for a variety of artistic expressions.
Bangkok has seen a flourishing street art scene in recent years, with artists transforming public spaces with colorful murals, graffiti, and other forms of urban art. Here are a few notable areas where you can find street art in Bangkok:
Ratchatewi and Phaya Thai: These neighborhoods are home to several vibrant street art pieces, including murals depicting Thai culture, politics, and social issues. You can explore alleys and side streets to discover hidden gems.
Charoenkrung Road: This historic street in Bangkok has become a hub for street art, with numerous murals adorning its walls. Artists from Thailand and around the world have contributed to the colorful transformation of this area.
Sukhumvit Soi 11: Known for its nightlife and entertainment, Sukhumvit Soi 11 also features street art that adds to its lively atmosphere. You can find murals depicting various themes, including pop culture references and abstract designs.
Chalermla Park: Located near the Bangkok Art and Culture Center, Chalermla Park is home to a graffiti wall where local artists showcase their work. The park often hosts street art events and exhibitions, making it a vibrant spot for art enthusiasts.
Warehouse 30: This creative space in the Charoenkrung area features galleries, shops, cafes, and outdoor murals. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists interested in contemporary art and design.
Bangkok Art and Culture Center (BACC): While not strictly street art, the BACC often hosts exhibitions and events featuring urban art and graffiti artists. It’s a great place to explore contemporary art trends in Bangkok.
These are just a few examples of where you can find street art in Bangkok. The city’s street art scene is constantly evolving, so keep an eye out for new murals and installations as you explore its diverse neighborhoods.
The photos below all came from around the Charoen Krung Soi 32 area and also up in the side streets nearly the Marine Department which is only a few minutes walk away.
Looking for a traditional floating market in Bangkok
Whilst Taling Chan floating market isn’t as well know as the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market it isn’t a tourist trap and it’s in Bangkok (unlike Damnoen Saduak) so it’s my favourite market and it’s where the locals go.
It is only open at weekends and public holidays. It is possible to get boat tours which also include a nice stop at a temple and an orchid farm which is really worth a look.
