Explore Bangkok Now

Tag: MustSee

  • Wat Maha Phruettharam Worawihan

    Wat Maha Phruettharam Worawihan

    Wat Maha Phruettharam Worawihan

    Wat Maha Phruettharam Worawihan

    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.

  • Temple of the Golden Buddha

    Temple of the Golden Buddha

    Temple of the Golden Buddha

    The Worlds Largest Gold Buddha Statue

    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.

    How to get there.

    Wat Traimit Witthayaram Worawihan is walking distance from The Train Museum, Wat Maha Phruettharam Worawihant (Mini Reclining Budha) and River City in the Bang Rak area of Bangkok.

  • Snake Farm and Museum

    Snake Farm and Museum

    Snake Farm and Museum

    Snake Farm and Museum

    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

    Chang Chui Plane Market

    Chang Chui Plane Market

    A Market with a Wide bodied Jet !

    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.

    How to get there

  • Train Railway Museum

    Train Railway Museum

    Train Railway Museum

    Train Railway Museum

    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

    Museum Siam

    Museum Siam

    Museum Siam

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    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!

    Useful Information

    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.

  • Wat Pho – Reclining Buddha

    Wat Pho – Reclining Buddha

    Wat Pho – Reclining Buddha

    Wat Pho, also spelled Wat Po, is a Buddhist temple complex in the Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok, Thailand. It is on Rattanakosin Island, directly south of the Grand Palace. Known also as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, its official name is Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan

    Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is one of Bangkok’s must-see spots! It’s a beautiful, peaceful temple that’s famous for housing a giant statue of the Buddha lying down, stretching an impressive 46 meters long! The intricate details on the statue, from its golden surface to the delicate mother-of-pearl soles of its feet, are absolutely stunning.

    But there’s more than just the Buddha! Wat Pho is also one of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok, so you can explore its gorgeous courtyards, beautiful pavilions, and colorful pagodas. It’s also a great place to get a traditional Thai massage since the temple is considered the birthplace of Thai massage. You can even take a massage class if you’re interested in learning a bit about it!

    If you’re a history lover, you’ll find a lot to explore here too. Wat Pho is home to over 1,000 Buddha images, and it’s known as a center for learning and healing. It’s definitely a place where you can enjoy a mix of culture, history, and beauty in one visit.

    Just be sure to dress respectfully (cover your shoulders and knees) when visiting temples in Thailand. It’s a peaceful and serene place, so take your time to explore and soak in the tranquility!

    How to get there:

    Getting to Wat Pho is pretty easy, whether you’re coming by boat, taxi, or public transportation. Here’s a breakdown of your options:

    1. By Boat:

    If you’re near the Chao Phraya River, the boat is a scenic and fun way to get there. You can take a Chao Phraya Express Boat and get off at Tha Tien Pier (Pier 8). From there, it’s just a short walk to Wat Pho.

    2. By Taxi or Grab:

    You can always grab a taxi or use the Grab app (which is like Uber in Thailand). Just tell the driver you’re going to Wat Pho or Wat Phra Chetuphon, and they’ll take you right there. It’s about a 10-15 minute drive from popular areas like Khao San Road or Siam, depending on traffic.

    3. By MRT (Subway):

    The nearest MRT station to Wat Pho is Sanam Chai Station (Blue Line). From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the temple. If you’re coming from other parts of the city, you can transfer to the Blue Line and get off at Sanam Chai.

    4. By Tuk Tuk:

    If you’re feeling adventurous, take a tuk-tuk! Just hop in and ask the driver to take you to Wat Pho. It’s a fun way to see the city, but be sure to agree on the price before you set off to avoid any confusion later.

    5. By Foot (if you’re nearby):

    If you’re staying in areas like Khao San Road, it’s about a 15-minute walk to Wat Pho. Just follow the signs or ask locals for directions — it’s a very walkable area!

  • Wat Samphran – The Dragon Temple

    Wat Samphran – The Dragon Temple

    The Dragon Temple

    The Dragon Temple

    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.

    If you love Wat Samphran you’ll also like The Erewan Museum

    It is open from 6am – 6pm everyday.

    How to get there:

    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

  • ICONSIAM

    ICONSIAM

    ICONSIAM

    Something for everyone.

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    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.

    The complex features a mix of high-end retail shops, international brands, and local boutiques, making it a great place for shopping enthusiasts. Iconsiam is home to a variety of dining options, including upscale restaurants, casual eateries, and street food stalls that showcase the best of Thai cuisine.

    Every evening (unless there is another main event) they have a sound and light show which is amazing. The ICONIC Multimedia Water Features show is open for viewing daily at 07:00 PM, 08:00 PM. and 09:00 PM. The best fireworks in Bangkok are at ICONSiam on the 31st December at midnight.

    One of the standout features of Iconsiam is the Sook Siam area, which celebrates Thai culture and local products. Here, visitors can experience the charm of traditional markets and sample various regional foods, crafts, and unique souvenirs.

    Iconsiam also boasts cultural attractions, including an art gallery and a performance venue where visitors can enjoy traditional Thai dance and cultural shows. The design of the complex emphasizes stunning views of the river and the Bangkok skyline, making it a beautiful spot for both shopping and leisure.

    You can get fantastic views from the Falabella Restaraunt in ICONSiam. Its located on one of the top floors and has superb views of the river.

    Alternatively if you cross the river (To River City or Saphan Taksin) and go to Chareon Krung 32 you can visit Riverside 32 Restaurant which has superb views of ICONSiam

    Overall, Iconsiam offers a blend of luxury shopping, dining, and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination in Bangkok. Every eveing they have a sound and light show which is worth watching. The ICONIC Multimedia Water Features show is open for viewing daily at 07:00 PM, 08:00 PM. and 09:00 PM.

    Visitors can reach Iconsiam easily by boat, using the free shuttle boats from the Saphan Taksin and other various piers along the river, as well as by car or taxi. The nearest BTS station Chareon Nakhon is right outside ICONSIAM on the Gold BTS Line and is linked to Krung Thonburi BTS on the Silom Line.

  • Terminal 21

    Terminal 21

    Terminal 21 Shopping Centres

    A different type of shopping centre.

    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.

    Each floor is thoughtfully decorated to reflect the culture and style of the corresponding city, creating an immersive shopping experience. The mall houses a mix of retail shops, ranging from well-known international brands to local fashion boutiques.

    In addition to shopping, Terminal 21 offers a vibrant food court called “Pier 21,” where visitors can sample a variety of Thai and international dishes at affordable prices. With its lively atmosphere and diverse options, it’s a favorite spot for both tourists and locals.

    Terminal 21 in central Bangkok is easily accessible via the BTS Skytrain, with the nearest station being Asok Station making it a convenient stop during your exploration of the city. The Terminal 2 at Rama 3 is a little further out from the centre.

    How to get there

    Chatuchak Market is easy to get to on the BTS. The nearest station is Mo Chit which is right next to the market. If using the MRT, you can take the subway to Chatuchak Park Station, from there, it’s a short walk to the market.

    It’s open at Weekends from early morning to approx 9pm although some stores close in the early evening. There is also an indoor mall JJ Mail and an indoor antique market across the road.

    Chatuchak Market Photos

    Other places to Visit

    Wat Maha Phruettharam Worawihan

    Wat Maha Phruettharam Worawihan

    Everyone knows about Wat Pho but did you know there’s another Reclining Buddha in Bangkok?
    Read More
    Temple of the Golden Buddha

    Temple of the Golden Buddha

    Did you know the Worlds Largest Gold Buddha Status is in Bangkok and it’s not at the Kings Palace.
    Read More
    Snake Farm and Museum

    Snake Farm and Museum

    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.
    Read More
    Chang Chui Plane Market

    Chang Chui Plane Market

    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. ​
    Read More
    Train Railway Museum

    Train Railway Museum

    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.
    Read More
    Museum Siam

    Museum Siam

    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.
    Read More
    Wat Pho – Reclining Buddha

    Wat Pho – Reclining Buddha

    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
    Read More
    Wat Samphran – The Dragon Temple

    Wat Samphran – The Dragon Temple

    Wat Samphran is sometimes called the Dragon Temple and is situated about 40 minutes outside Bangkok but is well worth a visit.
    Read More
    ICONSIAM

    ICONSIAM

    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.
    Read More
    Terminal 21

    Terminal 21

    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.
    Read More
    MBK

    MBK

    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.
    Read More
    Jim Thompson House

    Jim Thompson House

    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.
    Read More
    Wat Arun

    Wat Arun

    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.
    Read More
    Erewan Museum

    Erewan Museum

    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.
    Read More
    Bangkok Arts and Culture Centre

    Bangkok Arts and Culture Centre

    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.
    Read More