About City
Bangkok
"Of street food, skyscrapers and unending nights"
A city that never sleeps, Bangkok, the capital of Thailand is a modern-day melting pot of contrasting cultures and faiths. Here, towering skyscrapers stand in harmony next to temples and monasteries. The luxury malls and shopping centres compete with the street bazaars and floating markets. Cuisines - both Thai and from around the world are showcased in all their glory on the streets as well as in rooftop restaurants. The nightlife of Bangkok, on the one hand, revolves around flashy nightclubs, rooftop and go-go bars, bright neon light signs and cheap drinks.
While on the other, it also includes cabaret shows, Muay Thai and dance exhibitions and even cultural walking tours. Sites like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Phra Kaew showcase the city's rich history, while the likes of museums such as Art in Paradise and parks such as the Sea Life Ocean World cater to those seeking modern-day experiences.
Bangkok is serviced by Suvarnabhumi International Airport and Don Mueang Airport. Suvarnabhumi International Airport handles all of the international flights to and from Bangkok and is the primary entryway into the capital. Thailand also grants Visa-on-arrival for many nationalities at Suvarnabhumi. Read the guide here for the complete visa eligibility and application details.
Bangkok has many hotels, both luxury and economical across the city. Over the years, the city has also evolved into a more backpacker-friendly destination with many hostels, dormitories and homestays popping up.
Things To Do In Bangkok
1. Visit the Grand Palace
The Grand Palace, the residence of royals for several generations, is the perfect place to begin your historical tour in Bangkok. It houses one of the holiest Buddhist temples, Wat Phra Kaew, built in the year 1782. The Grand Palace stands among the top tourist attractions in Bangkok, Thailand, showcasing the rich history of Bangkok.
2. Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho
Wat Pho is a famous temple located immediately south of the Grand Palace precinct in Bangkok. The place is renowned for being headquarters for the teaching and preservation of traditional Thai medicine. The temple is largely visited to view the large reclining Buddha within, thus also known as 'Temple of the Reclining Buddha'.
3. Shop at the Chatuchak Weekend Market
The king of markets in Bangkok, and one of the largest markets in the world, Chatuchak is spread over 35 acres with more than 8,000 stalls. Everything ranging from clothing, accessories, handicrafts, furniture, art, food, books, antiques, and many more interesting souvenirs are is available here. Keep your bargaining skills ready to enhance your shopping experience at this bustling market.
4. Explore the vibey Khao San Road
Khao San Road, famously known as the backpacker's haven, is located in the heart of the city. It is a 410 meter long street in central Bangkok which will cater to every need of yours! Street food stalls, bars, shops, restaurants, nightclubs, cafes and massage parlours are all packed into this one street. This road is one of the most famous night markets in Bangkok. It turns into a shopper's paradise as the sun sets down. You'll find everything here at a reasonable rate. Its cheap food, accommodation and clothes make this place a winning combo for all tourists!
5. Boat Trip on the Chao Phraya River
The river of kings, Chao Phraya River, is the prime river and waterway of Thailand, used by an average of 50,000 commuters daily. The fertile plains and abundant fish of the river are the main reasons for the choice of Thailand's capitals in the past, such as Ayutthaya, Thonburi and Bangkok.
6. Safari World
Safari World is one of the most favourite destinations in Bangkok, with both tourists and locals descending on the park to spend quality time amongst the wildlife. Not only a place for gathering knowledge about the ways and lives of wild animals, but it also offers a host of entertaining shows along with activities.
7. Sea Life Bangkok
Sea Life Bangkok is an underground aquarium located beneath the Siam Paragon mall in the heart of Bangkok. Sprawled over an area of 110,000 sq. ft., Sea Life Bangkok is the largest South-East Asian aquarium. Home to various marine life retrieved from the remotest corners of the world, the aquarium houses species of octopuses, sharks, crabs, penguins and fish.
8. Wat Arun
An ancient structure dating back to the battles between the former Siam and Burma, Wat Arun is a place of worship with rich past. Also known as the Temple of Dawn, the site was built by remaining survivors and General Taksin. Later, the temple was renamed as Aruna after the Indian God of dawn to commemorate the founding of a new Ayutthaya, the former capital of the kingdom.
9. Siam Paragon Mall
Tourists who love high-end international fashion brands should visit Siam Paragon. From Jimmy Choo and Versace to Prada, over 70 globally renowned brands are available here. Besides clothing, brands such as Sony, Samsung, Aston Martin and BMW can be found here too. The mall is also home to one of the largest aquariums in Southeast Asia, a 16 screen cineplex and restaurants of all the possible cuisines.
10. National Museum and Wang Na Palace
An ideal place for history lovers, the Bangkok National Museum exhibits some of the most magnificent collection of art and artefacts reflecting the Thai culture.
11. Sathorn Unique Tower
Standing with a whopping 49 storeys (including two dungeon dark underground levels), the Sathorn Unique Tower is one of those skyscraper buildings in Bangkok which never got completed due to the Asian Financial Crisis of 1997. The views of the city from the floors of the Sathorn Unique Towers intensify as you ascend them one by one. But be careful while you do so since there have been incidents which regard the place as “Haunted”!
12. Street Food in Chinatown
Located along the Yaowarat Road, Chinatown is a Chinese cultural and commercial hub. It is majorly known for its exotic culinary experience of street foods, along with several Buddhist temples, and traditional wooden shops selling Chinese goods. It is best to visit Chinatown at night, which is when it is vibrant with neon lights and chaotic fun.
13. Dusit zoo
The oldest zoo in Thailand, Dusit Zoo lies in the vicinity of Bangkok's governmental headquarters in the Dusit District. Boasting of a heavy annual footfall, Dusit Zoo exhibits many species, ranging from exotic to rare, such as monkeys, penguins, camels, the albino barking deer and the white Bengal tiger. It also offers tram rides and boating services, which guarantee an uninhibited day of fun.
14. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Marketed as a major tourist attraction and a marker of Thai culture, the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is among the most popular floating markets in the world. Boats swaying on the water are navigated by Thai locals and traders who sell all kinds of farm produce, fruits, souvenirs and freshly prepared local foods, which visitors can enjoy while sailing in their own boats.
15. Shop at the Terminal 21 Mall
Ever dreamed of travelling the world? This airport inspired mall in Bangkok, Terminal 21, brings all the cities of the world under one roof, letting you shop from Tokyo one minute, and San Fransisco the other. International luxury brands and many local labels are available here. With over 600 shops, a cineplex and all kinds of restaurants, the shopping experience here is emphasised like no other.
16. Soi Cowboy
One of the popular red light districts, Soi Cowboy is a neon-lit street, filled with Go Go Bars and other bright spaces. With friendly staff members outside each bar, it embodies the true nightlife experience of Bangkok. Located very close to Terminal 21, it is an exciting experience thanks to the unique culture and vibe of the place!
17. Jim Thompson House
With a remarkable collection of art from Burma, China, Cambodia and Thailand, Jim Thompson House is a must-visit for history buffs and art lovers. A historic property, it once served as the residence of an American man named James H W Thompson, a man responsible for reviving the Thai silk industry and one of the most famous Americans in Asia during his time.
18. Art in Paradise
Art in Paradise is an innovative and interactive 3D art museum located at the Esplanade mall, Bangkok. The brainchild of Shin Jae Yol, it has many rooms filled with impressive artwork done by Korean and Thai artists. The primary motive behind this cultural haven was to help the public enjoy the experience of 3D art and illusion art.
19. Ladyboy Shows
Bangkok boasts some of the best and most entertaining ladyboy shows in the world. The lights, decor of the auditoriums, the makeup and gorgeous dresses of the ladyboys along with the small comedic skits performed by them make these shows professional and fun. Calypso Cabaret, Mambo cabaret and Playhouse cabaret are some of the most popular ones among tourists.
20. Wat Mangkon Kamalawat
Besides being the most important, Wat Mangkon Kamalawat is also the biggest Chinese Buddhist temple in Bangkok. Also called the Dragon Lotus Temple or the Wat Leng Noei Yi in Chinese, it remains extremely crowded during any festivities or occasions in the Chinese calendar, especially the Chinese New Year. Set up in 1871, Wat Mangkon Kamalawat was the first one to be bringing in Mahayana Buddhism in Bangkok.
21. Asiatique The Riverfront
Once an international port, Asiatique The Riverfront is now among the most happening night markets in Bangkok. Neatly divided into four districts, it houses a variety of options for visitors ranging from boutiques, fine dining, a mall, fashion stores and entertainment spaces. With the picturesque backdrop of the Chao Phraya River and a glittering skyline, the Asiatique makes for an exquisite experience in Bangkok.
22. Wat Suthat
One of the oldest temples of Bangkok, Wat Suthat greets you with its serene aura. Overflowing with peace and tranquillity, Wat Suthat Thepphawararam is an excellent example of architecture and craftsmanship. Its construction began in the year 1782, under the reign of King Rama I, and it was completed in the 1820s, under the reign of King Rama III.
23. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre
The centre of Bangkok’s rising art scenario, the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) showcases a broad range of the best Thai art, music, design, film and theatre as well as the contemporary art scene from across the globe. The BACC also hosts a plethora of exhibitions of the work of local as well as international artists. Opened in 2008, the BACC is spread over an area of 4000 square metres, housing shops, an exciting art library that is not found in many places, and a handful of cafes along with the large exhibition areas.
24. Dream world
The Dream World theme park is located in Thanyaburi, which is an easy 50-minute drive from Bangkok. The amusement park offers a cheerful, bustling ambience, complete with rollercoasters, colourful parades, candy floss, waterworks, flowering gardens, a snow park and entertainment shows. Children and adults can indulge themselves in the vivacity of Dream World.
25. Lumpini Park
Named after the birthplace of Lord Buddha in Nepal, the Lumpini Park was the first public park of Bangkok. The original aim was to exhibit the Thai crafts and flowers. Today, the place is home to a wide range of flora and fauna species attracting locals and tourists to relax and rejuvenate. Lumpini Park is the perfect place to connect with nature away from the crowded Bangkok streets of Bangkok.
26. Nana Plaza
Nana Plaza is a commercial building on the Sukhumvit Road in Khlong Toei district of Bangkok. Known as the “world’s largest adult playground”, Nana Plaza gets its name from its prominent member Lek Nana. Being the most colourful part of the city, Nana Plaza is primarily famous for the bars, pubs, clubs, street food vendors which attracts a considerable crowd all year round.
27. Erawan Shrine (Thao Mahaprom Shrine)
The Erawan Shrine was built in 1956 after the Thai government constructed the luxury Erawan hotel at the location. The superstitious labourers and other astrologers decided to honour the Brahma God Thao Mahaprom and hence built this shrine. Ceremonial offerings are made by Thais and tourists to get their wishes fulfilled. Catching a traditional Thai dance performance here is a joyful experience too.
28. Wat Phrae Kaew
The temple of the Emerald Buddha, commonly known as Wat Phra Kaew, is the most essential and revered Buddhist temple in Thailand as it enshrines the image of Phra Kaew Morakot carved from a single jade block. Established in 1785, the temple has elaborate carvings, paintings and pagodas, making it a spectacular sight for visitors.
29. Royal Barge National Museum
Boats used to be the primary mode of transport for Thai kings, and the National Museum of Royal Barges in Bangkok exhibits traditional Thai barges with intricate designs of Hindu and Buddhist icons. The museum displays information about the customs and history of the royal barges, costumes worn by the crew, and even serves as a dry dock for the boats.
30. Madame Tussauds
Bangkok's Madame Tussauds Wax museum is like no other Wax Museum in Thailand. Here, you can touch anyone from Albert Einstien to Tom Cruise, from Barack Obama to Tiger Woods. However, you are not allowed to touch any figure in the most decorated room housing the Thai royal family. The quality of craftsmanship behind the 70 wax figures will take your breath away.
31. Wat Benchamabophit
Commonly known as the marble temple, Wat Benchamabophit is one of Bangkok's most beautiful attractions. Embodying an impressive, modern style of Thai architecture, Wat Benchamabophit is a royal temple hosting a beautiful Buddha statue. With red carpets, polished marble and stained-glass painted walls - Wat Benchamabophit is a unique, yet beautiful Thai temple!
32. Wat Saket
Popularly known as the Golden Mount, Wat Saket is a picturesque temple with a 58-metre golden chedi which houses a Buddha relic. Established during the Ayutthaya period, this temple is built on a man-made hill, and requires you to climb 300 steps to get to the top of the chedi. A colourful week-long fair is hosted here every November.
33. Snake Farm
Opened to the public in the year 1923, the snake farm in Bangkok, part of the Thai Red Cross Institute (formerly the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute) has large pits and mesh enclosures to host its reptile residents. Also called “Suan Nguu”, the snake farm hosts a variety of venomous and non-venomous snakes. It’s the second oldest such snake farm in the world after a snake farm in Sao Paolo, Brazil.
34. Museum of Contemporary Arts
The museum of contemporary art (MOCA) is a world-class art gallery built in 2012 to showcase some of the best Thai art. The museum contains five storeys, housing 800 beautiful and refreshing art pieces. A must for art lovers, MOCA is no less than any modern museum abroad, giving its artists freedom to work on themes like corruption, prostitution, religion, and many others.
35. Muangboran (Ancient City)
Ancient Siam, known as Muang Boran in Thai, is the world's largest open-air museum spread over 300 acres is situated 33 kms from Bangkok. With many mini-museums and sculpture gardens inside it, the museum mainly features replicas of some of the most important historical sites of Thailand.
36. Suan Pakkad Palace
The name 'Suan Pakkad' translating to 'cabbage patch', is quite unfitting for this private residence turned museum. It's a one of a kind palace museum, as it once used to be the private residence of the Prince and Princess of Chumbhot, and the houses date back to over 100 years. Before being converted into a private collection of homes by the royal family, the land used to be nothing more than a cabbage patch.
37. Siam Niramit Cultural Show & Dinner
The Siam Niramit Cultural Show is a definite experience while you are here. Showcasing authentic Thai culture, this jaw-dropping performance would leave you in complete awe. A beautiful, yummy and authentic Thai dinner organised post the show provides for a whole entertainment package. While the prices may seem to be on the higher end, it's undoubtedly a pure delight!
38. Wat Traimit
Wat Traimit, nestled at the end of Chinatown's Yaowarat Road near Hualampong Railway Station is the perfect place to admire the glittering gold statue of Buddha. One of the best royal temples of Bangkok, it is famous for housing a pure gold statue of Lord Buddha. It is known as 'The Temple of the Golden Buddha', as the world's largest gold statue, which is almost 5 metres tall and 5.5 tonnes heavy, is sheltered here.
39. Giant Swing
Located right in front of Wat Suthat is a striking Giant Swing towering at the height of 21.15 meters. Nestled in the heart of busy square between Wat Suthat and Bangkok City Hall is a Giant Swing making for a remarkable sight even from a distance. Initially established in the year 1784, the swing went under renovation to be replaced in 2004 with a newly crafted frame made of golden teak.
40. Siriraj medical museum
The Siriraj Medical Museum is a treat to medical professionals, students and of course, the public as well. Part of the famous Siriraj Hospital, Thailand's oldest hospital, this fascinating musuem combines five mini-museums, exploring the fields of pathology, anatomy, the history of medicine in Thailand, parasitology, forensic medicine, and a prehistoric museum. Its exhibits of bones, organs, corpses, fetuses and so on have earned it the nickname 'Museum of Death'.
41. King Rama IX Park
The largest public park of Bangkok, the King Rama IX Park is a botanical garden built in 1987 to celebrate King Bhumibol's 60th birthday. Spread over 200 acres, this beautiful space is perfect for just wandering around or spending an afternoon with family. It also has a gallery with photos and paintings of the King. Every December, the park also hosts an enchanting flower festival.
42. Benjakitti Park
With captivating flowers and enchanting fountains, Benjakiti Park is a haven for people who want to take a peaceful stroll or enjoy a romantic sunset. Abundant in greenery, it also has a small lake for boating. Cycling may also be enjoyed here as there are bicycles on rent. So head to Benjakitti park for tranquillity and a quieter spot away from the city noise.
43. Erawan Museum
Demonstrating the mixture of modern civilization and traditional cultures and practices of Thailand is the Erawan Museum in Bangkok. Situated in the Samut Prakan Province, you can easily identify the museum from its giant three-headed elephant structure standing stoutly atop the building. The First Floor of the Museum is a representation of the Hindu mythology’s concept of the underworld. The Second Floor showcases the concept of Earth, or the present life. The Third Floor depicts the concept of Tavatimsa Heaven and is situated inside the belly of the Elephant. Known for the antiques based on varied Thai mythologies, Erawan Museum is sure to leave everyone spellbound, the history and architecture lovers more so.
44. Wat Bowonniwet Vihara
Founded in 1826, Wat Bowonniwet Vihara, also known as Wat Bowon, is a temple dedicated to the Thammayut sect of Buddhism. It's particularly popular as many kings of Thailand were monks and abbots here, such as King Rama IV and King Bhumibol, popularly known as Rama IX. It is also the resting place of King Bhumibol.
45. Democracy Monument
The Democracy Monument in Bangkok is a historic landmark located on the Ratchadamnoen Avenue’s traffic circle, at the intersection of the Dinso Road. The Monument is symbolic of the convolutions in modern Thai history, a marker for generations of civilians to remember the Siamese Revolution of 1932. Located in the busiest part of Bangkok, the Democracy Monument is a visual treat for everyone.
46. Baiyoke Sky Tower
Undoubtedly the best place to see Bangkok in all its glory is none other than Baiyoke Sky Tower in Prathunam. Pronounced ‘by-yolk’ and not ‘by-ok’, and also known as Baiyoke Tower II, it is the city’s tallest building. Spanning over 80 floors, the tower features a public observatory, multiple restaurants and bars, a shopping complex, a 360-degree rotating sky deck, and a hotel with over 600 rooms.
47. Wat Chanasongkram
Originally known as Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Chang Songkhram has one of the largest Sri Lankan style bell-shaped chedi in Sukhothai. Around the main chedi, there are several smaller chedis placed receding in size as they move towards the top. You can walk a little north of the temple where the monument of King Ramkamhaeng lies that locals usually visit.
48. Wat Pak Nam
Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen, also shortly known as Wat Paknam was built during the Ayutthaya period. The temple attracts mae chis (nuns) because of the meditation master Luang Pu Sod's meditation policies. He emphasised on Buddhist and secular studies for them. With a 7.9 acre complex, this temple has the largest mae chi community in Thailand.
49. Assumption Cathedral
The striking red structure of Assumption Cathedral in the heart of Thailand is one of the few 200 plus years old churches in Bangkok. The cathedral is considered as a quaint legacy of the French Community, it’s as though the French left a little part of old Europe back in Bangkok. The church accounts as a prominent red brick rectangular structure surrounded by white buildings. It accounts as one of the top historic places in Bangkok for its amusing architectural style that is uncommon in today’s world. It has been well very preserved and maintained for the worshippers.
50. Bang Krachao
Sometimes spelt Bang Krajao, Bang Krachao is located in the Phra Pradaeng province. It was once the home of a small Burmese population when they first came to Thailand. On a map, you’ll recognise Bang Krachao as a horseshoe-shaped, island-like area cut off from the mainland by the Chao Phraya River. The only way to reach this green paradise is by boat or ferry. With laws against constructing buildings or commercial factories in place, Bang Krachao remains commercially undeveloped in the best way possible – preserving the culture and natural surroundings.
51. Loha Prasat
Loha Prasat, also famous as ‘Metal Castle,’ dwells inside the Wat Ratchanatdaram Woravihara along with many similar temples and relics. More often than not, the temple is overshadowed by the fame of the closely located relics such as Khaosan and Wat Saket. The imposing Loha Prasat is also considered as world’s only brazen palace (the building’s roof is made of bronze tiles).
52. Chitralada Palace
Chitralada Palace is official residence of His Majesty King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit located within the popular Dusit Palace. Formerly serving as King Chulalongkorn's summer house, this grand structure is carpeted along one square kilometre surrounded by a moat and efficiently guarded by the royal guards. The palace is presently closed to the public and can only be visited from outside.
53. Royal Thai Air Force Museum
Nestled along the Phahonyothin Road, in Don Mueang District of Bangkok, Royal Thai Air Force Museum is a respected museum with a captivating display of various aircraft like attack aircraft, fighter aircraft, military transport aircraft, and helicopters which are disengaged and retired from the battleground. The museum delights history buffs, aviation and military enthusiasts.
54. Wat Intharawihan
Wat Intharawihan or Wat Intharavihan in Bangkok is known for the famous Buddha statue, 32 m high. The temple which is situated close to the Chao Phraya River, in the Thanon Wisut Kasat area of Bali, was known as Wat Rai Phrik in the olden times. The pious statue is believed to have the power to fulfill the wishes of the visitors who come to seek blessings.
55. Sanam Luang
Situated in the island of Rattanakosin lies the grand Sanam Luang Park which is also called ‘Thung Pra Meru’ meaning the cremation ground for the Royals. It is nearly thirty acres of green space right at the centre of Old Bangkok, in front of Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace, ,surrounded by prominent attractions. If you are tired of the concrete jungle and its fast-paced life then head to Sanam Luang.
56. Dusit Palace
Situated to the north of Rattanakosin Island, the Dusit Palace of Bangkok is a grand complex consisting of the royal residences, spread over a sprawling area of 16 acres. Comprising of multiple palaces, museums and lush green vegetation, the Dusit Palace is one of the political centres of Thailand in the modern world. The palace, which was once the residence of the King of Thailand, has now transformed into one of the most popular tourist attractions of Bangkok.
Nightlife in Bangkok
Nightlife in Bangkok is thrilling, pulsating and very different than what any other part of Thailand has to offer. It has matured over the years with high affinity towards classy rooftop bars, energetic nightclubs and trendy cocktail bars. The place offers some of the best bars, nightclubs, go-go bars, pubs, beer bars, massage parlours, and discos in the country. You are so spoilt for choice that it gets difficult to decide where to go. Names such as Sukhumvit (venue of Nana and Soi Cowboy) and Silom (where Patpong is located) are packed with people exploring the excitement of Bangkok. Other not-to-be-missed places are Khao San Road, trendy new bars at Thonglor, and Soi Rambuttri.
Shopping in Bangkok
Bangkok is a shopper's paradise. The place is packed with various shopping options from high-end, gleaming malls to street markets offering cheap clothes. You can find anything from jewellery and trendy clothes to souvenirs and handicrafts in Bangkok. There are unlimited options available to blow away all the Bahts in your pockets.
Some of the most popular shopping places in the city include:
MBK Center: Has over 2000 stores selling the latest fashion, leather products and electric appliances.
Chatuchak Weekend Market: An authentic Thai marketplace, the Chatuchak Market is spread across a vast area. One can buy fake branded clothes, jewellery, antiques, souvenirs, lip smacking food, and so much more at more than 9000 stalls. Visit this one with lots of time and cash in your wallets.
Patpong Night Market: A must visit, this night market is open from 6 pm up until midnight.
Pratunam Market: One of the thriving markets of the city.
Siam Paragon: One of the largest shopping complexes in Asia with a 16-screen movie theatre.
Ratchada Night Market: Located outside Ratchadapisek metro station, this place is open only on Saturdays. It offers a variety of products such as vintage cameras, second-hand jeans, leather handbags, etc.
Kwan Riam Floating Market, Muang Boran Floating Market, Amphawa Floating Market, Seacon Square, IconSiam, Amulet Market, Patpong Night Market, Khlong Toei Market, Central Embassy Shopping Mall, Tha Kha Floating Market, JJ Green Market, Siam Discovery, Platinum Fashion Mall, Maeklong Railway Market, Papaya Vintage Shop, Emquartier, Bang Nam Pheung Floating Market, Rod Fai Train Night Market, Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market, Taling Chan Floating Market, Pantip Plaza, Train Night Market Ratchada, MBK Center (Ma Boong Khron Center), CentralWorld, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market are some good place to shop in Bangkok.
Exchanging Money in Bangkok
The currency in Bangkok can be exchanged at banks (major banks of Thailand being Bangkok Bank and Thai Farmers Bank), which are open Monday to Friday. Numerous authorised FOREX counters are dotted all across the tourist places with daily exchange rates displayed on electronic notice boards. It is also possible to get it exchanged at the airport. Almost all the major foreign currencies are accepted and exchanged. Most of the hotels will also perform currency exchange, but the rate is typically poor. You will find bank branches at most of the shopping centres and market places.
Language of Bangkok
Central Thai is the official language of Thailand, which is widely spoken in Bangkok, especially in business and tourist areas. However, people usually converse in southern Thai dialect that sounds pithier and faster than Central Thai.
English is also widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas.
Useful Thai phrases to know while travelling (krub is used for males and kha is used for females):
Hello - Sawatdee (krub/kha)
How are you? - Sabai dee ru (krub/kha)
Fine - Sabai dee (krub/kha)
Thank you - Khob Khun (krub/kha)
Yes - Chai
No - Mai Chai
(You/I) can - Dai
Cannot - Mai Dai
How much? - Nee Tao Rai
Currency in Bangkok
The Thai Baht is the primary currency used in Thailand. Make sure you carry cash while shopping at the local street markets and use your cards wisely to avoid any fraud. Most of the international credit cards are widely accepted in Bangkok. ATM Machines are easily available, 24 hours, all around the city and accept all major credits cards including Visa and MasterCard. Traveller's cheques are also an option and are mainly accepted at specific foreign exchange shops or banks with processing charges of THB 153 per cheque. For credit cards, the processing fee is about THB 150 to THB 250.
Religion of Bangkok
Buddhism is the main religion followed in Bangkok with 95% of the population being Buddhists. The city is home to some of the most famous temples or 'wats' of the country.
Local transport in Bangkok
Getting around Bangkok is quite easy with its well-developed public transport system. There are plenty of options to commute within the city. Colourful metered taxis, tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are some of the most popular options, all being easily available in any part of the city. However, considering the infamous traffic jam of the city, BTS (the aboveground Sky train) and MRT (underground metro) are the best alternatives. The trains begin their service at 6 am and end at midnight. The cheapest way of getting around is through local bus services, but it gets tedious because the routes are complicated and the information is all written in Thai. One can also hail private cabs, but they are quite an expensive affair. Make sure you bargain for a good deal while hiring a tuk-tuk or a colourful taxi.
How to Reach Bangkok from India
Bangkok, home to two international airports, can easily be reached by several direct flights from India. Flight companies such as Air India, Air India Express, AirAsia, Jet Airways, Thai Airways and IndiGo from various India cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Ahmadabad, etc. fly with high frequencies.
Visiting Bangkok is easy as there are many Travel options
By Air
Bangkok is well connected by air to the rest of the world and there are two airports in the city. The Suvarnabhumi Airport is located 25 kilometres east of Bangkok and the Don Mueang Airport located 24 kilometres to the north. Most international and domestic airlines operate at the Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is linked to the city by buses, taxis, and Airport Rail Link, a high-speed train service into downtown Bangkok.
By Road
Buses to and from other parts of Thailand including Pattaya, Krabi, Phuket and Ko Samui and also to neighbouring countries operate in Bangkok. There are three major bus terminals in Bangkok; the Northern Bus Terminal, also known as Mo Chit, the Eastern Bus Terminal, also known as Ekkamai and the Southern Bus Terminal, also known as Sai Tai. Book your bus tickets directly at one of the three public bus terminals and avoid travel agents and private buses, which are not the most reliable.
By Rail
Bangkok is well connected by rail to the rest of Thailand and to neighbouring countries like Malaysia, Cambodia and Laos. The main railway station of Bangkok is the Hua Lamphong Railway Station where trains from neighbouring countries and other parts of Thailand operate. The Thornburi Train Station (formerly known as Bangkok Noi Station) serves for local or nearby travel.
Best Time To Visit
November to February: This is Thailand’s cool season, with daytime temperatures slightly under 30°C and relatively low humidity. This is also Thailand’s peak season for tourism, which means prices are slightly higher overall. Regarded as the ‘cold months’, this is the perfect time to explore Bangkok on foot. In the evenings temperatures can drop below 20 degrees Celsius.
March to May: Although these are Bangkok’s hottest months, it is also the time when Bangkok celebrates the Thai New Year with great festivity and cheer. Sudden bouts of rain are a welcome change and boat cruises, mall shopping and lounging by the pool are highly recommended. Don't forget to carry your sunglasses and buy yourself a hat there!
May to October: Regarded as Bangkok’s ‘low season’, this is a great time to visit the city as you can fetch some great deals on hotels and excursions. The frequent bouts of rain do not deter tourists from indulging in a range of indoor activities like shopping, visiting aquariums and temples as well as entertainment complexes.
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