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About Bangkok |
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General |
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Bangkok was founded in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri dynasty. It is now the country's spiritual, cultural, diplomatic, commercial and educational hub. It covers an area of more than 1,500 square kilometres, and it is home to approximately ten million people or more than 10% of the country's population.
Over the last few decades, Thailand's capital city, Bangkok, has changed into a modern, exciting and sophisticated city. It offers to visitors not only the cosmopolitan amenities they would expect from other big cities, but also a unique treasure trove of cultural attractions. Thailand, in the heart of Southeast Asia, was never colonised and thus kept its unique culture and heritage intact. Bangkok offers visitors the opportunity to experience fascinating glimpse of Thailand's gentle culture amidst the bustle of a great and dynamic metropolis. This great city has had astounding success in combining the ancient and modern world. For tourists, Bangkok has a feast of attractions to offer. The city is dotted with 400 glittering Buddhist temples of great beauty and fascination, magnificent palaces, classical dance extravaganzas, numerous shopping centres and traditional ways of life, especially along the "Venice of the East" timeless canals and the Chao Phraya River of the "River of Kings" winding through the city. It is worth taking a trip along its waters before exploring further into different canals to take a glimpse of old Bangkok. Useful tourist information on Bangkok can be obtained from the official website of the Bangkok Tourism Division : www.bangkoktourist.com | ||
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Bangkok Songkran Festival
April 12-14 H. M. The Kings Birthday Celebrations
December 5 H. m. The Queens Birthday Celebration
August 12 Royal Ploughing Ceremony
May
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Subway (Metro) | ||
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Shopping Areas and Markets Ploenchit-Ratchaprasong Top department stores and luxury shopping malls are concentrated in the area, namely Central, Sogo, Gaysorn Plaza, Isetan, Zen, Amarin Plaza, Peninsula Plaza, all of which together make the largest shopping promenade in Bangkok. Furthermore, the World Trade Centre and Narayana Phand Pavilion, host the official handicraft centre selling items from all parts of the country. Ratchaprasong intersection is the gateway to several shopping areas such as Phloenchit-Sukhumvit, Siam Square - Mah Boon Krong (MBK), Silom and Pratunam-Phetchaburi. Silom-Surawong-Patpong Silom Road is the main artery of Bangkok's commercial heart and is paralleled by Surawong Road, while Patpong runs crosswise between the two. In addition to housing dozens of specialist shops and boutiques representing all the major buys, this area also boasts many branches of well-known retailers and several shopping plazas. Street stalls also abound, most notably at Patpongs famous night market. Silom-Mahesak-Charoenkrung Road Silom leads into Charoenkrung Road which parallels the Chao Phraya River, and notable shopping opportunities include gems and jewellery stores (Mahesak Road is a gem trading centre), Oriental Plaza and River City shopping complex. Sukhumvit, like Silom, is one of Bangkok's main thoroughfares, and the long road is lined with shops, boutiques and modern shopping plazas ranging from Soi 3 (Nana Nua) up to Soi 63 (Ekkamai). Most shops and restaurants are concentrated between Soi 3 and soi 21 (Asok) and along shortcuts between Asok and Ekkamai. Pratunam-Phetchaburi A highlight in the district is Pratunam market, one of Bangkok's biggest centres for ready-to-wear clothing. Baiyoke Tower Located next to Bangkok's tallest hotel building, Baiyoke tower is one of the city's renowned garment centres. Nai Lert Plaza Situated close to Pratunam Market, Nai Lert Market is one of many shopping areas in Bangkok where you can buy just about everything from clothing to handicrafts. Bang Lamphu Situated close to the Grand Palace, Bang Lamphu has a lively market where clothing is a popular buy. Chinatown Centre on Yaowarat Road and Sampheng Lane, Bangkok's Chinatown offers a profusion of gold shops as well as several nearby traditional shopping places such as Ban Mo Jewellery Street, Phahurat Cloth Market and the Old Siam Plaza. Bo-be Market Situated close to Bangkok Railway Station, Bo-be is one of the city's renowned ready-to-wear clothing centres, both wholesale and retail. Jatujak or Chatuchak Weekend Market Located adjacent to Chatuchak Park, the weekend market, open on Saturday and Sunday, is a Bangkok landmark where you can buy just about everything from clothing to potted plants and everything in between a paradise for browsers and bargain-hunters alike. The market also offers items of furniture and home decor. It is also where professional and amateur art-lovers and artists meet. Pak Khlong Talat This is a wholesale market for all kinds of cut flowers and vegetables. It is located on Maharat Road near the Memorial Bridge. The market is crowded in the early morning and in the evening. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market This popular attraction is some 80 kilometres west of Bangkok, accessible by regular bus from the Southern Bus Terminal. Everyday, hundreds of vendor boats crowd the market area in the early morning till noon. | ||
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Khon Masked Dance at Sala Chalermkrung Theatre
It gets its name from the lamphu trees that used to grow here. This tree has vertical roots and is a favourite gathering spot for fireflies. The canal that makes Bang Lamphu part of Rattanakosin Island was dug during the reign of King Rama I and has had many names including Klong Ong Ang because there used to be a community here making the big earthenware pots called ong. Bang Lamphu has been the location of many of the major events in Thailand's recent history. The Democracy Monument on Ratchadamnoen Klang Road has been the rallying point for many political movements. There is a house on Phra Arthit Road, where Pridi Banomyong lived when he established the Seri Thai organization to fight the Japanese occupation during World War II. Old Bangkok Walking Tour
Siam Soundtrek presently have Mp3 tracks available for 15 sites within Bangkok's historical Rattanakosin Island, including the Giant Swing, Wat Suthat, and the Brahmin Chapels. All these sites are found within walking distance from Khao San Road. Bank of Thailand Museum Bank of Thailand Museum is located in the Bang Khun PhromPalace, one of the splendid historical sites in Bangkok with artistic beauty in architectural designs and decorative arts. The Palace has a long history tracking back to nearly one hundred years. It was originally a royal residence of H.R.H. Prince Baripatra Sukhumbhand, a son of H.M. King Chulalongkorn and H.M. Queen Sukhumala Marasri, and was a government office for a period of time until 1945, when it became the office premise of the Bank of Thailand and was renovated to house the Bank of Thailand Museum in 1992. The opening ceremony of the Museum was graciously presided over by H.M. the King and the Queen on January 9, 1993. The main objective of the Museum is to preserve Thai currency, one of our important cultural heritages, as well as to stimulate the research and study on the history and evolution of Thai currency. The exhibitions started from the prehistoric medium of exchange the ancient currency, used in different eras up until the present day. In addition, it also highlights the roles and responsibilities of the Bank of Thailand, the governors, as well as the history of Bang Khun Phrom Palace and H.R.H. Prince Baripatra Sukhumbhands life. The exhibitions compose of 14 rooms such as: Pot Duang Room displays Pot Duang coins, circulated from Sukhothai period up to the reign of King Rama V of Rattanakosin period, as well as their methods of productions. | ||
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Khao San Road During the day, Khao San Road is the scene for back-packers looking for a cheap room while others are arranging transport to their next destination in Thailand or overseas. Some will be just chatting with friends over a cup of coffee or a bowl of noodles. The location is very convenient for visiting the many tourist attractions on Rattanakosin Island. It is just a 10-minute walk to Sanam Luang and The Grand Palace. During April when Thais celebrate the Songkran Festival, Khao San Road becomes a fun-filled battleground as everyone, Thais and foreigners indulge in splashing each other with water. How to get there:
Open : Daily
Open : Daily Maenam Chao Phraya A cruise on the Chao Phraya River gives you a new perspective on Bangkok as you pass by the imposing Prangs of Wat Arun, the majestic Grand Palace and the Temple of The Emerald Buddha. You'll see a different side of commerce as huge lines of rice barges are towed by a small tugboat and other barges carrying cargo as diverse as sand and gravel, even soft drinks and beer. There are a number of ways you can experience life on the river. You can take a voyage on a luxuriously converted rice barge leaving from Bangkok on a leisurely journey all the way up to the ancient capital at Ayutthaya. There are also purpose-built luxury cruisers making the same trip. Or you can see the river life the same way the locals do by catching a river express boat. There are converted rice barges and Chinese junks that offer lunch and dinner cruises. The evening dinner cruise can be particularly romantic, sipping fine wine at a candle-lit table. For those who want a more budget-priced journey, there are small river boats that are available for hire by the hour
Open : Daily National Gallery Museum Open : Wed-Sun from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. | ||
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Pak Khlong Talat The Thai people have a great appreciation for fresh flowers, both for the beauty and the fragrance. This is where those who have time and the florists come to buy their flowers at wholesale prices. The variety includes roses, daisies and more exotic species such as orchids in every colour and shade imaginable. Most of the flowers are grown in the neighbouring provinces of Nakhon Prathom, Samut Sakon and Samut Songkram although the best roses come from the cooler climate in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Unfortunately, the main activities at the market take place late at night and in the early morning but there are flower sellers there all day and in the surrounding streets. How to get there: Chao Phraya River Express to Pak Khlong Talat Pier.
Open : Park - Daily from 5 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sanam Luang or Thung Phra Men Open : Daily Saranrom Park Open : Daily from 5 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Open : Daily | ||
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The Grand Palace
The main buildings within the Grand Palace compound were built for King Rama V, who was the first Thai King to travel to Europe. Phra Thinang Chakri Maha Prasat, built in 1877 by King Rama V as his Royal Residence, is the most highly recognized architectural landmark of the Nation. The central Throne Hall, which was formerly used for the reception of foreign envoys, is flanked by reception areas decorated with galleries of portraiture. The central room on the second floor is used as a shrine for the reliquary ashes of Kings Rama IV, Rama V, Rama VI, Rama VII and Rama VIII. Borom Phiman Mansion was also constructed during the reign of King Rama V. When his son, King Rama VI ascended to the throne, he had it improved for use as his residence. The three succeeding Kings also resided here at one time or another. The Siwalai Gardens, where the office of The Royal Household Bureau is located, were used for receptions as well as a recreation area for the royal women and children. Maha Monthien Prasat houses The Audience Hall of Amarin Winitchai where ceremonies of the Court usually take place in front of the throne surmounted by its canopy of nine tiers of white cloth. How to go there:The most enjoyable route is to take the BTS Skytrain to Taksin Station. From here take a Chao Phraya River Express boat to Tha Chang Wang Luang Pier. It is a short walk from the pier to the entrance to The Grand Palace public entrance. Opening Hours: Open to the public everyday, except during special Royal Ceremonies, from 8.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. Admission Fee: Baht 250. This also includes admission to Wat Phra Kaeo, The Royal Thai Decorations & Coins Pavilion in the same compound and to Vimanmek Mansion Museum on Ratchawithi Road. Baht 100. for rental personal audio guide in English, French, German, Spanish, Russian, Japanese or Mandarin. Dress Code: Visitors are required to dress appropriately. Thus the following dress - code (applicable to both ladies and gentlemen) is requested: The National Museum
King Rama VII placed it under the administration of the Royal Institute of Literature, Archeology and Fine Arts which has evolved to be the Fine Arts Department. New buildings were constructed in 1967 and other historical buildings relocated to the museum grounds. The Buddhaisawan Chapel was built in 1787 to enshrine a revered northern Buddha image called Phra Buddha Si Hing. The interior has exceptional murals, while the building itself is a fine example of Rattanakosin religious architecture. Tamnak Daeng is another building that has been moved to the Museum. This Red House was originally the residence of an elder sister of King Rama I. Furniture and other items from early Bangkok times. The National Museum collection encompasses a wide range of religious and secular art found throughout the country. Items from pre-historic times, through the Srivijaya, Dvaravati, Khmer Kingdoms and the Sukhothai, Ayutthaya and Rattanakosin periods of Thai history. These include Neolithic tools, painted pots and bronze objects unearthed in the northeast. Thai Buddhist art exhibits feature images in stone, bronze and terracotta as well as illustrated scripture books manuscript cabinets and votive plaques. The Museum also has a large collection of miscellaneous items such as Thai and Chinese ceramics, theatrical costumes, palanquins, weapons and assorted items used in royal households. Guided tours are given free by volunteers in English and French starting at 9.30 a.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Tours are also given in German on Thursdays and in Japanese on Wednesdays of the first & the third week of each month. Guided tours in some other languages can be arranged. How to get there: The most enjoyable route is to take the BTS Skytrain to Taksin Station. From here take a Chao Phraya River Express boat to Tha Phrachan Pier. Walk straight from the pier to Sanam Luang Park and turn left past Thammasat University to the museum. By Bus No. 3, 6, 9, 15, 19, 30, 32, 33, 43, 53, 59, 64, 65, 70, 80, 84 Air Condition Bus No. 3, 6, 7, 38, 39, 80, 82, 91 Airport Bus No. A2 Opening hours : Wednesday to Sunday from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. Admission fee : 40 baht Contact : The National Museum Bangkok Na Phrthat Rd., Phra Borommaharachawang Sub-district, Phra Nakorn District, Bangkok 10200 Vimanmek Mansion Museum
Daily from 9.30 a.m. - 4.30 p.m. Tickets are sold till 3.15 p.m. Thai dancing shows : Daily at 10.30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Admission : 100 baht Proper attire is required Tel : 0 2628 6300-9 ext. 5119 - 5121, 0 2281 5455, 0 2281 6880 www.palaces.thai.net | ||
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Canal Tours A voyage through time Bangkok's history is so closely connected to the waterways. It used to have so many canals that it was often called The Venice of The East. Rattanakosin Island came into existence when King Rama I had the Bang Lamphu Klong constructed to fortify Bangkok. Cruising along the klongs as the canals are called in Thai, takes you on a journey of contrast back to earlier eras and up to modern Bangkok. On the way you will see a different side of life as you pass the homes of the klong-dwellers. Each home seems to have its own boat, be it a small canoe or a hang yao the long-tailed boats powered by car or truck engines and a propeller on a long shaft that acts as both propulsion and steerage. The contrast continues as you pass into idyllic rural pockets where villagers grow fruit, vegetables and orchids which are sent to markets on the long-tailed boats. Youll see children on there way to or from school and saffron robed monks traveling to their klong-side temples. You may even come across Thai women in boats selling boat noodles, drinks, snacks and fruit. How to get there: Tour boats depart from the pier beside the Oriental Hotel, at River City and Tha Chang Wang Luang Pier. Royal Barge National Museum These ornately decorated boats are maintained by the Royal Thai Navy and docked at The Royal Barge National Museum on Bangkok Noi canal on the Thonburi side. The most impressive and important boat is the Kings personal barge, Suphanahong which was built in 1911. It is 46 metres in length hewn from a single tree and covered with intricate gilt carvings and colourful pieces of glass. The design is representative of a mythical swan. The crew consists of 54 oarsmen who paddle in time to the rhythmic beat of a drummer. The Royal Barge fleet consists of 52 vessels. Each is a masterpiece of marine and traditional craftsmanship. They feature a variety of figureheads on their bows, including a sacred Garuda, Hanuman and the seven heads of Naga. In formation the fleet travels in rows five abreast and more than one kilometre from the leading barge to those at the rear. These are propelled by 2,082 specially trained naval personnel A visit to The Royal Barge National Museum will give you an insight into the colourful culture of Thailand. How to get there: by Chao Phraya Ferry cross the river at Tha Pra Chan Pier near Thammasat University to Bangkok Noi (Thonburi) Train Station Pier or by chartered boat from Tha Chang Pier. | ||
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Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium Situated in the southeastern area of Vachirabenjatas Park (Railway Park), the garden covers an area of approximately 6 rai. It comprises an activity ground, exhibition area, feed breeding room, embryo breeding room, scenic area, insectariums, butterfly garden and Lamphu tree ground. There is a cage covering an area of 1,100 square metres with a large dome of 15 metres high, built from an open framework for good ventilation. The garden area connects to Chatuchak Park and Queen Sirikit Park. It is a natural study room ideal for learning and being a source of information as well as exchange of knowledge about butterflies and insects, their life cycles and being. The garden is open daily except for Monday during 8.30 a.m.-4.30 p.m. Open : Tue - Sun and public holidays Chatuchak Park Open : Daily from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. Chatuchak Weekend Market It is just about impossible to go to Chatuchak Weekend Market and not buy anything. There is just about everything that bargain hunters, home makers, pet lovers or just browsers can imagine. Handicrafts are every where including pottery, hand-made glass models of the Royal Barges, fluffy toys, colourful tropical fish, singing birds puppies of many breeds, furniture and lots of new and second hand clothing, shoes, handbags, belts. There is so much on offer that even international home decor wholesales come here to shop. Music lovers can find unique traditional Thai musical instruments being sold direct by the artisans who have crafted them to make the pleasing sounds. One rule for all shoppers to observe is bargain, bargain, bargain. This is part of the fun and also gets you the best prices. Chatuchak Weekend Market has interesting products from all over Thailand as well as things from far off lands. You should allow the best part of a whole day to explore the many stalls. You never know what you will find. But this is work that will make you thirsty and puckish, so take a break here and there to cool off with a fresh fruit juice or feast on delicious Thai dishes such as Pad Thai, barbecue chicken, noodles and sweets. How to get there: BTS Skytrain to Mochit Station or Metro to Kamphaeng Phet Station Childrens Discovery Museum The museum offers exhibitions as well as funny activities for children to enjoy and learn about human life, sciences, culture and society, nature and the environment, including an exhibition in honour of Her Majesty the Queen. It is open during 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. on weekends. Open : Daily (Mon-Fri from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sat-Sun from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) Queen Sirikit Park Open : Daily from 5 a.m. - 8 p.m. The State Railway Hall of Fame Open : Sat. - Sun. from 5 a.m. - 12 a.m. | ||
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Santi Chai Prakan Pavilion and Public Park Open : Daily National Memorial Open : Mon. - Fri. from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. A speaker is available for a group visit but advance contact in writing is required. Royal Thai Air Force Museum
The Royal Thai Air Force museum was set up in 1952 with the purpose of collecting and restoring defence articles of different periods including equipments and aircraft in use during the early period of Thai aviation history up to the present. The RTAF museum was first located at a hangar west of Don Muang airfield and was not opened to public until 27 March 1959. The present museum was constructed in 1968 at a total cost of 6,635,000 Baht. The museum was officially opened to the public on 24 January 1969. | ||
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Dusit Zoo Dusit Zoo has a very good collection of animals from around the world. It is ideal for a family outing or just for those who would like to know more about animal behaviour. Major sections include a Nocturnal Animals Exhibit where you can see how they live in the night- time environment. The Reptiles and Amphibians Centre has more than 70 species. For more fun, there is Playland where children can really enjoy themselves on amusement rides. There are other more sedate rides available on the lake. Open : Daily from 8 a.m.- 6 p.m. The Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall The Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall is the beautiful white building facing the Royal Plaza where the statue of H.M. King Chulalongkorn ( Rama V )stands. The design and construction was supervised by Chao Phraya Yommaraj, with a team of Italian architects, engineers and painters. It took nine years to complete the building, which is designed in Italian Renaissance style. The exterior is decorated with marble imported from Carrara in Italy. How to get there:
Bus routes 70, 72, 503 The Equestrian Statue of King Rama V the Great Established in 1908 in the reign of King Rama V with a fund raised by the Thai people, the statue was cast in Paris by a French craftsman. The remaining fund was spent by King Rama VI on the establishment of Chulalongkorn University, which was named after King Rama V. Open : Daily The Press Museum Located in the same building as the Press Association of Thailand on Ratchasima Road, Dusit district (opposite Suan Dusit Rajabhat University), this is the first museum to have been established to enhance press occupation and be a source of study and information as well as valuable historical data about the Thai press from past to present. The exhibition is displayed through modern information technology. The first portion presents the press in the past by imitating the working atmosphere of reporters represented by wax models. Next are the political, economic as well as social roles of the press and biographies of outstanding personalities such as Dr. Bradley, Prince Narathipphongpraphan, M.R. Kukrit Pramoj, Kularb Saipradit, Malai Choopinij and Isra Amantakul. There are also images of King Rama IV founder of Thailand's publishing business established to publish declarations and royal gazettes, the first newspaper for Thai people and King Rama VI a press king who granted freedom for newspaper publication. The museum features an exhibition on newspapers and magazines and provides a library service, as well. Open : Mon.- Fri. from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Advance contact is required) Vimanmek Palace An outstanding example of 19th century architecture. While admiring the craftsmanship of the carpenters, you will travel back through time to gain a rare insight into the lifestyle of royalty. The three-story Vimanmek Mansion is the largest golden teak building in the world, built in an architectural style that reflects European influences. There are two right-angled wings, each 60 metres long and 20 metres high. The section where The King resided is octagonal and has four stories. The mansion has 81 rooms, halls and ante-chambers. Following King Rama V moving to Amporn Satarn Mansion in 1906,Vimanmek Mansion was un-occupied until 1925 when King Rama VI gave permission for his wife, HRH Indharasaksaji to take up residence there. She stayed there until his death. Today, there are 31 exhibition rooms. Exhibits include a silverware room, ceramic display room, glassware and ivory display. Some of the rooms have been preserved to retain the atmosphere of the earlier era, particularly the bedrooms, bathrooms and the Audience Chamber. Other buildings in the compound also house displays of various artifacts and precious art objects. How to get there: Bus Routes 18, 28, 108, 510, 515 Siam Niramit
Situated on Thiam Ruammit Road off Ratchadaphisek Road, about 100 metres from the Thailand Cultural Centre The show starts nightly at 8 pm. but visitors should arrive at 7 pm. to join a free guided tour to a Thai village in the compound. Restaurants and souvenir shops are also available. Tickets cost 1,500 baht per person. Contact Siam Niramit at Tel: 0 2649 92222 Fax: 0 2649 9200 for reservations. Click www.siamniramit.com for details and click www.thaiticketmaster.com for online booking till 30 december 2005. Thai Life Permanent Exhibition Hall The exhibition is divided into four main sections and uses a combination of presentation techniques including computer generated images, photography, multi-image slide presentations and puppets. A video wall with nine screens welcomes visitors as they enter starts the presentation on the history of the Thai people. This is divided into four areas covering the history of Thai culture, important archeological sites in Thailand, world civilization and the origins of the Thais. The second sector takes you through Thai settlements concentrating on different cultures, languages and religions presented in the media of puppets and aerial photographs of ancient sites in four regions of the country. Influences of outside civilization comes in the third section. Some highlights are those of Chinese and Indian traders and the impact they had in social intercourse. The fourth area takes you through the development of Thailand as a nation from the establishment of The Kingdom of Siam at Sukhothai, the rise and fall of Ayutthaya, the Thonburi period leading on to the present Rattanakosin era under the Chakri Dynasty. The Thai Life Exhibition Hall is a valuable source of information for all those who want to know more about Thailand and its people. How to get there: Subway - Thai Cultural Centre Station. The Princess Mother Memorial Park A Tribute to Mae Fa Luang, The Mother of us all
Her original home had no longer existed so owners of some similar buildings in the area gladly donated them to the King for his project. The Princess Mother Memorial Park has a reproduction of the house where she lived as a child set in open space with beautiful gardens. There are two exhibition halls, the first devoted to her life including signed photographs such as the one of her at the age of 14. The photographs with supporting text chronicle her life and finally her cremation ceremony in 1996. How to get there: Bus Routes 6, 43. The park is located on Soi 3 Somdet Chao Phraya Road, Khlong San. Open : Garden - Daily 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Museum - 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Admission : Free Tel : 0 2437 7799, 0 2439 0902 www.princessmothermemorialpark.org
Benchasiri Park Open : Daily from 5 a.m. - 8 p.m. Admission : Free Museum of Thai Pharmacy Open : Mon-Fri from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Advance contact in writing is required for a group visit) Admission : Free Tel : 0 2391 6243, 0 2712 1627 Science Centre for Education Open : Exhibition: Tue to Sun (except public holidays) from 8.30 a.m. - 4.30 p.m. Planetariam : 1-hour shows at 11 a.m. and 2.30 p.m. Additional shows on Sat & Sun at 10 a.m. and 1.30 p.m. Admission : Exhibition and Planetariam - Adult 40 baht, Child 20 baht Tel : 0 2392 5951-9 | ||
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The main attraction is as the name says traveling through the open spaces where wild animals can be seen in their natural habitat from the windows of a tour coach or your own car. The journey is 8 kilometres and takes about 45 minutes. On the way you will have close encounters with rare and endangered species. One highlight you should not miss is feeding time for the lions and tigers. It will send a chill down your spine. Add more excitement to your visit on a boat ride through the tropical jungle where hungry crocodiles await and head-hunters have their eyes on you. Beware of the gorillas lurking in the forest. You had better hold on to your seat as the boat moves through the mangroves and thick reeds and shoots down a heart-stopping flume. All this adventure will probably build up an appetite so you head to the restaurants and kiosks spread throughout the park. Open : Daily from 8 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. Admission : Adult 700 baht, Child 450 baht Tel : 0 2518 1000-19, 0 2914 4100-19 www.safariworld.com Siam Park City Open : Mon. - Fri. from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat. - Sun. and Public Holidays from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Admission : Adult 200 baht Child 100 baht Tel : 0 2919 7200-19 www.siamparkcity.com In addition to the amusement parks as mentioned above, many leading department stores in Bangkok also provide an indoor amusement area such as Fantasia Lagoon at the Mall (Bang Khae) Tel : 0 2454 0061, The Mall (Bang Kapi) Tel : 0 2734 1400-59, Leo Land at Central City (Bang Na) Tel : 0 2361 0888, Seacon Square (Si Nakharin) Tel : 0 2721 8931-33, 0 2721 8888, Future Park (Bang Khae) Tel : 0 2455 0173-5, Imperial World (Samrong) Tel : 0 2756 8217-9, Fashion Island Tel : 0 2947 5000, and so on.
Sunthorn Museum Open : Sat. from 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. Admission : 200 baht Tel : 0 2802 0863-4 www.sunthornmuseum.com
Krungsri IMAX Theatre Contact : Tel. 0 2515 5555 website : www.imaxthai.com
Gem and Jewellery Institute of Thailand Museum : open on Mon-Fri from 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. | ||
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Jim Thompson's Museum
The company he founded, Jim Thompson Thai Silk, is recognized worldwide for its brilliant creations. He was an avid collector of Asian artifacts and antiques and The Jim Thompson's House is possibly the epitome of his collection. Before his mysterious disappearance in the Cameron Highland in Malaysia in 1967, his house was the talk of the town where he entertained his friends and visitors including the like of Somerset Maugham. The house sits on approximately a half acre of land on Mahanak Canal. Ban Khruavillage where his silk weavers lived and worked. Is just on the other side of the canal. To build the house he gathered 6 original traditional teak structure from different parts of the country and brought carpenter from Ayutthayawho completed the house in 1959. The gardens are equally impressive with a lush tropical jungle imitating nature's haphazard beauty right in the cent er of the city. Jim Thompsons connoisseur collection of antiques and artifacts is on permanent exhibition, making this a magnificent museum of the lifestyle of the legend. How to get there: BTS Skytrain to National Stadium Station King Rama VI Statue Open : Daily Lumphini Park Lumphini Park was originally an open field called Sala Field, the private property of King Rama VI. In 1925 he donated it to the nation as the first public park. The name Lumphini comes from the birthplace of Lord Buddha. The park was used as a fair ground and as the site for The Siamrath Phiphithapan Trade Fair held to promote Thai products. During the cooler months of the year, December and January, there are free concerts titled Sundays in the park. These concerts feature a whole range of musical entertainment from The Bangkok Symphony Orchestra to rock bands, traditional ensembles and Thai country music called Luk Tung. The performances start at 5.00 p.m. and seating is on mats on the grass. The early bird gets the best position.
How to get there: BTS Sky Train to Saladaeng Station, Subway to Lumphini Station. Museum of Imaging Technology Open : Mon - Fri from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute (Snake Farm) Thailand is the habitat for many varieties of venomous snakes as well as harmless species. Under the auspices of the Thai Red Cross Society, the snake farm was established and officially opened on November 22, 1923 to extract venom from the snakes in order to study and develop anti-venom serum to treat snake bite victims. The poisonous snakes that are indigenous to Thailand are cobra, king cobra, banded krait, Russell's viper, some pit vipers and sea snakes. These venomous snakes are provided by Thai farmers who are also snake catchers by profession. The snake farm pays them according to species and size. The normal procedure for extracting the venom is through the use of a glass receptacle with a membrane cover. The snake handler holds the snake just behind the head and places the glass receptacle for the snake to bite into the membrane. The venom flows into the glass receptacle. The venom is then used to make the vaccines. Visitors can see the extraction of the venom at scheduled times and wander through the breeding and holding areas to see the venomous snakes close at hand. How to get there: BTS Skytrain to Saladaeng Station, Subway to Samyan Station Shopping Street - Siam Square to Chidlom This is the major shopping area of Bangkok. It is very popular with tourists and Thais, particularly young, fashion-conscious Thai girls. The area started to develop around Siam Square in the late sixties when Chulalongkorn University utilized its land bank adjacent to the university. Since then, it has continued to progress with new shopping centres being built even now. Starting from the Pathumwan junction it stretches all the way to Wireless Road. The next section in this area is around the Ratchadamri and Ratchaprasong intersection where there are a selection of 5-star hotels and major shopping complexes catering for the more up-market shoppers. Many of the worlds leading fashion designers have boutiques in this locale. The Central World Plaza is the largest complex in this area and the site for Bangkok's New Year Countdown celebrations. During the cooler months of November to January, the major breweries sponsor the setting up of beer gardens on the plaza in front. How to get there: Skytrain to Siam or Chidlom Stations Suan Lum Night Bazaar The Suan Lum Night Bazaar is a great place for an inexpensive night out that offers fabulous shopping, restaurant or food court dining, live entertainment and a superb choice of beers. The shopping area is well laid out with neat streets lined on both sides with shops selling clothes, handicrafts, souvenirs, and a myriad of other items. There are alleyways between the main streets, which are crammed with smaller stalls offering great bargains. You'll be pleasantly surprised at what you might find here. As you wander along the main street, you'll see The Joe Louis Puppet Theatre. This is truly unique. This is a puppet theatre presenting performances of the Ramakien. With three puppeteers manipulating each puppet. They are in full view of the audience and even come off the stage. The main attraction at Suan Lum Night Bazaar is the huge beer garden and food court covering an area about the size of two football fields. On three sides there are stall selling a delicious variety of food cooked before your eyes. There are also beer stalls on the right hand side offering all the local beers, many imported brands and some local brews from micro breweries in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. How to get there: Suan Lum Night Bazaar is on the corner of Wireless and Rama IV Roads. There is a Subway Station at Lumpini and the nearest BTS Skytrain station is Saladaeng. | ||
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Sukhumvit Road Sukhumvit Road runs all the way from the railway crossing at Ploenchit to the Cambodian Border in Trat. But the section from the first soi to Soi 55 is the one relevant to this presentation as it has much to offer visitors and locals alike. There are restaurants all the way along Sukhumvit Road and in just about every side street. These cover just about every cuisine known to man. The area around Soi Nana at the beginning of Sukhumvit Road has many restaurants, particularly those serving Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine. This area is also well-known for its lively bar scene. The restaurants and hotels continue up Sukhumvit Road and all the side streets. There is a beautiful park, Benchasiri Park, just before you reach The Emporium, yet another high class shopping cent er The condominiums in this area have a high number of expatriate Japanese families residing here, so there are more Japanese restaurants and bars in this locale. Some call it Little Tokyo. How to get there: BTS Skytrain has many stations. Subway Sukhumvit Station Bus routes 2, 23, 25, 38, 40, 48, 71, 98, 501, 508, 511, 513
King Rama IX Park
The Garden of the Great King or Uthayan Maharaj, symbolizes the Sovereign Grace and Majesty is the first and most important area. The Reservoir at area three is named Traphang Keo and truly exemplifies His Majesty's efforts to mitigate flooding in Bangkok as it adds to the effectiveness of the project he has proposed. The Rommaniya Garden" in area four is an open garden with miniature reproductions of Thailand's natural heritage including mountains and other geological features. Area five is an open field for use for entertainment and festival purposes. It is called Sanam Rasdara which means Royal Ground. In addition to these main areas, there are also seven international miniature gardens that were created with the assistance of experts from each of the countries represented. How to get there: Bus routes 145, 206, 207
Philatelic Museum The Philatelic Museum takes you through the history of the postal service in Thailand and the world. There are displays of all the Thai stamps and First Day Covers up until today. There is also a collection of stamps from around the world. The postal service keeps evolving as new technology and logistics systems emerge. But for most of the people of Thailand and the world, it is still an essential service. Who doesn't look forward to opening the mail? And who is not intrigued when they see a stamp from a foreign land? The Philatelic Museum is the place to visit for stamp collectors and all who have an interest in postal services. How to get there: Opening times : Tuesday to Saturday 9 am. - 4 pm. Admission fee : Free Tel : 0 2271 2439
King Prajadhipok Museum How to get there: Bus routes 2, 15, 39, 44, 47, 60, 79, 511, 512. Saensaep Canal Express Boat service to Phanfa pier. Admission fee : 40 baht Tel : 0 2280 3413-14, 0 2280 3445-6 Email : kpm@kpi.ac.th Website : www.kpi.ac.th/museum
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Khon is Thailand's classical masked dance that is regarded as one of the most refined of performing arts.It was originally limited to the royal court. Performances are extremely expensive to produce, requiring lavish costumes, elaborate masks and headgear, and stage accessories that require highly skilled craftsmen to create. The scenes performed in the traditional Khon are taken from the Ramakien, a series of significant episodes in Thai literature based on the Indian epic of classical mythology the Ramayana that greatly influenced the literature of almost all nations in Southeast Asia.
King Rama I the Great Memorial 
King Rama III Memorial 
Monument to the Expeditionary Force 
Rommaninat Park 
The City Pillar Shrine 
Since the founding of Bangkok as the Nations capital by King Rama I, The Grand Palace has been the major architectural symbol of The Thai Royal Family. In the present time, The Royal Family resides at Chitralada Palace while The Grand Palace is used for ceremonial purposes.
The National Museum, located on the opposite side of Sanam Luang to The Grand Palace, was established in 1887 by King Rama V. The foundation collection was previously stored at The Grand Palace. The original building was formerly the palace of a vice-ruler. 
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The museum is located inside Queen Sirikit Park and was established under the royal initiative of Her Majesty the Queen, in her realizing the significance of creating a pleasurable learning process for Thai children. Based on the Bangkok Metropolitan Administrations children and family activities, the Childrens Discovery Museum took shape in the form of 3 exhibition buildings and an open-air activity ground covering a total area of 5 rai. The construction was completed in 2001 and undertaken under the project to celebrate the 60th birthday anniversary of Her Majesty the Queen.
The story of James H.W. Thompson is one upon legends are made. After serving in the U.S.A. armed forces, Jim Thompson settled in Thailand and found the tremendous opportunity to re-establish the Thai silk industry. In recognition of his services to the country, he was bestowed the royal award of The Order of the White Elephant. 
The 200 acre park is Thailand's first comprehensive botanical garden, providing a relaxing environment. It has six distinct areas, each with its own specific theme.