Rommaninat Park

The name "Rommaninat", which means "Park of the Queen Our Refuge", was given to the park by H.M. the Queen. It was a detention area before being transformed into a public park. In the park, you will find Bronze Conch Sculpture - Sited at the highest point of the park in a the middle of the pond decorated with the commemorate Fountain, it represents H.M. the Queen's kindness, which is as crystal clear and pure as water.The conch cast in alloy and plated with bronze contains the holy cloth of Mahasoros Mongkol, the sacred scripture and the real conch. Address: Siriphong Road, Samranrat, Phra Nakhon BangkokBus: 1 1 5 35 37 42 56 73 96 Air-con Bus: 42 507Park Opening Hours: Daily 5 am- 8 pm

Pictures Provided by : Bangkoktourist.com

Benchasiri Park

The small public park is located among tall buildings on Sukhumvit road in the heart of the business area, was established to honour Her Majesty the Queen's 60 years birthday Anniversary.The landscape of the park comprises of a vast green space to show the beauty of clear blue sky, big trees creating shady and cool environment. Moreover, there is a sculpture of H.M. the Queen in a standing posture, two Thai style pavilions exhibiting H.M. the Queen's kind activities, and various sculptures, such as "Sanyalak Haeng Seriphab" (The symbol of freedom), "Ngok Ngarm" (flourish), "Sanyalak Haeng Cheevit" (The symbol of life). In addition, the visitors can watch the Musical Fountain Show. The shows are held 3 times daily, 06.00 - 07.00, 12.00 - 13.00 and 18.00 - 20.00 Address: Between Sukhumvit 22/24 Lanes, Sukhumvit Road, Khlong Ton, Khlong Toei Bus: 2 25 38 40 48 98 Air-con Bus: 2 8 25 38 511 513 Opening Hours Park: Daily 5 am-8 pm

Saranrom Park

Saranrom Park, Bangkok’s first European-style royal botanical garden, was built in 1866 by King Rama IV but was finished in the reign of King Rama V. Originally the park is a garden in the Saranrom Palace. It is now a part of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Complex. The park is a picturesque European garden with full of old trees, and well located in the heart of the city.Address: In Between Rachini Road and Charoenkrung Road, Phraborommaharatchawang, Phra Nakhon Bus:1 3 6 9 12 25 32 43 44 47 48 53 60 82 91 123 Air-con Bus: 8 9 25 44 91 506 507 512Pier: Chao Phraya Express Boat: Tha Chang PierOpening Hours Park: Daily 5 am-8 pm

Queen Sirikit Park

The park was built to commemorate the 60th birthday anniversary HM Queen Sirikit.It is another major public park in Bangkok, which is located on Phahol Yothin Road. It is a spacious botanical graden with many kinds of trees, flowers, and wide lawns. Moreover, in the area of the park, there is a lotus garden; a big concrete pool contains many kinds of local and foreign lotuses.Address: 820 Phahonyothin Road, Ladyao, ChatuchakOpening Hours Park: Daily 5 am-6:30 pmBus : 3 8 28 29 52 59 69 77 104 108 122 134 138 145Air-con Bus : 2 3 23 38 509 510 512 517

Rama IX Royal Park

Rama IX Royal Park is located on Si Nakharin Road. It was opened in 1987 to commemorate King Bhumibol Adulyadej's 60th birthday Anniversary. Visitors can take a long walk in the area which comprises botanical gardens,a clean water lake, a building displaying the works and life of King Rama IX, and the landscape is beautifully decorated with many kinds of flowers. The park is open from 06:00 to 18:00 daily; admission is 10 baht.

Suan Lumphini

The name Lumphini given by King Rama VI came from the name of the birthplace of the Lord Buddha.Suan Lumphini is the Bangkok's largest and most popular park. A large artificial lake in the centre is surrounded by broad lawns, many kinds of trees and walking paths. It's the best outdoor escape from Bangkok without leaving town.One of the best times to visit the park is in the early morning.In the morning it's full of people exercising and Chinese tai chi groups making slow movements to music. Rowing boats and paddle boats can be rented at the lake. Rest rooms are placed at intervals throughout the park. In the park, there is the first Public library in Thailand" Lumphini Park Public Library". It has 30,000 books and has opened audio and visual educational services.
Address: Rama IV Road Wangmai, Pathumwan Bus: 4 13 14 15 17 45 46 47 62 67 74 76 106 109 115 116 149Air-con Bus: 4 5 62 67 76 507Opening Hours Park : Daily 4:30 am-8 pm

The Royal Barge National Museum

The Royal Barge National Museum provides many fascinating sights into Thai history and culture. It houses several royal barges used in Royal ceremonial processions on the river.
The most impressive and important barge is Suphanahongse, the King’s personal barge, built in 1911 in the reign of King Rama VI, with 44.7 metres long and 3.1 metres wide. The prow of the barges is carved in the shape of the head of a mythological swan figure.
The Narai Song Suban H M King Rama IX is the latest addition to the royal fleet.This Royal Barge was launched on 05 April 1996 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of His Majesty KingBhumibol Ayulyadej's accession to the throne.
Anantanagaraj Royal Barge is a impressive barge, used to carry the monastic robes. The prow of this barge is carved in the form of a seven-head naga.
Anekcharphutchong Royal Barge is coloured pink barge built in the reign of King Rama V It is an important barge used for carrying lesser throne for the king.
Address: Arun Amorin Road, Siriraj, Bangkoknoi, Bangkok Bus:19 57 79 80 81 91 123 124 127 147 149 Air Bus:79 503 507 509 511 Mb 10 1.Admission Free: Thai 10 Bht Foreigner 30 Bht Openning Hours: Daily 9 am-5 pm Closed: Dec 31 - Jan 1 ...........................................................................................

The National Museum

The National Museum was established in 1926 in the reign of King Rama VII. It is located on Na Phrathat Road next to Thammasat University. It houses Thailand's artistic treasures from prehistoric to contemporary.National Museum Bangkok currently houses three permanent exhibition galleries: 1. The Thai History 2. The Archaeological and Art History Collections which are divided in two parts:-- The Prehistory Gallery -- The Art History Gallery3. The Decorative Arts and Ethnological CollectionThe collection contains a variety of artistic and cultural exhibits such as gold treasures and precious stones, mother of pearl inlay, carved ivory, old weapons and musical instruments, costumes and textiles, and old royal transportation.Address: Na Phrathat Road, Phra Borommaharatchawang, Phra Nakhon, BangkokBus: 3 6 9 15 19 30 32 33 39 43 47 53 59 60 65 70 80 82 91 123 201 203Air-con Bus:1 8 25 Sai 38 39 82 506 507 512Opening Hours: Wed-Sun 9 am-4 pmClosed: Mon Tue Public Hols.Admission Fee: Thai 20 Bht Foreigner 100 Bht

Suan Pakkad Palace

"Suan Pakkad" means a cabbage garden. Originally the palace area was a garden of Chinese man to grow cabbage plants. Then the palace was built to be the residence of Chumbhot Phong Boriphat Krom Mamuen Nakhonsawan Sakphinit, a grand son of King Rama V, and his wife, Mom ratchawong Phanthip Boriphat.


In the area of Suan Pakkad Palace, there are 8 elegant traditional Thai houses having more than 100 years of age. Each traditional Thai house displays many antiques and collections of magnificent items, such as ancient Thai weapons, artifacts, bronze images from different period, ect.

The Lacquer Pavilion, a magnificent treasure of Thai architecture, is considered the highlight of Suan Pakkad Palace.Inside the Pavilion, it contains exquisite mural paintings, depict the Life of Lord Buddha.The Royal Barge, named "Kao Kung Bayam " is a interesting thing. Its body is made of odorata hopea wood, and the roof and cabin of teak.



Apart from the above mentioned areas of the Suan Pakkad Palace, overall atmosphere in the palace is cool and calm. It's full of various kinds of trees, flowers and natural pool. The palace attracts your feeling to the ancient Thai world. to escape from the chaos present world.


Palace Opening Hours : Open daily 9.00-18.00

Admission Fee : 50 Baht for Thai, 100 Baht for a foreigner

Sky train (BTS) : Phaya Thai Station Exit 4

Bus No : 14,17,72,74,77,159,164,204,536,539

Website : www.suanpakkad.com

DUSIT PALACE

In the reing of King Rama V, after the return of the King Rama V from Europe in 1897, he used his personal money to purchase orchards and paddy fields of construction of a Royal garden named " Dusit Palace".


Vimanmek Mansion or " Mansion in The Clouds", the world's largest golden teakwood mansion, is considered the highlight of " Dusit Palace".
Vimanmek Mansion is built of golden teakwood with unique style reflecting a western influence. The mansion has two reight-angle wings with 60 meter long and 20 meter high.

With 31 exhibition rooms composing the bedrooms, the throne rooms, the bathrooms, and some display house exhibitions of Thai art, absolutely maintains the atmosphere of Thai past.


Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall, situated to the east of Vimanmek Mansion, is a distinctive one storey building decorated with exquisite fretwork, colored glass, and stucco motifs on the gable.
In the past, the hall was served as the throne hall of the Dusit Palace. Now the hall is an exhibition hall displaying art crafts produced by members of the Foundation for the Pramotion of Supplementary Occupation and Related Techniques.



Location : Ratchavithi Road, Dusit, Bangkok

Admission Fee : 75 Baht for Thai, 100 Baht for Foreign

Vimanmek Mansion Hours : 9.30 am. - 03.15 pm.

Palace Hours : 9.30 am. - 04.00 pm.

Traditional Thai Dancings : Two show daily at 10.30 am. and at 2 pm.

The Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is a important place which you shouldn’t miss visiting. The Grand Palace was built in 1782. It’s more than 200 years ago. Beside the Rayal Chapel (Wat Phra Kaea), where the Emerald Buddha is enshrined, there are the principal audience halls. It consists of :

>> Borom Phiman Hall ( Phra Thinang Borom Phiman) was built in the western style in 1909. At present it is served as the Royal Guest House for heads of State and guests of Thai majesties.>>The Chakri Maha Prasat Hall is an impressive building. The hall was constructed in the plans of a British architect in a Victorian Style, but covered with a roof of pure Thai Style.

>>Phra Maha Montian Hall Group consists of three connecting buildings.The Amarindr Vinichai Hall is the anterior part. Originally, it was the formal audience hall where the King met his offiers for state business. Now, it is used for many ceremonies such as the King’s birthdays and Coronation Day. The Phaisal Thaksin Hall is in the middle of Hall group. The Hall contains gorgeous pavilion on which the King appears on the important ceremonies. T he Chakraphat Phiman Hall, the last of the halls, was originally used as a place of residence.

>> The Dusit Maha Prasat Hall is considered as the finest building inside the Grand Palace, the principal function of the hall has been a hall for the lying-in-state of Kings, Queens, and Royal family.>> Aphorn Phimok Prasat was built entirely of wood by King Rama IV. While four levels of saddle roof cover the north and south arms, the shorter east and west arms have only two levels of saddle roof. A prasat spire rises over the intersection. It was built as a changing room to be used before descending a flight of steps onto a platform to mount a palanquin.

Opening Hours: Open to the public everyday, from 8.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m.Admission Fee: Baht 200 for foreigners, and free for Thais. The admission fee also includes admission to the Grand Palace.Dress Code: Visitors are required to dress appropriately. Visitors need to wear a long sleeved t-shirt and long skirt or trouser. Sandals (without ankle or heel straps) can not be worn.

Wat Traimit

Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha), located in the east end of Yaowarat Road.The temple houses the famous 5.5 tonne solid Golden Buddha with 3 metres high. The Golden Buddha was constructed over 700 years ago during the Sukhothai period. Temple Opening Hours: Daily from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.Admission: 20 bahtBus : 4, 7, 21, 25, 501, 511, 513

Wat Ratchanatdaram Worawihan

Wat Ratchanatdaram, located on Mahachai Road, was built in the reigh of King Rama III in 1846. The highlight of the temple is " Loha Prasat", or Metal Castle with 36 metres high and 37 surrounding spires, housing an urn containing relics of the Buddha. It is the only one of its kind left in the world. Moreover, the temple has a famous of a market selling Buddhist omulets.Address :2 Mahachai Road, Bowonniwet, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok Temple Opening Hours : Daily 9 am-8 pm Chapel Opening Hours: Daily 9 am-5 pm Buses : 2 5 12 15 33 35 39 42 44 47 56 59 60 70 201 203Air-con Bus: 39 44 68 79 503 511 512 517

Wat Suthat Thepwararam Ratchaworamahawihan

Wat Suthat, located on Bamrung Muang Road, is a spacious temple in bangkok being worth visiting. Standing in front of the temple , a distinctive giant swing is a feature of the temple that is different from other temples.The chapel of the temple is the longest chapel in Thailand. Its gable in the east is finely carved the image of the sun, and in the west, the gable is beautifully carved the image of moon.The Viharn of the temple houses Pra Sri Sakayamuni Buddha image. The Viharn's wall are decorated superb murals. The six pairs of Viharn doors are engraved in superb art in the rattanakosin period.
Temple Opening Hours : Daily 8.30 am.-09.00 pm.Chapel Opening Hours : Daily 8.30 am. -04.30 pm.Admission Fee : Free for Thai , 20 Baht for foreigners

Wat Benchamabophit Dusitwanaram

Wat Benchamabophit Dusitwanaram or "The Marble Temple", located on Sri Ayutthaya Road, is an unique temple you shouldn't miss. The temple was built in the reign of Rama V.The structure of the temple is a mixure of the western style and the Thai style.The chapel is an important structure of the temple. It houses the replica of Pha Phutthachinnarat. The wall of the temple is exquisitely decorated with marble blocks.The bacony of the temple contains the superb collection of bronze Buddha images in many periods. It is considered the first Buddha image museum.
Temple Opening Hours : Daily 8.30 am.-05.30 pm.Chapel Opening Hours : Daily 8.00 am. - 05.00 pm.Admission Fee : Free for Thai , 20 Baht for foreigners

WAT SAKET & GOLDEN MOUNTAIN

Wat Saket is an interesting temple built during the reing of King Rama I and is the location for a festival each November that includes a climb to the top of the Golden Mount. The temple is located conveniently close to the Khao San Road area.



The temple is famous for its golden pagoda with a height of 77 metres on the top of the Golden Mount with a diameter of 500 metres.




The artificial hill was made out of mud and brick by King Rama III . Then King Rama IV started the construction of the Chedi at the summit. Later on King Rama V added more structure to complete the Golden Mountain.Steps to the top of Golden Mountain, visitors can have a stunning panoramic Rattanakosin Island.


Opening Hours : 7.30 am.- 5.30 pm.

Admission Fee : 10 Baht

Bus : 8, 15, 37, 47, 49

WAT PHO

Wat Pho (Phra Chetupon Wimol Munkhalaram Temple), one of the most impressive Buddhist temples in Bangkok. It is the oldest and largest temple in Bangkok, was built in the 16th century during the Ayutthaya period and then almost completely rebuilt in 1781 by King Rama I. The temple is also regarded as Thailand’s first university, because in the past, the temple was the most important temple in providing education for Thai people. Wat Pho is the national headquarters for the teaching and preservation of traditional Thai massage.


One of the principal attraction of the temple is the most beautiful golden reclining Buddha in Thailand with 45 meters long and 15 meters high.The soles of the statue's feet are inlaid with mother-of-pearl showing the 108 auspicious signs of the Buddha.


Walking around the temple, visitors will see chapels, pagodas, Buddha images, and the sculpture of ascetics performing physical exercise, which the way for relaxing body and curing illness.

Opening Hours: daily 8 am-5 pm

Admission fee: Foreigner 20 Baht

Bus:1 3 6 9 12 25 32 43 44 47 48 53 60 82 91 123Air-con Bus: 8 9 25 44 82 91 506 507 512

WAT ARUNRATCHAWARARAM

Wat Arun, popularly known as Temple of Dawn, is one of the most famous Bangkok landmarks. Especially, “ Phra Prang”, marvelous pagoda sparkling in the sun, is the most outstanding architecture of the temple.The main Prang itself is made of concrete decorated with beautiful coloured porcelain painted in delicate leaves and flowers. Some pieces of porcelain are mixed with the oyster shell and some are plain porcelain.

Besides the main Prang, there are also many valuable structures.>> Four minor prangs standing at the four corners of the main Prang>> Four Mondops surrounding the main Prang>>Two belfries and two towers which house the Buddhist scriptures>> The Chinese style pavilion along the river

Opening Hours : Open daily 7.30 am- 5.30 pm

Admission Fee : 20 baht for foreigner

Ferry: from Tha Tien Pier to Wat Arun PierBus no: 19, 57, 83

WAT PHRA KAEO

Wat Phra Kaeo was built in the area of the Grand Palace in the reign of King Rama I. When you enter to the temple, the first thing that you will see is a figure of a seated hermit, a patron of Thai medicine. Behind him is the Ubosoth or the ordination hall which was built for enshrining the Emerald Buddha. The exterior walls are decorated with gilt stucco and colored glass mosaics. In the gallery surrounding the Ubhosoth, there are mural paintings depicting the story of the Rammakian, the Thai version the India Rammayana.


Walking around the temple, you will find the six pairs of Demon-Guardian statues standing at the gates. They stand facing the Ubosoth to guarding the Emerald Buddha from all evil spirits. Moreover you can see other attractive buildings inside the temple such as the Golden Stupa, which has circular base and bell shape. Relics of the Buddha are enshrined in it.

Phra Mondop is a spired hall on a square plan, used by Kings to enshrine objects of veneration. At four doors of Phra Mondop, there are statues of demons and human-face naga(the King of snakes) being guards.Phra Viharn Yod is a spired hall. Its super structure is in the form of a Thai crown ornamented with multicoloured pieces of glazed terracotta. Phra Monthian Tham, the Supplementary Library is the house of Buddhist Texts. A model of Angkor Wat, an impressive example of Khmer architecture of the 12th century.


The Emerald Buddha is carved from large green jade. The image itself measures 66 centimeters high and 48.3 centimeters wide. The image is in a seated position, right leg folded over the left, and both hands placed on the lap, like the attitude of meditation. The image has three costumes, depending to seasons; summer, rainy, and winter, all made of gold and jewelry.

Opening Hours: Open to the public everyday, from 8.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m.Admission Fee: Baht 200 for foreigners, and free for Thais. The admission fee also includes admission to the Grand Palace.Dress Code: Visitors are required to dress appropriately. Visitors need to wear a long sleeved t-shirt and long skirt or trouser. Sandals (without ankle or heel straps) can not be worn.

History of Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand's capital, was founded in 1782 by King Rama I (named Yodfa Chulaloke). Bankok is called by the Thais “Krung Thep”, which means “City Of Angels”. Bangkok is located on the low-flat plain of the Chao Phya River which flows from the North down to the Gulf of Thailand. In the old days, Bangkok was just a small agricultural and fishing village where people traveled mainly by rowing boats.After Krung Sri Ayuthaya, an ancient capital of 417 years old, was finally conquered and severely destroyed by the Burmese. With patriotism, a nobleman named "Taksin" led Thai people to fight against the Burmese army, and finally managed to drive them out of the country. After the final victory, General Taksin assumed the throne, he decided to establish the new capital called "Krung Thonburi", because Ayuthaya was too large for his small army to protect. He was later named "King Taksin the Great", and ruled over Krung Thonburi for 14 years. Unfortunately, King Taksin was overthrown and executed by a group of his own noblemen.Bangkok was instituted as the new capital in 1782 by Yodfa Chulaloke. Being a far-sighted man, Yodfa Chulaloke saw that Krung Thonburi would be too small to be a great capital in the future; he then moved the capital to another side of Chao Phya Riverbank. The location was then selected with the consideration as a natural defense from enemies and the richness of water for lives earning. Yodfa Chulaloke succeeded the throne and was the 1st Monarch of the present Chakri Dynasty.

Loi Krathong

Loi Krathong
“Loi Krathong” is traditionally performed on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month, which usually falls on some day in November. The floating of a ‘Krathong' – a banana–leaf cup – is intended to float away ill fortune as well as to express apologies to Khongkha or Ganga, the River Goddess. Some believe that the ritual is meant to worship the Buddha's footprint on the bank of the Narmada River, while others say that it is to pay respect to Phra Uppakhut, one of the Lord Buddha's great disciples. The Loi Krathong Festival is celebrated nationwide in Thailand, especially where there are rivers, canals or sources of water, with different unique characteristics.
Provided by : Tourism Authority of Thailand

Pak Khlong Talat

London has its Covent Garden, Paris has Les Halles, Bangkok has Pak Khlong Talat which is the biggest fresh flower market in the city.
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.Bus routes 2, 5, 8, 53, 60,73, 512

Dusit Zone

Dusit Zone is plenty of interesting places. Visiting the zone, visitors will find several and different impressive places. Starting at Dusit Palace located on Ratvithi Road, visitors will be impressed with Vimanmek mansion, the world's largest golden teakwood mansion, and Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall decorated with intricate fretwork.
Then visit the Royal Elephant National Museum, visitors will borden the knowledge about Thai elephants, which have been regarded as the symbol of prestige of the king and have important roles in Thailand since the old day. The museum is opened daily from 9.00 am-4.00 pm.
For a more intimate encourter, visit the Ananta Samakhom , the outstanding throne hall with a two storey marble construction with a large dome in the centre surrounded by six smaller domes. Then visit the Equestrian Statue of King Rama V the Great nearby the Ananta Samakhom.To get some joys, explore the Dusit zoo on Ratvithe road. It is the Bangkok's oldest zoo containing a collection of many animals and birds in an ornamental garden. It is open everyday from 8.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m. And to complete a perfect day, visit Wat Benjamabophit the Marble Temple. A outstanding temple in Bangkok, which its wall is exquisitely decorated with marble blocks.

Khao San Road

Where the worlds young travellers meet.Khao San Road is a favourite crossroads for the young travellers on a budget. It has evolved over the last two decades from just one small hostel providing low-budget accommodation become one of the worlds most well-known destinations. It has been featured in many movies and television documentaries.
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.At night, it turns into a lively thoroughfare lined with street stalls selling cheap clothes, handicrafts, souvenirs and thousands of other items. The lights are on at the many bars where the travellers tell tales of the days adventures and discoveries and the plans for tomorrow. Khao San Road is not just for foreign travellers, many young Thai people like to hang out there, including members of the TV and film production industries.
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.The area is also well-known for the wide variety of inexpensive food. This ranges from spicy Thai Tom Yum Gung soup to the ever-popular banana pancake.
How to get there: Bus routes 3, 9, 32, 64, 39, 44, 53, 59, 503, 509, 511

Bangkok Songkran Festival

April 12-14The traditional Thai New Year is an occasion for merriment all over the city, but most notably at Sanam Luang, near the Grand Palace, where the revered Phra Phuttha Sihing image is displayed and bathed by devotees. In the Wisutkasat area, a Miss Songkran beauty contest is held and accompanied by merit-making and entertainment. Khao San Road, Bang Lamphu area is also one of the high-spots in the city to experience the water-throwing activities between locals and tourists. Provided by : Tourism Authority of Thailand

Chatuchak Weekend Market

This is paradise for bargain hunters. Every Saturday and Sunday, 9,000 individual booths are open selling an infinite variety of goods.
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 StationBus Routes 3, 26, 27, 29, 34, 59, 77, 96, 112, 134, 136, 138, 145, 502, 503, 510, 512, 513Open : Saturday and SundayAdmission: Free

Rattanakosin Island

Rattanakosin Island is full of many exquisite Buddhist temples and also is the place the Grand Palace located. Take a trip starting at the Grand Palace, visitors wil be pleased with many outstanding architectures, such as the Dusit Maha Prasat, one of the jewels of modern Thai architecture, the Chakri Maha Prasat Hall, the imposingbuilding in a Victorian style, but covered with a roof of pure Thai style. To be impressed with the Golden pagoda and mural paintings, visit Wat Phra Kaeo, the most famous temple, where the Emerald Buddha image enshrined. Then go to Wat Pho, the oldest and largest temple in Bangkok, visitors will be fascinated with the most beautiful golden reclining Buddha in Thailand with 45 meters long and 15 meters high. To see the longest chapel in Thailand, visit Wat Suthat on Bamrungmuang Road. Then visit Wat Ratchanatda, visitors will see the Loha Prasat(Metal Castle). It is the only one of its kind left in the world. Enchant yourself when discovering the Golden Mount, step to the top of the golden mountain, visitors can have a stunning panoramic view of Rattanakosin Island.

Yaowarat Road

Enchant yourself when you walk along Yaowarat road, which is approximately 1.5 kilometres in lenght, built during the reigh of King Rama V. Every year during the Chinese New Year, Yaowarat road is closed to traffic for street festivities, lion dances, and food fairs. Walking along the road, visitors will find a network of streets and alleys lined with ubiquitous gold shops, sharksfin and birds nest restaurants, and shops selling all sorts of thing.Visiting Yaowarat road, visitors shouldn't miss visiting the King's Birthday Celebration Arch at Odien Circle, built by Chinese-Thais to show their loyalty to King Bhumibol on his 72 th birthday anniversary on 5 December 1999. Then visit Traimitthayarom Temple housing the largest golden Buddha image in the world, named Phra Sukhothai Traimit. The exquisite Buddha image is in the posture of subduing Mara and made of pure gold.The Yaowarat road provides a fascinating insight awaiting for you to explore!!

Sailing on the Chaophaya River

Simply enjoy the spectacular view of the Chao Phaya River.It is a relaxing way await you to explore. Board one of public boats on the Chao Phaya River from the Shangri-la hotel to discover several old villas, enchant yourself when you see the lifestyle of Thai people both sides of the river, be fascinated with the majestic Chedi of Wat Arun-the Temple of Dawn-,which considered a landmark of Bangkok, then watch for the exquisite golden spiresof the Grand Palace in the horizon, and head for the Jim Thomson House,a beautiful mansion with elegant pieces of art.......................................................................................................


Information about boatsThere are various types of boat identified in color flags. Boat service on the Chao Phraya River connects Bangkok with the northern neighbouring province of Nonthaburi, starting from the Tha Nam Non Pier and ending at Saphan Taksin Pier (Sathorn).>>Boat (no flag) stop at all pier, has a minimum fare of 8 baht.>>Rapid boat (orang flag) has a fare of 10 baht all routes.>> Express boat (yellow flag) stop at only on crowded and main piers. The Express boat has a fare of 15 baht all routes. >>The boat with blue flag, is the fastest stopping only on 3 pier, ThaNamNon Pier, Siriraj Pier and SaphanTaksin (Sathorn) Pier.It has a minimum and maximum fares from 25-35 baht. (For trial period, it just newly had this type)Boats run daily from 06.00 A.M-06.40 P.M.