Tourist attractions in Bangkok
At first glance, Bangkok seems like an urban jungle that’s difficult to navigate, but there are many hidden treasures in the city. One just has to know where to look.
Most of the tourist attractions are on Rattanakosin Island, at the Old City. It is striking to see so many temples in Bangkok, a fact that illustrates the deep religious fervor of the locals. Given that, it’s equally surprising to discover how naughty the city’s nightlife can be.
The following are some of the most popular attractions in Bangkok.
Wat Arun
The Temple of Dawn is located at Th Arun Amarin, Thonburi and overlooks the river like a huge, imposing sentinel. It is one of Bangkok’s most popular temples and an architectural wonder comparable to today’s modern skyscrapers. Dating back to the 18th century, the temple signaled the re-emergence of Bangkok after the Burmese invasion.
Wat Phra Kaew
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is one of Bangkok’s most unique architectural structures. Built in 1882, it is a gleaming, gilded building with beautiful marble pillars and a shiny orange and green roof. But the Emerald Buddha itself is hard to see. It stands only 25 inches tall and is positioned high above the main temple building. It’s as if the Buddhists are saying that what is essential is often obscured by what is shiny and colorful.
Grand Palace
Right next to the temple is the Grand Palace where the monarch of Thailand used to reside. The most prominent of the palace buildings is the Grand Palace Hall, built by British architects in 1882 with a strong Italian Renaissance flavor. It is located at Th Na Phra Lan, Ko Ratanakosin
Wat Pho
Built in the 16th century, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha is one of the oldest temples in the city. It also has the biggest collection of Buddha images in the country. Moreover, the temple has the largest reclining Buddha statue in the world. Wat Pho is located at Th Sanam Chai, Ko Ratanakosin.
Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall
This royal building was commissioned by King Chulalongkorn, the first ruler of Thailand to visit Europe. As such, the throne hall has a strong Western influence. Since this is royal property, visitors should dress modestly – shorts, minis-skirts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed. It’s located at Th Ratchawithi, Dusit.
Lumpini Park
Located at the busy corners of Rama IV and Ratchadamri streets in downtown Bangkok, Lumpini Park always seems to be buzzing with activity. You can tell you’ve found the park when you see the statue of King Rama VI in front. The locals enjoy strolling, jogging, picnicking and doing martial arts here from the crack of dawn until the sun goes down. People sit at the gazebos and sitting areas or feed the pigeons and koi. They can also rent a paddle boat to go around the pond. The park’s lush green gardens are a welcome contrast to Bangkok’s steel and concrete façade.
Jim Thompson's House
Jim Thompson is the American businessman who is credited with the popularity of Thai silk around the world. An architect by trade, Thompson reassembled parts of old Thai homes to build his house. From the outside, it looks like typical Thai architecture until you go indoors and realize the exteriors of the old houses are now inside. Tourists can also view Thompson’s small but impressive collection of Asian art. The house now has a plush bar where live jazz music is performed regularly. Jim Thompson’s house is located at Soi Kasem San 2, Th Phra Ram I, Siam Square
Vaboir Lodge Royal Suite Hotel
