Bangkok

Bangkok offers visitors the opportunity to experience fascinating glimpses of Thailand’s gentle culture amidst the bustle of a great and dynamic metropolis.

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 glimpses 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 or 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.

Temples and Buildings of Cultural Interest

Bangkok takes great pride in its large number of fascinating temples around the capital. The major ones can be found in the Rattanakosin area on the western side of the city.

The Rattanakosin area is called an island but has been incorporated into the city. A trip there will allow visitors to see many attractions within a short distance of one another.

The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaeo (The Temple of the Emerald Buddha)

The splendid Grand Palace enclosure is home to many ornate temples and buildings with a variety of architectural styles. Gold leaf, reflective tiling and Buddha images are to be seen everywhere. The magnificent Wat Phra Kaeo, a treasure trove of Thai arts and home to the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most revered Buddha image, is at the heart of the complex, but there is much else of interest to be seen in the Grand Palace compound, such as the Royal Thai Decorations and Coin Pavilion, where a permanent exhibition of royal regalia, decorations, medals and coins dating back to the early 11th century is on display.

The complex is open daily from 8.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. except on special days designated for royal ceremonies to be announced later. The admission fee is 200 baht which includes entry to Vimanmek Mansion and the Coin Pavilion. Visitors are advised that polite and modest dress is essential.

Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall
Located on Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue, this beautiful Throne Hall was built in the reign of King Rama V using marble for construction in the Italian Renaissance architectural style. The ceiling of the dome is highlighted by exquisite fresco paintings of important royal functions during the reigns of King Rama I up to King Rama VI of the Royal House of Chakri.

Nowadays, Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall is primarily used to hold important royal and state ceremonies. Recently, the Hall welcomed leaders from many countries participating in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2003 hosted by the Royal Thai Government. The Hall opens only on the 2nd Saturday of January (Children’s day). However, the outdoor portion is open daily from 9.30 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.

Wat Mahadhatu
Located across the street from Wat Phra Kaeo on the west side of Sanam Luang, Wat Mahadhatu, known as the Temple of the Great Relic, is the national centre for the Mahanikai monastic sect. The temple houses Mahachulalongkorn Buddhist University, one of the two highest seats of Buddhist learning in Thailand and offers meditation instruction in English for interested visitors. The temple is open daily and admission is free. For more information on the Meditation Centre.

Vimanmek Mansion
This is the largest golden teakwood building in the world, built in 1901 by King Chulalongkorn the Great (Rama V) as a royal residence. It is located behind the National Assembly Building. The 3-storey mansion contains 81 rooms, halls and antechambers. It was renovated and extensively restored by the order of H.M. Queen Sirikit to house priceless treasures and a collection of late 19th and early 20th century royal memorabilia. Situated on the east wing of Vimanmek Mansion is Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall, a one-storey teak building built in the reign of King Rama V. The Hall is now Thailand’s first handicraft
museum where Her Majesty the Queen collects handicraft masterpieces, created by members of her SUPPORT Foundation. In the museum, visitors will find handicrafts such as nielloware, Thai silk with various unique designs, Liphao basketry made from finely split jungle vines like beautiful trays and handbags studded with jewels in different designs such as the green metallic wings of an indigenous beetle.

Near the entrance to Vimanmek Mansion is the Royal Carriage Museum with splendid examples of ancient horse-drawn carriages. Vimanmek Mansion is open daily from 9.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. Tickets are available until 3.00 p.m. There are Thai classical dance performances at 10.30 a.m. and 2.30 p.m. Admission is 100 baht. For visitors with a ticket to the Grand Palace, admission is free. Golf car rental is 400 baht per hour. Polite and modest attire is required.

Royal Elephant National Museum
This is the first building on the right when entering the Vimanmek compound, containing a life-like model of the white elephant. The myth and legend of the white elephant began in Southeast Asia - The Land of the White Elephant. In the story of the Lord Buddha, the white elephant is connected to fertility and knowledge. On the eve of giving birth to the Lord Buddha, his mother dreams that a white elephant comes to present her with a lotus, a symbol of purity and knowledge.

The white elephant is above an ordinary tusker. In Thailand, this creature is sacred as it represents the prosperity of the town. Indeed, the Siamese put the white elephant on their new flag. When elephants were no longer so vital for warfare, elephant hunts became less common, and fewer of the rare albino elephants were found. The Siamese king passed a law demanding that any white elephant found in the kingdom had to be presented to the king. He sent out scouting parties and offered rewards. The discovery of a white elephant became a special event, a time for national celebration. In this museum, the visitor can see pictures of elephants promoted to the title of “royal elephants” by past kings. The musem opens everyday from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. Admission is 5 baht. For visitors with a ticket to the Grand Palace, admission is free.

Wat Pho
(Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Neighbouring the Grand Palace enclave, this temple is considered the largest in Bangkok. The famous Reclining Buddha, constructed in 1832, is enshrined in this temple. This 46-metre long and 15-metre high gold-plated Reclining Buddha, the eyes and feet inlaid with mother-of-pearl brings to mind the Lord Buddha’s entry into Nirvana. The sole also shows 108 auspicious characteristics of the true “Buddha”. Wat Pho was also the first centre of public education in the Kingdom. Nowadays, it is an important centre for the teaching and administering of traditional Thai massage. Wat Pho is open daily from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. and the entry fee is 20 baht. Modest attire is required. 

San Lak Mueang
(City Pillar Shrine)
On the southeast corner of Sanam Laung, this shrine houses a city pillar placed there by King Rama I to mark his new capital, Bangkok. It is reputed by many to have the power of granting wishes. The city pillar is made of the wood of “Javanese Cassia” and contains the city’s horoscope.

Sanam Luang
(Phramen Ground)
Sanam Luang, an oval public area in front of the Grand Palace, is used for various royal ceremonies including Royal Cremations and the Royal Ploughing Ceremony held each May. Located near its borders are several important institutions such as the Fine Arts Department, Thammasat University, Bangkok National Museum and National Gallery.

Bangkok National Museum
Near the National Theatre and not far from Sanam Luang, one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in Southeast Asia, the National Museum houses an important and superb collection of artefacts and objets d’art ranging from the Bronze Age to the Bangkok period. The complex consists of several old and beautiful buildings once used as a palace. The museum is open daily from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m., except Monday, Tuesday and national holidays. The admission fee is 40 baht.

The National Gallery
Located across from the National Museum on Chao Fa Road, this building was once the old Royal Mint and was converted into the National Gallery in 1974. It displays permanent traditional paintings and contemporary paintings by leading Thai artists. There are regular temporary exhibitions. The admission fee is 30 baht and a package ticket is 80 baht. It opens on Wednesday to Sunday from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.

The Queen Sirikit Arts Exhibition Centre
The gallery, located on Phan Fa intersection, was established in response to the gracious wish of H.M. the Queen to provide a permanent place for the exhibition of a wide range of visual arts - a public gallery deemed an important means for the promotion of Thai culture and Thai artists as well as younger talents with exceptional skill and obvious potential. Gallery hours are from 10.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m. daily (except Wednesday). Admission is 20 baht.

Silpakorn University
Beside Sanam Luang is Silpakorn University, the first university of art in Thailand. All kinds of art have been passed down from generation to generation, keeping Thailand abreast of changes in modern art.

Professor Silpha Bhirasri (1892 - 1962), an Italian artist serving the Royal Government, committed himself wholeheartedly to developing art education in Thailand. He was the founder of this university.

traditional and contemporary arts such as paintings, sculptures, graphic designs, and architecture. These works are by students and faculty members. In addition, leading Thai and foriegn artists also have exhibitions here.

Wat Arun
(The Temple of Dawn)
This famous Bangkok landmark is on the Thon Buri side of the Chao Phraya River, directly opposite the Grand Palace complex and easily accessible by boat from the Bangkok side. The temple dates back to the Ayutthaya period. The temple was enlarged by King Rama II and King Rama III. Renovations were completed in the reign of King Rama IV. The Emerald Buddha was enshrined in this temple for a brief period before King Rama I built the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo on the Bangkok side.

The landmark of this temple is a 79-metre-tall massive central pagoda, “Phra Prang”, and four smaller ones at each corner. The ornamentation of the central pagoda consists of encrusted pieces of porcelain which sparkle in the sun. Despite its name, the best photographic opportunities are in the late afternoon with the sun setting in the red sky behind the temple.

To visit the temple, shuttle boats from the Tha Tian Pier at the south-west side of the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo area are provided regularly. The Chao Phraya Express Boat stops at the Tha Tian Pier and there are several Thon Buri canal tours, which include the temple. Enter the temple from 7.00 a.m. to Wat Arun 5.20 p.m. for 20 baht.

Wat Trimit
(Temple of the Golden Buddha)
Located at the end of Chinatown’s Yaowarat Road, this temple houses the extraordinary 700-year-old golden Buddha image, a seated figure composed entirely of five and a half tons of gold. Previously, it had been covered with plaster and once broken off, the true treasure beneath was suddenly revealed - the figure was found to be composed entirely of gold. It is now an important and sacred Buddha image of unique beauty. The temple is open daily from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. with an admission fee of 20 baht.

Wat Benchamabophit
(The Marble Temple)
Situated on Si Ayutthaya Road, near the intersection with Rama V Road, this unique marble temple was constructed during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (1868 - 1910 A.D.). Its proportions are classically beautiful, with European influences evident in its stained glass windows and the use of Carrara marble. The temple houses a superb cloister collection of bronze Buddha images and many reckon the temple to be one of the finest in the world as far as its craftsmanship and architectural splendour are concerned. It attracts large numbers of visitors every year. Admission is 20 baht. The temple is open daily from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Wat Suthat
Located on Bamrung Mueang Road, the temple is renowned for its superb murals and elaborate woodcarving door panels created during the reign of King Rama II. The preaching hall contains a collection of gilded Buddha images. The temple was constructed in the early 19th century and there are four smaller chapels constructed on each of its corners. The main Buddha image, Phra Si Sakayamuni was orginally cast in the Sukhothai period (1238-1438 A.D.) Eight-metres tall, on a six-metre pedestal, the image is the largest bronze-cast one in the kingdom and considered one of the most beautiful Buddha images in Thailand. The cloisters within the complex are pleasantly quiet and contain many Buddha images. With an admission fee of 20 baht, the temple is open daily from 9.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m.

The Giant Swing
This unusual 200-year-old red swing outside Wat Suthat was once used in Brahmanic ceremonies to honour the highest God Shiva. Furthermore, it was used competitively in a contest designed to seek the brave man who could swing the highest to seize a money bag from a 25-metre-high pole. But the contest was outlawed many years ago, when accidents and deaths became too common.

Wat Rajbopit
South of Wat Suthat is the impressive Wat Rajbopit, built in the reign of King Rama V (1868-1910 A.D.) Its most striking features are the 5-colour porcelain mosaics encrusted in the main stupa. The architecture of the main chapel is in Thai-style, while its interior decorations reflect a European influence with some Gothic details. Visitors will particularly be impressed with the delicate mother-of-pearl inlays and the exquisite basreliefs on the window and door panels of the main chapel. The temple is open daily from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Admission is free.

Wat Saket
Wat Benchamabophit The Golden Buddha, Wat Trimit
(The Golden Mount)
Located near Ratchadamnoen Avenue, this temple houses a 58- metre-high stupa surmounted by a golden cupola. The relic of the Lord Buddha is enshrined here. Visitors can climb the 318 steps to the cupola. Before entering the cupola area, however, it is interesting to see Thais placing flowers, lighting candles and paying homage to Buddha images. This room beneath the cupola is redolent of sandalwood and incense and attracts many Thai visitors.

The climb to the top gradually reveals views of the temple below and the panorama of Bangkok. For only 10 baht to enter the enclosure at the top of the edifice, the visitor can see the golden cupola entirely covered with small golden squares. These reflect the sun which give the building its name the Golden Mount.

On each side of the square enclosure, a panoramic view of Bangkok is offered, especially of the Rattanakosin area, the enclave which houses the Grand Palace and other historic buildings. The Golden Mount understandably attracts many visitors. It is an unusual and pleasant experience to enjoy the silence of the cupola area in this bustling city. The temple is open daily from 7.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. and admission is 10 baht.

Wat Ratchanatdaram
Located behind the King Rama III Memorial Statue on Ratchadamnoen Avenue, this temple is considered one of the most orginal temples in Bangkok. It was constructed during the reign of King Rama III and completed in recent years by the Fine Arts Department. The temple contains a pyramid-shaped pink Loha Prasat (metal-spired Pagoda) inspired by the one in Sri Lanka. The Loha Prasat stands 36-metres high with 37 surrounding spires, the only one of its kind left in the world.

In front of this temple, there is a memorial statue of King Rama III and a Pavilion “Maha Chetsadabodin” which is used for performing an official welcoming ceremony to the visit of Heads of States. On the opposite side of the temple, there is Mahakan Fortress which is a part of an ancient city wall. The temple is open daily from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Wat Indharavihan
On Wisutkasat Road, visitors will enjoy a visit to this temple with its impressive 32-metre-high standing Buddha image and other buildings within its complex which are well worth seeing. The temple is open daily from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. and there is no charge for admission.

Other Temples of Interest

Wat Si Sudaram or Wat Chi Pa Khao
The temple was built during the Ayutthaya period and renovated by King Rama I. The interesting buildings including Tam Nak Daeng (a pavilion), Sala Kan Parian (a sermon hall) and the residence of Sunthon Phu (the greatest poet of the Rattanakosin period, designated by UNESCO as a classic poet of the world), are located within the temple compound. Moreover, visitors can enjoy feeding a number of freshwater fish here.

Wat Chalo
Located on Khlong Bangkok Noi in Nonthaburi province, this temple is assumed to have been constructed during theSukhothai period as some Buddha images in the Sukhothai style were found in front of the main chapel (Ubosot). Open daily from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. and admission is free.

Wat Pho Bang-o
Constructed during the reign of King Rama III, this temple has a chapel with a wooden roof and is famous for its mural inside the chapel. The mural was painted several centuries ago. Open daily from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.

Wat Bang Oi Chang
This temple houses a 200-year-old Buddha footprint, which was found by Phra Khru Nawa Kam Koson (the first abbot of this temple) while travelling in Phitsanulok province during 1986. The temple is open daily from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. and admission is free.

Wat Suwannaram
Visitors will be fascinated with the murals depicting the life of the Lord Buddha and the Buddha image of Subduing Mara (the Buddhist devil) inside the main chapel of this large royal temple. The temple was constructed during the reign of King Rama I and subsequently renovated during the reign of King Rama III. These works of art from the early Rattanakosin period (19th century) are considered some of the best surviving mural paintings in Bangkok.

Wat Kaeo Fa
This ancient temple is located in an open area next to Khlongfortress. Altogether, there are 38 rooms for ammunition and
weapons. The roof collapsed during the reign of King Rama IV or V, but was restored by the Fine Arts Department in the early 1980s using old photographs as a guide. Nowadays, there is a small park surrounding the fortress. Visitors can enjoy a pleasant walk along the Chao Phraya River all the way to Phra Pinklao Bridge.

Suan Pakkad Palace & Museum
Located on Si Ayutthaya Road not far from the intersection of Phaya Thai, Suan Pakkad Palace is the former residence of Princess Chumbhot of Nagara Svarga, one of Thailand’s leading gardeners and art collectors. In the compound of the palace, visitors will see 8 traditional Thai houses. Collections include: Asian art and antiques, seashells, mineral crystals, pottery and bronze objects from the prehistoric burial ground Ban Chiang, in Northeast Thailand. The complex is open daily from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. and the entrance fee is 100 baht.

Royal Barges National Museum
Located on Khlong Bangkok Noi off the Chao Phraya River and not far from the Phra Pinklao Bridge, this shed has a display of several ornately carved royal barges with unique designs and decorative details. These barges are used on royal and official occasions and formerly served as war vessels.

The most beautiful and well-known barge “Suphannahong” is used by the king only when he makes his royal river processionfor the Kathin Ceremony, a Buddhist tradition of offering robes to monks, usually held during October or November. There is also “Narai Songsuban Ratchakan Thi Kao”, the latest royal barge especially built on the occasion of the Golden Jubilee of His Majesty the King’s Accession to the throne in 1996. The royal barges were also used during the Rattanakosin bicentennial celebrations and the reception ceremony of the APEC 2003.

The shed is open to the public every day from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. There is an admission fee of 30 baht and extra charges for shooting videos and photographs (100 baht per camera).

The Erawan Shrine
At the corner of Ratchadamri and Phloen Chit Roads, countless Thais and other Asian tourists who seek good luck visit this very popular shrine, as it is reputed to have the power of granting wishes. Many come to pay homage by offering flower garlands and pray to the four-headed image of the Hindu God “Brahma” to grant their wishes. To reinforce the wish or express appreciation to the God, they will donate wooden elephants or hire a group of Thai classical dancers to perform a dance with live music. The number of dancers and the length of the performance are directly tied to the generosity of their donation. All around plumes of incense smoke rise so thickly that they overcome the traffic fumes at this busy intersection.

Prasat Museum
Located at No. 9 Krung Thep Kritha Road Soi 4, Bang Kapi in the eastern area of the city, the museum houses a vast collection of artefacts from prehistoric to Rattanakosin periods (from 1782 A.D. to the present). Within the museum complex, there are various styles of architecture, like a baroque building, a smaller replica of the Red Palace in the National Museum, and a replica of Ho Tri Klang Nam (Tri Pitaka Pavilion - a library for Buddhist scriptures) of Wat Yai Suwannaram. Prasat Museum is open daily from 10.30 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. except Monday, with an admission fee of 500 baht a person ( in case of one person, a minimum admission fee of 1,000 baht will be charged). The tours run from 9.30 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. (about 2 hours) and must be arranged in advance.

Jim Thompson’s House
An early partner in the Oriental Hotel, Jim Thompson, an American serving here, decided to devote his energies to develop a thriving Thai silk industry. Due to his efforts, Thai silk is now famous all over the world and justly renowned for its quality, colours and patterns. Thompson, trained as an architect and gardener, also built a fine collection of traditional Thai houses, fashioned into one dwelling where he lived during his lifetime. After his tragic death, the house remains preserved as a museum containing a priceless collection of Asian objets d’art. The museum, located centrally at Soi Kasemsan 2 on Rama I Road, is accessible by bus, taxi and the sky train. Entrance fee is 100 baht. The museum opens daily from 9.00 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.

Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute
(The Snake Farm)
Located near Chulalongkorn Hospital, on the corner of Henri Dunant and Rama IV Roads, the Snake Farm contains an interesting collection of poisonous snakes which are “milked”for their venom from which anti-snake bite serum is produced. It is open from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. on weekdays and 8.30 a.m. to 12.00 a.m. on holidays. Visitors can watch the venom extracted from the snakes by experts, in demonstrations at 11.00 a.m. and 2.30 p.m. on weekdays and at 10.30 a.m. on holidays.

Dusit Zoo
Situated on Rama V Road, in the Dusit District, near the Royal Plaza, Bangkok’s oldest zoo contains a collection of popular African and Asian mammals and birds in a botanical garden. With an additional section for children, it is ideal for a family outing. The zoo is open every day from 8.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. The admission fee is 30 baht for adults and 5 baht for children.

Kamthieng House Museum
Located in the garden of the Siam Society on Sukhumvit Road Soi 21 (Asok), this newly renovated and refurbished 200-yearold northern Thai-Lanna-style wooden house contains a collection of traditional tools and implements used by Northern Thaifarmers and fishermen. It is open from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday. The admission fee is 100 baht.

Bangkok Dolls Museum
Located at 85 Soi Ratchataphan (Soi Mo Leng), off Ratchaprarop Road, the museum houses an interesting collection of handmade Thai and foreign dolls. Bangkok Dolls have also won several awards for their miniature creations. The museum is open daily from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. with free admission, except for Sunday and national holidays.

Museum of Imaging Technology
Located in the same building with the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, this is the first camera and photograph museum established in Thailand and Asia. Historic photographs and imaging equipment, as well as its technological evolution are on display. Modern photographic arts, techniques and printing technology are also exhibited. Admission fee is 100 baht and the museum is open Monday to Friday from 10.00 a.m. to 3.30 p.m.

Siriraj Museum
Siriraj is one of Bangkok’s most prestigious hospitals. It has another claim to fame, its Forensics Museum, a little chamber of horrors. Among several other museums, the best ones to seeare the Museum of Criminology and the Museum of Anatomy.
Here the visitor can meet Si Oui, or rather his embalmed body. This serial killer had the appalling habit of eating a victim’s liver. Now he stands forever in a glass case, defiant to the end. The bodies of various other criminals, the embalmed corpses of suicides, the victims of hideous accidents and murders are also on display. There are photographs of the results of accidents as well.

In the Museum of Anatomy, visitors can see embalmed legs, arms, internal organs and organs of malformed humans. If this is not enough, move on to the Museum of Parasitology. The museum is fascinating, but only for those who have a very strong stomach. Entry to the Siriraj Museum is free and it is open from 9.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. on weekdays.

National Science Museum
The astonishing geometric architecture of the National Science Museum attracts not only children but also adults for its entertaining combination of science and technology. The museum provides both education and entertainment, along with exhibits of technological advancements in agriculture by local Thais. The museum is divided into two halls: Hall I is about scientific knowledge, and nature from around the globe is on display in Hall II. Admission for each hall is 50 baht per adult, or two for 60 baht. Children under 12 get in free. Open from Tuesday to Sunday 9.30 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.

Science Centre
Situated near the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekamai) on Sukhumvit Road, this exhibition centre houses an interesting aquarium, computer world, a planetarium, as well as many devices created for fun and education. The science centre consists of two sections. The first is the Bangkok Planetarium where you can explore the stars and sky. Open on Monday, Tuesday at 11.00 a.m. / 2.00 p.m. and Saturday, Sunday at 10.00 a.m. / 11.00 a.m. / 1.00 p.m. / 2.00 p.m.The second part is the science exhibition centre. Open Tuesday to Friday from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. The admission fee for adults is 40 baht and 10 baht for children.

Lumphini Park

The largest park in Bangkok is considered the “green lung” of the city. It is situated between Wireless and Ratchadamri Roads. Lined with trees and shrubs, many paths run through the park, and an artificial lake lies in the centre, where boats can be rented. For Thais and visitors, it is an attractive place to visit and relax. In the morning, joggers use its many paths for keeping fit, and many Thai-Chinese people come here to do Tai Chi. There are restaurants within the park and plenty of places to find a cool drink. Entrances to the park are at all four of its corners. Admission is free, and it is open from 5.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m.

Suan Luang Rama IX Park
Opened in 1987 on the east side of Bangkok on Sukhumvit Soi 103 (Udomsuk) is this 200-acre botanical garden, Suan Luang Rama IX Park. It was built to commemorate the 60th birthday of King Rama IX. Here is a haven of peace and quietness, beautiful flowers, shrubs and trees where you can enjoy some pristine moments. The admission fee is 10 baht and the park is open from 5.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m.

Siam Park
On the outskirts of Bangkok in Min Buri district lies this very popular water and amusement park. Some of its attractions are a man-made sea with artificial surf for swimmers, whirlpools, fountains, waterfalls and towering slides. Other attractions include a children’s playground, aviaries, an open zoo, a botanical garden and plenty of places where refreshments are available. Opening hours are 10.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m.

Dream World
Situated on Rangsit - Ong-kharak Road near the airport, this classic European-style fantasyland, theme park with miniature versions of legendary sites and a huge variety of modern amusements is ideal for the family. It is open Monday to Friday from 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. and Saturday to Sunday from 10.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m.

The Chao Phraya River and Bangkok’s Canals (Khlong)
In the nineteenth century, Bangkok’s had a complex network of canals that served as the major arteries of transportation. The population drew upon the river not only for transport but also for accommodation and trade, with stilted houses thronging the riverbanks and foreign ships arriving in Bangkok. Hence, Bangkok was once known as “The Venice of the East”. The river and canals can still be conveniently explored and offer the visitor a glimpse of that waterborne life of yesteryear.

Express Boat Service
To connect Bangkok with the neighbouring province of Nonthaburi, the express boat service, with fares depending on the colour of the flag on the boat, is provided from the terminal pier near Krung Thep (Bangkok) Bridge. It stops at various piers on both sides of the Chao Phraya River to collect many Bangkokians who take the boat for commuting to and from their places of work.

Major sights to be seen from the river include the Temple of Dawn, the Grand Palace and Thammasat University. The piers for these sights are Tha Chang and Tha Phra Chan. This bustlefree river journey is a welcome difference from the traffic-ridden fumes of the capital, and offer a different and refreshing view of the capital with a fresh river breeze. The express boat service operates daily from 6.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m.

Khlong Mon
Boats leave every thirty minutes, daily, from 6.30 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. from the Tha Tian Pier behind Wat Pho. The fare is minimal. This trip is very picturesque, allowing the passenger fascinating insights into the Thai way of life, including views of canal-side temples, orchards, orchid farms and fascinating insights into the water-borne life of the inhabitants who live along the canal banks.

Khlong Bang Khu Wiang and Khlong Bang Yai
Inexpensive ferries leave Tha Chang Pier near the Grand Palace every 20 minutes between 6.15 a.m. and 8.00 p.m. Visitors will enjoy various scenic attractions including canal-side temples, the Royal Barge Boat Shed, Thai-style houses and the early morning Khu Wiang Floating Market which operates between 4.00 a.m. and 7.00 a.m.

Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruises
Riverine Bangkok offers some of the capital’s most superb sights, particularly at night when the weather is cooler and re-flections from the water bestow upon Bangkok a magical effect of flickering lights and shadows.

In addition, many riverside hotels offer their own trips along with useful information on finding suitable cruises.