Bangkok: TravelGuide

Bangkok is perhaps Thailands number one attraction with its gaudy palaces, exotic pagodas and many regal sights. Even though it was only founded in the late eighteenth century, it has been the centre of Siam and Thailand through several glorious eras that have resulted in all sorts of impressive... Więcej

Bangkok is perhaps Thailand’s number one attraction with its gaudy palaces, exotic pagodas and many regal sights. Even though it was only founded in the late eighteenth century, it has been the centre of Siam and Thailand through several glorious eras that have resulted in all sorts of impressive sites. Over the centuries grand palace compounds, soaring chedis, giant swings, lofty temples and teak mansions have all been added to the city’s façade. Among the modern skyscrapers and highways are plenty of cultural gems to keep tourists occupied for days. Then there are the contemporary magnets like the backpacker haven of Khao San Road, and the shopping district of Siam Square. Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew: located in the grounds of the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew is among the top attractions, attracting tourists with its stunning temples, towering golden chedi, ornately decorated interiors and the much reverred though diminutive Emerald Buddha. The palace, although not as impressive as the surrounding temples, is an interesting example of new-Baroque architecture. Fine murals are also on display, and there is a decorations and coins museum on site. It’s the one site all tourists get to while in Bangkok. Wat Po: located beside the neo-baroque Grand Palace, Wat Po is a complex of stunning temples with intermingling spires of intricate and ornate design. The most outstanding attraction is the massive, 40 meter reclining Buddha which is one of the most impressive and certainly the largest in all of Thailand. Also noted for its ancient school of massage. Wat Arun: with its spectacular river side location and the soaring 82 meter spire set right in the centre of the temple, Wat Arun is another of Bangkok’s top attractions. It’s also one of the oldest, pre-dating the founding of Bangkok when the original capital was set up in Thon Buri across the river. Makes an excellent sunset backdrop from river boats. Located opposite Wat Po, catch boats from Tha Tien pier behind the Grand Palace. Chinatown: for some of the best in Chinese food, a bustling and diverse market and fine examples of architecture, Chinatown is an experience not to be missed. Although the streets are jam-packed with stalls and shops and crowded with people at the best of times, the sweat lost will be worth it for a truly new experience. Chinatown has the biggest concentration of gold shops in the city, but you will also find a host of ornaments, whole sale jewellery, textiles, antiques, musical instruments and ancient Chinese medicine shops. There are some good and not so good guesthouses and hotels. Trty wandering down some of the quieter lanes to witness an unchanged Bangkok. Floating Market: most tours include the delightfully chaotic Floating Market on itineraries but its an early start to get to the area in Damnoen Saduak, an hours drive southwest of the city and an organised tour is the best option. The sights, sounds, smells and array of goods on offer can be slightly overwhelming, but you won’t find this experience many places in the world. Although quite touristy, it reflects a typical central Thai market that uses the many canals instead of streets for commerce. Ancient City: offers tourists a step back in time and almost perfect replicas of Thailand’s most historically renowned sites and monuments. In some cases original structures have been moved here and others were rebuilt from plans, to recreate originals that have long since disappeared. This open-air museum is located amid tranquil lakes and beautiful gardens and is a great way to see historical sites from all over Thailand without travelling! Located in Samut Prakarn, an hour south of the city by taxi, but worth it - highly recommended. Mniej