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A N G K 0 K M E T R O P OL I S BUSES The ordinary city buses are not air-conditioned and are usually crowded during peak hours but their frequency is good. There are two types of ordinary buses -- the blue and the red ones. Besides, there are smaller private buses. The blue buses and the smaller private buses charge Bht. 2.50 and the red buses charge Bht. 3.50 throughout the routes. Though comfortable for most of the day, the air-conditioned buses are packed to full capacity by office-goers during the morning and evening rush hours. The fares range from Bht. 6 for a distance of up to 8 km. to a maximum of Bht. 16. Most maps of Bangkok indicate the numbers of air-conditioned buses and their respective routes. Smaller than the blue air-conditioned buses, micro buses operate on some of the major routes in the city. The seats have enough leg space. For the convenience of the passengers, the buses carry a stock of Thai-language magazines. Video entertainment also is available on board. TAXIS
With the recent introduction of metered taxis, it has become very convenient for visitors to hail them and go to any destination without any haggling over fares. The metered taxis have a sign "Taxi Meter" on their roofs. The minimum fare is Bht. 35 for a distance of no more than 2 km. The fare increases according to the distance covered. For example, for a journey of 5 km, the meter will show Bht. 49, for 10.99 km, the charge will be Bht. 71, for 18.99 km, the meter will show Bht. 99, and Bht. 125 for a distance of 26.39 km. These rates are based on a travel speed of over 6 km per hour. If the speed is slower, a surcharge of one baht per minute is added automatically. In case of travel by expressway, the toll is payable by the passenger. There are still some old non-metered taxis plying the roads of Bangkok. Passengers are advised to negotiate the fare before getting into a non-metered taxi. TUK-TUKS These three-wheeled automobiles are best used for covering short distances. Less convenient than taxis, the tuk-tuks are considered a faster mode of transport. They are also cheaper than ordinary taxis but fares must be negotiated before boarding. PRIVATE CARS & VANS Bangkok has a number of private car rental agencies with fleet of modern cars and vans. Chauffeur-driven cars can be rented from the agencies. For self-driven cars, clients are required to fulfill some formalities. Avis Rent-a-Car and Hertz are two of the most popular car rental agencies. MOTORCYCLE TAXIS Pillion-riding on a motor-cycle taxi is cheap and surely the fastest mode of travel in the city. The motorcyclists filter through the queues of cars and buses to reach their destination faster than the other modes of transport. FERRY SERVICES It is fun to travel in a boat when crossing the Chao Phraya river, or reaching from one point to another along the same bank. They are relatively faster and cheaper, though fares depend on the distance and type of the boat. THE SIAM SOCIETY Founded in 1904 under Royal Patronage, the organization helps those interested in the artistic and cultural life of Thailand and neighboring countries. The Society maintains an excellent library (for members only); publishes an esteemed journal; and organizes monthly lectures, exhibitions, and study trips. It has a natural history section too. An ethnological museum providing traditional Thai artifacts and carvings is housed in the Kamthieng House on the grounds of the Society. It is open Tue to Sat 9 am - 12 noon and 1-5 pm. The address is 131 Sukhumvit 21 (Soi Asoke), Bangkok 10110. Tel.: 258-3491. NATIONAL MUSEUM Possibly the largest in Southeast Asia, this treasure trove has an interesting history. It is well laid out, offers pamphlets in English and offers excellent guided tours. Open 9 am to 12 and 1 to 4 pm, except Mon. and Fri. Admission fee is Bht. 20; free on weekends. There are free guided tours in foreign languages starting at 9.30 am (Tel.: 258-7215). The museum is next to Thammasat University at the far end of Sanam Luang from the Grand Palace. NATIONAL THEATRE Just around the corner from the National Museum is this huge building where drama and Thai classical dance performances are presented. There is a dance exhibition on the last Friday of every month at 5 pm. Admission fee for other shows is around Bht 30. Call 224-1342 for further details. NATIONAL ART GALLERY Located across the road, almost opposite the National Theatre, is this unpretentious gallery where works of contemporary Thai artists are exhibited from 9 am to 12 noon and 1 to 5 pm daily, except Mondays and Fridays. Admission is free. Tel.: 221-7811. At the rear of the building are the National Film Archives. Run by a small group of dedicated people, the outfit is concerned with the documentation and preservation of Thai films. There are free film shows every Friday evening at 6.30 pm. THAILAND CULTURAL CENTER Avenue for musical and visual entertainment, this spacious complex was established with Japanese assistance. Its monthly programme often lists artists from abroad. It is located on Ratckadapisek Road, behind an open automobile showroom directly opposite the Siam Jusco shopping mall. For programme details call 247-0028, 247-0060-9 NATIONAL LIBRARY This public library has a good collection of books in English and some other European languages on wide ranging topics. Located at the intersection of Sri Ayutthaya and Samsen Roads, the library is open from 8.30 am to 6 pm; Mon. through Sat. The National Archives office is located in the some premises. Tel: 281-5212
CITY PILLAR SHRINE The City Pillar Shrine is located just east of the Grand Palace compound. Recently renovated, the shrine contains the foundation stone of the city (Lak Muang) from which distances are measured.The stone is phallic in shape and is believed to be inhabited by a spirit that looks after the city of Bangkok. VIMARNMEK MANSION Situated behind the old national Assembly building, Vimarnmek Mansion is billed as the world's largest golden teak building. As much a work of art as the treasures it holds, Vimarnmek (Cloud Mansion) was built by King Chulalongkorn as a rural residence for his family. The airy I00-room mansion is full of crystal, Faberge jewelry and other objects, brought from Europe. Your ticket to the Grand Palace also entitles you to visit this mansion. Open daily from 9.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. ERAWAN SHRINE Thailand's devotion to Hindu deities is best represented by the famous shrine at the Ratchadamri traffic junction, where the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel stands. To boost their fortunes or success in their ventures, be it studies or business, Thais make offerings at the statue of the Hindu god Brahma. Originally erected by Grand Hyatt Erawan to counter a series of accidents during the construction, the shrine is now redolent with incense smoke and jasmine. To repay the deity for fulfilled wishes devotees place wooden elephants around the shrine or hire a resident troupe to dance. SNAKE FARM This place is a popular attraction for the tourists as well as locals. Situated in the Pasteur Institute compound, at the corner of Henri Dunant and Rama IV Roads, the Snake Farm has a large collection of poisonous snakes. Under huge, shady rain trees are three large and deep pits contain hundreds of poisonous snakes. The principal species kept at this farm are king cobras (some of them four metres long), ordinary cobras, banded kraits and Russell vipers. DUSIT ZOO This is one of the most popular places in Bangkok for family outings, especially on weekends. Located on Rama V Road, the zoo is spread over 47 acres. The main entrance to the zoo is on Rajvithi Road. The zoo is also known as Khao Din Zoo. The place is so-called because its central topographical feature is a manmade hill which gives a view of the entire park. Formerly a part of the Royal Dusit Garden Palace, the Dusit Zoo was set up by King Rama V as his private botanical garden. The zoo houses a fine collection of birds and animals, including the white elephant. It is open 8 a.m.-6 p.m. SUAN PAKKARD PALACE One famous private garden that is open to the public is at Suan Pokkard Palace on Sri Ayutkaya Road. Not far from the Victory Monument, it is the residence of Princess Chumbhot of Nagara Svarga, one of Thailand's leading gardeners and art collectors. The complex consists of five traditional Thai houses that contain a large collection of Buddha images, Khmer statues, old paintings, porcelains, musical instruments and the regalia of the late Prince Chumbhot. LUMPINI PARK It stands like an oasis amid a concrete jungle. Named after Lord Buddha's birthplace, this park is an ideal place to take a break from the hectic pace of life and give your lungs a fresh breath of air. In an artificial lake at the park, ducks and paddle boat fans can be seen moving around unmindful of the travails of Bangkokians on the roads. The main entrance to the park is opposite the Dusit Thani Hotel on Rama IV Road where the statue of King Rama IV stands.
Thailand has some of the world's most beautiful temples which still retain their centuries-old character and content. WAT PHRA KAEO Temple of the Emerald Buddha Located on the grounds of the Grand Palace, the Royal Chapel of the Emerald Buddha is one of Buddhism's most magnificent monasteries and probably the most famous place in Thailand. This is the personal chapel of His Majesty the King of Thailand, and the statue of the Emerald Buddha is considered the most sacred image in the kingdom. However, the lovely image is not emerald but is fashioned from a single piece of jasper and is 61 cm. high. The history of the Emerald Buddha is unusual. It was discovered in Chiang Mai in 1436 when a crack appeared in the large plaster over the Buddha image. The complex is open from 8.30 a.m. to noon and from 1.00 p.m. to 3.30 p.m. An admission fee of Bht. 100 is charged which allows the visitor to visit the Vimanmek Mansion near Dusit Zoo. WAT PO Temple of the Reclining Buddha The most extensive monastery in Bangkok, Wat Po was built on the site of an older monastery known as Wat Pothraram. Although best known for its enormous Reclining Buddha, it contains many other features which should not be missed. Scattered over the huge grounds there are a large bot, four great chedis, the viharn of the Reclining Buddha, and other smaller viharns and chedis. It is suggested that the tourists visit the centres of interest at Wat Po in the following order: First the bot and the surrounding areas; then the four great chedis followed by the Reclining Buddha. In the courtyard are four large chedis standing opposite the lingam. These chedis represent the first four Kings of the Chakri Dynasty. The viharn of the great Reclining Buddha is in the western courtyard. This image, representing the Buddha as he was attaining Nirvana, is 46 metres long and 15 metres high. The image is made of cement-covered brick and coated with gold leaf. The soles of the feet are inlaid with mother-of-pearl with 108 signs, marks and qualities by which a true Buddha is recognised. WAT TRIMITR Temple of the Golden Buddha The wat is located at the intersection of Yaowaraj Road and Charoen Krung Road, close to Hualumpong Railway Station. The golden image inside this temple is 3 metres high and weighs five and a half tones. Sculpted in the graceful Sukhothai style, the serene image gleams beautifully, it is believed this large idol originated in Ayuthaya. This image was discovered accidentally when its original stucco sheath cracked open. It is believed that many years ago a huge Buddha image was transferred to the compound of Wat Trimitr from an abandoned monastery in downtown Bangkok. In the year 1953, the image crashed to the ground when the hook of the crane holding it broke under the strain. That night, a thunderstorm raged over Bangkok. Torrents of rain fell on the cracked plaster of the giant Buddha image. After the rains stopped, the abbot of Wat Trimitr began to clean the image. While doing so he saw glittering metal through one of the large cracks. He called other monks, the plaster was removed and underneath was found a Buddha image of solid gold. The origin of this image is still a mystery but itwas probably cost during the Sukhothai Period (1238-1378).
Exploring Bangkok alone could take weeks, but because of the short duration of their visit to Thailand tourists like to visit the main places in Bangkok and then go on day-tips to nearby places. Almost all tour operators offer packages to nearby attractions. Among the most popular places are the Floating Market, Ayuthaya, Bang Pa-in and the Crocodile Farm. CROCODILE FARM Known as the Samutprakarn Crocodile Farm and Zoo, it lies 30 kilometres southeast of Bangkok. Founded in 1950, the farm has over 40,000 crocodiles of 28 different species, some of them no longer in existence elsewhere. The farm was acknowledged by the Guinness Book of World Records for holding the largest crocodile ever held in captivity. The Estuarine/ Siamese hybrid named 'Yai' measures six metres in length and weighs 2,465 pounds. The highlight of the visit to the farm is a show in which handlers go into a pond full of crocodiles and handle them by their tails rather roughly. The ferocious reptiles seem to obey the orders quite obediently, except for some stubborn ones. Besides crocodiles, the farm also has other zoological amusements. There are elephants, which dance to disco music, gibbons, which are now on Thailand's protected species list, a collection of poisonous snakes, lions, tigers, a tame python, a black bear and a host of other birds and animals. The farm is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission fee is Bht. 200, which includes the crocodile wrestling and elephant show. ANCIENT CITY A few kilometres from the Crocodile Farm is the Ancient city, which bills itself as the 11 world's largest outdoor museum." Spread over 81 hectares of what were rice fields, it took three years to construct. The complex has scale replicas, some full size, others one-third the size of the original, of famous monuments and temples from all parts of the kingdom. Some of them are reconstructions of buildings that no longer exist, like the Grand Palace and Royal Chapel of Ayuthaya. In addition to the monuments, the Ancient City has a model Thai village, in which you can see artisans at work on various native handicrafts like lacquer ware, ceramics and paper umbrellas. The complex takes an entire day to cover as each building is situated according to its actual geographical location to give an idea of regional variations in architecture. It is open daily from 8.30 a.m. to 6 p.m. FLOATING MARKET One attraction that is almost certainly on any visitor's agenda is the Floating Market at Damnern Saduak. The trip to the market starts very early in the morning from one of the many piers along the Chao Phraya river. In a comfortable boat, you get to sail along one of the major canals of the city witnessing scenes of Thai life along the banks. Men and women wearing straw hats can be seen transporting their merchandise to the Floating Market in their longtail boats. The market is specially famous for its fruits, particularly large, succulent pomelos. Early morning is the ideal time for visiting the Floating Market because around 9 a.m. the place is deluged by thousands of tourists and there seems to be a traffic jam even along the waterways. AYUTHAYA Situated some 89 kilometres to the north of Bangkok, Ayuthaya is the former capital of Thailand (1350-1767) Itwas completely destroyed by retreating Burmese forces in 1767 but the ruins still bear witness to its former splendour. Archaeological excavation of the site, on which Chao Sam Phraya Museum also stands, is still continuing and some of the ruins have been restored. During its heyday, Thai culture and commerce flourished there as the English, French, Dutch, Portuguese and Spanish held their trading posts in Ayuthaya. Today Ayuthaya is a bustling country town sprawled along the main street from the Pridi Damrong Bridge to a little beyond the Chandrakasem Palace. There are two museums in Ayuthaya namely Chao Sam Phraya and Chan Kasem. The former, in the centre of the town on Rajana Road, contains a superb collection of terracotta, bronze and stone statues mostly from the Ayuthaya Period and some belonging to the Lopburi and U-Thong styles. Probably the best way to reach Ayuthaya is by boat, though bus and train services also are available. Several cruises run daily between Bangkok and Ayuthaya, bookings of which can be made either at the travel agencies or at the travel desk in most of the hotels. BANG PA-IN PALACE About 60 kilometres from Bangkok on the river route to Ayuthaya, the Bang Pa-in Summer Palace is a charming collection of palaces and pavilions once used by the kings of Thailand as a summer retreat. Although the Bang Pa-in Palace itself presents some fine examples of Thai architecture, the surrounding palace complex illustrates Thailand's fondness for adaptation, with two buildings in the classical Greek architectural style, a Gothic church and a replica of the Imperial Palace of Beijing. A Thai-style pavilion called Aisawan Thipaya-art in the middle of the lake is regarded as one of the finest examples of Thai architecture. The many pools scattered around the complex enhance the graceful lines and bright colours with perfect reflections in their still waters. The palace complex is open everyday, except Monday, from 8.30 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. ROSE GARDEN Thirty-two kilometres west of Bangkok lies a resort which is very popular both among Thai people and overseas visitors. Known as Suan Samphran, the Rose Garden is a combination of beautifuIly-landscaped gardens, a modern hotel with convention rooms, several classy restaurants, a swimming pool, a golf course, a bowling alley, and a model Thai village. Also available are facilities for boating and water-skiing on the lake. The highlight of the resort is a traditional Thai cultural performance amidst the Thai cultural village setting. The performance includes Thai folk dances, classical dances, sword fights, Thai boxing, a Buddhist ordination ceremony, and an elephant show. NAKHON PATHOM Just 54 kilometres west of Bangkok is the city of Nakhon Pathom where Buddhism is believed to have been introduced to Thais. Its colossal landmark seems to tower over the surrounding countryside. Standing 127 metres high, Phra Paithom Chedi is the tallest Buddhist monument in the world. In the days of canal travel, a royal visit to Nakhon Pathom involved more than a day's journey. Hence it is not surprising that various palaces and residences were built there. The Sanam Chandra Palace has a fine sala (formerly a meeting pavilion) and a building in the most unusual Thai interpretation of English Tudor architecture. KANCHANABURI One of the most picturesque provinces of Thailand, it was built under the patronage of King Rama III. About 129 kilometres to the west of Bangkok, it is located at the confluence of Kwai Yai and Kwai Noi rivers. The formation of Maeklang River starts from here. Besides the dense jungles and rugged hills, the area is known for the infamous Death Railway Bridge over the River Kwai constructed by allied prisoners of the Japanese army during World War II. Australian, British, Dutch and Indian soldiers who lost their lives during the construction of the Death Railway lie buried at the Kanchanburi cemetery. The area achieved archeological distinction during the war when a freak accident led, to the discovery of Neolithic burial sites in the area. From a study of the remains, it was established that a definite cultural link existed at some time between the people who lived in Thailand and those who lived in the Malaysian peninsula. There are several valleys and waterfalls worth seeing. Notable among them are Erawan Khoo Phang or Sai Yok Noi and Sai Yok Yai. The cave temples of the Golden Dragon or Wat Tham Mangkhon Thong, Wat Tham Khoo Laem and Wat Tham Koo Poon are also worth a visit. LOPBURI The former summer capital of Thailand, Lopburi lies 155 kilometres north of Bangkok. The journey through the fertile rice bowl of Thailand is a pleasant one. Just 10 kilometres north of Ayuthaya, the hills of Korat plateau appear on the horizon. Lopburi was an important town during the Dvaravati and Khmer periods. The last scenes of King Narai's life were played out in Lopburi in the Suttha Sawan Pavilion. Of King Narai's buildings, the only one which has substantially survived is the Dusit Maha Prasat Hall. This was built for the audience granted by the king in 1685 to Chevalier de Chaumont, ambassador of King Louis XIV. Of particular interest in Lopburi are two important relics of the Khmer and pre-Khmer periods. One located just west of the railroad, is a 13th century laterite block shrine with three spires which gave it its Thai name of Phra Prong Sam Yod (Sacred Three Spires). The second is the Hindu Spire (Prong Khaek) in the centre of the town. This monument was probably built during the 11 th century and restored by King Narai in the 17th century. WANG TAKRAI PARK Established in 1955 by the late Prince Chumbot of Nagara Svarga and opened to the public by his widow, this 200-acre park is situated in a picturesque valley 106 kilometres from Bangkok. Traversed by a stream, the park has a large variety of trees, shrubs and flowers. Nearby attractions include two waterfalls, Nam Rong and Salika. KHAO YAI PARK Thailand's most popular wildlife and nature preserve is 205 kilometres from Bangkok. It offers a spectacular view of thickly forested valleys and hillsides and a number of waterfalls. In the vicinity are tigers, elephants, bears, monkeys, deer, porcupines, civets, mongoose and various species of birds and butterflies. A paved road cuts through the park with branch roads leading to Heo Suwat waterfall and the summit of Khoo Khaeo mountain. More Information Bangkok is the Orient's most cosmopolitan city and has attractions to stimulate even the most jaded travellers. Created as the Thai capital in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri dynasty, Bangkok is a national treasure house and Thailand's spiritual, cultural, political, commercial, educational and diplomatic centre. Bangkok, Thailand's major gateway, casts an irresistible spell of enchantment. To the Thais it is Krung Thep, "City of Angels", and you'll find it truly a magic place, one that captivates the imagination. More than anywhere else in the country, Bangkok expresses Thailand's uncanny ability to blend the old with the new. This lends a thrilling sense of discovery to one's sightseeing and adds an element of surprise when exploring what is the Orient's most fabled city. Joyfully exuberant, Bangkok embraces modern development and presents an initial picture of thrusting office towers; of world-class hotels offering deluxe comforts; of glittering shopping plazas packed with treasures of the East such as silks and gemstones; of restaurants serving Thailand's acclaimed spicy specialities and virtually every other national cuisine worthy of the name; of neon-lit entertainment spots where the fare ranges from classical dance to laser disco. Incredibly amidst this sybaritic world Bangkok manages to preserve its cultural heritage to an amazing degree. In the rich splendour of the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Temple of the Dawn and other historic shrines, you see images of medieval Oriental wonder, the very stuff of Eastern fairy tales. The influence of the past is not limited to major monuments and it continues to colour daily life. Files of saffron-robed monks making their early morning alms round, for example, present a scene unaltered in essentials by the passing of time. Today's backdrop of highrise buildings only adds wonder to this and other enduring sights from which the city continues to draw definition. Ultimately it is from the people that Bangkok derives its unique flavour. Fun-loving and easy going, they possess a rare tolerance which imbues the city with a real sense of freedom. It may appear at times hectic, yet what finally comes across is Bangkok's good natured acceptance of life with all its idiosyncrasies. Thailand's "City of Angels" is, indeed, a magic place where possibilities are limited only by the imagination. You'll marvel at past glories, delight in present opportunities and love every minute of it.
No other city in Asia rivals Bangkok for thrilling night life, and evening entertainment is both plentiful and inexpensive. Most famous are the neon-lit bar districts which are both more fun and much safer than their counterparts in other cities around the world. However, there is much more to Bangkok by night than just the glitter of pubs and bars. Especially
popular are the cultural shows staged by various Thai restaurants. Here
you'll find the perfect introduction to Thailand's highly stylized classical
dance, accompanied by music played on traditional instruments.
There are two boxing stadiums in Bangkok and between them they offer professional bouts virtually every night of the week. For either pre dinner aperitifs or late evening drinks, Bangkok boasts many sophisticated bars and cocktail lounges, some of the best being located in the top hotels. Here you can relax in pleasant surroundings and enjoy live musical entertainment by the best local and regional entertainers. If your looking for something a little more highbrow, you will not be disappointed. Although Bangkok does not have regular offerings of plays, operas or concerts, performances are nonetheless frequently staged by both local and overseas artists and companies. The Thailand Cultural Centre is the main venue, though leading hotels quite often host visiting artists and small theatre groups . If it's action that you are looking for, Bangkok abounds with discos. Some are small an intimate others are enormous and crowded, but all spin the latest dance music using the most modern sound systems, laser lights, videos and all the other hi-tech equipment that makes today's disco less of a place an more of an event. The inveterate shopper may spend a happy evening strolling the streets in main entertainment areas browsing around the ranks of kerbside stalls which offer host of good buys. Alternatively, if you are tired after a busy day sightseeing, you can go to the cinema or relax in your hotel room and watch video. Whatever your preferences, you'll discover Bangkok makes sure there's never a dull moment.
Attractions and Places of Interest With many interesting attractions and places of interest in and around Bangkok, visitors can have a variety of " do-it-yourself " day trips to keep your holidays fun-filled and enjoyable. OLD
TOWN - CHINATOWN Chinatown is situated to the southeast of the old town . The gold shop street and the Temple of the Gold Buddha are located here. PINKLAO RATCHADAPHISEK RAMKHAMHAENG SIAM
-RATCHADAMRI The Pratunam Market next to the Indra Arcade, is worth visiting if you want to broaden your field of vision. It is also the market of garments for export. SUKHUMWIT-NEW
PHETBURI To the north of Sukhumwit Road is the extension of Phetburi Road which does not have many pedestrians in the daytime. After dark, however, the long street is brightened with colourful neon signs and enlivened by people going out to enjoy themselves in dozens of entertainment Places along the street. SILOM-SURAWONG A small area in this district known as Patpong, is famous for various kinds of entertainment--wine, beer, music, dancing, etc. Bang
Lamphu Weekend
Market at Chatuchak Park Weekend Market is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 7.00 a.m. - p.m. 6.00
The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo This
city landmark should be the first place on any visitor's itinerary. It
is a huge compound on Na Phra Lan Road near Pramane Ground is surrounded
by high white walls and occupies an area of about a square mile. The palace,
begun in 1782, consists of several buildings with highly decorated architectural
details. The Royal chapel, Wat Phra Kaeo, which is in the same compound,
houses the Emerald Buddha, the most sacred Buddha image in Thailand. Photography
inside the building housing the Emerald Buddha is forbidden. The complex is open daily from 8.30 a.m.- 3.30 p.m. Admission fee is 125 baht(including tickets to The Coin Pavilion & Phra Thi Nang Vimanmek & Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall). Proper dress is essential.
Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall (The Support Museum), a one storey teak building built in the reign of King V, is situated on the east wing of Vimanmek Throne Hall. Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall is now Thailand's first handicraft museum where Her Majesty The Queen collects handicraft masterpieces created by members of Support Foundation . In the museum, visitors find such handicrafts as niellowares Thai silk with various unique designs,"Lipao"basketry like beautiful trays, handbags studded with jewels in different designs such as green beetle. The compound is open daily from 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. Admission fee is Baht 50 per person. Free guide available (Tel. 2818166, 2816880, 2811569, 2811518, 2805926) The
National Museum The
National Arts Gallery The
National Theatre Sanam
Luang The
City Pillar Shrine
Wat
Po Wat
Arun (Temple of the Dawn) Wat
Trimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha) When the building was completed and while preparations were being made to move this Golden Buddha image to the building, the covering plaster was partly broken. Only then did the people realize that it was a golden Buddha image. Thus, it has been treasured for its historical, artistic and cultural values to this day. Part of the covering plaster is also on display inside the temple building.
Wat
Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) Wat
Suthat (The Giant Swing) Wat
Sa Ket (The Golden Mount) Wat
Indravihan Wat
Thammamongkhon Wat
Ratchanatdaram Wat
Bowonniwet Wat
Mahathat (Temple of the Great Relic)
The
Shed of the Royal Barges Jim
Thompson's Thai House Suan
Pakkad Palace Suan Pakkad Palace is open everyday except Sunday from 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. There is an admission fee of Baht 80. Pasteur
Institute (Snake Farm) The Snake Farm is open to the public every day between 8.30 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. on weekdays and 8.30 a.m.- 12.00 p.m. on public holidays. The extraction of venom from the snakes is demonstrated daily at 10.30 a.m. and 2.00 p.m. on weekdays and at 10.30 a.m. on public holidays. Admission fee is 70 baht. For further details please call 2520161-4 Labour
Museum Museum
Ban
Kamthieng It is open daily from 9.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m. An admission fee of Baht 50 is charged to help maintain the property and grounds. Museum
of Imaging Hall
of Railways Heritage Prasart
Museum Bangkok
Planetarium & Scientific Museum Narayanaphand
Bangkok
Dolls & Museum Dusit
Zoo Siam
Water Park Safari
World Safari
World is open daily between 9.00 a.m. Admission fee is 400 baht for adults
and 300 baht for children. For more information please call 5181000-19 Magicland
Bangkok Hotels
& Resorts Reservation
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Hot
Line ! (662) 6431191 Bangkok
: 9.00 am. - 6.00 pm. (Mon-Fri), 9.00 am. - 3.00 pm. (Sat)
Also not to be
missed is Muai Thai, a style of boxing unique to Thailand
in which combatants use elbows, knees and bare feet as well as gloved
fists. A martial art before it was a sport, Muai Thai has a long tradition
and is still surrounded by much ritual.The fights are commonly fierce
and furious, though the best boxers display remarkable skills, as well
as great fitness, and a good contest is decided by application of technique
rather than brute force. Often as entertaining as the action in the ring
is the reaction of the spectators who yell and shout encouragement to
the boxers as the excitement mounts. 
Phra Thi Nang
Vimanmek and Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall
At the end of Yaowarat Road near Bangkok's
Hualamphong Railway Station is a temple situated on Traimit Road. This
temple is known for its famous Golden Buddha constructed during the Sukhothai
period. The image of solid gold is three meters high and weighs five and
a half tons. this image is open to the from 9.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m. Originally,
this golden buddha image was completely covered with plaster to conceal
it from the enemy then invading Thailand and was installed as the principal
Buddha image in the main temple building of Choti-naram Temple or Wat
Phrayakrai, Yannawa District, Bangkok in the third reign of the Chakkri
Dynasty in the Ratanakosin era. When Chotanaram Temple was deserted in
about 1931, the East Asiatic Company, with official pernission, extended
its operations into the land area of the deserted temple. 
