As the gateway to Thailand’s stunning islands and beaches, Bangkok offers non-stop action, dazzling travellers with its kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and scents. It is a city where tradition and modernity harmoniously coexist, creating a unique blend of past and present.
As the gateway to Thailand’s stunning islands and beaches, Bangkok offers non-stop action, dazzling travellers with its kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and scents. It is a city where tradition and modernity harmoniously coexist, creating a unique blend of past and present
Bangkok has rightfully earned its reputation as the world’s most visited city, welcoming an estimated 22.78 million visitors in 2023—surpassing global metropolises such as Paris and London. It is little wonder that travellers from around the world are drawn to this enchanting city. Bangkok astonishes with its contrasting yet complementary scenes, making it both a captivating destination for visitors and a dynamic home for its residents.
Visitors may initially find themselves surprised—or even overwhelmed—by the chaotic traffic and bustling markets, where street vendors eagerly peddle discounted clothes, watches, and other wares. The lively streets come alive with the pungent aromas of food stalls frying up delicacies like Pad Thai, while the sounds of kickboxing matches echo in the background.
Despite the urban hustle, Bangkok offers moments of serenity. The soft tapping of monks’ sandals and the drifting scent of incense signal the presence of sacred spaces where spirituality remains deeply rooted in daily life. Locals from all walks of life stop at temples to present offerings before carrying on with their routines. Often referred to as the “City of Angels” or “City of Temples” (known locally as Krung Thep), Bangkok is home to an extraordinary number of temples and Buddhist shrines.
The Grand Palace: A Historical Must-See
A visit to Bangkok would be incomplete without exploring The Grand Palace, a vast complex surrounded by four walls stretching 6,234 feet (1,900 m). Covering 2.4 million square feet (218,400 sqm), the palace houses over 100 brightly coloured buildings, glittering mosaics, and golden spires. Some roofs are adorned with statues of Garuda, the bird-man mount of the Hindu god Vishnu.
Established in 1782, the palace served as the official residence of Thailand’s royal family for more than 150 years and remains a symbol of the kingdom’s rich heritage. One of its most revered landmarks is the Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, located near the entrance. This sacred temple enshrines a gold-clad Buddha statue, thought to be over 2,000 years old. The Buddha, carved from a single block of green jade and draped in gold and diamonds, is elevated above worshippers as a mark of reverence.
Just 700 metres south of the Grand Palace is Wat Pho, home to a 46-metre-long, gold-plated reclining Buddha. As one of Bangkok’s oldest temples and a first-class royal temple, Wat Pho symbolises the Buddha’s entry into enlightenment, marking the end of worldly reincarnations. Surrounding the statue are 108 bronze bowls, representing the 108 auspicious qualities of the Buddha. It is believed that placing coins in these bowls brings good fortune.
Other notable sections of the Grand Palace include Boromabiman Hall, built by King Rama VI, where subsequent kings have lived at various points in their lives. Amarin Vinichai Hall, a fascinating fusion of European and Thai architecture, features a grand reception room and a gold-adorned throne.
Bangkok’s Culinary Delights
As a global culinary capital, Bangkok tempts food lovers with a diverse range of dining experiences, from sizzling street food to Michelin-starred restaurants. Siam Paragon is not just a retail hub but also a gastronomic destination, with its ground-floor food court offering a variety of international cuisine—from fast food to fine dining.
For a more authentic experience, head to Chinatown. As the sun sets, Yaowarat Road transforms into a vibrant street food scene. Pull up a plastic chair at one of the many curbside eateries and indulge in dishes such as steaming bowls of noodles, stir-fried rice plates, Thai curries, grilled meats, and green papaya salad. Additional street food hubs worth visiting include Wang Lang Market, located across the Chao Phraya River from the Grand Palace, and Silom Soi 20, known for its bustling morning market.
Shopping in Style
Bangkok has evolved into a shopping paradise, catering to fashion enthusiasts seeking the latest trends and local designs. Siam Paragon and CentralWorld boast an impressive array of shops, from global brands to unique boutiques. Just a short ride away on the BTS Skytrain is EmDistrict, a retail enclave featuring three spectacular malls.
Emporium offers high-end luxury brands, while EmQuartier combines the latest names in fashion with a striking five-storey waterfall. EmSphere, the newest addition to the district, showcases innovative retail concepts that attract visitors from all over.
Arts and Culture: A Thriving Scene
Bangkok is also a hub for art and design, blending classical and contemporary influences. The Bangkok Art & Culture Centre (BACC) provides a modern space for exhibitions, featuring a rotating programme of art, music, poetry, theatre, and literature. Visitors can explore its 3,500 square metres of exhibition space or attend live events and film screenings.
Another must-visit venue is the Jim Thompson Art Centre, which functions as a vibrant cultural hub. Originally a car park serving the nearby Jim Thompson House Museum, the new L-shaped complex incorporates an outdoor courtyard overlooking the museum’s Thai terracotta roofs. With 3,000 square metres dedicated to art and culture, the centre features galleries, a library, a lecture room, a café, and multi-purpose rooftop terraces for events.
For those intrigued by traditional craftsmanship, the adjacent Jim Thompson House Museum offers a glimpse into the world of Thai silk. The museum was once the home of James H.W. Thompson, an American businessman who played a pivotal role in reviving the Thai silk industry in the 1950s. Situated along the Saen Saeb Canal, the compound comprises six traditional teakwood houses, transported from Ayutthaya and Ban Krua Silk Village, and showcases Thompson’s collection of Asian antiques and textiles.
Bangkok’s charm lies in its endless variety and the unexpected moments it offers. Whether exploring its temples, shopping malls, street food markets, or art spaces, the city rewards visitors with unique experiences and lasting memories. There is always more to discover in this ever-evolving metropolis, ensuring that every visit reveals something new.
