Bangkok Attractions: 5 Things to Do in Old-World Siam

Since being crowned the capital of Siam in 1782, Bangkok has evolved into Thailand’s center for politics, culture, spirituality and education. Bangkok attractions have gained worldwide recognition in the city’s cosmopolitan business districts and raucous nightlife areas, but the city’s ancient temples and palaces, winding canals and decades-old markets provide visitors a well-rounded and unforgettable sightseeing experience.

AGODA EXTRA: The world knows Thailand’s capital as Bangkok, but locals call it Krung Thep. The city’s entire name, however, contains 169 Thai characters and is the longest city name in the world. Can you say this whopper three times fast?!? Krungthepmahanakhon Amonrattanakosin Mahinthara Yutthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udom Ratchaniwet Mahasathan Amonphiman Awatansathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukamprasit

1. Visit a former royal residence of the Chakri Dynasty at THE GRAND PALACE

The Grand Palace is by far the most popular tourist attraction in Bangkok. Once a residence for former kings, the working palace still plays host to royal ceremonies and when welcoming dignitaries. The vast grounds are divided into four main courts and cover more than 218,000 square meters. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha serves as a main attraction, while the Outer Court contains working royal offices and former state offices. The Middle Court formerly housed state officials and served as a ceremonial hall; and the Inner Court used to house the king’s harem!

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2. Uncover a mysterious legend behind a Thai silk company at JIM THOMPSON HOUSE

Discover a legend behind one of Bangkok’s most endearing – and mysterious – cultural attractions. Named after the American architect who originally designed, built and lived in the now-popular museum, the Jim Thompson House showcases the establishment of the Thai Silk Company Limited and a vast collection of Asian art, all within a unique complex constructed of six traditional Thai-styled houses. The museum, concealed by a lush forest in the heart of the city, was completed in 1959 and served as Thompson’s residence until he disappeared in 1967. Learn how his disappearance has since baffled the country, yet turned Thompson into one of Thailand’s most beloved and honored foreign influences.

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3. Cruise down the riverside on a ferry to see life along the CHAO PHRAYA RIVER

With more than 15 piers, and something to do at each one of them, the Chao Phraya River is one of the most scenic and inexpensive ways to explore dozens of Bangkok attractions. The river, with its main waterway and multiple canals, is one of the city’s grandest attractions in itself, but hop on a Chao Phraya Express Boat to discover life on the river as well as tons of sights along the way. Find River City and Bangkok Folk Museum at Si Phaya Pier (N3) and Chinatown at Rachawong (N5). You can reach the Grand Palace from Tha Chang Pier (N9). Take a night cruise to sop up a glorious view of Wat Arun (Tha Tien N8) reflecting on the river, and then make your way to Phra Arthit Pier (N13), where you can wander through a quaint and winding street market on your way to Khao San Road, Bangkok’s most popular destination for night markets, nightlife and hearty street food.

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4. Get a glimpse of Thai history in the art gallery at BANGKOK NATIONAL MUSEUM

Trace back centuries of royal history at one of the largest museums in Southeast Asia. The Bangkok National Museum contains a comprehensive collection of Thai art and historical artifacts, as well as a vast display of regional Asian Buddhist arts from throughout Southeast Asia. Located near the Grand Palace and just off Tha Chang Pier (N9), the museum features three main exhibition halls: Siwamokhaphiman Hall houses the Thai History Gallery; Buddhaisawan Chapel contains a sacred image of Buddha as well as mural paintings depicting Buddha’s life; and The Red House is where you can tour a traditional teak home which once served as the private living quarters for a princess.

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5. Take a hands-on techno tour at RATTANAKOSIN EXHIBITION HALL

Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall is one of Bangkok’s newest and most trendy educational centers. More than a museum, the two-story hall overlooking Sanam Luang and the Grand Palace area explores cultural legacies of the Rattanakosin Era, the present center of power for Thailand. Exhibits are presented through multi-media techniques and advanced, interactive technologies. The floor space is divided into nine halls, a library, a souvenir shop and a coffee shop. Space on the ground floor is reserved for regular cultural events and performances.

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