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Bangkok

BANGKOK
DESTINATION GUIDE

The Ultimate Guide Before You Plan for your Next Trip

Bangkok, the lively capital of Thailand, is an high-end city with shimmering skyscrapers and ornate shrines. A city with plenty of history and culture offers you a fascinating time full of fun and frolic. With enchanting gardens and mesmerizing royal heritage Bangkok is real treat for the tourists. Known as the Land of the Smile, Bangkok will welcome you with an open heart and allow you to enjoy the bustles of the city in the morning and the crazy tunes of the nightclubs at the night. It is certainly a city which never sleeps and it is both tacky and high-end at the same time.

Attractions in Bangkok

From a medieval Royal palace to Buddhist shrines, from enormous lakes to bustling markets, you will never be short of things to do once you reach Bangkok.

Lumpini Park

Covering more than 2.5 kilometers this vast stretch of green is definitely a place to wander around inside Bangkok. Locals use this area for their jogging and morning walk whilst the tourists can have a pretty good time spending a leisurely afternoon. There are a number of aerobic classes which happens inside this park and they also welcome tourists to join in for a session. Apart from that there are amenities like paddle boats with which you can float across the water-bodies and view all the things in the core of the park like the Chinese-inspired gazebos and a stage where various concerts are being performed.

Yaowarat Road

Your trip to Bangkok will never be completed till you walk the streets of this city. Yaowarat Road of Bangkok is certainly one place which you definitely cannot miss out on. Located right at the heart of the Chinatown in Bangkok this place was built back in the year 1891 and this road hosts one of the most attractive food markets in entire Thailand. The party starts after the sunset as the vendors come out with their stalls to serve you the most exotic oriental cuisines. Lining both side of the road there are plenty of places from where you can buy scrumptious dumplings, spring-rolls, and noodles. The presence of the strong Chinese community, who moved here from the banks of the Chao Pharya River in 1782, makes the place even more authentic.

Khao San Road

It is a slice of backpackers' paradise as you get to see many Western tourists flocking here every summer to experience the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. The place has a true cosmopolitan appeal as you will find many affordable accommodation spread across the streets as the bars and the restaurants serve you all sorts of Eastern and Western cuisines that you can imagine. The air of this place is intoxicated with a party vibe as the nightclubs and pubs get themselves ready for a fabulous evening of fun and frolic. If you are traveling with friends and you are done with your visits to the shrines and temples of Bangkok then it is the perfect place to let your hair down and have a superb fun time in Thailand.

Wat Traimit

Wat Traimit or the Temple of the Golden Buddha has a long and interesting history. It is being said that during the 1950's when the East Asiatic company purchased the land they found out that the Buddha was covered in plaster. Once accidentally the plaster came off people realized that the statue is originally made from solid gold and was covered in plaster in order to hide it from the invaders. However, the true origin of this statue is yet to be discovered. Nonetheless, this golden statue of Buddha weighs almost 5.5 tons of pure soild gold and it stands at a substantial height of 3.5 meters. Due to its overall value and the sheer brilliance people from all over the world come to witness this wonder.

Terminal 21

Though it might sound like a subway metro station but it actually is not. It is in fact a fabulous shopping destination which is actually a crime to miss out on, once you are in Bangkok. It is the shopping mall of all shopping malls in Thailand as you will get many different sorts of items on display here. From fashion-wears to luxury products each floor of this mall has a different theme adhering to any particular international city. Like for instance the entry level floor near the BTS station is Paris whilst the floor above it is Tokyo. If you move up to another floor you will find yourself standing in front of one of the iconic red telephone booths like in London. Then there is the Caribbean, the majestic Istanbul, and also San Fransico. So it kind of a world tour within a shopping mall.

When To Reach

Technically there is no off-season when it comes to Bangkok as tourists gather here all throughout the seasons. However, it is the drizzling which spoils the trip as Bangkok experiences a very tropical climatic condition. It rains almost 9 months in the year with a humidity which is quite high above 90% during most of these months. For that reason the ideal time for your to reach Bangkok will be late autumn or the winter. It is the time when the temperature remains steady whilst the rainfall is minimum.

Seasonality

High Season: The months of November, December till mid-January is the high season for traveling to Bangkok.


Shoulder Season:Late autumn and early spring can be defined as the shoulder season for traveling to Bangkok as the rainfall is not too regular.


Low Season: The summer is definitely the low season for traveling to Bangkok as the temperature is hot and humid and it rains almost alternate days.

How To Reach

You will never be short of options when you are planning on reaching Bangkok from India. Plenty of airlines have their direct flights from your city to the capital of Thailand. The likes of Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, Air Asia, Emirates are flying regularly to Bangkok from India. Due to the proximity of the destination daily there are more than one flight take Indians to Bangkok for business and leisure. Apart from the above mentioned airlines there are also other flights like in the form of Cathay Pacific, China Southern, Korean Airlines, along with Air China, Malaysian Airlines and Shandong Airlines which will help you reach the glittering wonders of Bangkok, in no time.

Why should you go?

The vibrant and colorful city of Bangkok is one of the most affordable and convenient destinations for the Indian travelers. With a strong Indian community dwelling inside the city, Bangkok is just another home away from home with much more glitter and shin. Be it the exuberant shopping experience or the wild night parties on the streets and the pubs of Bangkok, you will never fall short of reasons to visit. The hidden alleyways and the floating markets, the bustling crowds and the honking tuk tuks will certainly cast a spell on you.
10 Reasons to visit Bangkok -
  • Bangkok is finest and the best equipped city in entire Thailand and you will enjoy all the comforts as a traveler.
  • Bangkok is an affordable destination for Indians and you can get many budget friendly alternatives to avail.
  • Bangkok is as good as a Western cosmopolitan city and it will certainly overwhelm your senses.
  • Being closer to home you will not have to travel for long to reach your destination thereby making your trip relaxing and enjoyable.
  • Talking about relaxation, Bangkok has few of the best Thai spas in the world and you can enjoy a trip or two.
  • Bangkok is also a very popular destination for art lover for its huge collection of art and craft-works.
  • There are many temples and shrines in Bangkok which you will definitely enjoy witnessing from up front.
  • Bangkok also allows you to have a glimpse of the Thai Royalty and their lavish architecture and residence.
  • The street food of Bangkok is quite lovely and enjoyable and some of these food joints have even won a Michelin star.
  • Last but not the least, Bangkok has a very strong Indian community and hence you will never feel out of place once you reach the city.

Getting Around

As one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the East, Bangkok is extremely well-connected via different modes of transportation. From taxis to bus, from tuk tuks to motorbike taxis, traveling around Bangkok is not only affordable but also fun. It is nothing like anything you get back at home and these rides are enjoyed by the tourists as well as the locals. The train network is extensive carrying lots of people from around the border whilst the bus rides are comfortable and easy.

BTS and Airport Link

This mass transit railway network are a fairly new addition to Bangkok's overall transportation system. It has made the daily commute of the locals much more comfortable whilst the tourists can easily traverse the country in a fast and affordable mode of commute.

MTR

The MTR is the underground subway network which also connects the furthest corner of the city. The MTR network is also mostly used by the locals and as a tourist you can also reap its benefits whenever necessary. It would be an unique experience to ride the Thai metro lines in the city of Bangkok

Bus

The buses are in fact the cheapest mode of commute in Bangkok and some of the trips are even free, if you are willing enough to wait for its arrival. The buses are also used by the locals and if you are covering a greater distance then they can prove to be a fun ride.

Taxis

Taxis are quite popular here in Bangkok as they are available in plenty. Sometimes the cab drivers will also agree you to take you on a trip to Bangkok but it can be a scam so it is better to avoid and allow your trip planners to design your trip. Taxis are also quite expensive when compared to the other modes of commute.

Tuk Tuk

Bangkok allows you the chance to explore something which you have never experienced before. The rides on these three-wheeled engine driven carts are certainly fun. It is mostly like the autos we have here in India. They can be rented for short trips and sight-seeing.

Motorbike Taxi

Believe it or not motorbike taxis are also available in Bangkok. This fun single passenger arrangement helps the locals to go from one spot to another in a jiffy. However, if you are unsure of the place and not traveling with a group it is advisable you avoid such risky affairs.

Weather

Thailand enjoys a sub-tropical climate with hot an humid summer, heavy monsoon, and cool and dry winters. Rainfall is a major concern when it comes to a trip to Bangkok. That is why it is vital that you plan your trip during the dry and cool months of autumn and winter. The temperature however, remains constant throughout the year in Bangkok as it shuffles in the range of 20 degree Celsius to 32 degree Celsius. Even during winter the temperature reading does not drop below the 20 degree Celsius mark but since the humidity remains low it is more comfortable to travel.

What to pack in your suitcase?

  • Put lots of t-shirts, shirts, and tops in your bag because no matter what time of you travel you will sweat and you will need changes.
  • Take loosely fit casual dresses to allow your skin the breathing space, especially during the morning and afternoon trips.
  • Carry less jeans and more of shorts and loose trousers so that can roam around comfortably.
  • Along with your heavy boots also carry your flip-flops because they might become handy during the daytime.
  • Do not forget to carry a couple of umbrellas, even if you are traveling in winter, because it might rain anytime anywhere in Bangkok.
In the Spotlight

Bangkok is a well-known dining destination in the entire world and thanks to this vibrant city of the East, the reputation of Thai cuisine has spread across the seven seas and now has reached the furthest corners of the globe. However, it is not just Thai food that you get served in the various restaurants of Bangkok, as starting from Chinese to Malay, Indian to Italian, the restaurants of Bangkok cover a wide spectrum when it comes to global cuisine. Be it the high-end fine dining venues or the roadside shacks near the banks of the river, Bangkok is ready to give you some special gastronomical treat.

Chim By Siam Wisdom : This fabulous eatery is run by a Thai chef who first started his career back in the wild streets of London. Strange as it might sound but this Eastern chef first gained his popularity back in the West
but it was his love for Thailand which brought him back home. This authentic Thai eatery now draws a decent crowd of both foreigners and locals and the the things he does with the seafood is certainly worth trying. The wooden decor of the place with plants hanging out from the glass ceiling, evokes a charming appeal whilst his signature dishes like cane-smoked duck breast and soft-shell crabs have helped him win Michelin star.
Jae Oh : This nighttime hangout for the students of the Chulalongkorn University is actually a very cool eatery for the tourists to come and enjoy.
From instant cooked foods for the rushing students to scrumptious finger foods this restaurant can make you feel the heart-beat of the Thai culinary world. Starting from the various duck dishes and fries to the delicious fish items you can really have a finger-licking experience out there. Once you are there you will see how a bunch of 3-5 students sharing a large bowl of tom yum soup whilst you and your friends can order minced prok balls or mixed seafood items to pass your time.
Mr Joe : The name of the eatery has a colonial appeal and that too for good reasons. This Bangkok restaurant has successfully combined the Eastern spices with the Western grills
and its signature dish in the form of the ride noodle broth has achieved considerable praise in the market. However, if you ask the tourists they will accept the fact that a majority of the people go there for the delectable pork belly recipe along with the soft noodle dishes which are ordered so frequently in this place. The meat items are also delicious as they are grilled and also fried giving them a crunchy and juicy texture which every meat-eater adores.
Jay Fai : You cannot escape the temptation of the street foods of Bangkok and it is just not any street-food outlet as it is only the third roadside food joint to win a Michelin star.
So, it is indeed something very special. What is more fascinating about this eatery is that the chef herself is more than 70 years old and she wears her goggles and cooks in an open-fire kitchen. She controls the charcoal-fire woks like some wizard and will deliver scrumptious delicacies in no time. It is by far the most popular street-food joint in entire Bangkok and the Chinese stir-fry items here is simply mind-blowing. Seafood lovers should definitely try the sweet crab curry served with scrambled egg.
The Local : Hidden in the forbidden alleyways of Soi Cowboy this special eatery allows the foreigners to enjoy a taste of the authentic southern Thailand recipes.
Though there are many Thai restaurants spread across the city very few of them actually serves the food from the coastal planes of the country. Taste the salt water of coconut and the sea in this enchanting eatery located in the heart of the most notorious lanes of Thailand. The place serves many historic recipes and it is a delight for the tourists who has a taste for something different. The ox tongue recipe is quite delightful whilst the crab and coconut dip along with lotus stem will offer you a chance to taste some authentic southern-Thai cuisine.

It is a common mistake to think that Bangkok is only known for its Thai cuisines. This vibrant and cosmopolitan city has many hidden alleyways with lots of history of immigration and cultural mixing. Hence due to that the food scene of the country has evolved by a great extent over the last few centuries. Thai cuisines from both northern and southern borders of the country bless the culinary scope of Bangkok and along with that there are strong influences of Chinese, Middle Eastern, Malay, and even Indian cuisines. According to some food writers Bangkok also has a strong Western influence especially they way treat their meats. So, overall Bangkok is a pretty vibrant food destination for the tourists.

Tom Yum Gung: The typical spicy Thai soup with coconut milk, shrimps, and mushroom is found in almost every eatery of Bangkok.

Kao Na Pet:It is hard to find an oriental destination without a roasted duck recipe and Bangkok's Kao Na Pet is served with thick curry and rice.

Kao Niew Moo Yang: The grilled pork delicacies served with small bags of sticky rice is also found in many street-food joints of Bangkok.

Yam Khor Moo Yang:This is another tender pork meat recipe served with sweet onion and lemon juice.

Gai Yang: Like roasted duck grilled chicken is also found in many places in Bangkok and Gai Yang chicken is particularly popular across the city.

The markets of Bangkok are not only famous in South East Asia but they have also gathered considerable fame in the global arena. Known as a major shopping destination Bangkok offers its tourists with plenty of opportunity to explore and shop. From high-end shopping malls to roadside hawkers you will never run out of option when you come to Bangkok. If you are unable to buy a real Gucci in one of the top-notch shopping malls of Bangkok then you can surely find an imitation on the bustling streets of the city. From souvenirs to food, from antiques to cheap replicas the Land of Smiles is surely bound to satisfy you and make you fill your bags with all the items that you can buy.

Chatuchak Weekend Market: You will not find a livelier market anywhere else in the world once you have visited the Chatuchak Weekend Market of Bangkok.
This is one shopping experience which you surely cannot miss out, as a tourist. Statistically it is one of the largest markets in entire Asia and considering the huge number of stalls that set on each weekend you cannot surely deny the fact. From rare Thai art-pieces to handicrafts from the northern territory of Thailand, you will find all sorts of souvenir items in this place. Located on the Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road this place is always bustling with excited hawkers and bargaining shoppers. If you are looking for a good bargain then you should visit the place early in the morning.
Rod Fai Night Market : The covered stalls of the Rod Fai Night Market evoke a different appeal which perhaps a Thai market can only evoke.
Located just behind the huge Esplanade Shopping Mall this massive market offers the buyers a unique blend of items which no malls can actually compete with. The busy vibe of the market is understandable considering the range of products available here. There are a huge variety of antiques available in this market, making it one of the most sought after shopping destinations for the tourists and also at the same time there are many hipster jacket counters and some trendy t-shirt stalls. The place with a definite Western appeal also has a large number of eateries and bars which will make your visit worthwhile.
Patpong Night Market : This night market of Bangkok is certainly the most tempting one to the group of friends venturing into the streets of Bangkok.
With lots of nightclubs and go-go bars this place smells of vices and as the evening falls the entire market lit up to welcome its guests. It should be noted that the place is certainly not kid friendly by any mean and you can visit with your family only if all the members are adult. The entire market has a very charming appeal as the glittering neon will help you transport to an different world all together. Located in the Silom region of Bangkok this place also has many souvenirs and t-shirt stalls along with a huge variety of shops selling shot glasses.
Asiatique the Riverfront : One of the most unique marketplaces of Bangkok, Asiatique the Riverfront, needs to be reached by a boat and the visit becomes more interesting after that.
Unlike all the other busy and congested marketplaces of Bangkok this market is very well organized and also much cleaner in its appeal. You will not get any replicas or second hand items in this market as the good sold are really authentic catering to a consumer base of refined taste. Nestled at the foothills of the giant 200 feet long Asiatique ferry's wheel this market is the place to hunt for fashionable items. The place has as many as 42 gondolas and it offers a very special view of the city from the great heights.
Damneon Saduak Floating Market: The list of marketplaces of Bangkok becomes even more interesting as we now tell you about the fascinating floating markets of Thailand.
Located in the Ratchaburi district of Bangkok this floating market has earned the name "Venice of the East" for Bangkok. The illussive set up of the market will certainly overwhelm your senses as you will find floating stalls, on boats, crowding the narrow canal connecting Ratchaburi. The hawkers sell various kinds of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other kind of foods and if you are in a mood for doing something exotic, with a perfect oriental appeal, then make an early morning trip to this market.

The currency of Thailand is Baht and it what is accepted in Bangkok. That is why it is important that you convert your currency to Baht before you start with your trip. You can carry as much as 10,000 Baht whilst entering Bangkok and 20,000 Baht if you are traveling with your family. However, that does not stop you from spending more as you will get a lot of FOREX offices near your hotel from where you can exchange your Indian currency and convert it into Baht. Do remember that Thailand is a cash dependent economy and if you are looking for a truly exotic experience in Bangkok then do carry your cash. From paying the cab drivers to paying the guides in the various sites, you need to pay by cash.

Special Tips

  • Keep your Baht handy wherever you are traveling in Bangkok. You can have either an expensive trip or an affordable one, but no matter what you need to keep your Baht handy.
  • A fine dining experience in Bangkok will cost you around 1500 to 2000 Baht whilst the regular eateries will charge you around 500 to 750 Baht per person.
  • If you are traveling by taxi then you need to pay about 800 to 900 Baht on average, depending on where you are going.
  • Most of the museums and the experiences will charge you around 200 to 500 Baht, but if you hire an English guide then it would be charged extra.
  • If you are looking for a fun night out in the nightclubs of Bangkok then you might have to spend around 1000 to 1500 Baht per person.

There are two types of Visa that an Indian can apply when he/she is going to Thailand. One is the regular visa which can be applied by sending the application form along with the cover to the Royal Thai Consulate General of either Delhi, or Kolkata, or Chennai. The time for getting this visa is about 3 working days and it will allow you stay in Bangkok for 90 days. However, there is also a much hassle-free option for you in order to get you visa for Thailand. The Thai government allows Indians to get Visa on Arrival. For that, you just need to get the visa application form from the immigration check-points of the Bangkok airport and stand in a queue to get your visa. This type of visa will allow you to stay in the country for 14 consecutive days.

Special Tips

The cost of the tourist visa application is INR 3500 approximately for a single-entry tourist visa. Make sure that you are equipped with all sorts of documents before applying for the visa and if necessary take help from your tour operators. You need to provide your bank statement showcasing that you have substantial fund to sustain the trip along with an NOC from your employer. For more information check the immigration website of the Kingdom of Thailand.

Bangkok is regarded as a safe and friendly city, especially to the Indians. However, there are incidents of pick-pocketing and purse grabbing in many crowded places and public transport. Always be on the alert when you are traveling by bus or train and never leave anything behind in your cab. Bangkok is also infamous for various scams so do not enter into any shady affair arranged by some locals and do not gamble on the streets. Before you know it they will rob thousands of Bahts from you. Also be aware of the worth of the things you are buying, especially the replicas.

  • Police and General Emergency: 191
  • Medical Emergency: 1669
  • Fire: 199
  • Tourist Police: 1155

Entertainment & Event

The city where the monitor lizards roam safely with people welcomes you with smiles and wonders.

  • Flora and Fauna

    When we talk about Bangkok we mostly speak about its urban night-life and the fabulous spas and shopping centers. But the fact remains that the city is not without its fair share of greenery. Lumpini Park stretches quite far within the borders of Bangkok and it is definitely the green heart of the Thai capital. Many variety of hardwood timber grow in plenty in this park along with many fruits and flowering plants. The likes of Crepe Myrtle is observed in plenty as its purple and pink flowers add to the beauty of this park. Now where there are trees, there are birds and once you visit the place you will surely get some glimpses of the oriental magpies and other birds residing inside the dense forestation.

    The park is also well-known for its huge collection of oriental reptiles which often catch the attention of the tourists. The likes of water monitor can be observed in the banks of the water-body of the park and you can catch a glimpse of these huge creatures whilst paddle boating across the canals. However, they are quite harmless and if not disturbed they do not attack the tourists. Apart from the monitor lizards the park also has many Varanus salvator and other reptiles. There are also many snakes inside the park but they hardly come out during the day time.

  • Festivals

    The truly vibrant city of Bangkok is a home for many festivals and occasions. Starting from the Buddhist ceremonies to the Hindu rituals, Bangkok celebrates many colorful festivals throughout the year. The Songkran festival in the middle of the month of April marks the start of the Thai New Year and it is celebrated wildly all across the city. Apart from that Loy Krathong  celebration is quite fascinating in Bangkok as people gather around the lakes and canals of the city and they fly Chinese lanterns up in the sky to pay their respect to their Gods.

    Talking about Chinese lanterns the Chinese New Year is also celebrated with much passion and vigor here in Bangkok along with the Hindu festival of Navaratri. There is a strong Indian community in Bangkok and they celebrate this festival alongside Thai residents of the city. Though not predominantly a Christian country Bangkok is also known for its very energetic Christmas celebrations as people from various corners of the western world gather here to rejoice each December.

  • Culture

    The happy and fun loving Thai people are soft spoken and very welcoming to the foreigners. Bangkok as a city experiences a lot of foreign visitors on a regular basis and that is the reason why they are very open and friendly towards their guests. All the waiters and shop-keepers are pretty well-versed with English and you can communicate with them with freedom and ease. The culture of Bangkok is essentially different from the other areas of Thailand mostly due to its multi-cultural exposure.

    There is also a huge Indian community residing in Bangkok making it easier for the Indian tourists to come and travel. It is a very charming and vibrant melting pot of the East wherein the Thais, the Chinese, and the Indians reside together in harmony. People from Bangkok travel to Kuala Lumpur and Singapore on a regular basis and that is why you will find them well aware of the situations of South-Eastern Asia.

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