As most people know, Bangkok is Thailand’s capital, a city with fantastic nightlife, some of the best street food in the world, and cultural riches. One of the most visited places in Southeast Asia, Bangkok offers something for every kind of visitor, be it colorful, bustling markets, ancient temples, or modern malls. Some of the places that should be on your must-visit list in Bangkok include the following:
- Wat Arun ( The Temple of Dawn )
An incredible temple, Wat Arun is one of the most famous Bangkok landmarks and is found on the Chao Phraya River. The temple is famous for its towers decorated in the Khmer style of Chinese porcelain and colored glass and was named after Arun, the Hindu God of Dawn, and is not just beautiful during daylight hours. At night, the temple is illuminated, making it one f the most stunning places to visit at any hour.
- Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace
An important complex in Thailand, this is where you will find Wat Phra Kaew, Thailand’s most important temple, and the Grand Palace, once the King of Thailand’s official residence. Wat Phra Kaew is also home to one of the country’s most important treasures, the Emerald Buddha. The Grand Palace showcases the best of Thai architecture, and visitors are allowed entrance to the grounds, where they can take in the sheer beauty of the Palace.
- Wat Benchamabophit ( The Marble Temple )
A Buddhist temple, Wat Benchamabophit is thought to be one of the best Bangkok temples, another fine example of Thai architecture featuring intricate carvings. Imported from Italy, Carrara marble was used to construct the temple in 1889, with architects using a combination of Western and traditional Thai styles. Visitors will find a stunning Buddha statue and many other pavilions and small shrines inside the main hall.
- Wat Mangkon Kamalawat
Also called the Dragon Temple, it is one of the biggest in Bangkok and also one of the largest. Wat Mangkon Kamalawat is where you will see the celebrations for Chinese New Year, with lion and dragon dancers filling the streets. The temple is also a popular spot for locals to pray and for visitors to see some of the religious practices served in Thailand today.
- Wat Suthat Thepwararam
Visitors to the Grand Palace will find this stunning temple nearby, a temple where King Rama I’s ashes are located in a large gold and red chedi. The temple also houses a large swing used in the Brahmin ceremony that takes place annually. Visitors can explore the peaceful grounds, relax and enjoy regular performances of traditional Thai dance.
- Khao San Road
This is where backpackers congregate and where many street performances and vendors can be found here. It offers a lively, fun atmosphere coupled with cheap hotels, restaurants, and bars, a great place if you want to party all night. It’s also where you will find tour offices and travel agents and is one of the best places to begin exploring Bangkok.
- Wat Pho ( Temple of the Reclining Buddha )
Famous for its giant statue of a reclining Buddha, Wat Pho is a relaxing place where you can also find a Thai massage school. The statue is stunning, covered in gold leaf, and more than 150 feet long, and visitors can also find many more chedis and shrines, making it a truly beautiful place to explore.
- Floating Markets
The floating markets are a must on your trip to Bangkok. The most famous market of all is the Damnoen Saduk, where you can purchase traditional food and drink, souvenirs, and traditional Thai clothing.
Bangkok is full of amazing places to visit and sights to see. Be aware that you must follow the local traditions and customs, which means dressing modestly and removing your shoes when entering a temple, among other things. Only then can you enjoy this beautiful city to its fullest.