Local Experiences

Located in Bangkok’s historic centre, within the grounds of the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand. It enshrines Phra Kaew Morakot (the Emerald Buddha), the highly revered Buddha image meticulously carved from a single block of jade.

Locally known as Wat Chaeng, the Temple of Dawn is situated on the west (Thonburi) bank of the Chao Phraya River. It is easily one of the most stunning temples in Bangkok, partly made up of colorfully decorated spires and stands majestically over the water.

Offering the biggest variety of eateries and shopping choices on Yaowarat and Charoen Krung roads, Bangkok’s Chinatown is a historical landmark showcasing fine examples of the early architecture of Bangkok. Visit Sampeng Lane around Mangkon Road, wander through the narrow sois, and experience the confusing yet wonderful smell of fried food and leather before trailing across a temple or market.

Chatuchak Weekend Market is the place to ‘shop till you drop’ for almost anything and everything. The staggering variety of merchandise from clothing to home furnishings to pets (including pythons) will send even the most experienced shoppers into a frenzy. The 35-acre (68-rai) area of Chatuchak is home to more than 8,000 market stalls. A day trip to Chatuchak Weekend Market is probably not enough time to cover them all, but you will certainly not be disappointed.

A trip to Bangkok is not complete without a visit to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. This is the most popular floating market in Bangkok with hundreds of boats selling fresh produce, souvenirs and delicious Thai food freshly cooked right on the boats. Other floating markets worth exploring are Taling Chan Market, Bang Ku Wiang Market and Tha Kha.

Asiatique is a combination of the two most popular shopping experiences in Bangkok: a night bazaar and a mall. Only 10 minutes downriver from Saphan Taksin BTS station, this once-bustling international trade port is now home to over with over 1,500 boutiques and 40 restaurants in a huge replica warehouse complex.

Opening in 2018, Mahanakhon Observatory on level 74-77 of Mahanakhon Building will be offering dramatic 360-degree panoramic views across the city providing soaring double height indoor spaces and a rooftop viewing platform from the highest point in Bangkok.

Experience Bangkok’s authentic open-air bazaars either in the Srinakarin or Ratchada area where you can find an incredible array of vintage collectibles and memorabilia from yesteryear, from antique furniture to hippy fashion and Mao kitsch. Shoppers can buy modern fashion and souvenirs, apparel, local food from various cool restaurants, bars and snack stalls and have a fun night out from sunset till late.