Things to do in Bangkok
Although Bangkok is often used as a start and end point for travellers keen to see the rest of Thailand, the capital itself has many things for tourists to do.
Amongst the concrete blocks and high rises are a number of architecturally stunning and historic buildings. The most famous of these is the Grand Palace - an absolute must for all visitors to the city. Built in 1782 the palace consists of a number of architectural styles including Thai, Khmer and Islamic. Visitors can see the most revered Buddha image in Thailand, the Emerald Budda. Government offices are situated in the Palace, which although unoccupied by the Royal Family is still used by them for ceremonial purposes. The many galleries of paintings and murals provide a fascinating insight into Thailand's history, myths and legends.
Conveniently located next door to the palace are Wat Arun and Wat Pho. The latter is known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha and is the largest and technically oldest Wat in Bangkok. At 15 metres long and 46 metres high, the gold plated reclining Buddha is visually stunning, with its feet and eyes engraved with mother of pearl decoration.
Set amongst peaceful gardens, Wat Arun, or the Temple of the Dawn, is one of Thailand's best known landmarks and is a 100 metre Khmer style tower. Visitors can climb some of the way up the very steep steps for a view of the Chao Phraya River and at sunset there are stunning views of the Temple from the far side of the river.
At Bangkok's National Museum visitors can learn much about the country, including its culture, history and the significance of Buddhism to the Thai way of life.
Jim Thompson's house is well worth a visit to get a glimpse into some of Thailand's art and architecture, as well as Thai silk. After coming to Thailand during World War Two Jim Thompson built his dream house in Bangkok, filling it with pieces of art from his travels across Thailand. Famous for bringing Thai silk to the attention of the world, his house is naturally a base for tourists with a bit of extra cash to buy products made from Thai silk.
Weary travellers or those simply looking for an afternoon of luxury should head for one of Bangkok's spas, of which there are literally hundreds. All kind of budgets are catered for - major hotels have some of the finest spas, although for people with less cash to spare there are numerous independent, cheaper establishments which offer a service which is often equally as good.
Bangkok is a fantastic city for buying goods at cheaper prices; computer buffs can find goods at the Panthip Plaza, while a stroll around China Town not only provides a slightly-less hectic alternative to the city's other streets but also gives the opportunity to buy beautiful fabrics and oriental goods.
Numerous other temples, museums, markets and even snake farms can be found throughout the city and those who are prepared to look beyond the concrete urbanisation will be spoilt for choice.
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Things to do
