Besides nationally celebrated events on public holidays, including Buddhist holy days, Bangkok hosts a number of important annual events.

New Year Celebrations

Thailand celebrates the Western New Year as well. On 31st December, there are the Bangkok countdown celebrations at several major sites: Sanam Luang, Central World Plaza, Rama VIII Bridge, and the National Stadium. Buddhist merit-making in the morning and evening folk entertainment take place on 1st January.

 
 
Songkran Festival
(Thai Traditional New Year, 13, 14, 15 April )

This is a time of joyful family reunions and Bangkok half-empties as people head for their hometown to visit their beloved ones. Traditionally, children pour water onto their elder’s hands and invite their blessings before going off to happily splash around elsewhere in town or near the rivers and canals. At Sanam Luang in Bangkok, the highly revered Buddha image “Phra Buddha Sihing” will be displayed and bathed by thousands of Buddhists. The celebrations involve water fights but it is April and hot, so it is a good-humoured way of cooling down. Khao San Road, in the Banglamphu area, is one of the city’s high watermarks to experience the water-throwing activities between locals and tourists. Those who do not fancy a soaking can always stay home.

Royal Ploughing Ceremony

Staged every year at Sanam Luang, and presided over by H.M. the King, this Brahmin ritual marks the official commencement of the rice-growing season around the beginning of May.

H.M. the Queen’s Birthday

Celebrated on 12th August, Mother’s Day in Thailand is marked by brightly illuminated public buildings in the Ratchadamnoen and Grand Palace areas, and a lot of fireworks and cultural performances in Sanam Luang.

Chulalongkorn day

Celebrated every 23rd October around the equestrian statue of King Chulalongkorn (1860 – 1910), this ceremony honours the king who abolished slavery, saved the country from colonisation, and modernised the country.

Loi Krathong Festival

This most charming of all Thai celebrations takes place on the full moon night of the 12th lunar month which usually falls in November. Celebrants place joss sticks, coins, candles, betel and flowers in a lotus-shaped receptacle or Krathong. Then the candles and joss sticks are lit and the Krathong is launched at the waterside, while the owners watch anxiously in the hope that the candle light will not fade away. The flame means fulfillment of dreams and a long life. Along the riverside, visitors can buy ready-made, cheap Krathong and join in the festivities. On the water, a thousand twinkling lights bob up and down, representing people’s hopes and dreams. This celebration is a delight for all the family and should not be missed.

Trooping of the Colours

Celebrated on 3rd December, the elite Royal Guards swear their allegiance to their monarch in a colourful ceremony in the Royal Plaza.

H.M. the King’s Birthday

His Majesty’s birthday on 5th December is also Father’s Day in Thailand and is celebrated with Buddhist merit-making, spectacular evening illuminations around the Grand Palace and Ratchadamnoen areas, and public entertainment principally in the form of folk dramas and open-air film screenings. Samut Prakan

Also known as Pak Nam, this province, located at the mouth of the Chao Phraya River only 25 kilometres south of Bangkok, can easily be reached by bus or taxi. Also known as Pak Nam, this province, located at the mouth of the Chao Phraya River only 25 kilometres south of Bangkok, can easily be reached by bus or taxi. Visitors, for example, can take a #511 air-conditioned bus (Pinklao – Pak Nam) which passes along Ratchadamnoen Avenue and New Phetchaburi Road during the earlier stage of the journey.

Phra Sumeru Fortress
(Also spelled Phra Sumen)

Located on the corner where Phra Athit Road and Phra Sumeru Road meet, this fortress was constructed in the reign of King Rama I in 1783 along with 14 other fortresses and battlements surrounding the capital. Its shape is an octagonal one with three levels. Inside the walls, there are steps leading up to the fortress. Altogether, there are 38 rooms for ammunition and weapons. The roof collapsed during the reign of King Rama IV or V, but was restored by the Fine Arts Department in the early 1980s using old photographs as a guide. Nowadays, there is a small park surrounding the fortress. Visitors can enjoy a pleasant walk along the Chao Phraya River all the way to Phra Pinklao Bridge.

Suan Pakkad Palace & Museum

Located on Si Ayutthaya Road not far from the intersection of Phaya Thai, Suan Pakkad Palace is the former residence of Princess Chumbhot of Nagara Svarga, one of Thailand’s leading gardeners and art collectors. In the compound of the palace, visitors will see 8 traditional Thai houses. Collections include: Asian art and antiques, seashells, mineral crystals, pottery and bronze objects from the prehistoric burial ground Ban Chiang, in Northeast Thailand. The complex is open daily from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. and the entrance fee is 100 baht. Tel. 0 2245 6368 Website: www.suanpakkad.com

Royal Barges National Museum

Located on Khlong Bangkok Noi off the Chao Phraya River and not far from the Phra Pinklao Bridge, this shed has a display of several ornately carved royal barges with unique designs and decorative details. These barges are used on royal and official occasions and formerly served as war vessels.
The most beautiful and well-known barge “Suphannahong” is used by the king only when he makes his royal river procession for the Kathin Ceremony, a Buddhist tradition of offering robes to monks, usually held during October or November. There is also “Narai Songsuban Ratchakan Thi Kao”, the latest royal barge especially built on the occasion of the Golden Jubilee of His Majesty the King’s Accession to the throne in 1996. The royal barges were also used during the Rattanakosin bicentennial celebrations and the reception ceremony of the APEC 2003.

The shed is open to the public every day from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. There is an admission fee of 30 baht and extra charges for shooting videos and photographs (100 baht per camera). Tel. 0 2424 0004

The Erawan Shrine

At the corner of Ratchadamri and Phloen Chit Roads, countless Thais and other Asian tourists who seek good luck visit this very popular shrine, as it is reputed to have the power of granting wishes. Many come to pay homage by offering flower garlands and pray to the four-headed image of the Hindu God “Brahma” to grant their wishes. To reinforce the wish or express appreciation to the God, they will donate wooden elephants or hire a group of Thai classical dancers to perform a dance with live music. The number of dancers and the length of the performance are directly tied to the generosity of their donation. All around plumes of incense smoke rise so thickly that they overcome the traffic fumes at this busy intersection.

Prasat Museum

Suan Pakkad Palace & Museum Suphannahong Royal Barge Located at No. 9 Krung Thep Kritha Road Soi 4, Bang Kapi in the eastern area of the city, the museum houses a vast collection of artefacts from prehistoric to Rattanakosin periods (from 1782 A.D. to the present). Within the museum complex, there are various styles of architecture, like a baroque building, a smaller replica of the Red Palace in the National Museum, and a replica of Ho Tri Klang Nam (Tri Pitaka Pavilion – a library for Buddhist scriptures) of Wat Yai Suwannaram. Prasat Museum is open daily from 10.30 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. except Monday, with an admission fee of 500 baht a person ( in case of one person, a minimum admission fee of 1,000 baht will be charged). The
tours run from 9.30 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. (about 2 hours) and must be arranged in advance. Tel. 0 2379 3601, 0 2379 3607

Jim Thompson’s House

An early partner in the Oriental Hotel, Jim Thompson, an American serving here, decided to devote his energies to develop a thriving Thai silk industry. Due to his efforts, Thai silk is now famous all over the world and justly renowned for its quality, colours and patterns. Thompson, trained as an architect and gardener, also built a fine collection of traditional Thai houses, fashioned into one dwelling where he lived during his lifetime. After his tragic death, the house remains preserved as a museum containing a priceless collection of Asian objets d’art. The museum, located centrally at Soi Kasemsan 2 on Rama I Road, is accessible by bus, taxi and the sky train. Entrance fee is 100 baht. The museum opens daily from 9.00 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. with the last tour at 4.30 p.m. Tel. 0 2215 0122, 0 2216 7368. Website: www.jimthompsonhouse.com

Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute
(The Snake Farm)

Located near Chulalongkorn Hospital, on the corner of Henri Dunant and Rama IV Roads, the Snake Farm contains an interesting collection of poisonous snakes which are “milked”for their venom from which anti-snake bite serum is produced. It is open from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. on weekdays and 8.30 a.m. to 12.00 a.m. on holidays. Visitors can watch the venom extracted from the snakes by experts, in demonstrations at 11.00 a.m. and 2.30 p.m. on weekdays and at 10.30 a.m. on holidays. The admission fee is 70 baht. Tel. 0 2225 0161-4 Website: www.redcross.or.th

Dusit Zoo

Situated on Rama V Road, in the Dusit District, near the Royal Plaza, Bangkok’s oldest zoo contains a collection of popular African and Asian mammals and birds in a botanical garden. With an additional section for children, it is ideal for a family outing. The zoo is open every day from 8.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. The admission fee is 30 baht for adults and 5 baht for children. Tel. 0 2281 2000, 0 2282 7111-3 Ext. 128 Website: www.zoothailand.org

Bangkok Dolls Museum

Located at 85 Soi Ratchataphan (Soi Mo Leng), off Ratchaprarop Road, the museum houses an interesting collection of handmade Thai and foreign dolls. Bangkok Dolls have also won several awards for their miniature creations. The museum is open daily from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. with free admission, except for Sunday and national holidays. Tel. 0 2245 3008 Website: www.bangkokdolls.com

Museum of Imaging Technology

Located in the same building with the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, this is the first camera and photograph museum established in Thailand and Asia. Historic photographs and imaging equipment, as well as its technological evolution are on display. Modern photographic arts, techniques and printing technology are also exhibited. Admission fee is 100 baht and the museum is open Monday to Friday from 10.00 a.m. to 3.30 p.m.

National Science Museum

The astonishing geometric architecture of the National Science Museum attracts not only children but also adults for its entertaining combination of science and technology. The museum provides both education and entertainment, along with exhibits of technological advancements in agriculture by local Thais. The museum is divided into two halls: Hall I is about scientific knowledge, and nature from around the globe is on display in Hall II. Admission for each hall is 50 baht per adult, or two for 60 baht. Children under 12 get in free. Open from Tuesday to Sunday 9.30 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. Tel. 0 2577 9999 Website: www.nsm.or.th

Lumphini Park

The largest park in Bangkok is considered the “green lung” of the city. It is situated between Wireless and Ratchadamri Roads. Lined with trees and shrubs, many paths run through the park, and an artificial lake lies in the centre, where boats can be rented. For Thais and visitors, it is an attractive place to visit and relax. In the morning, joggers use its many paths for keeping fit, and many Thai-Chinese people come here to do Tai Chi. There are restaurants within the park and plenty of places to find a cool drink. Entrances to the park are at all four of its corners. Admission is free, and it is open from 5.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m.

Dream World

Situated on Rangsit – Ong-kharak Road near the airport, this classic European-style fantasyland, theme park with miniature versions of legendary sites and a huge variety of modern amusements is ideal for the family. It is open Monday to Friday from 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. and Saturday to Sunday from 10.00 a.m.
to 7.00 p.m. Tel. 0 2533 1152 Ext. 156 Website: www.dreamworld-th.com

Safari World

On the perimeter of Bangkok towards Min Buri is this 300-acre complex ideal for a family trip, divided into four sections, Safari Park, with African and Asian mammals, Bird Park, Macaw Island and Games Corner. The complex is open daily from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Tel. 0 2518 1000-19 Website: www.safariworld.com

Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruises

Riverine Bangkok offers some of the capital’s most superb sights, particularly at night when the weather is cooler and reflections from the water bestow upon Bangkok a magical effect of flickering lights and shadows. An ideal way of combining dining with river enchantments is to enjoy a dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya.

• Loy Nava Co., Ltd., Tel. 0 2437 4932, 0 2437 7329 Website: www.loynava.com
• Yok Yor Marina Tel. 0 2863 0565-6 Website: www.yokyor.co.th
• Khanab Nam Restaurant Tel. 0 2433 6611, 0 2424 8453-4
• Mam Mos (Ban Khun Luang) Tel. 0 2243 3235, 0 2241 2282, 0 2241 0928
• Riverside Co., Ltd. Tel. 0 2883 1588 Website: www.riversidebangkok.com
• Manohra Tel. 0 2476 0021-2 Ext. 1416 Website: www.manohracruises.com
• Dairy Queen Tel. 0 2921 8670-5
• Supatra River House Tel. 0 2411 0305

Website: www.supatrariverhouse.com
In addition, many riverside hotels offer their own trips along with useful information on finding suitable cruises.

Bangkok Temples and Buildings of Cultural Interest

Bangkok takes great pride in its large number of fascinating temples around the capital. The major ones can be found in the Rattanakosin area on the western side of the city. Shopping Centre on Rajdamri Road Kinaree Statue in Wat Phra Kaeo

The Rattanakosin area is called an island but has been incorporated into the city. A trip there will allow visitors to see many attractions within a short distance of one another.

The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaeo
(The Temple of the Emerald Buddha)

The splendid Grand Palace enclosure is home to many ornate temples and buildings with a variety of architectural styles. Gold leaf, reflective tiling and Buddha images are to be seen everywhere. The magnificent Wat Phra Kaeo, a treasure trove of Thai arts and home to the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most revered Buddha image, is at the heart of the complex, but there is much else of interest to be seen in the Grand Palace compound, such as the Royal Thai Decorations and Coin Pavilion, where a permanent exhibition of royal regalia, decorations, medals and coins dating back to the early 11th century is on display.

The complex is open daily from 8.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. except on special days designated for royal ceremonies to be announced later. The admission fee is 200 baht which includes entry to Vimanmek Mansion and the Coin Pavilion. Visitors are advised that polite and modest dress is essential. Tel. 0 2623 5500 ext. 3100 Website: www.palaces.thai.net

Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall

Located on Ratchadamnoen Nok Avenue, this beautiful Throne Hall was built in the reign of King Rama V using marble for construction in the Italian Renaissance architectural style. The ceiling of the dome is highlighted by exquisite fresco paintings of important royal functions during the reigns of King Rama I up to King Rama VI of the Royal House of Chakri. Nowadays, Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall is primarily used to hold important royal and state ceremonies. Recently, the Hall welcomed leaders from many countries participating in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2003 hosted by the Royal Thai Government. The Hall opens only on the 2nd Saturday of January (Children’s day). However, the outdoor portion is open daily from 9.30 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.

Wat Mahadhatu

Located across the street from Wat Phra Kaeo on the west side of Sanam Luang, Wat Mahadhatu, known as the Temple of the Great Relic, is the national centre for the Mahanikai monastic sect. The temple houses Mahachulalongkorn Buddhist University, one of the two highest seats of Buddhist learning in Thailand and offers meditation instruction in English for interested visitors. The temple is open daily and admission is free. For more information on the Meditation Centre, Tel. 0 2222 6011.

Vimanmek Mansion

This is the largest golden teakwood building in the world, built in 1901 by King Chulalongkorn the Great (Rama V) as a royal residence. It is located behind the National Assembly Building. The 3-storey mansion contains 81 rooms, halls and antechambers. It was renovated and extensively restored by the order of H.M. Queen Sirikit to house priceless treasures and a collection of late 19th and early 20th century royal memorabilia.

Situated on the east wing of Vimanmek Mansion is Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall, a one-storey teak building built in the reign of King Rama V. The Hall is now Thailand’s first handicraft museum where Her Majesty the Queen collects handicraft masterpieces, created by members of her SUPPORT
Foundation. In the museum, visitors will find handicrafts such as nielloware, Thai silk with various unique designs, Liphao basketry made from finely split jungle vines like beautiful trays and handbags studded with jewels in different designs such as the green metallic wings of an indigenous beetle. Near the entrance to Vimanmek Mansion is the Royal Carriage Museum with splendid examples of ancient horse-drawn carriages. Vimanmek Mansion is open daily from 9.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. Tickets are available until 3.00 p.m. There are Thai classical dance performances at 10.30 a.m. and 2.30 p.m. Admission is 100 baht. For visitors with a ticket to the Grand Palace, admission is free. Golf car rental is 400 baht per hour. Polite and modest attire is required. Tel. 0 2280 5928 Website: www.vimanmek.com

Royal Elephant National Museum

This is the first building on the right when entering the Vimanmek compound, containing a life-like model of the white elephant. The myth and legend of the white elephant began in Southeast Asia – The Land of the White Elephant. In the story of the Lord Buddha, the white elephant is connected to fertility and knowledge. On the eve of giving birth to the Lord Buddha, his mother dreams that a white elephant comes to present her with a lotus, a symbol of purity and knowledge. The white elephant is above an ordinary tusker. In Thailand, this creature is sacred as it represents the prosperity of the town. Indeed, the Siamese put the white elephant on their new flag. When elephants were no longer so vital for warfare, elephant hunts became less common, and fewer of the rare albino elephants were found. The Siamese king passed a law demanding that any white elephant found in the kingdom had to be presented to the king. He sent out scouting parties and offered rewards. The discovery of a white elephant became a special event, a time for national celebration. In this museum, the visitor can see pictures of elephants promoted to the title of “royal elephants” by past kings. The musem opens everyday from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. Admission is 5 baht. For visitors with a ticket to the Grand Palace, admission is free. Tel. 0 2282 3336

Wat Pho
(Temple of the Reclining Buddha)

Neighbouring the Grand Palace enclave, this temple is considered the largest in Bangkok. The famous Reclining Buddha, constructed in 1832, is enshrined in this temple. This 46-metre long and 15-metre high gold-plated Reclining Buddha, the eyes and feet inlaid with mother-of-pearl brings to mind the Lord Buddha’s entry into Nirvana. The sole also shows 108 auspicious characteristics of the true “Buddha”. Wat Pho was also the first centre of public education in the Kingdom. Nowadays, it is an important centre for the teaching and administering of traditional Thai massage. Wat Pho is open daily from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. and the entry fee is 20 baht. Modest attire is required. Tel. 0 2222 7831, 0 2225 9595 Website: www.watpho.com

San Lak Mueang
(City Pillar Shrine)

On the southeast corner of Sanam Laung, this shrine houses a city pillar placed there by King Rama I to mark his new capital, Bangkok. It is reputed by many to have the power of granting wishes. The city pillar is made of the wood of “Javanese Cassia” and contains the city’s horoscope.

Sanam Luang
(Phramen Ground)

Sanam Luang, an oval public area in front of the Grand Palace, is used for various royal ceremonies including Royal Cremations and the Royal Ploughing Ceremony held each May. Located near its borders are several important institutions such as the Fine Arts Department, Thammasat University, Bangkok National Museum and National Gallery.

Bangkok National Museum

Near the National Theatre and not far from Sanam Luang, one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in Southeast Asia, the National Museum houses an important and superb collection of artefacts and objets d’art ranging from the Bronze Age to the Bangkok period. The complex consists of several old and beautiful buildings once used as a palace. The museum is open daily from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m., except Monday, Tuesday and national holidays. The admission fee is 40 baht. Tel. 0 2224 1307 Website: www.thailandmuseum.com

Trains
The main station is Hua Lamphong. This beautiful 100-yearold building is designed in the shape of an arc. The Italian architect who designed the station was also responsible for the marble Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall. For information, please contact the Travel Service Unit, State Railways of Thailand.
Tel. 0 2220 4334, 1690 Website: www.railway.co.th

Buses
Plentiful and cheap are the regular non-air buses. Air-conditioned buses and microbuses are only a fraction more expensive. A bus route map is available at most hotels, bookshops and the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s office on New Phetchaburi Road.

Subway
Opened in 2004, the city’s new subway system (MRTA) connects many of the top tourist attractions with accommodation areas, markets, and the business district. The trains run from 6 a.m. to midnight, daily.

BTS Skytrain
Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS) provides safe, cheap and rapid rides to popular areas of Bangkok. The service is excellent and the stations and trains are immaculately clean. There are two lines, intersecting at Siam Square. It is the best way to avoid traffic and pollution.

Taxi
Hotel taxis have set rates. Street taxis known as “Taxi Meters” charge a minimum of 35 baht for the first 2 kilometres and 5 baht for every following kilometre.
Tel. 1661, 1681

River Taxis
Even more unusual, though equally convenient, river taxis ply the Chao Phraya River. While some are just cross river ferries, others serve many piers on both banks and cover a route that goes up as far as the northern suburb of Nonthaburi.

Tuk-Tuk
These 3-wheelers are popular for short journeys. Fares must be bargained in advance. They are not much cheaper than taxis and perhaps the odd mode of transportation is the attraction.

Motorcycle Taxis
Bangkok is such a busy city with many traffic jams that everyone wants to get to their destination on time and as fast as they could which is why motorcycle taxis are so popular. The fare depends on the distance but is about the same as a taxi.

Bangkok visitors a fascinating opportunity to experience glimpses of cultural amenity in the midst of a vibrant and excellent dynamic metropolis.

Bangkok was founded in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri dynasty. Is currently the country’s spiritual culture, diplomacy, trade and educational hub. Covering over 1,500 square kilometers and is about ten million homes or more than 10 percent of the nation’s population.

Over the last few decades of the Thai capital, Bangkok, has changed a modern complex and exciting cities. Offer to visitors to not only clean it every day around the world expect from other big cities but also unique treasure trove of cultural attractions. Thailand, in the heart of Southeast Asia, it is not colonised collect unique culture and heritage intact Bangkok visitors a fascinating opportunity to experience glimpses of cultural amenity in the midst of a vibrant and excellent dynamic metropolis. This city is surprisingly successful in uniting the ancient and modern world.

For tourists, Bangkok has to offer attractions celebrate. The city is dotted with 400 glittering Buddhist temple in the beauty and charm, of princely palaces, classical dance. extravaganzas, many traditional ways of life, especially shopping centers along. “Nick’s a East” at Chao Phraya River and canals, or “River of Kings “Winding through the city. If travel is worth further exploration along the canal water before entering a different time to shoot the old Bangkok.