Exploring the entire South East Asia would mean nothing if you didn’t visit Bangkok. The city, based on the river Chao Phraya is the major city of Thailand and offers unlimited opportunities in different realms of life to visitors flocking it all through the year. Interestingly, for many tourists, Bangkok is something of an enigma. While few of these tourists either like the place in its entirety others hate it to the core. But there is no denying the fact that the city has a thronging nightlife and is a melting pot for different cuisines. Furthermore, the city is a major shopping destination. There are many places to visit and explore in and around the city.
The Bangkok skyline, in a way, reflects what the city is all about. Upon careful observation you will see the skyline dotted with modern skyscrapers and traditional buildings including Buddhist temples. There are many shopping malls, luxury hotels, office buildings you can get into while in Bangkok to get to know the city in a real sense. And in between you can see the sharp influences of Western civilization that have and are continuing to exert influence on the Bangkok’s thriving economy.
Major attractions of Bangkok
You will never fall short of major attractions while you are in Bangkok. In fact, you will find more fun and attractions per square kilometer in Bangkok than any other city in the world. Agreed, you will have to combat the crowd that will throng these places almost every other day. However, the effort of getting around to these places is worth it. Some of the interesting places that you can visit within half a day include the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Khao. The Wat Pho and the National Museum are other places you can surely visit. Bangkok’s Chinatown is unique in more than one way. Here you will get reminded about the traditional civilization of Thais that withstood the changes that were brought about by the modern civilizations.
For places rich with history, you can visit Rattanakosin Island. The Wat Arun based on the banks of river Chao Phraya is also worth visiting. Upon crossing the river you can explore the klongs. This will give you an idea of the rich culture and heritage of Thailand. A quick visit to the Vimanmek Palace will give you an idea about the oriental splendor and exquisite taste of the ancient royal life in Thailand. This ancient palace is largely made of golden teak and was restored by Queen Sirikit.
Interesting places near Bangkok
Ayutthaya and Bang Pai-In: A day trip to the ancient capital of Thailand, Ayutthaya, will help revisit the glories of ancient Thailand. The place is located about 50 miles from the current capital city, Bangkok. For over 400 years Ayutthaya served as the capital of Siam. Ancient travelers fondly remember the glittering temples, palaces and Buddhist statues that once dotted this magnificent town.
From Ayutthaya you can hire a long boat and cruise some 12 miles down the river to visit Bang Pa-In. Here, you will get to see the summer palace of the king.
These are some of the places you can visit while you are visiting Bangkok. There are many more things to do and see here. The magnet that Bangkok is will sure attract you to come back to the city one more time in the future.
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