With roughly 20 million tourists per year, Bangkok is now the most frequently visited city in the world. Although Bangkok isn’t exactly an “off the beaten path” destination, there are still many ways to get a fresh perspective on this Asian megalopolis.
If you’re wondering how to travel in Bangkok to experience this city anew, then this is the piece for you! Here are a few phenomenal places to consider visiting on your trip to Bangkok Thailand. These 8 destinations that will give you a fresh perspective on Bangkok.
1. European Splendor In The Thai Capital: Wat Ratchabophit
One of the best things to do in Bangkok is to visit the city’s dozens of beautiful Buddhist temples (aka wats). Unfortunately, it’s often difficult to appreciate the more popular temples like Wat Pho and Wat Phra Kaew because they are crammed with tourists. There are, however, a few lesser-known ways you could experience in relative privacy.
One of these temples is Wat Ratchabophit in the historic Rattanakosin district. Finished in 1869, Wat Ratchabophit is notable because its interior design was inspired by Italian architecture. While at Wat Ratchabophit, you can also visit the Royal Cemetery to pay respects to former members of the Thai royal family.
2. Tour Old 747s At Bangkok’s Airplane Graveyard
After touring the graves of Thai royalty, why not take a trip to another fascinating Bangkok graveyard: the Airplane Graveyard. Yes, you read that correctly, this graveyard near the Wat Sriboonruang ferry has dozens of decommissioned airplanes.
Created in the early 2010s, the Airplane Graveyard has many 747s and MD-82 jetliners that you can walk through. While on your tour, please be respectful of the Thai families who call these airplanes home and, if possible, give them a donation of food or clothing.
3. A Less-Crowded Park Experience: Bang Krachao
The most popular green space in Bangkok is the 142-acre Lumpini Park. If you’re looking to tour an even more secluded park while in Bangkok, however, then try out Bang Krachao just below Lumpini. At Bang Krachao you’ll enjoy lovely sensational trails and bird-watching spots with fewer people than Lumpini.
It’s an especially good idea to visit Bang Krachao on the weekend to take advantage of the area’s floating market. Since mostly locals frequent this market, you won’t find the tourist traps here that are more common in popular floating markets.
4. Only For The Fearless: Bangkok’s Museum of Death
For those who aren’t easily grossed out, go on a visit to Siriraj Medical Museum (aka the Museum of Death) close to Thonburi Railway station. Just a few of the bizarre attractions at this museum include the corpse of an infamous murderer, worms, and fetuses.
In addition to the forensics and pathology exhibits, this museum showcases the history of Thai medicine and prehistoric finds. For those who have a faint heart, please stay away from this attraction.
5. Enjoy Phenomenal Views On A Rooftop Bar
Bangkok is one of the best cities to enjoy nighttime rooftop views. The greatest way to soak in the views of the Bangkok skyline with friends is to reserve a table at one of the city’s rooftop bars. Sometimes called “sky bars,” rooftop eateries in the Thai capital have become increasingly common over the past few years; you shouldn’t have an issue finding the perfect sky-high dining location.
Probably the most famous of these rooftop bars Lebua Hotel’s Sirocco, which played a major role in the hit 2011 film The Hangover Part 2. Other fabulous sky bars to check out include Vertigo at Banyan Tree Bangkok, Attitude at Avani Hotel, and Park Society at Sofitel So on Sathorn.
6. Travel From Hell To Heaven: The Erawan Museum
Visiting the Erawan Museum in Samut Prakan won’t only give you a new perspective on Bangkok, it will give you a different perspective on reality!
The first thing you’ll see as you approach this dream-like museum is Erawan, the three-headed elephant from Hindu mythology. As you go inside, you’ll get to experience the three realms of the cosmos from the Thai perspective: hell on the first floor, earth on the second floor, and heaven on the third floor. Throughout this museum, you’ll see many rare Asian artifacts that the wealthy businessman Lek Viriyapant collected throughout his life.
7. Step Back Into The 60s: The Scala Cinema
For those who want to travel back to the early days of the film industry, take a trip to Scala Cinema in Siam Square. Constructed in the 1960s, this retro cinema has been immaculately preserved and still only has one viewing screen.
Even if you don’t watch a movie while you’re here, it’s well worth a visit to see the art deco architecture.
8. Stop And Smell The Roses: Pak Klong Talad
Close to Memorial Bridge, you’ll find Bangkok’s largest and oldest fresh flower market: Pak Klong Talad. Dating back to at least the early 1800s, Pak Klong Talad is a real treat for flower enthusiasts…of course, so long as you don’t have allergies!
In addition to fresh flowers, this market has many other fabulous floral accessories and souvenirs. There’s no better place in Bangkok to pick up a bouquet for that special someone in your life!
Add These Unique Destinations To Your Bangkok Itinerary!
Bangkok is a wonderful pick for any kinds of tourists, especially those interested in fine architecture, a hot nightlife, and great food. Hopefully, this list has inspired you as you’re planning a trip to Bangkok. Visiting the attractions listed above will certainly give you a fresh look at this popular Asian capital.