All you need to know about Thailand

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Thailand in a Nutshell

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Thailand as it is known today has its physical existence dated back to 1782, making it one of the oldest countries in the world with the present age of 226 years. The name Thailand has only been adopted in 1939 to replace its former name of Siam (Sa-yam).

The country consists of 76 provinces, grouped into five geographic regions, namely: North, Central, South, East, and Northeast (colloquially referred to as I-San). The capital of the kingdom is Bangkok: the hub for political, commercial, industrial and cultural activities, with the number of residents exceeding 12 millions. Noted, however, that Bangkok is a name given by the western, while local people commonly refer to Bangkok as Krungthep Mahanakorn - or Krungthep for short - a thai word meaning the City of Angel.

Official language in Thailand is Thai, with English being the second language taught in schools and used widely at work. In this era of chinese economic boom as well as the fact that 10% of Thai population are of Chinese descent, chinese is becoming more popular and chinese language schools are not at all difficult to find. I should also add that this youths/teenagers are also eager to learn Korean and Japanese. You can probably even some of them speaking Korean or Japanese on the street. So, Thailand is really a muti-cultural country. If your first point of visit is Bangkok, you won't have difficulties proving that; just visit Center Point or Siam Square and Central World. These are shopping arcades, and you will be briefed of what Bangkok is like and also all sort of fashionable outfit and stuff.

Ok, I think that was short but with enough information to get you started. If you want to know more about particulars in Bangkok. Please have a look at the link on the left, thanks!

Tourist attraction: worth seeing!

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This page briefs you about the history of Thailand, on its formation, past and present stand.

The map on the left (lonelyplanet) shows the present map of Thailand. Shown in the figure are main tourist destinations: Chiangmai, Ayuthaya, Bangkok, Phanom Rung Historical Park, Ko Si Chang, Ko Samet, the well-known Ko Samui, Phuket. More details on each of these places and those not shown in the map can be found below. If you are interested in discovering more about how we come to existence and what Thailand has gone through, which has shaped the country in its present day, read here: History of Thailand

Bangkok

Allow me to first start at Bangkok, somewhat a reasonable starting point as it is the capital of the city and that you will most likely find yourself in Bangkok for your first physical contact with Thailand soil :)

Bangkok, known as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon by the locals, is the capital city of Thailand. It's situated at the Gulf of Thailand, where the Chao Phraya River flows into the sea. Bangkok was inaugurated in 1768 after the burning down of Ayuthaya, the former kingdom prior to Rattanakosin Kingdom - the already 240-year old present day Kingdom. Ayuthaya province is a definite place to visit, not least that it is ranked by "Travel and Leisure" as the best city in the world for the year 2008! On top of that it's only a couple of hours drive or travel by train from Bangkok, very convenient for a day trip or even for an overnight stay. If you're in, browse below for more information.

For now, let me continue a little more about Bangkok and to show you what we have got there for tourists. As the saying goes, "a picture says a thousand words", I shall guide you "briefly" through Bangkok with the help of pictures. Bangkok has an excellent mixture of old's and new's. By old, I mean antiquity in terms of arts and values; By new, I mean mainly shopping centers and places to hang out for entertainment and leisure activities.

Here is the antique view (old-style)

What you see on the left is the Grand Palace.

Below is the modern city (new-style)

Bangkok Skyline

China Town

The tallest building in Thailand: Bai-Yok Tower II

Now that you know, albeit so briefly, about Bangkok, you may like to check this page out: Things to do in Bangkok. There you will find plenty of information as to places to visit, dining and entertainment venues.

Ayuthaya

As briefly mentioned in the previous paragraphs, Ayuthaya was the Kingdom preceding Rattanakosin kingdom of the present days. The kingdom of Ayuthaya was a Thai kingdom that existed from 1351 to 1767.

The court of King Narai (1656-1688) had strong links with that of King Louis XIV of France, whose ambassadors compared the city in size and wealth to Paris.

Three pagodas of Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Chiangmai

The next attraction site bring you closer to Thailand in the old days; Chiangmai is situated in a region that was once a host of former Thai kingdom. ( Read more )

Pattaya

Phuket

Things to do in Bangkok

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I have decided to divide this section into three sections, according to my own rationality :) Hope that doesn't bother you, and hope you may like to take adventure and let me be your virtual guide, or pre-guide, as you like it.

So, my raitionality goes like this: You'll probably be starting your day early in the morning (oh how nice, the sun is so faithful and always rise around 6am and sets at around 6 am - so winter doesn't rip you off the sunshine). Enough for the blabbing, let's start the places I recommend you visiting.

6 Places (and more) you can't miss

Places in Bangkok can nowadsys within reach, meaning that with the service of sky train (BTS-blue lines) and underground train (MRT-red line) you can reach the following destination in less than an hour, independent of where you are (of course provided that you are staying near the city centre: Bkk city centre's map )

1. Grand Palace - a MUST-SEE for everybody

2. Wat Pra Kaew (and many other Wats)

3. The National Museum - The largest museum in Southeast Asia!

4. Traditional Thai Puppet Theatre (Joe Louis)
Recently received The Best Performance Award at the 12th World Festival of Puppet Art 2008. The festival was held in Prague, Czech Republic, where about 40 countries participated.

A similar show from the same group was awarded the first prize in "Traditional Performance" category in 2006.

5. Chatuchak (or Jay-Jay) Market - The world's largest weekend martket!

6. Jim Thompson's House

Eat out

Due to a wide range of prices on offered, this section is divided into expensive, moderate and inexpensive.

Expensive

Salathip (THAI)
Salathip, on the river terrace of the Shangri-La Hotel, is arguably Bangkok’s most romantic Thai restaurant. Classical music and traditional cuisine are superbly presented under aging, carved teak pavilions perched over a lotus pond and overlooking the river (there are also air-conditioned dining rooms). Dishes are skillfully prepared and presented artfully. Set menus are a good initiation into Thai cuisine and feature a range of courses. Here’s an example: Thai spring rolls, pomelo salad with chicken, a spicy seafood soup, snapper with chili sauce, and your choice of Thai curries. There is live music nightly as well as Thai dancing and a culture show.
Shangri-La Hotel, 89 Soi Wat Suan Plu (overlooking Chao Phraya River, near Taksin Bridge).&02236-7777.
Reservations recommended. Main courses 200B–450B ($4.55–$10). AE, DC, MC, V. Daily 6:30–10:30pm. Saphan Taksin BTS station.

Benjarong (THAI)
You’ll want to get dressed up for this elegant dining
room, named for the exquisite five-color pottery once reserved exclusively for
the royal family. Benjarong’s fine Thai cuisine focuses on the five basic flavors of
Thai cooking (salty, bitter, hot, sweet, and sour) in traditional “royal” dishes.
While their a la carte menu is extensive, the most popular dishes are the sweet
red curry crab claws and the exotic grilled fish with black beans in banana leaves.
The illustrated menu will help you navigate your way through the choices and
whet your appetite. For after-dinner treats, the kong wan is an ornate selection
of typical Thai desserts—distinctive, light, and not too sweet.
The Dusit Thani, Rama IV Rd. (corner of Silom Rd. and Rama IV Rd.).&02236-0450. Reservations recommended. Main courses 180B–600B ($4.10–$14). AE, DC, MC, V. Daily 11:30am–2:30pm and 6:30–10:30pm; closed for lunch Sat–Sun. Sala Daeng BTS station.

Biscotti (ITALIAN)
One of the hottest spots for power lunches and impressive dinners, the Four Seasons Hotel’s upscale Biscotti features creative and flavorful modern recipes, dishes like wood-oven pizza with lobster tail and forest mushrooms, or fabulous focaccia mascarpone. For such fine dining, the setting is wonderfully open and informal, a contemporary dining room that’s conducive to wine and laughter.
In the Four Seasons Bangkok, 155 Ratchadamri Rd. (south of Rama I Rd.).&02251-6127. Reservations necessary. Main courses 350B–1,000B ($7.95–$23). Daily 6–10:30am, noon–2:30pm, and 6–10:30pm. AE, DC, MC, V. Ratchadamri BTS station.

The Chinese Restaurant (CHINESE)
Small dining nooks partitioned with crackled glass panels let in light but allow for privacy and intimacy. But the decor isn’t the only thing contemporary here. The menu definitely goes for the nontraditional—while shark’s fin and bird’s nest are available (what self-respecting Chinese restaurant can omit these?)—the rest of it is a gastronomic storybook of live fish (the house specialty), baked lobster, and a highly recommended steamed crab with Chinese wine—aromatic and sumptuous. Nice, New Age music complements the modern edge here. A generic name, but definitely not a
generic restaurant.
Grand Hyatt Erawan, 494 Ratchadamri Rd. & 02254-1234. Reservations recommended. Main courses 150B–900B ($3.65–$21). AE, DC, MC, V. Daily 11:30am–2:30pm and 6:30–10:30pm. 5-min. walk from Chit Lom BTS station.

Le Banyan (FRENCH)
A spreading banyan tree on the edge of the gardenlike grounds inspires the name. The upscale dining area is warm in tone, furnished with sisal matting and white clapboard walls adorned with Thai carvings, old photos, and prints of early Bangkok. The house special is a dish for two: pressed duck with goose liver, shallots, wine, and Armagnac to make the sauce. Other fine choices include a rack of lamb a la Provençal and salmon with lemongrass. There are daily specials and a list of fine wines. If you come on foot, you’ll run the gauntlet of all the girly bars at the entrance of the soi, but find this little upscale gem and enjoy an evening of fine dining and effusive service.
59 Sukhumvit Soi 8 (1 block south of Sukhumvit Rd.).&02253-5556. Reservations recommended. Main courses 350B–1,440B ($11–$35). AE, DC, MC, V. Mon–Sat 6–10pm. 10-min. walk from Nana BTS station.

Maha Naga (THAI/WESTERN FUSION)
Newly opened, classy Maha Naga is an oasis of luxury Thai dining in the heart of the Sukhumvit area. The name means, “big snake” or “dragon,” and refers to the stylistic caps of many Thai temple roofs that denote prosperity, and the restaurant design is quite special. A fountain courtyard surrounded by high-peaked, lavishly decorated, and air-conditioned Thai pavilions makes for a quiet, romantic evening or a fun
night for private groups. The food is delicious, a bold marriage of Thai and Western traditions in unique dishes like pork chops with spicy Thai som tam (papaya salad) flavor, whole lobster done in a chili sauce, or imported New Zealand grilled filet with Thai spice and mint. Elsewhere, fusion dishes come out rather bland, but the unique fare at Maha Naga breaks new ground.
2 Sukhumvit Soi 29, Klongteoy, Bangkok 10110 &02662-3060. Reservations recommended. Main courses 300B–800B ($7.30–$20). AE, DC, MC, V. Daily 11:30am–2:30pm and 6–11pm. A 10-min. walk south from Phrom Pong BTS station.

Shin Daikoku (JAPANESE)
With a track record of over 30 years as the home away from home for the many Japanese expatriates in Bangkok, Shin Daikoku serves delicious and authentic Japanese dishes, from hot apps and noodle dishes like Soba and Udon, to sushi, sashimi and even teppanyaki steaks. Set in a quiet neighborhood off Sukhumvit (near the Asok skytrain stop) the restaurant is a sprawling compound of private tatami (mattress) rooms, and an open dining area surrounds a cavernous indoor garden and a pond full of koi (Japanese carp). Female staff wear cotton yukata (summer kimonos) and pad around politely, hovering over every detail of the meal. The roaring laughter and shouts of, “Kampai!” from behind the painted, paper shoji screens of private rooms tells you that they’re doing it right here. A la carte dishes are small and rather expensive, but they’re worth it. And they have good sushi and sashimi sets. Order some sake, take your shoes off, wrap your tie around your head, and belt out a hearty “Kampai!”
32/8 Soi Wattana, Sukhumvit 19 Klongtoey (a 5-min. walk down Soi 19 from Asok BTS station and on left after the first intersecting road, Wattana).& 02254-9981. Reservations for big groups only. Main course 100B–1,600B ($2.45–$39). AE, DC, MC, V. Daily 11:30am–2pm and 5:30–10:30pm. Asok BTS station.

Spasso (ITALIAN)
Spasso is as well known as a nightlife spot as it is for Italian cuisine. A hip and classy place, the bar is always hoppin’ and there is often live music, even people waiting in line, at this artsy modern trattoria with fine decor. The food is a treat: Start with one of their antipastos featuring fine imported treats like carpaccio or smoked salmon, and then choose from their fine pastas, some, like the fusilli with chilis and shrimp, done in a modified Thai style. Thin-crust pizza fans will find a dozen combos, all made with fresh ingredients and baked in a brick oven. Local bands start at around 9:30pm, and the dancing starts not long after.
In the Grand Hyatt Erawan, 494 Ratchadamri Rd.&02254-1234. Reservations recommended for dinner. Main courses 300B–820B ($5–$14). AE, DC, MC, V. Daily noon–2:30pm, and 7–10:30pm (kitchen closes, but disco stays on). 5-min. walk from Chit Lom BTS station.

Spice Market (THAI)
The theatrical decor reflects the name: Burlap spice sacks, ceramic pots, and glass jars set in dark-wood cabinets around the dining area playfully re-create the mercantile feel of a traditional Thai shop house. The food is artfully presented, authentically spiced, and extraordinarily delicious, with featured regional specialties for a great way to sample dishes from places you may or may not be traveling to in the kingdom. House specialties include a tasty Miengkham appetizer of coconut, dried shrimp, nuts, and chilis that you assemble yourself, rolling ingredients in a leaf for a tasty little treat. For entrees, try the poo nim phad prig (soft-shell crab deep-fried with chili and peppercorn) or siew ngap (red curry with roasted duck in coconut milk). The menu’s “chili rating” guarantees that spices are tempered to your palate. Sunday brunches here and at the Four Seasons’ other fine dining outlets are quite popular.
In the Four Seasons Bangkok, 155 Ratchadamri Rd. (south of Rama I Rd.).&02251-6127. Reservations recommended. Main courses 180B–450B ($4.40–$11). AE, DC, MC, V. Daily 11:30am–2:30pm and 6–11pm. Ratchadamri BTS station.

Moderate

Harmonique (THAI)
A nice little find, Harmonique is set in the courtyard of a century-old mansion and just oozes character. A great stop if touring the riverfront or visiting the antiques stores of nearby River City by day. You enter Harmonique through the crook of a dangling banyan tree, and there is courtyard seating as well as small open-air dining areas, each like a small museum of Thai antiques. The cuisine is Thai, tailored to Western tastes, but it’s all still very good—the tom yam with fish is delicious, served only as spicy as you like and with enormous chunks of fish. The sizzling grilled seafood platter is nice and garlicky (chilis on the side). They also feature good Western desserts like brownies, great with a cool tea on a hot day and an atmospheric spot to relax.
22 Chaoren Krung (New Rd.) Soi 34.& 02630-6270. Main courses 70B–200B ($1.70–$4.90). AE, MC, V. Mon–Sat 11am–10pm. 15-min. walk from Saphan Taksin BTS station.

Anna’s Café (THAI)
Anna’s Café, named for the governess-cum-cultural diplomat of “Anna and the King” fame, is a great hideaway just a short walk from busy Silom. Anna’s serves good Thai and familiar Western cuisine, a comfortable choice all around. I had a green curry with chicken, not too spicy and not too expensive, and the cool courtyard was just the right place to rest from the city heat. In the evening, it’s all candlelight and romance.
114 Soi Saladaeng, Silom Rd., Bangkok (off Silom Rd. near Saladaeng BTS station) &02632-0623. Main courses 90B–230B ($2.20–$5.60) AE, MC, V. Daily 11am–10pm.

Somboon Seafood
This one’s for those who would sacrifice atmosphere for excellent food. Packed nightly, you’ll still be able to find a table (the place is huge). The staff is extremely friendly—between them and the picture menu, you’ll be able to order the best dishes and have the finest recommendations.

Peruse the large aquariums outside to see all the live seafood options like prawn, fishes, lobsters, and crabs (guaranteed freshness). The house specialty, chili crab curry, is especially good, as is the tom yang goong soup (spiced to individual taste).
169/7–11 Surawongse Rd. (just across from the Peugeot building).&02233-3104. Reservations not necessary.
Seafood at market prices (about 800B/$18 for 2). No credit cards. Daily 4–11pm.

The Mango Tree (THAI)
In a lovely 80-year-old Siamese restaurant house with its own tropical garden, Mango Tree offers a quiet retreat from the hectic Patpong area. Live traditional music and classical Thai decorative touches fill the house with charm, and the attentive staff serves well-prepared dishes from all regions of the country. Their mild, green chicken curry and their crispy spring rolls are both excellent—but the menu is extensive, so feel free to experiment. Only trouble is, the food isn’t exactly authentic, but it’s still quite good.
37 Soi Tantawan, Bangrak (off west end of Surawong Rd., across from Tawana Ramada Hotel).&02236-2820. Reservations recommended. Main courses 90B–350B ($2.20–$8.50). AE, DC, MC, V. Daily 11:30am–12am. 10-min. walk from Sala Daeng BTS station.

Le Dalat (VIETNAMESE)
Le Dalat’s fine food and lovely garden setting make for a charming evening. The restaurant is casual and understatedly elegant, housed in an old Thai house done up in Vietnamese and Chinese antiques. The excellent food is prepared by Vietnamese-trained Thai chefs. Go for the bi guon (spring rolls with herbs and pork), chao tom (pounded shrimp laced on ground sugarcane in a basket of fresh noodles), and cha ra (fresh filet of grilled fish). In nice weather, you’ll enjoy dining in the gracefully landscaped outdoor garden. A very highly recommended restaurant. Don’t miss a visit to the men’s room to see their unique collection of odd erotic wall art.
14 Sukhumvit Soi 23.&02661-7967 (or at 47/1 Sukhumvit Soi 23 [north of Sukhumvit Rd. near Asok BTS station] &02258-4192). Reservations recommended at dinner. Main courses 150B–650B ($3.65–$16). AE,
DC, MC, V. Daily 11:30am–2:30pm and 6–10:30pm.

Lemongrass (THAI)
Nouvelle Thai cuisine tailored to the Western tastes is the specialty of this pleasant restaurant. Just a short walk from the skytrain (near Phrom Pong) and just across from the hulking Emporium Shopping Center, Lemongrass is set in a small Thai mansion handsomely converted and furnished with antiques and a visit here makes it easy to forget busy Bangkok outside. Try house favorites pomelo salad or chicken satay. Also excellent is the tom yang kung (a spicy sweet-and-sour prawn soup with ginger shoots), and the lemongrass chicken is tender and juicy.
5/1 Sukhumvit Soi 24 (south of Sukhumvit Rd. on Soi 24). & 02258-8637. Reservations highly recommended.Main courses 120B–550B $2.90–$13). AE, DC, MC, V. Daily 11am–2pm and 6–11pm. Phrom Pong
BTS station.

L’Opera (ITALIAN)
With its sister restaurant in Vientiane, Laos, L’Opera Bangkok has been hosting visitors and expats since they first opened in the 1970s, when Soi 39 was but a dusty little alley with cows grazing out front. Now it’s a sophisticated enclave and they’ve got the formula just right, dim lights in a glassed-in pavilion, cool jazz in the air, and good, affordable Italian. Come with friends and fill the table. We had biscotti appetizers followed by a decadent seafood salad. For a main course, go for the fresh fish done as you like or any of the grilled items or fine pastas. I had a delicious squid-ink linguini and clams — not to be missed.
53 Sukhumvit Soi 39, Klongtoe Bangkok.&02258-5606. Main courses 200B–880B ($4.90–$22). AE, MC, V. Daily 6–11pm. Near Phrom Pong BTS station.

Inexpensive

May Kaidee (VEGETARIAN/THAI)
Find this place. It’s my favorite restaurant in Thailand. Don’t come for atmosphere—it’s more or less tables in a little alleyway—but bring your appetite for healthy and delicious Thai vegetarian dishes. Ms. May (pronounced My) has developed a real following, as much for her wry smile and kindness as for the great curries and soups she serves. The best massaman curry in Thailand and an array of dishes from sweet green curry to good stir-fries come with your choice of white or a unique short-grained brown rice. For dessert, don’t pass-up the black sticky-rice with mango. May has a good cookbook for sale and also offers cooking classes.
At the eastern terminus of Khao San Rd. in a small alley behind the first row of buildings (behind Burger King in fact; ask around—everyone knows this place) & 02629-4839. Main course 60B–120B ($1.50–$3.65). Cash only. Daily 7am–10pm.

Cabbages & Condoms (THAI)
Here’s a theme restaurant with a purpose. Opened by local hero Mechai Viravaidya, founder of the Population & Community Development Association, the restaurant helps fund population control, AIDS awareness, and a host of rural development programs. Set in a large compound, the two-story restaurant has air-conditioned indoor dining—but if you sit on the garden terrace, you’re in a fairyland of twinkling lights: quite romantic.

Share a whole fish done as you like or try the kai hor bai teoy (fried boneless chicken wrapped in pandan leaves with a dark sweet soy sauce for dipping). There’s also a large selection of vegetable and bean curd entrees. Before you leave, be sure to check out the gift shop’s whimsical condom-related merchandise. The restaurant hands out condoms instead of dinner mints.
10 Sukhumvit Soi 12.&02229-4610. Reservations recommended. 70B–200B ($1.60–$4.55). AE, DC, MC, V. Daily 11am–10pm. 15-min. walk from Asok BTS station.

Crepes & Co (EUROPEAN)
Popular among Bangkok foreign residents (and their kids), this is the place to satisfy that sweet tooth. Crepes & Co. serves them up light and fluffy and filled with any of dozens of combinations, both savory and sweet—all of them delicious. They also serve good Mediterranean main courses. Everything is excellent. They have great coffee and a good selections of tea.
18/1 Sukhumvit Soi 12. & 02653-3990. Reservations recommended. Main courses 100B–300B ($2.30–$6.80). AE, DC, MC, V. Mon–Sat 9am–midnight; Sun 8am–midnight. 15-min. walk from Asok BTS stationn.

Dosa King (INDIAN/VEGETARIAN)
What is a Dosa, you ask? It’s a Punjabi dish of curry or other savory filling folded into a large, lentil and flour tortilla or crepe (depending on your orientation) and served with coconut or coriander sauce. Very tasty and all 100% vegetarian, a comfort for some. Dosa king does have other traditional Indian dishes, but stick with the house special and a enjoy a quick, healthy meal for very little while trudging along Sukhumvit.
265/1 Sukhumvit Soi 19, Bangkok 10110 &02651-1700. Main courses 65B–135B ($1.60–$3.30) AE, MC, V. Daily 11am–11pm. Near Asok BTS station.

Source: Frommer's Thailand

Relax after a busy day

Grand Palace

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If there is one must-see sight that no visit to Bangkok would be complete without, it's the dazzling, spectacular Grand Palace, undoubtedly the city's most famous landmark. Built in 1782 - and for 150 years the home of the Thai King, the Royal court and the administrative seat of government - the Grand Palace of Bangkok is a grand old dame indeed, that continues to have visitors in awe with its beautiful architecture and intricate detail, all of which is a proud salute to the creativity and craftsmanship of Thai people. Within its walls were also the Thai war ministry, state departments, and even the mint. Today, the complex remains the spiritual heart of the Thai Kingdom.

Within the palace complex are several impressive buildings including Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), which contains the small, very famous and greatly revered Emerald Buddha that dates back to the 14th century. The robes on the Buddha are changed with the seasons by HM The King of Thailand, and forms an important ritual in the Buddhist calendar. Thai Kings stopped living in the palace around the turn of the twentieth century. Nowadays its impressive interior is used for important ceremonial and auspicious occasions like coronations. It also contains the antique throne, used before the Western style one presently in use. Visitors are allowed inside the spacious European-style reception room or the Grand Palace Hall (Chakri Maha Prasat, pictured to the left). Then there's the impressive Dusit Hall, rated as perhaps the finest architectural building in this style, and a museum that has information on the restoration of the Grand Palace, scale models and numerous Buddha images.

The Inner Court is where the King's royal consorts and daughters lived. The Inner Court was like a small city entirely populated by women and boys under the age of puberty. Even though no royalty currently reside in the inner court, it is still completely closed off to the public. Despite the proximity of the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, there's a distinct contrast in style between the very Thai Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the more European inspired design of the Grand Palace (the roof being the main exception). Other highlights are Boromabiman Hall and Amarinda Hall, the original residence of King Rama I and the Hall of Justice.

Open: Daily 08:30 - 15:30
Admission: Tickets sold from 8:30 - 15:30 and cost 200 baht. One ticket includes entry to Vimanmek Palace and Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall.

A Piece of Advice: As this is sacred royal ground, visitors are required to
wear long pants or skirts, and shirtsleeves that cover the upper arms. Although, the are some slips in the enforcement of the rules, many have been refused entry for inappropriate dress. And remember—it closes at 3:30pm so don’t show up any later than 2:30pm! Otherwise, you will regret haven't had enough time to admire the beauty of the palace. Having said that, if you arrive at 8:30am when the gates first open, you can have the place to yourself. Are you one of the early birds?

Source: http://www.bangkok.com, Frommer's Thailand

Bangkok map

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Below is a map outlining places worth visiting

Source: Frommer's Thailand

The National Museum

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The National Museum is a short (15-min.) walk north of the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is the country’s central treasury of art and archaeology (32 branches are located throughout the provinces). Some of the buildings are themselves works of art. The museum was established and opened in 1874 by King Rama V to exhibit relics from the rule of King Rama IV's rule. Today the galleries contain exhibits covering Thai History back to Neolithic times. The museum is located in the former palace of the vice king, next to the Sanam Luang.

The collections of the National Museum in Bangkok emphasise on art, archeological and cultural objects which are dated from as early as prehistory up to present day. Three main galleries are:

The Gallery of Thai History located at Sivamokkha-phiman hall with the prehistoric gallery at the rear part of the building.

History of Art and Archeological Collections are presented in two buildings : Dvaravati, Srivijaya and Lopburi in south wing ; and Lanna, Sukhothai, Ayutthaya and Rattanakosin are in the north wing.

Galleries of a variety of minor arts and ethnological collections are housed in the old palace buildings, where gold treasure, enamel wares, mother-of-pearl inlay, musical instruments, wood carving, entertainment articles, textiles, ceramics, royal regalia, palanquins, old weapons, and stone inscriptions, etc., are exhibited. Royal Cremation ceremonial exhibits and chariots are housed in the cremation chariot hall.

The National Museum, Bangkok also has a monumental value in itself as a Palace to the
Front. Many buildings are displayed in original purpose such as Buddhaisawan Chapel built in 1787 to house the Phra Phut Sihing, one of Thailand’s most revered Buddha images, brought here from its original home in Chiang Mai. European and Chinese furnitures are shown in Issaretra- chanusorn, or King Pin Klao resident. Work way back from the Chapel through the main building of the royal palace, where you can see the gold jewelry, some from the royal collections, and the Thai ceramics, including many pieces in the five-color bencharong style. The Old Transportation Room contains ivory carvings, elephant chairs, and royal palanquins. There are also rooms of royal emblems and insignia, stone carvings, wood carvings, costumes, textiles, musical instruments, and Buddhist religious artifacts.

Tamnak Daeng or the Red House, a traditional 18th-century Thai building that was originally the living quarters of Princess Sri Sudarak, sister of King Rama I, furnished in period style with many pieces originally owned by the princess, Sala Samarn - Mukhamat, and other pavillions are examples of Thai architecture.

Open: Wed–Sun 9am–4pm. Free English-language tours: Buddhism culture,Wed 9:30am; art, culture, religion, Thurs 9:30am; call the museum or check a newspaper for more details and current schedule.
Admission 40B ($1).

A Piece of Advice: Being the largest museum of its kind in Sourtheast Asia, please plan carefully to allow yourselves several hours to see the entire collection. It’s also important to notethat the facility is closed on Monday and Tuesday.

Sources: Frommer's Thailand and www.bangkoksite.com

Joe Louis Theater

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Unique and Exotic!

The Kingdom's first Traditional Thai Puppet Theater and A Showcase for Thailand's cultural heritage - The thing that you can't afford to miss!

A bit of History

THe theatrical puppetry was invented in 1901 by the legedary Khon dancer and puppeteer, Krae Saptawanit. Performances were frequent and popular. Among Krae's troupe of puppeteers was a married couple. One afternoon in 1922, as the troupe travelled by boat to give a performance, the woman gave birth to a child. Krae named the child Sakorn, after one of the characters in the puppet play to be performed that afternoon. Sakorn grew up in the theater and became a precociously famous puppepteer.

The tranquil existence of this unusual performing art was interrupted by the World War II (1939-1945), but its nadir was not reached until the post-war period, when, first, motion pictures, then television, were introduced to Thailand. Theatrical puppetry, along with other traditional forms of staged entertainment, unfortunately came to be regarded as olf fashioned. Its popularity waned, and eventually the general public forgot that this form of art ever existed. Sakorn was forced into early artistic retirement and oblivion though he continued to give private performances whilst transmitting all he knew about theatrical puppertry to his many children.

In 1996, His Majesty the King recognised Sakorn as the custodian of this arcane and dying art form, and bestowed upon him the honorific title of National Artist. This made it possible for theatrical puppetry to be revived and, in turn, for the Traditional Thai Puppet Theater to be founded. Grand Master Puppeteer Sakorn Yangkhleosod passed away in 2007. He was known to his friends by the nickname, 'Joe Louis'.

Thai Theatrical Puppetry

Thai theatrical puppetry is unique among the various forms of puppetry in that each puppet represents a character taken from the traditional Thai theater. There are three types of traditional Thai theatrical performances, all of which are stylized with dancing, singing and music comparable in complexity with the European opera-ballet of the 18th century French royal court at Versailles. The most sophisticated of these is kohn, which performs only the Ramakian (the Thai version of the Indian epic: Ramayana; the less sophisticated is lakorn, which performs all other classics of Thai drama, and the least sophisticated is likay, which performs common dramas. Thai theatrical puppetry is also unique in that each puppet requires the synchronized efforts of three puppeteers in its manipulation, all of whom appear on stage with the puppet, and each of whom is a khon,lakorn or likaydancer in his or her own right.

The Traditional Thai Puppet Theater Company is the authoritative guardian of this dying art form: the directors and senior members of the troupe are direct artistic successors of the founder of Thai theatrical puppetry. Performances are as unique as they are authentic.

Joe Louis Theater is located on the ground of Lumpini Night Bazar and shows daily: 19.30 – 20.15 น.

Source: www.shutterphoto.com

Chatuchak Market

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Chatuchak (or Jatujak) is a weekend market in Bangkok, and is the largest weekend market in Thailand and, the world, covering an area over 35 acres (1.13 km²) and contains more than 15,000 stalls, stretching as far as your eyes can see, selling practically everything under the sun, from the smallest nails, to foods, trendy fashions, antiques intricate wooden carvings, masks from far-off lands, adorable fluffy dogs, colorful fish of every hue and singing birds.

It is estimated that the market receives between 200,000 and 300,000 visitors each day. It would be no exaggeration to say that hardly everyone knows Chatuchak Market. Although most stalls only open on Saturdays and Sundays, you may
find some stalls open 7 days a we

JJ market is known as the center of a great variety of goods, wholesale market for farmers’ products and local handicrafts. If you are thinking of decorating your home, searching for that perfect piece of furniture or decoration, be it antique, modern, Thai or Western? Or perhaps a lovinly created ethnic handicraft to brighten up your space? Ceramic products, whether they be tea cups, coffee mugs, pots, traditional Thai Benjarong or ceramic dolls. Well, come to Chatuchak Market and chances are you won't go home empty-handed.

To the right and below are maps of Chatuchak market.

Transportation

Chatuchak can be easily reached by BTS sky train and MRT underground train. However, please keep in mind that you need to get off at MoChit station if you come by BTS and at Chatuchak or Kamphangphet Station, by MRT.

The market is also accessible by

Ordinary buses
3, 8, 26, 27, 28, 29, 34, 38, 39, 44, 51, 52, 59, 63, 77, 96, 104, 108, 122, 134, and 182

Air-conditioned buses
26,44, 59, 63, 77, 157, 183, 509, 512, 517, 518, 521, 524, 529, and 547

Essential Thai words and phrases

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Although the hospitality of Thai people are known, it's beneficial to at least know some simple words and phrases. I hope that this section will help you get by your days in Bangkok more enjoyably. Don't forget to try these with the local, they will love it :)

One point I should point out before we go any further is that in Thai we usually add a gender-dependent word at the end of sentences to signal politeness. These words are Krab (for Men speakers) and Kha (for Women speakers), i.e., independent of the ones you talk to.

Greetings

Hi = Sa-was-dee krab/kha
Good morning* = Sa-was-dee krab/kha
*good morning is not a usual greetings we do. Instead we just say Hi, hence the words given are the same.
How are you? = Pen yang rai bang krab/kha or Sa baiy dee mai krab/kha
Goodbye = bye or Sa-was-dee krab/kha

Miscellaneous

Thank you = Khob-khun krab/kha
Excuse me = Kor-Todd krab/kha
How much? = Ra-kaa tao rai krab/kha

Thai food recipe

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Wat (Temples) in Bangkok

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There are many temples in Bangkok, and each of them are unique. Wat Prakaew is the highlight, the one which you should not miss. This is the reason of it being listed as number 1 in the list below.

Thai people make regular offerings to temples and monasteries as an act of merit-making. Early in the morning, and in accordance with Monkhood, monks go around in the neighbourhood, which is called to Pintabat, where people offer them food. If you wannna learn more about Buddhism, early morning is a perfect time to visit temples, since monks will be busying themselves with morning activities/rituals. Moreover, the complexes are generally less crowded and the air is cool.

1. Wat Prakaew

Wat Prakaew is officially known as Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram. It is regarded as the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand. Located in the historic centre of Bangkok, within the the Grand Palace Compound.

The temple houses Phra Kaew Morakot, or the Emerald Buddha, the highly revered Buddha image meticulously carved from a single block of jade. The Emerald Buddha (Phra Putta Maha Mani Ratana Patimakorn) is a Buddha image in the meditating position in the style of the Lanna school of the north, dating from the 15th century AD.

Raised high on a series of platforms, no one is allowed near the Buddha except HM the King. A seasonal cloak, changed three times a year to correspond to the summer, winter, and rainy season covers the statue. A very important ritual, the changing of the robes is performed only by the King to bring good fortune to the country during each season. The temple is beautifully decorated and has a great sense of peace about it.

The construction of the temple started when King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke (Rama I) moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok in 1785. Unlike other temples, it does not contain living quarters for monks; rather, it has only elaborately decorated holy buildings, statues, and pagodas. The main building is the central 'ubosot' (ordination hall), which houses the Emerald Buddha. Even though it is small in size, it is the most important icon for Thai people.

Other attractions in Wat Phra Kaew include a model of Angkor Wat, which was built under the order of King Rama IV when Cambodia was under Siamese control. The model was later recreated in plaster at the behest of King Rama V to celebrate the first centenary of the Royal City.

Also, don't miss the Balcony, which can be compared to the temple wall. The murals inside tell the Ramayana epic in its entirety. On the columns of the balcony are stone inscriptions of the verses describing the murals. Each gate of the Balcony is guarded by the five-metre tall 'Yaksa Tavarnbal' (Gate-keeping Giants), the characters taken from the same epic. The image to the left depicts the Giants.

A guide is on duty from 10:00 to 14:00, and to help tourists enjoy their tour of the Grand Palace, a Personal Audio Guide (PAG) can be rented at 100 Baht for two hours. The Audio is available in English, French, German, Japanese, Mandarin Russian, and Spanish.

A piece of advice: Remember that 'wats' (temples) are sacred places and you must dress appropriately. No shorts, slippers, sandals, or revealing tops, otherwise you simply won't be allowed in. There's also a facility that offers proper trouser wear rental should you need it. Admission to the temple is 125 baht.

2. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

The 79m (260 ft.) -high, Khmer-inspired tower (or Prang) rises majestically from the banks of the Chao Phraya river. Wat Arun in Thai means "Temple of Dawn". This religious complex served as the royal chapel during King Taksin's reign (1809-24), when Thonburin was the capitcal of Thailand.

The original tower was only 15m (50 ft.) high,
but was expanded during the rule of Rama III (1824–51) to its current height.

Construction has an elongated prang(tower which is built in Khmer-style) which is surrounded by four smaller prangs. The prangs are decorated with bits of porcelain. It is also said that the wat hosted emrald buddha for a brief period of time.

The exterior is decorated with flower and decorative motifs made of ceramic shards donated to the monastery bylocal people, at the request of Rama III. At the base of the complex are Chinese stone statues, once used as ballast in trading ships, gifts from Chinese merchants.

You can climb the central prang, but be warned: The steps are treacherously tall, narrow, and steep—and even more precarious coming down. If you go up, notice the caryatids and the Hindu gods atop the three-headed elephants. The view of the river, Wat Po, and Grand Palace is well worth the climb.

Be sure to walk to the back of the tower to the monk’s living quarters, a tranquil world far from the bustle of Bangkok’s busy streets. Wat Arun is a sight to behold shimmering with the sunrise, but despite its name, a late afternoon visit is better so that you can enjoy the sunset. Temple of the dusk, maybe?

Admission. Daily 8am–5:30pm.

3. Wat Po or Wat Phra Chetuphon

Just behind the opulent extravagance of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha stands Wat Phra Chetuphon, which is more commonly known by its old name of Wat Po. The name Wat Po comes from its original name of Wat Potaram.

Also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Po was built in the 16th century, even before the city Bangkok itself. Rama I enlarged the temple and installed many statues and other artefacts recovered from Ayuthaya, and renamed the temple Wat Phra Chetuphon in 1801. The temple is thus the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok. The compound, divided into two sections by Chetuphon Road, is a 15-minute walk south of the Grand Palace. The northern area contains the most important monuments, and the southern portion is where resident monks live.

The reclining Buddha, the largest reclining Buddha in the country, gold plated is 46 meters long
and 15 meters high, illustrates the passing of Buddha into Nirvana. The eyes and the feet are engraved with mother-of-pearl decorations. The feet is decorated with 108 auspicious charecteristics of Buddha.

Admission: Visitors must pay an entrance fee of 50 Baht (1.44 USD) at booths just inside the north, or south, entrances.

4. Wat Mahathat (Temple of the Great Relic)

Built to house a relic of the
Buddha, Wat Mahathat is one of Bangkok’s oldest shrines and the headquarters
for Thailand’s largest monastic order. Founded in the 18th century, the temple pre-dates the founding of Bangkok, but was considerably altered after one of its monks, the young Prince Mongkut, later became King Rama IV of Thailand.

The temple is the center of the Mahanikai school of Buddhism, and as such is a center of monastic learning for members of the sect from throughout Southeast Asia. Also the home of the Center for Vipassana Meditation at Buddhist University, the most important center for the study of Buddhism and meditation.

A Piece of Information: Adjacent to Wat Mahathat, between Maharat Road and the river, is the city’s biggest amulet market, where a fantastic array of religious amulets, charms, talismans, and traditional medicine is sold. The market opens on every Sunday. Different amulets are used for specific purposes; to bring money, restore health, deal with unrequited love or keep your enemies away. Choose carefully!

Admission: Daily 09:00 - 17:00

5. Wat Traimit (The Golden Buddha)

At one end of Chinatown, in the otherwise unremarkable temple of Wat Traimit, thought to date from the 13th century, is hidden the world's largest solid gold Buddha image. Weighing over 5 tons, the 15-foot tall seated image is believed to be cast of solid gold and is estimated to worth US$14 Million!!

The Golden Buddha was cast sometime in the 13^th century and is an excellent example of the gracious Sukhothai style that is still very much in favor to this day. At some point, it was covered in plaster, most likely in an attempt to hide the valuable icon from thieves or looters.

The disguise was so good that everyone apparently forgot about what was hidden beneath. King Rama III had the statue moved to Bangkok and installed in a temple near where the Oriental Hotel is today. That temple fell into disuse and was completely abandoned around 1931.

The true nature of the Golden Buddha wasn't discovered until it was moved to its present location at Wat Traimit in 1955. When the image was being prepared for its move, some of the plaster was chipped off, revealing the gold underneath. Bits of the plaster can be seen in a case to the left of the statue.

The statue sits in a plain building just barely big enough to hold it within the temple compound. On the terrace outside of the room housing the Golden Buddha are some interesting fortune-telling machines. You drop a coin in the slot and a sequence of lights indicating numbers flash around in a circle, wheel of fortune style, eventually stopping on a number. You can retrieve your fortune from the marked boxes below the machine. The fortune slips are in English as well as Thai and Chinese.

Open Daily 09:00 - 17:00
Admission: To see the Golden Buddha is 20 Baht, payable at a booth near the wiharn housing the image

6. Wat Saket (The Golden Mount)

Wat Saket is easily recognized by its golden chedi atop a fortresslike hill near busy Ratchadamnoen Road and Banglampu. It rises within the compound of Wat Saket, an unusual temple that houses Buddha relics within its 58-metre-high chedi surmounted by a golden cupola.

Built by King Rama I just outside the new city walls, the late-18th century temple served as the capital's crematorium. During the following 100 years, the temple became the dumping ground for some 60,000 plague victims.

The hill, which is almost 80m (262 ft.) high, is an artificial construction begun during the reign of Rama III. Rama IV brought in 1,000 teak logs to shore it up because it was sinking into the swampy ground. Rama V built the golden chedi to house a relic of Buddha, said to be from India or Nepal, given to him by the British. The concrete walls were added during World War II to keep the structure from collapsing.

The Golden Mount, a short climb, is interesting for its vista of old Rattanakosin Island and the rooftops of Bangkok. Every late October to mid-November (for 9 days around the full moon) Wat Sakhet hosts Bangkok’s most important temple fair, when the Golden Mount is wrapped with red cloth and a carnival erupts around it, with food and trinket stalls, theatrical performances, freak shows, animal circuses, and other monkey business. Just north of Wat Saket is where you can catch canal boats back to the town center, Siam or further up Sukhumvit. A stinky but memorable ride.

Open Daily 8:00 - 21:00
Admission:

7. Wat Benchamabophit (the Marble Wat)

Located opposite one corner of Chitlada Palace in the Dusit district is one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand, Wat Benjamabopit. Often referred to as "the marble temple" in guidebooks, the temple is unusual in many ways.

There has been a temple on this spot since Ayutthaya times, before the founding of Bangkok, but little is known about exactly when it was consecrated. Its modern history begins in 1826, during the time of Rama III.

The Marble Temple, is one of Bangkok's most modern and yet striking temples. Building began in 1899, shortly after completion of nearby Dusit Palace, when King Chululongkorn (King Rama V) asked his half-brother, Prince Narris, to design him a temple.

Within the large area Chulalongkorn purchased for the Dusit Gardens were two derelict temples, one completly deserted and the other housing just one monk. The king decided to tear these temples down and have Wat Benjabophit (as it was known then) restored to compensate. The King's compensation was lavish, resulting in the temple as its seen today, and he also bestowed the current name of 'Wat Benjamabopit' on the temple, which means 'temple of the fifth king.'

The result is a dazzling Ubosot (ordination hall) cast in white Carara Italian marble and with three-tiered roof - an excellent example of modern Thai architecture, with beautiful features from near and afar. This T-shaped structure contains an exquisite Sukothai-style Buddha replica called Phra Buddha Chinarahat, the original of which is located in Wat Mahatat. Interned in the base beneath it are the ashes of King Chulalongkorn.

The courtyard exhibits 52 local and foreign Buddha images from the period (33 originals and 20 copies). Each one is different in style and pose, with highlights including the Buddha in walking posture statue, and subduing Mara posture statue. Behind the cloister is a large Bodhi Tree, bought as a gift for King Rama V from Bod Gaya, the place of Buddha's enlightenment. There is also a 'Sala Nam' (water pavilion) and, in between the monks and people area, several bridges in a variety of styles.

Open Daily 08:00 - 17:00
Admission: There is a 20 Baht admission fee payable at the kiosk to the right of the entrance.

8. Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing

One of the oldest temples with a sweeping elegant roof and the site of the original Giant Swing ceremony. A huge teak arch - carved by Rama II— all that remains of the original Giant Swing - lies in the grounds in front of the temple.

The construction of the temple was begun by Rama I and finished by Rama III; Rama II carved the panels for the wihaan’s doors. It houses the beautiful 14th-century Phra Buddha Shakyamuni, a Buddha image that was brought from Sukhothai, and the ashes of King Rama VIII, Ananda Mahidol, brother of the current king, are contained in its base. The wall paintings for which it is known were done during Rama III’s reign.

The swing was used until 1932 in a ceremony to celebrate and give thanks for a good rice harvest and to ask for the god’s blessing on the next.

The minister of rice, accompanied by hundreds of Brahman court astrologers, would lead a parade around the city walls to the temple precinct. Young men would ride the swing high in the air, suspended 80 feet from the ground when in full swing, and try to grab a bag of silver coins with their teeth. Some fairly severe injuries and a few deaths led to the dangerous swing ceremony's discontinuation after 1932, but the thanksgiving ceremony is still celebrated in mid-December after the rice harvest. However, the thanksgiving festival is still celebrated in mid-December after the rice harvest.

Open Daily 08:30 - 17:00
Admission: 20 Baht

9. Wat Hua Lampong

Not far from Bangkok's main business and entertainment district along Silom Road is the temple of Wat Hua Lampong. The temple serves a large community of those that live and work around upper Silom and Suriwong Roads, so although its not especially significant, the temple is a lively place to observe a 'real' working temple.

Wat Hua Lampong was extensively remodeled in honor of His Majesty the King's 50 anniversary on the throne. The royal seal of the Kanchanapisek Year (as it was called) is used extensively throughout the temple's elaborate decorations. The seal features two elephants flanking a multi-tiered umbrella.

The temple is actually quite large, and if you wander around you will find some interesting older buildings.

Sources: www.bangkok.com, http://thailandforvisitors.com, and Frommer's Thailand

Present situation in Thailand

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At the

BTS layout

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BTS sky train map

MRT underground train map

Interchange stations connecting MRT (Blue) and BTS (Green) lines are (1) Silom, (2) Sikhumvit, and (3) Chatuchak Park.

BTS-MRT

Sources: Frommer's Thailand, www.bangkoksite.com
and http://bangkok.sawadee.com/