Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Neighbourhood Walk:
Ko Ratanakosin Stroll
START
THA CHANG
END
WAT ARUN
LENGTH
APPROXIMATELY 4KM; THREE TO FIVE HOURS
The bulk of Bangkok's 'must-see' destinations are in the former royal district, Ko Ratanakosin. Start early to beat
the heat and get in before the hordes descend. Remember to dress modestly to gain entry to the temples and ig-
nore any strangers who approach you with advice on sightseeing or shopping.
Start at Tha Chang and follow Th Na Phra Lan east, with a quick diversion to
Silpakorn University
, Thai-
land's premier fine-arts university. If you haven't already been, continue east to the main gate into
Wat Phra
Kaew & Grand Palace
, two of Bangkok's most famous attractions.
Return to Th Maha Rat and proceed north, through an enclave of herbal apothecaries and sidewalk amulet
sellers. Immediately after passing the cat-laden newsstand (you'll know it when you smell it), turn left into
Trok Tha Wang
, a narrow alleyway holding a seemingly hidden classic Bangkok neighbourhood. Returning to
Th Maha Rat, continue moving north. On your right is
Wat Mahathat
, one of Thailand's most respected
Buddhist universities.
Across the street, turn left into crowded Trok Mahathat to discover the cramped
Amulet Market
. As you
continue north alongside the river, amulets soon turn to food vendors. The emergence of white-and-black uni-
forms is a clue that you are approaching
Thammasat University
, known for its law and political science de-
partments.
Exiting at Tha Phra Chan, cross Th Maha Rat and continue east until you reach
Sanam Luang
, the 'Royal
Field'. Cross the field and continue south along Th Ratchadamnoen Nai until you reach the home of Bangkok's
city spirit,
Lak Meuang
. Pay your respects and head south along Th Sa- nam Chai and turn right onto Th
Thai Wang, which will lead you to the entrance of
Wat Pho
, home of the giant reclining Buddha.
If you've still got the energy, head to adjacent Tha Tien to catch the cross-river ferry to
Wat Arun
.
