Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sitting and gazing at the huge Buddha and sky-high murals in
Wat Suthat
.
Explore: Banglamphu
Antique shophouses, classic restaurants, ancient temples… Banglamphu is old Bangkok
encapsulated in one leafy, breezy district. If you've come for the sights, arrive early, while
the heat is still tolerable and the touts few. It's worth sticking around Banglamphu for
lunch, as this is when the majority of the area's street stalls and shop- house restaurants
are operating. Come evening, young locals flood the area in search of a cheap meal and a
cold Chang, giving the area an entirely different vibe, but there are enough restaurants and
bars here that there's no need to consider another destination for the night.
Despite being one of the city's best areas for accommodation, sights, eating and night-
life, Banglamphu is also among Bangkok's most impenetrable 'hoods. During the day, a
good strategy is to approach the area from the river ferry pier at Tha Phra Athit
(Banglamphu) - most of the sights are within walking distance. At night, most of the ac-
tion is centered around Th Khao San, which can be accessed via taxi from the BTS stop at
National Stadium or the MRT stop at Hua Lamphong.
Local Life
»
Local Cuisine
Bangkok's most traditional district is not surprisingly one of the best
places to try authentic central Thai- and Bangkok-style food.
»
Street-side Shopping
The spectrum of goods available in this district ranges from
backpacker staples along Th Khao San to delicious Thai curry pastes and high-quality
handicrafts in the more traditional areas nearby.
»
Pop & Lock
Most evenings the wide expanse in front of Bangkok's City Hall be-
comes a gathering place for young kids who meet to practise break-dancing moves.
