Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a bustling metropolis known for its rich culture, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, there’s something for everyone in Bangkok.
Here is a guide to help you plan your visit:
- Visit the Grand Palace: This grand palace is a must-see attraction in Bangkok. It was the official residence of the Thai King for 150 years, and it’s home to several important buildings, including Wat Phra Kaew, the most sacred temple in Thailand.
- Take a boat tour of the city: One of the best ways to see Bangkok is by boat, so take a long-tail boat tour of the city’s famous canals, also known as “khlongs.” The tour will take you through the city’s traditional communities and give you a glimpse of daily life in Bangkok.
- Explore Wat Arun: Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is a Buddhist temple located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The temple is famous for its colourful glass and Chinese porcelain decorations, offering beautiful views of the river and the city.
- Visit Wat Pho: Wat Pho is the oldest temple in Bangkok and home to the largest reclining Buddha in Thailand. The temple also offers traditional Thai massage services, a great way to relax and experience the local culture.
- Shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market: Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the largest outdoor markets in Thailand. It’s open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday and offers a wide variety of products, including clothing, accessories, souvenirs, and food.
- Enjoy the street food: Bangkok is famous for its street food, so try local delicacies while you’re here. Some popular dishes include pad Thai, tom yum soup, and mango sticky rice.
- Take a trip to Wat Saket and the Golden Mount: Wat Saket is a Buddhist temple on a hilltop known for its beautiful city views. The Golden Mount, also located on the hill, is a golden chedi containing a Buddha relic.
- Visit Wat Mangkon Kamalawat: Wat Mangkon Kamalawat is a Chinese Buddhist temple in the heart of Bangkok’s Chinatown. It’s famous for its lively atmosphere, particularly during the Chinese New Year celebrations.
- Take a Tuk-Tuk ride: Tuk-tuk is a traditional three-wheeled vehicle that is a popular way of getting around Bangkok. It’s a fun and unique way to experience the city.
- Visit Wat Benchamabophit: Wat Benchamabophit is also known as the Marble Temple. It’s a beautiful temple made of Italian marble and is considered one of the most modern temples in Bangkok.
In summary, Bangkok is a city of contrasts, where ancient temples coexist with modern skyscrapers and traditional markets stand next to luxury shopping centres. With a variety of things to see and do, it’s a city that should be noticed.
Best time to visit Bangkok?
The best time to visit Bangkok depends on your personal preferences and the type of experience you’re looking for.
The peak tourist season runs from November to February when the weather is relatively cool and dry, making it the most comfortable time of year to visit. Unfortunately, this is also the peak season for tourism, so hotel prices and flights are at their highest, and popular attractions can be crowded.
The hot season runs from March to June, when the weather is hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching over 35 degrees Celsius. The hot season is the low season for tourism, and you can find great deals on flights and hotels.
The rainy season runs from July to October, when the city experiences heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
This can make it challenging to move around the city and visit outdoor attractions, but the rain usually comes in the form of short, heavy downpours, and it’s still possible to have a great time in Bangkok during this time.
Overall, the best time to visit Bangkok depends on your budget and preferences for weather and crowds. If you prefer cooler weather and are willing to pay higher prices, the cool season is the best time to visit.
A hot season is a great option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly trip. And if you don’t mind the occasional rain shower and want to avoid the crowds, the rainy season can also be a great time to visit.
How many days in Bangkok is enough?
How many days you should spend in Bangkok depends on what you want to see and do during your visit.
However, a minimum of 3-4 days is generally enough to see the main sights and attractions in the city.
Within 3-4 days, you’ll be able to visit the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Wat Pho, Wat Saket and the Golden Mount, Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, Wat Benchamabophit, and take a boat tour of the city’s famous canals.
You’ll also have time to explore the city’s famous markets, such as Chatuchak Weekend Market and experience the delicious street food Bangkok is known for.
If you have more time, you can also take day trips out of Bangkok to visit attractions such as Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, and the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
However, if you are a first-time visitor and want to experience as much as possible, I would recommend staying a minimum of 5-6 days, this way you will have enough time to see the main attractions, take day trips, and also have some free time to explore the city at your own pace.
What is the hottest month in Bangkok?
The hottest month in Bangkok in April. This month, the average temperature is around 36-37 degrees Celsius (97-99 degrees Fahrenheit) with high humidity. The heat can be intense, so staying hydrated and protecting yourself from the sun is essential.
The hot season in Bangkok runs from March to June, with temperatures gradually rising during this period. It’s common for temperatures to reach 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher during this time. The heat can be challenging for some visitors, especially those who have yet to get used to it.
It’s worth mentioning that Bangkok is also a tropical city, so the heat is not only during the day but also at night, and this can make it harder to sleep. So air conditioning is a must during this season.
Does it rain a lot in Bangkok?
Bangkok has a tropical monsoon climate, with a rainy season typically from June to October and a dry season from November to May.
During the rainy season, there is usually heavy rainfall and thunderstorms on most days, with the heaviest rain occurring in September and October.
The city can experience heavy rains and floods during the rainy season, which can cause some disruptions to transportation and daily life. However, the rain usually comes in short, heavy downpours, and it’s still possible to have a great time in Bangkok during this time.
Remember that during the rainy season, it’s a good idea to carry an umbrella or rain jacket and to wear waterproof shoes.
During the dry season, there is less rainfall, and the weather is generally sunny and dry. This is considered the best time to visit the city, as the temperature is comfortable and easy to get around.
It’s worth mentioning that Bangkok is also a tropical city, so even during the dry season, the city can experience high humidity and temperatures.
What to wear in Bangkok?
The clothing in Bangkok depends on the time of year and your specific activity.
During the hot and dry season, which runs from November to May, lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, such as cotton t-shirts, shorts, and light pants.
A hat and sunscreen can also be helpful to protect yourself from the sun. It’s also a good idea to dress in light colours as they reflect the sun’s rays better.
During the rainy season, which runs from June to October, a lightweight rain jacket and pants can be helpful, as well as waterproof shoes or sandals. Packing a light sweater or long-sleeved shirt is also a good idea, as air-conditioning can be vital in buildings.
When visiting temples or other religious sites, it’s essential to dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. Women should wear skirts or pants that cover the knee, and men should wear long pants. Removing your shoes before entering a temple or shrine is also essential.
It’s worth mentioning that Bangkok is also a tropical city, so it’s always a good idea to carry a water bottle and to stay hydrated, especially during the hot and humid months.
Is English widely spoken?
In Bangkok, English is widely spoken, written, and understood due to the city’s significance in business and commerce.
Additionally, English and some European languages are commonly used in most hotels, shops, and restaurants in major tourist destinations throughout the country.
