Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Ratchaworamahawihan or simply known as Wat Pho is one the oldest and largest temples in Thailand. It houses the colossal 46-meter long Reclining Budhha. The temple complex offers more than the famous golden figure. It boasts of more than 1,000 images of Buddha, four chapels, historical murals, and a courtyard. It is also the place of origin of Thai massage wherein you can avail massage services for 250 baht to 400 baht. Most importantly, just like in any Thai Buddhist temple, the dress code is strictly observed here. No tank tops or sleeveless shirts. Long pants for men while women must wear at least knee-length skirt or pants. Take off your shoes when entering any structure in the complex.

One of the historical temples in Bangkok, Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn is best to visit in the morning when there’s not much crowd yet. Located along the Chao Phraya River bank and opposite the Graba Palace and Wat Pho, the complex is accessible via ferry. You'll have to climb up a narrow staircase to have an overlooking view of the surrounding attractions.

Within the grounds of the Grand Palace houses the 14th-century sacred Wat Phra Kaew or Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Tourists worldwide flocked this historical and cultural landmark dubbed as the birthplace of Bangkok. The 54-acre complex was the center of the kingdom in the 18th century. It was also the official home of Thai Kings until the end of the 19th century. Aside from the European-style interiors of the Grand Palace Hall, you can also visit other impressive statues and buildings within the complex.

Enjoy a panoramic view of Bangkok at Wat Saket or more commonly known as Golden Mount or Phu Khao Thong. One of the city’s oldest temples this famous landmark is at the top of an artificial man-made hill. It takes around 10 to 15 minute to climb up 318 steps to the peak of the mount. Don’t worry, there are several resting and landing spots to have a break from the hike.Interestingly, there’s an eccentric cemetery at the base of the steps veiled by vines and overgrown trees.

Not all who wanders are lost… hopefully, that’s the case at Chatuchak Weekend Market, the largest and most world-famous market in Thailand. It is also known as JJ Market, this massive marketplace boasts a size of 27 acres with nearly 8,000 booths of almost every merchandise available. It can be quite taxing and intimidating to shop especially if you’re within a crowd of 200,000 tourists a day. Be sure to come here prepared and certain of what you really are looking for or you might overspend because of impulse buying.

For your ultimate food trip adventure of Thai-Chinese flavorful dishes, explore Yaowarat or Bangkok’s Chinatown. Aside from the hustle of business markets during the daytime, this Chinese community is famous worldwide as a nighttime street food destination. From food stalls to diners, you’ll never get enough with the variety of mouth-watering food selection Yaowarat has in store. Take note that there are lesser options on Mondays when food street vendors are not allowed to operate.

Among the list of floating markets to visit from Bangkok, Tha Kha Floating Market is the most laidback of them all. Relatively smaller but definitely quieter with less crowd, Tha Kha Floating Market maintains its authentic feel for over six decades. The locals start early in their day to trade and sell mostly food products on the canal and market hub. Boat tours are longer yet cheaper as compared to other touristy floating markets. You’ll also find boat vendors selling cooked ready to eat Thai food. Try their Fried Oyster Omelet and Grilled Chicken Skewers.

Jim Thompson House was a private Thai-style residence turned into an art museum. It was the home of Jim Thompson, an architect who established his own brand of Thai silk products post World War II. Several years after his mysterious disappearance at a hike, his artwork and antique collection were displayed to the public. Aside from the art center, there are also a souvenir shop, restaurant and cafe, and banqueting facilities in the compound.

If you want to watch real Muay Thai boxing, head on at Ratchadamnoen Boxing Stadium. It is the oldest boxing stadium in Thailand and considered as a legendary landmark in Bangkok. Best to secure a ringside seat for an unobstructed view of the bouts. It was in 1941 when then Thailand’s Prime Minister Field Marshal Plaek Pibulsongkram ordered the building of this stadium. From then, numerous world-class Muay Thai bouts have been held. You can also buy Muay Thai merchandise sold at an equipment shop within the stadium.

Make your nights livelier at Rot Fai Market. Popularly known as Train Night Market, this urban bazaar is packed with rows of colorful tents offering a mix of traditional and hipster finds. You can also find both new and second-hand vintage goods, collectibles, and hobbyist items. Topping up your unique shopping experience are makeshift bars around the area serving street food and drinks. Another Rot Fai Market was opened in Ratchada area.

While you're exploring the city, try out some of these free things to do in Bangkok. Discover the latest cheap flight deals here and check all the best hotels.]]>