Information West Coast - BANGKOK

8/7/2019 Information West Coast - BANGKOK

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REPORT BANGKOK

INTRODUCTION

Bangkok, among Thai natives known as Krung ThepMahanakhom, or briefly Krung Thep the City ofAngels, is the capital, primary city and largest urbanarea of Thailand. Furthermore Bangkok acts as thecultural and commercial center of its nation.

Bangkok possesses a rich wealth of culturallandmarks and attractions in cooperation with a vastvariety of entertainment venues drawing inapproximately 11 million international visitors eachyear.

The city area occupies an area of approximately1,568.737 km, whereas the whole area, including thesuburban areas as a metro area, coversapproximately 7,761.50 km.

In 2008 the inner city area of Bangkok had apopulation of 6,355,144 residents, while greaterBangkok has a population of 11,971,000 residents.

The capital is the fastest growing area of Thailand where most of the countrys investments flow into.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

Introduction

1.0 Brief History

2.0 Geography

3.0 Climate

4.0 Administration & Districts

5.0 Transportation

5.1 Roads

5.2 River and Canals Network

5.3 Rail Systems


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5.4 Inner-City Buses

5.5 Bus Services

5.6 Taxis

5.7 Airports

6.0 Tourism in Bangkok

6.1 Places of Interest

6.2 Festivals and Events

7.0 Local Dresses

8.0 Conclusion

1.0 BRIEF HISTORY:

Bangkok originated from a small town of Bang Kok and began as a small trading center and portcommunity on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River before the establishment of the AyutthayaKingdom.

After the fall of the Ayutthaya Kingdom to the Burmese Kingdom in 1767 King Taksin established anew capital in the area of Bang Kok of those times, known as Thonburi. In 1782, when King Taksinsreign came to an end, King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke (Rama I) reconstructed the capital on the Eastbank of the Cha Phraya River and gave the city a ceremonial name, the formal name Bangkokpossesses until today.

Since that time the city has been vastly modernized and undergone various changes andimprovements, including the introduction of transportation and an infrastructure.

2.0 GEOGRAPHY:

Geography of Bangkok is marked by the presence of Chao Phraya River which elongates to a lengthof 372 km along the length of the country. The river basin, and area around Bangkok are actually riverplains and deltas. So it can be saidBangkok Geography is mostly identified of low-lying terrains withthe deltas and river basins ultimately leading in to Bay of Bangkok .

Bangkok is situated only 2m above sea level and is located in the heart ofThailand on the low flatalluvial plain of Chao Phraya River. The city extends from 13.45 N latitude to 100.28 E longitude.

The city is rated 68th in the 76 provinces of Thailand but at the same time it has the highest populationand greatest density of population as well in Thailand.


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Bangkok is bordered by Samut Sakhon and Samut Prakan in the south, Nakhon Pathom to the west,Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani and Nakhon Nayok in the north, and Chachoengsao to the east and has a4.4km long coastline.

The city is marked with natural and artificial canal called klongs crisscrossing the length and breadthof its area. All these canals are connected to Chao Phraya River . The presence of so many canalsand the major river here is the reason why Bangkok is called Venice of the East'.

3.0 CLIMATE:

The climate of Bangkok and its metropolitan area is of tropical wet and

dry nature. The average temperatures are between 21C to 35C. The

climate in Bangkok is subject to the yearly monsoons same as

throughout the rest of Thailand.

The three seasons, hot, rainy and cool, are also clearly observed in

Bangkok and are visible within the chart of the Average temperatures

and precipitations throughout a year.

4.0 ADMINISTRATION & DISTRICTS:

Bangkok has 50 districts (Khet / Amphoe) which mark the administrative

subdivisions under the authority of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, These main districts arefurther subdivided into 169 subdistricts (Khwaeng / Thambon).

The 50 main districts of Bangkok are:

1. Phra Nakhon2. Dusit

26. Din Daeng27. Bueng Kum


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3. Nong Chok4. Bang Rak5. Bang Khen6. Bang Kapi7. Pathum Wan8. Pom Prap Sattru Phai

9. Phra Khanong10. Min Buri11. Lat Krabang12. Yan Nawa13. Samphanthawong14. Phaya Thai15. Thon Buri16. Bangkok Yai17. Huai Khwang18. Khlong San19. Taling Chan20. Bangkok Noi21. Bang Khun Thian

22. Phasi Charoen23. Nong Khaem24. Rat Burana

25. Bang Phlat

28. Sathon29. Bang Sue30. Chatuchak31. Bang Kho Laem32. Prawet33. Khlong Toei

34. Suan Luang35. Chom Thom36. Don Mueang37. Ratchathewi38. Lat Phrao39. Watthana40. Bang Khae41. Lak Si42. Sai Mai43. Khan Na Yao44. Saphan Sung45. Wang Thonglang46. Khlong Sam Wa

47. Bang Na48. Thawi Watthana49. Thung Khru

50. Bang Bon

The urban area of the greater Bangkok Metropolitan Area extends beyond the borders of Bangkokprovince, reaching into the neighboring provinces Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Pathum Thani, NakhonPathom and Samut Sakhon.

Each district of Bangkok is managed by a district chief, appointed by the governor of Bangkok(presently Sukhumband Paribatra). District councils, elected to four-year terms, have an advisory

function to their respective district chiefs.

The large influx of Thai people, immigrants from surrounding countries and foreigners from the Westcaused a massive growth of the suburban areas, resulting in a mass of new housing projects aroundthe metro area, developing communities along the outskirts.

The most important business districts of Bangkok include Silom, Bangrak, Pinklao, Sathon, Phra Ram2, Phetchaburi, Phra Nakhon, Pathumwan, Chatuchak (new central business district), and Phra Ram3 (new financial center).

Bangkok's Phra Nakhon district alongside Dusit is where most governmental agencies and ministrieshave their offices. Most of the well-known tourist attractions are also in this particular area due itscultural & historical heritage. This part of Bangkok is perhaps the most popular for tourists as mostnotable attractions such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, the Democracy Monument, the Giant Swing,Sanam Luang and other venues are located here. Thon Buri also has its fair share of historicmonuments mainly located near the river, such as Wat Arun.

Bangkok's north and eastern areas are primarily residential areas for middle class residents ofBangkok. Whereas the inner city often has small apartments and low rises for poor immigrants, Lat

Phrao and Si Nakharin offer residential compounds and townhouses.


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Ratchaprasong is at the forefront of Bangkok's shopping scene. The newly renovated Central WorldPlaza intends to serve as a square to Bangkokians.

Bangkok's poorest districts are spread throughout the city. However, the most concentrated area isjust north of the Port of Bangkok at the turn of the Chao Phraya River. For an area of 10 squarekilometres (4 sq mi), the Khlong Toei district houses one of the poorest areas in the country with half-built houses and midrises for immigrants and workers from the northeast Isan provinces.

5.0 TRANSPORTATION:

5.1 ROADS:

Several elevated highways, newly rebuilt intersections, and many partially

finished road and rail projects dot the landscape around greater Bangkok,

but have done little to overcome the notorious traffic jams on Bangkok's

surface roads as private vehicle usage continues to outstrip infrastructure

development.

5.2 RIVER AND CANALS NETWORK:

An elaborate network of canals known as khlongs gave Bangkok the

nickname "Venice of the East" at a time when most transportation was

by boat. Today, nearly all of the canals have been filled in and

converted into streets. While many khlongs still exist with people living

along them and markets often being operated along the banks, most

are severely polluted.

5.3 RAIL SYSTEMS:

Presently Bangkok possesses connections of the State Railway of

Thailand, the skytrain, called BTS, and the subway, called MRT.

Plans for network expansions are made and partially approved.

5.4 INNER-CITY BUSES:

A regular bus service is provided by theBangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA)


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and it operates throughout Bangkok aswell as to adjoining provinces around theclock on certain routes.

5.5 BUS SERVICES:

Virtually all cities and provinces are easily reached by bus from Bangkok. For

destinations in the southwest and the west, buses leave from the Southern Bus

Terminal, west of the city in the Thonburi area. For destinations in the southeast,

such as Pattaya, Ko Samet and Ko Chang, buses leave from the Eastern Bus

Terminal at Ekkamai. For all destinations north and northeast, the Northern Bus

Terminal is at Mo Chit. Bangkok's less accessible southern terminal was recently moved even fartherout.

5.6 TAXIS:

Three-wheeled open-air motorized taxis (called tuk-tuks)

are popular for short journeys. River taxis can be used on

the Chao Phraya River. Some are just cross-river ferries,

but others serve the many landing stages on both banks

and cover a route that goes up as far as the northern

suburb of Nonthaburi. Furthermore Bangkok offers a mass of taxi cars on the roads, making the travelby taxi very easy and convenient without long waiting times.

5.7 AIRPORTS:

Bangkok is one of Asias most important air

transport hubs and two big airports are located

in Bangkok: the Don Muang Airport and the

new Suvarnabhumi Airport.

6.0 TOURISM IN BANGKOK:

Bangkok is considered to be one of the world's tourist hotspots.

Bangkok is Thailand's major tourist gateway, which means that the

majority of foreign tourists arrive in Bangkok. The city boasts some of


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the country's most visited historical venues such as the Grand Palace,

Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. There are numerous projects to maintain

Bangkok's historic sites in the Rattanakosin area and river districts.

Tourism in Bangkok comprises of exploring the historical landmark of the city, the Grand Palace andother historical sites here like Wat Arun Wat Pho which houses a reclining statue of Buddha. Not toforget the three palaces of which the Chitralada Palace is truly praiseworthy. There are manyBuddhist temples, then Science Museum, Benjasiri Park

Bangkok's tourism is further boosted with the presence of some of the most luxurious hotels inBangkok like the Peninsula Bangkok,The Oriental,The Shangri-La Bangkok as well as the tallest hotelof Bangkok Grand Princess and many more.

The shopping extravaganza with the various markets and bazaars ,have always attracted touristshere in Bangkok. The Chatuchak Market is one of the kind being the largest shopping destination inBangkok. Also you can just enjoy shopping in the floating markets .

6.1 PLACES OF INTEREST:

Old Town - ChinatownIn the old Bangkok town are located the Grand Palace, the

Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Temple of the Reclining

Buddha, two universities and several ministries.

It is from this side of the Chao Phraya River that one takes a boat to visit the Temple of Dawn and thefloating market

Chinatown is situated to the southeast of the old town.

The gold shop street and the Temple of the Gold Buddha

are located here.

PinklaoA bridge was built across the Chao Phraya River near the Grand Palace in 1973. It was named PinKlao in memory of the last but one deputy king, whose palace was nearby.

Now the area on the western side of the river has become one of the most newly developed areas inBangkok with several department stores, many restaurants and nightlife establishments.

RatchadaphisekRatchadaphisek is the name of the new sections of the inner ring road of Bangkok but is usually usedto refer to the short section between the Lat Phrao intersection and the Rama IX Road intersection.This section is being developed into a new commercial district containing several big departmentstores, office buildings, hotels and a large number of restaurants, A little way off the road is ThailandCultural Centre, where shows and exhibitions are held from time to time.


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RamkhamhaengWhen Ramkhamhaeng University was founded on Bangkok's eastern outskirts as Thailand's firstopen university in 1970, the area was rather remote and underdeveloped. However, as theuniversity's yearly enrolments increased rapidly to 100,000, the area soon became a new satellite cityof Bangkok with ever-increasing shop-houses, apartment buildings, restaurants, cinema houses,department stores, hotels and places of entertainment.

Siam -RatchadamriThis is one of the biggest and busiest shopping districts in Bangkok. A huge commercial complex,including a 62-storey World Trade Centre opposite Ratchadamri Arcade, is partly completed. Locatedin the area are several large department stores, shopping arcades, cinema theatres, and countlesssmaller shops. So you can satisfy all your needs if you stay in one of over a dozen first-class hotels inthe area.

The Pratunam Market next to the Indra Arcade, is worth visiting if you want to broaden your field ofvision. It is also the market of garments for export.

Sukhumvit-New PhetburiIn the section from the Soi Nana crossroads to Soi Sukhumwit 21 (Asok Intersection), there are manyshops catering to foreign tourists, where jewellery, leather goods, ready-made garments andsouvenirs are sold and tailoring, car rent and other service are offered. Inside the lanes (soi) off theroad, there are numerous fashionable residences, hotels, apartment houses, and some really goodrestaurants.

To the north of Sukhumwit Road is the extension of Phetburi Road which does not have manypedestrians in the daytime. After dark, however, the long street is brightened with colourful neon signsand enlivened by people going out to enjoy themselves in dozens of entertainment Places along thestreet.

Silom-SurawongThis district has transformed in half a century from paddy fields into the most important business andfinancial centre of Bangkok . Today, from end to end, these two parallel streets are full of big blocks ofmultistory buildings, in which are banks, finance firms, insurance companies, export-import houses,hotels, airlines offices, restaurants, shopping arcades, department stores, and entertainmentestablishments.

A small area in this district known as Patpong, is famous for various kinds of entertainment--wine,beer, music, dancing, etc.

Bang Lamphu

A shopping area once frequented solely by local people has become a popular place for tourists. Thisarea offers various inexpensive items, especially readymade clothes, handbags, men's and lady'sshoes, cosmetics and curios. Bargaining is recommended.

Weekend Market at Chatuchak ParkThis large open public ground covers approximately 35 acres opposite the Northern Bus Station onPhahonyothin Road. Known as Suan Chatuchak, it hosts the popular Weekend Market where peoplebuy and sell a thousand local products. Items range from exotic fresh fruits, vegetables, handicrafts,dress materials, clothing shoes, toys, domestic utensils and pets. There is a particularly fine sectionfor plants.


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Weekend Market is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 7.00 a.m. - p.m. 6.00

The Grand Palace and Wat Phra KaeoThis city landmark should be the first place on any visitor's itinerary. It is a huge compound on NaPhra Lan Road near Pramane Ground is surrounded by high white walls and occupies an area ofabout a square mile. The palace, begun in 1782, consists of several buildings with highly decoratedarchitectural details. The Royal chapel, Wat Phra Kaeo, which is in the same compound, houses theEmerald Buddha, the most sacred Buddha image in Thailand. Photography inside the buildinghousing the Emerald Buddha is forbidden.

The complex is open daily from 8.30 a.m.- 3.30 p.m. Admission fee is 125 baht(including tickets toThe Coin Pavillion & Phra Thi Nang Vimanmek & Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall). Proper dress isessential.

Phra Thi Nang Vimanmek and Abhisek Dusit Throne HallVimanmek Palace is located behind Bangkok's National Assembly and is the world'slargest building made entirely of golden teak . The three storey wooden palace has81 rooms, halls and ante-rooms, excluding and verandahs. Near the entrance toVimanmek Palace is the Royal Carriage Museum where 13 royal horse-drawncarriages once used during the reign of King Rama V are collected. The collection is so splendid andregarded to be of great historical value.

Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall (The Support Museum), a one storey teak building built in the reign of KingV, is situated on the east wing of Vimanmek Throne Hall. Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall is now Thailand'sfirst handicraft museum where Her Majesty The Queen collects handicraft masterpieces created bymembers of Support Foundation . In the museum, visitors find such handicrafts as niellowares Thaisilk with various unique designs,"Lipao"basketry like beautiful trays, handbags studded with jewels indifferent designs such as green beetle.

The compound is open daily from 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. Admission fee is Baht 50 per person. Freeguide available (Tel. 2818166, 2816880, 2811569, 2811518, 2805926)

The National MuseumTel: 2241333, 2241396Within walking distance of the Grand Palace, across the Pramane Ground, is one of the largest andmost comprehensive museums in Southeast Asia. The National Museum over one thousand artifactsranging from neolithic times to the present Bangkok period. The complex, also begun m in 1782,consists of several old hut beautiful buildings of colourful Thai architectural design. The museum isopen every day, except Mondays, Tuesdays and public holidays from 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. Admissionfee is Baht 20.

The National Arts GalleryThis is on Chao Fa Road opposite the National Theatre. It exhibits traditional and contemporary worksof art by Thai artists. The gallery is open to the public everyday except Mondays Tuesdays and publicholidays from 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. The telephone number is 2812224, 2822639 . Admission fee isBaht 10.

The National TheatreThailand's National Theatre is on Na Phra Lan Road next to The National Museum. Thai Classicaldramas and other types of international arts are periodically staged here. Current programmes can hechecked at the theatre (Tel. 2241342) on weekdays between 8.30 a.m. and4.30 p.m. Special

exhibition shows of Thai classical dancing and music are held on the last Friday and Saturday of eachmonth Please contact the theatre for details.


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Sanam LuangThis huge public ground in front of the Grand Palace used to be the place where the Weekend Marketnow moved to Suan Chatuchak on Phahonyothin Road was held. Special activities or ceremoniessuch as the Royal Ploughing Ceremony in May and the New Year Festival also take place here. Atthe northern part of Sanam Luang opposite the Royal Hotel is a small statue placed in small whitepavillion. The Goddess of the Earth was built during King Chulalongkorn's reign (1868-1910)t o

provide public drinking water.

The City Pillar ShrineLocated at the southeast corner of Sanam Luang this graceful temple-like Structure houses "LakMuang" a stone pillar placed there by King Rama I, the first monarch of the present Chakri dynasty,as the foundation stone for his new capital city of Bangkok. Lak Muang is believed by many people tohave the power of granting wishes.

Wat Pho(Tel :2220933)This world famous temple is located right next to the Grand Palace on the south side. It is one ofBangkok's oldest and largest temples. Wat Pho was built by King Rama I nearly 200 years ago and

houses the gigantic gold-plated Reclining Buddha. This unique image is 46 metres in length and 15metres high with beautifully inlaid mother-of pearl soles . Wat Pho is also regarded as the first centreof public education and is sometimes called "Thailand's First University". The building housing theReclining Buddha is open daily from 8.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m. Admission fee is Baht 20.

Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn)Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River Wat Arun can he reached either by Arun Amarin

Road or by crossing the river hy boat from Tha Tien Pier near Wat Pho. The mostattractive structure in this temple is the 79 metre-high pagoda or "Phra Prang". Wat Arunwas restored during the brief Thonhuri period to he the Royal Chapel of King Taksin.Despite its name "Temple of the Dawn" the most beautiful view of it is from the Bangkokside of the river at sunset. Admission fee is Baht 10.

Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha)At the end of Yaowarat Road near Bangkok's Hualamphong Railway Station is a temple situated onTraimit Road. This temple is known for its famous Golden Buddha constructed during the Sukhothaiperiod. The image of solid gold is three meters high and weighs five and a half tons. this image isopen to the from 9.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m. Originally, this golden buddha image was completely coveredwith plaster to conceal it from the enemy then invading Thailand and was installed as the principalBuddha image in the main temple building of Choti-naram Temple or Wat Phrayakrai, YannawaDistrict, Bangkok in the third reign of the Chakkri Dynasty in the Ratanakosin era. When Chotanaram

Temple was deserted in about 1931, the East Asiatic Company, with official pernission, extended itsoperations into the land area of the deserted temple.

When the building was completed and while preparations were being made to move this GoldenBuddha image to the building, the covering plaster was partly broken. Only then did the people realizethat it was a golden Buddha image. Thus, it has been treasured for its historical, artistic and culturalvalues to this day. Part of the covering plaster is also on display inside the temple building.

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple)Tel :2812501The Marble Temple is on Si Ayutthaya Road near Chitralada Palace. The temple is well-knownbecause its main building was constructed during the reign of King Rama V. The best time to visit this

temple is early in the morning when Buddhist monks are chanting inside the chapel. The interior of themain building is magnificently decorated with cross beams of lacquer and gold. A large collection of


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Bronze Buddhas lines the walls of the spacious inner courtyard. The main building is open to visitorsuntil 5.00 p.m. There is an admission charge of Baht 10.

Wat Suthat (The Giant Swing)Located on Bamrung Muang Road this temple took 27 years to build. It is famous for the excellent

murals in the main building from the reign of King Rama III (1824-1851). The viharn should be seenfor its collection of gilded Buddha images. The temple complex is open daily from 9.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m.In front of the temple is the famous Giant Swing. Many shops surrounding Wat Suthat stock a verycomprehensive range of Buddhist ecclesiastic supplies.

Wat Sa Ket (The Golden Mount)Wat Sa Ket or the Golden Mount was begun during the reign of King Rama I(1782-1800). The goldenchedi houses relics of Lord Buddha and affords visitors a panoramic view of Bangkok.

Wat IndravihanLocated in Bangkhunphrom area on Wisutkrasat Road Wat Indravihan is well-known for a huge

standing Buddha image. This image of "Buddhasiariyametriya" is 32 metres tall(108.99 feet) and 10metres and 24 inches wide (40.09 feet). This Buddhist monument was built during the reign of KingRama IV. The topknot of the Buddha image contains a relic of Lord Buddha brought from Sri Lanka.The temple is open to the public every day. There is no admission fee.

Wat ThammamongkhonLocated on Sukhumvit Soi 101 this is the highest pagoda in Bangkok. The pagoda 94.78 high, has 14storey and an elevator to enable visitors, particularly elderly people, to go to the top of the building.Relics and a hair of the Lord Buddha, kept in the pagoda, were presented by the Supreme Patriach ofBangladesh.

Wat RatchanatdaramLocated on Thanon Mahachai. This royal temple was built in the reign of King Rama III in 1846. LohaPrasat (Metal Palace) one of its tourist attractions standing on its 36 meters high with 37 surroundingspires is the only one of its kind left in the world. Situated in the nearby area are a royal pavilion for aguest welcome and the memorial statue of King Rama III.

Wat BowonniwetThe building is located on Phra Sumen Road, in Banglumphu area. Built in 1829, it is the shrine-hall ofPhra Phutthachinasri which was molded in about 1357. Wat Bowon niwet is one of the most importanttemples of Bangkok whose one-time chief abbot was King Rama IV before he ascended the throne.Other Chakri Kings who had resided here during their monkhood include King Rama Vl and KingRama Vll as well as His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Wat Mahathat (Temple of the Great Relic)This is a very old temple on Na Phrathat Road between Silpakom University and ThammasatUniversity. The back of the temple faces the Pramane Ground or Sanam Luang. Wat Mahathat wasbuilt during the reign of King Rama I and houses Mahachulalongkorn Buddhist University one of thetwo highest seats of Buddhist learning in the country. Those interested in Buddhist meditation shouldvisit Section 5 which is the head-quarters of Wipassana (insight) meditation inThailand. Informationand practice in English can usually arranged according to availability of suitable monks. The templecomplex is open from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. On Buddhist holy days there is a thriving open air marketin the grounds and a comprehensive selection of traditional Thai medicines usually in plant or rootform for sale.


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The Shed of the Royal Barges(Tel: 4240004)This shed where several royal barges are displayed is located on Khlong Bangkok Noi off the Chao

Phraya River not far from Phra Pin Klao Bridge. These barges were used on Royal and governmentoccasions and formerly served war vessels. The most beautiful and well-known barge is"Suphanahong" used by the King only when he made his Royal river procession for the Kathinceremony a Buddhist tradition of offering robes to monks usually during October or November. TheRoyal barges proceeded during the Rattanakosin Bicentennial celebrations. The unique design anddecorative details of each barge should he of great interest to all visitors.The shed is open to the public every day from 8.30 a.m.- 4.30 p.m. There is an admission fee of 10baht.

Jim Thompson's Thai House(Tel: 2150122)This remarkable Thai-style house was the work of Mr. Jim Thompson an American who came toThailand at the end of the Second World War and revived the Thai Silk industry. His laterdisappearance in the Malaysian jungles remains a mystery to this day. The house now a museum isat the end of Soi Kasemsan 2 opposite the National Stadium on Rama I Road.On permanent display are Mr.Thompson's collection of Asian artifacts such as blue-while China wareCambodian stone figures benjarong (a multi-couloured porcelain made in China) wooden Burmesestatues and many other fabulous antiques. Jim Thompson's House is open from Monday to Saturdayinclusive from 9.00 a.m.- 4.30 p.m. Admission costs Baht 100. Volunteer guides explain the collectionto visitors.

Suan Pakkad Palace(Tel: 2454934)On Si Ayutthaya Road not far from the intersection of Phaya Thai Road used to be the residence ofprincess ChumShol of Nagara Svarga one of Thailand's leading art collector. There is a complex offive traditional Thai Houses overlooking a beautifully kept garden. They house a large collection ofAsian art and antiques. One building exhibits a collection of seashells mineral crystal and paintedpottery from Ban Chiang .

Suan Pakkad Palace is open every day except Sunday from 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. There is anadmission fee of Baht 80.

Pasteur Institute (Snake Farm)This interesting spot is located at the corner of Henri Dunant Road and Rama IV Road west ofChulalongkorn Hospital. It is a section of the Thai Red Cross where one can have cholera smallpoxand typhoid inoculations as well as rabies treatment. The institute has become a popular touristattraction because of its large collection of live poisonous snakes.

The Snake Farm is open to the public every day between 8.30 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. on weekdays and8.30 a.m.- 12.00 p.m. on public holidays. The extraction of venom from the snakes is demonstrateddaily at 10.30 a.m. and 2.00 p.m. on weekdays and at 10.30 a.m. on public holidays. Admission fee is70 baht. For further details please call 2520161-4

Labour MuseumLocated near Makkasan Railway Station Nikhom-Makkasan Road Phayathai . Here labour history ofThailand from the past to present is put on exhibition.The museum is open daily with no admission fee during 10.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m. except for MondaysTuesdays and national holidays.

MuseumThe museum is on 1st floor of the Metropolitan Postal Bureau (North) behind Sam Sen Ni Post Office.


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Open daily from Tuesday to Sunday during 9.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. No admission fee. Thai and foreignstamps of the old ages are on display. The collections of postbooks in both Thai and foreignlanguages are available at the library. Stamps and accessories for stamp collection are on sale . Formore information please contact tel.271-2439 573-0099 ext. 2637.

Ban Kamthieng(Tel: 2583491, 2583444, 2602830-32)Ban Kamthieng is an old house originally constructed in Chiang Mai more than 200 years ago anddonated to the Siam society by its owners and reconstructed in Bangkok. A very large variety of Thaiflora and fauna can be seen in the garden of the house, which is at 131 Soi (Soi 21) Sukhumvit Road.Also on display are items used daily by Thai farmers and fishermen.

It is open daily from 9.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m. An admission fee of Baht 50 is charged to help maintain theproperty and grounds.

Museum of ImagingThe first camera and photograph museum to be established in Thailand and Asia is located at the

same building as the Department of Photographic Science and Printing Technology. Faculty ofScience Chulalongkorn University. Historic photograph sand imaging equipment as well as itstechnological evolution are collected and displayed in the form of camera and imaging technologymuseum. Modern photographic arts and techniques as well as advanced technology of thedimensional photographs, electronic photography, and printing technology are also exhibited. Themuseum is open on Saturday between 10.00 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. Admission fee is Baht 100 each. It isalso open on weekdays for group visitors making advance contact. Tel. 2511913, 2541748

Hall of Railways HeritageIt is located to the North of Chatuchak Park near a multipurpose parking lot, is where railwayinformation is collected for publicity. Steam engines, train models, and miniature trains of varioussizes are exhibited there along with photographs and paintings depicting development of world railway

systems and several other related objects. The Hall of Railways Heritage is open every Sundaybetween 5.00-12.00 a.m. Admission is free. For more information please contact the Thai Rail FanClub. Tel. 2432037-9

Prasart MuseumIt is located at 9 Soi Krungtepkreetha 4, Si Nakharin Road, Phra Khanong, houses a vast collection ofartifacts from pre-historic through Rattanakosin periods. Various styles of architecture, for example, abaroque building, a smaller version of the Red Palace in Bangkok National Museum, and an imitationof Ho Phra of Wat Yai Suwannaram, are scattered within the museum complex. Prasart Museum isopen on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during 10.00 a.m.- 3.00 p.m. Admission fee is Baht 300each (snack and beverage included). It is also open on weekdays for group visitors. Please makeadvance contact at Tel. 3793601, 3793607, 2539772

Bangkok Planetarium & Scientific MuseumThe scientific museum situated next to the Eastern Bus Terminal(Ekamai) is an exhibition center onscientific knowledge and astronomy. Open daily, except Monday and national holidays, from 9.00a.m.- 4.00 p.m. Admission fee is Baht 10.At the planetarium, daily performances on the solar system are presented for the public from Tuesdayto Sunday. Open from 8.30 8.30 a.m. p.m. Admission fee is 10 baht. For further information, pleasecontact tel. 3925952, 3902301.

Narayanaphand(Tel: 2524670-9, 2554328-9)This is handicraft centre, under government supervision, located on Ratchadamri Rd . Visitors mayinspect and buy selections of handicrafts from all parts of the country. Items available include Thaisilk, ceramics, wood carvings, lacquer ware, bronze objects and Khon masks. The store is open daily

from 10.00 a.m. until 8.00 p.m.Bangkok Dolls & Museum(Tel: 2453008)


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All kinds of Thai dolls are made in this factory which is on Soi Ratchataphan (Soi Mo Leng) offRatchaprarop Road, in the Pratunam area. It is open to visitors, who may inspect and buy dolls, everyday except Sundays and public holidays from 8.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m.

Dusit Zoo(Tel: 2812000, 2811039)Located near Vimanmek Palace, Dusit Zoo is opened to the public everyday from 8.00 a.m. - 6.00

p.m. Tropical animals to be found include great grey kangaroos, Sumatran rhinoceros, Siamesecrocodiles, gaurs, lesser mouse deer, American bisons, etc. Admission fee is Baht 20.

Siam Water ParkSiam Water Park is merely a 30-minute drive from the Lat Phrao flyover, and is located in suburbanAmphoe Minburi. The park features an extensive man-made sea with artificial surf, whirlpools,fountains and fountains and waterfalls, and towering water slides amid carefully landscaped gardens.Satellite attractions include children's playgrounds, aviaries, an open zoo and botanical gardens. Thecomplex is open daily from 10.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. (weekdays) and 9.00 a.m. to 07.00 p.m.(weekends). Admission fee is 200 baht for adults and 150 baht for children.Bus service: No. 26 & 27 from Victory Monument. (Tel: 51700759)

Safari WorldIt is located at 99 Ramindra 1, Min Buri, covers an area of some 430 rai and is divided into 2 parts.The first, the Safari Park, houses a large variety of animals like zebra, deers, giraffe, birds, tigers, lion,bears, etc.in natural habitat. Visitors can drive their own cars or have a good look from one of theSafari World's air-conditioned coaches . The second, the Marine Park, exhibits marine and some rareanimals. Visitors can enjoy performances by trained animals like dolphins, birds, seals, and monkeysRestaurants and game shops are also scattered within the area and tram service is provided for thosewishing to have a look around.

Safari World is open daily between 9.00 a.m. Admission fee is 400 baht for adults and 300 baht forchildren. For more information please call 5181000-19Bus services: No. 26 from Victory Monument goes to Minburi, from where a mini-bus service serves

Safari World.

MagiclandA large scale amusement park is located on Phaholyotin Road on the way to Domuang Airport. Withinits beautifully decorated area, there are linked paths, pools, legendary castles and more than 30 funnytoys. Opening time is from 10.00 a.m.- 5.00 p.m. on weekdays and 9.30 a.m.7.00 p.m. on weekends.Admission fee costs 100 baht per person. The price plus service charges is 200 baht a person. Formore details please contact Tel. 5131731-8.

6.2 FESTIVALS AND EVENTS:

January

New Year FestivalEven though Thai New Year is not the first of January, Thais still celebrate on this day. Thecelebration includes a lot of fireworks, parties and present-giving. The 1st of January is alsoconsidered a national holiday and if this day falls on Saturday or Sunday, there is always acompensation day off on Monday.

Chinese New Year FestivalBecause many of the people in Bangkok are from Chinese origins, Chinese New Year is a veryimportant event in Bangkok. During this time, people will pay respect to their forefathers who havepassed away. It is also considered a gathering of the family where the elders give money to thechildren and they all eat together. There are many parades and contests, as well as Chinese foodfestival, around Yaowarat, the Chinatown area of Bangkok.


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February

Bangkok International Film FestivalBangkok International Film Festival takes place annually to promote alternative award-winninginternational and local films, some of which cannot be seen on major screens. Organised by RoyalThai Government and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Bangkok International Film Festival also

features workshops and symposiums, special tributes, the Bangkok Film Market (BFM) and thespectacular special events. If you are in Bangkok during this time of the year, this festival is not to bemissed.

Makabucha DayThis celebration originally came from the day when 1,250 disciples from the Lord Buddha gathered tolisten for the Dharma speech after Buddha's enlightenment. Buddhists go to the temple to make merit.In the evening, they perform candlelit processions by walking three times around the temple.

March

Kite Flying FestivalThailands summer starts around March and thats when Bangkok residents go out and fly kites at thefamous Sanam Luang, the main grounds opposite the Grand Palace. This kite-flying activity has beena popular sport among Thais since ancient times. There is also a kite fighting contest at Sanam Luangevery year.

April

Songkran FestivalBetter known for its mayhem of fun water fights, Songkran serves a traditional Thai New Year. On thisday, there are many activities going on including parades of dancers, music troupes and boat races.Thai people visit their parents and grandparents in order to wish them good health and receiveblessings in return. They also go to the temple to make merits and wish for good luck and prosperity.In Bangkok, Songkran events are held around Grand Palace and Sanam Luang, near Khaosan Road.But for wild water fighting, head to Kaosan Road, the hub of fun itself. The splashing lasts for threedays over the lunar full moon.

Celebrating the Songkran Festival in Bangkok is an unforgettable and unique travel experience.

May

Ploughing CeremonyThe King is the host of this event where the King has to plough the ground in order to mark thebeginning of the planting season. This is an ancient Brahmanic ceremony and it has been passed onfor so many eras. The King also gives blessings to the farmers so that they will have the best year oftheir harvest.

Visaka Bucha DayThe Buddhist religious day, Visaka Bucha Day, is the holiest day of all Buddhist important days as itcommemorates the birth, enlightenment and the death of the Buddha. Buddhists usually go to thetemple in the evening to join the candlelit procession.


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June

International Festival of Dance and Music (Part 1)Organised every year in Bangkok, the festival features an array of world-class performances from allover the world. There are a variety of dance and musical shows which have gained fame worldwide.

July

Asalahabucha DayThis celebration takes place one day before the Buddhist Lent day. This day is to commemorate thefirst sermon of Buddha to his five first disciples. The significance of this day is that it deals withBuddha, Dharma and Sangha. There are also candlelit processions and fun fairs at the temple.

Buddhist Lent DayFor three months after this day, the Buddhist monks will not leave the temple and stay in the temple tomake their prayers. This day falls on a rainy season, so it is believed that the monks should make therain retreat so that they will not step on the plants grown by villagers. Buddhists usually go to thetemple to make merits and give food to the monks as they are not allowed to go visit the residents.During this period, there is a fun festival where people decorate big candles and enter them in thecandle competition. All candles are to be taken to the temple so that the monks can use them at night.

August

The Grand Celebration of Her Majesty the Queens Birthday (12 August)The 12th of August is Queen Sirikits birthday and serves as the National Mothers Day and a nationalholiday. There are many celebrations going on in Bangkok, most of which are to show love andrespect to the Queen of Thailand. In the evening, Bangkok residents gather at Sanam Luang with thelit-candles in their hands in order to wish the Queen a happy birthday. During the month, many streetsare beautifully decorated with the Queens pictures and an array of charming flowerbeds. Thai peoplealso give jasmine, a symbol of Mothers Day, to their mothers and take their mothers out on a specialmeal.

September

Food Festival in ChinatownDuring this month, Chinatown on Yaowarat Road is turned into a main hub for a great selection ofChinese and Thai food. This event also includes cultural and musical shows.

International Festival of Dance and Music (Part 2)Organized every year in Bangkok, the festival features an array of world-class performances from allover the world. There are a variety of dance and musical shows which have gained international fame.

October

The Moon Cake FestivalThose of Chinese origins in Bangkok celebrate this event by giving a moon cake, a special kind ofsweet cake prepared in the shape of the moon and filled with sesame seeds, ground lotus seeds andeggs, to each other. This ceremony is to pay respect to the Goddess of the Moon.

End of Buddhist Lent DayThe three months rain retreat is now over for the monks. The monks are allowed to go out of temples.

Robes offering ceremonies or tot kra-tin take place everywhere in Thailand where Thai people bringclothes and food to the monks. The ceremony usually lasts for one month.


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November

Loi KratongThis festival is observed nationwide and has been since the Sukothai period. People gather at thewaters edge to float (or loi) their krathong, a lotus-shaped vessel elaborately decorated with flowersand candles, in order to pay respect to the Goddess of Water for giving them water to use each day.

Fun fairs, concerts, contests and many other fun games and activities are organized during thisfestival.

Golden Mount FairBuddhists in Bangkok go to the Golden Mount in the compound of Saket Temple during this week ofthe festival (from the 11th day of the waxing moon of the 12th lunar month to the 3rd of the waningmoon of the same month) to worship the Buddhas relics. There you can find some interesting folkplays, local food and a small amusement park.

Thai Beer FestivalWhen the weather gets cooler, Thai people always come out and sit at one of the beer gardensmushrooming everywhere around Bangkok. The most famous one is in front of Central World Plazawhere you can find a variety of food and snack to eat with major brews like Singha, Leo and Chang.There are also international brands of beer including Heineken. The stages are set up for the singersand dancers to croon their songs and show their moves.

December

Military ParadeAnnually, the Royal Guards go on a parade in unity before the King on the Ground of King Rama VsEquestrain Statue to show their respect and loyalty to the three most important institutions of

Thailand, the King, the nation and the religion of Buddhism.

The Grand Celebration of His Majesty the Kings Birthday (5 December)The 5th of December, King Bhumipols birthday, serves as the National Fathers Day and a nationalholiday. There is a grand celebration at Sanam Luang where important people of the country and Thaicitizens gather to pay respect to the King and wish the King a happy birthday with lit-candles in theirhands while singing songs for the King. Throughout December, you can see almost every streetdecorated with Thai flags, the Kings pictures and many beautiful flowers. On this day, Thai peoplealso give canna flower, the symbol of Fathers Day, to their fathers and take their fathers out on aspecial meal.

ChristmasEven though Thai people do not celebrate Christmas, there are usually many parties going on.Christmas fairs are held at some markets and you can find a variety of Christmas cards andChristmas trees at every the mall around Bangkok. Some restaurants even celebrate Christmas bygiving discounts or special promotions. Gigantic Christmas trees can be seen in front of first-classhotels with a few shops selling candies and ice-creams only during Christmas time.

7.0 LOCAL DRESSES:


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As in Bangkok the culture of the whole country comes together inmixture with the international habits and cultures of nations abroadand western style, Bangkok generally possesses the regular andcasual style of dress among its citizens. Special dresses are ratherworn on particular ceremonies or occasions which for example maypresent traditional dresses of various provinces of Thailand.

But there is a golden rule that people have to dress occasionally, especially when people (nationalsas well as tourists) visit religious temples, institutions of education or governmental and official offices(e.g. the police station). Very short pants, halter tops and sleeveless tops which reveal too much of apersons body are definitely considered improper and are mostly not muchtolerated.

Unless at many temples it might be seen that even improperly dressed people

are allowed to enter and the monks are simply too kind to complain and

tolerate this disrespectful behavior.

Hence a neat and casual dress is generally recommended also in order toavoid being seen as a low class person. The picture to the right is an example of a rather impropertourist dress.

8.0 CONCLUSION:

Bangkok is the thriving heart of Thailand in every aspect such as economics, politics, tourism andlifestyle. Bangkok boasts a vast variety of tourist attractions of every kind, ranging from historicalplaces to a vibrant nightlife. Many influences, languages and cultures meet here and form ametropolis of a true metropolitan character which preserved much of the ancient and Asian charme.

Information West Coast - BANGKOK

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