If you’re a hodophile like me and haven’t seen Bangkok, the Thai capital, then you need to place this at the top of your bucket list. You may already know that Bangkok is a big city with many attractions for its visitors. Bangkok, about 25 miles from the Gulf of Thailand, is positioned in the Chao Phraya River delta. In 2020, the population of this city was over 10.539 million. I also have to mention that this major tourist destination, Bangkok, has rich cultures and delicious food!

They have a galore of snacks with foods of different flavors – the appearance never fails to impress. You can choose from a range of spicy, sweet, sour, salty, and bitter favors- all you have to do is ask. Furthermore, when comes to temples, this city has more than 400 temples. Do you know this city has the largest Chinatown and buddha statue in the world? And it’s made from pure solid gold. These are a few, amongst many interesting key facts about Bangkok. For this reason, you can get overwhelmed by everything you need to do and see before your short holiday is over. 

Therefore, I made a list of the five must-see sites in Bangkok to get you started in the beautiful city. If you want to discover more about what Bangkok has to offer, head over to the Bangkok Attractions website, which you can also use as a guide during your tour. Okay, let’s talk about the five must-see sites in Bangkok. I am so excited already!

1. Wat Pho

Wat Pho is one of the oldest temples in Thailand. The first original temple was built by King Rama I but was later renovated and expanded by King Rama III. At Wat Pho, you’ll see the finest buildings, massage school, beautiful paintings, golden Buddha statues, colorfully enhanced chedis, and stone statues. 

The temple is home to the highest number of Buddha statues in Thailand, including the reclining Buddha statue, where the name “Temple of the Reclining Buddha” was derived. People come from far and wide to admire this statue, the sole of its feet is adorned with beautiful pearls and images. 

What to do: This is a must-visit temple. When you get here, try to walk around and explore. It’s so big that you may not have enough time to explore all the nooks and crannies of this place. The reclining Buddha is gigantic, 45m wide and 15 meters tall. If you get exhausted from exploring, end your visit with the traditional Thai massage. You can also enroll in the Thai School of medicine if you want to learn about Thai massage.

2. The Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha

As the name implies, this temple is located within the grand palace. This temple holds the Emerald Buddha, which is the center of attraction. The Buddha is hammered out from a block of jade in a meditating pose dressed in gold and diamonds. This figurine is believed to bring prosperity to Thailand.  

What to do: Admire the magnificent grand palace. You will marvel at the creativity of the Thai people. Take a tour of the ordination hall that houses the emerald buddha. Don’t miss the model of Angkor Wat and other attractions.

3. Wat Arun

Yes! It’s another temple. Wat Arun, also “The Temple of the Dawn,” is so beautiful, and its design is different from other Thailand temples. It is by the riverside and opposite Wat Pho, with the river demarcating the two temples.

What to do: You will enjoy it more if you visit this temple at night time when you can see the reflection against the river – what a beautiful sight to behold. Climb up the central prang if you love the challenge, supporting yourself with the rail. When you reach the top, enjoy the view because you can see the river, Wat Pho, and the grand palace. Also, head to the ordination hall to see the Buddha.

4. Lumpini Park

Lumpini is the largest park in the city where you can find almost anything. This green space has beautiful statues, lakes, playgrounds for kids, landscaped paths, and more.

What to do: Here, you can take a walk, play, and perform other outdoor leisure activities. You will also see the Malay Lizards- even though they are not known to be dangerous, just avoid them.

5. Soi Cowboy

Don’t leave Bangkok without joining and experiencing its nightlife; the best way to do that is to visit the soi Cowboy. The street is 150m long and the brightest; that is why it’s a red light district.

What to do: Visit any of the recreational spots like go-go bars, nightclubs, massage clubs, and beer bars.