Things To Do In Bangkok In 2022
As more and more countries ease back restrictions and people become more confident about travelling, now is as good a time as any to consider taking a trip to Bangkok. Thailand is an amazing country to visit not just for its delightful weather, friendly people and delicious food, but also its numerous attractions, wherever you go.
Its capital Bangkok offers first-time visitors wonderful insight into the culture of the land without needing to stray far from its bustling metropolis. Here are some of the must-try attractions you should include in your itinerary for your visit this 2022.
Landmarks
Thailand is replete with many cultural and religious landmarks to discover. Probably the most awe-inspiring architectural landmark in Thailand and Southeast Asia, the Grand Palace is a must-see for any traveller to the kingdom. Its popularity means you are likely to find yourself amid tourist crowds, but even so, it is well worth the visit. If you only have enough time to just visit one temple, then make this your top choice.
Having been home to Thai royalty for over 150 years, the complex is made up of several imposing buildings featuring ornate and beautiful halls and rooms. Set aside a few hours for this visit as the grounds cover over 214,000 square meters. Be sure to dress decently, wear comfortable footwear, and carry a good camera cause you will want to capture a ton of shots.
Located just a few blocks from the Golden Palace at Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha is another mesmerising attraction. Given its close proximity, it would be ideal to consider visiting both locations on the same day.
Its prime attraction is the massive 46-metre-long and 15-metre-high statue that is the second-largest Buddha in the world. The sprawling temple complex is over 80,000 square metres and is home to the largest collection of Buddha images in the kingdom and a stunning array of Chinese stone figures depicting temple guardians.
It was also the site of the first university in Thailand and currently houses the original Thai Massage School. The school provides an excellent opportunity to try a traditional Thai massage and other therapeutic treatments.
Floating Markets
For a truly immersive shopping and dining experience, be sure to visit one of the several floating markets in and around Bangkok. Here you will find canals where vendors on longboats sell all kinds of fresh produce and foods. Along the banks, you will also find plenty of stalls where you can shop for clothing, artwork, souvenirs, and more food. Though somewhat chaotic, these markets make for a memorable experience you will want to try again.
You can also enjoy a boat ride that will take you past various temples, village farmlands, homes, and gardens. Once you have had your fill of the tasty street food, enjoy a leisurely boat tour as you explore waterways that have been a way of life for Thai people for generations. The Taling Chan Floating Market is perhaps the most centrally located in Bangkok, but you may want to try other distantly located choices like the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market which is much larger and more popular.
Muay Thai Boxing
Muay Thai is a national sport much beloved by the local populace and many foreigners. If you are intrigued by this form of martial arts and do not mind a little gore, be sure to take in a live fighting event. Many venues around the city host these bouts and are tourist-friendly, including bars, malls, gyms, and stadiums. It is a thrilling experience for visitors where you get a real feel for the love of the sport that is made even more exciting by the opportunity to place bets on fights.
The Rajadamnerm Stadium is one of the oldest venues and is popular for elite events. You can also check out fights hosted at the newer Lumpinee Stadium that is run by the Royal Thai Army. You can eat before or after at the many food stalls outside the arenas or order food and drinks within. There are attendants at the venues available to take your order. Be sure to also ask about opportunities to take photos with boxers after matches.
Street Food
Thailand is famous for its delicious and highly affordable food. The cheapest option is street food with many locations to try it. One of the more famous is the local Chinatown or Yaowarat. Here you will find an amazing array of stalls selling all kinds of freshly-made cuisine. Most single servings cost less than a dollar allowing you to indulge in a variety of choices on even the tightest of budgets.
Koh Sanh Road is a must-try for foodies with an adventurous streak. Here you will easily find the more exotic fare like dried spiders and an abundance of alcohol. You can eat as you walk around the markets or settle into one of the many outdoor and indoor restaurants. Know that seating can become full quickly so try to get there early, be prepared to wait or buy takeaway.
If you love Thai food, also consider attending one of the many cooking classes on offer around the city. You can find classes focused on Royal Thai Cuisine or even just street food and learn how to make your favourite dishes at home.
Festivals
The rich and religious historical culture of Thailand is a factor in why it holds many festivals throughout the year. Some are national, while others are region-specific and often centred around a particular temple or religious site.
The Chinese New Year is a popular celebration held in February and focused on Chinatown. The Thai New Year comes a bit later in April. Also known as Songkran, this three-day occasion is marked by visits to temples, food offerings, and water fights. As a water festival, it symbolises the washing away of sins and bad luck.
Another popular celebration is Loy Krathong or the Festival of Lights. Here people congregate after sunset at lakes, rivers and other waterways to light and release small candlelit vessels decorated with flowers and incense. It signals a fresh start. In Bangkok, most people will find their way to the Chao Phraya river to celebrate with firework displays, cultural performances, and other activities.
In the northern outskirts of Bangkok are ancient Khmer ruins that are the site of the Lopburi Monkey Festival, which is also celebrated in November. Massive offerings of food are made to the many macaque monkeys that reside in the area, with live performances and dances being part of the celebrations. The occasion is meant to bring the people good luck but can often get a bit rowdy due to monkey food fights.