Phra Sumen Fort at the Phra Athit Road in Banglamphu (JOYFULLIFE / Shutterstock.com)
Of course has Khao San Road an attraction to budget travelers and backpackers, but it would be a shame if you lingered there because the neighborhood banglamphu has much more to offer, such as a combination of historical sites, local customs, beautiful temples and good food.
Banglamphu gets its name from the Lamphu tree, which used to grow in abundance in this part of Bangkok. The area came into existence during the Rattanakosin period, in the late 18th century, when King Rama I moved the capital to Bangkok. Banglamphu became an important commercial and residential district and was the cultural center of the city.
The Banglamphu district is located east of the Ko Ratanakosin district. Visit the historic street of Ratchadamnoen Avenue, which starts at Sanam Luang and passes through the traffic circle of Democracy Monument before splitting into the nearby districts of Dusit and Yaowarat (Chinatown). Check out the Wat Saket, the Golden mount, Wat Suthat and the Big Swing, which are located in front of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Office.
De GoldenMount at the Wat Saket (picture in the middle) offers you a panoramic view of this historic part of Bangkok, but you have to be willing to climb. Wat Saket is one of the oldest temples in Bangkok and dates back to the Ayutthaya era, built by order of Rama I.
Wat Saket Ratcha Wora Maha Wihan (Wat Phu Khao Thong, Golden Mount temple)
Of course you should also visit the world famous Khao San Road. The dynamics of this street can be felt everywhere. Take a walk and marvel at the many travel agencies, bars and street vendors. Khao San Road has plenty of nightlife options for die-hard party animals to choose from. You will find many bars and restaurants on this long nightlife street. After sunset, the streets are populated by many colorful mobile bars.
In the evening, be sure to visit a local eatery at Phra A-Thit Road. There you can still see some small, local bars and restaurants in authentic buildings. Some places offer live music, from Thai pop to jazz.
Rambuttri Road (PERCULIAR BOY / Shutterstock.com)
A small alley off Phra A-Thit Road connects to Rambuttri Road, the less congested version of Khao San Road. The buildings consist of bars on the lower floor and cheap hostels above. If you continue along Ratchadamnoen Klang Road to Dinsor Road, you will arrive in a less touristy area where you can also enjoy delicious food.
Sights:
- Khao San Road: This famous street is the heart of Banglamphu and is known for its vibrant nightlife, lively markets and cheap accommodation. It is a popular hangout for backpackers and a great place to enjoy local street food, shop for souvenirs and experience the unique atmosphere of Bangkok.
- Wat Pho: One of Bangkok's most important and oldest temples, Wat Pho is located near Banglamphu. The temple is famous for the reclining Buddha, an impressive statue 46 meters long and covered in gold leaf. In addition, Wat Pho is the center of traditional Thai massage and offers a unique experience for visitors.
- The Royal Palace: The impressive Grand Palace complex is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bangkok. Formerly the residence of the Thai royal family, the palace contains several beautiful buildings, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew).
- Phra Sumen Fort: This historic fortress was built during the reign of King Rama I to protect the city from invasions. Phra Sumen Fort is one of two surviving forts from the original fourteen and offers an interesting insight into Bangkok's history.
- Santihaiprakarn Park: Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this park is a pleasant green space with beautiful views of the river and Rama VIII Bridge. The park is a popular place to relax and enjoy the local culture, with regular traditional dance and music performances.
In short, indulge your eyes, ears, nose and taste buds in Banglamphu, the impressions are overwhelming.
The side streets of Samsen Road north of Klong Banglamphu are fun. Veer more Thailand than the falang-inclined Khao San.
Khao San Road is not much anymore. The best and busiest restaurant has made way for a Mac Donald. All the nice, cheap and authentic Thai must make way for Western misery. It's to cry. Rambuttri Road is still nice, but I'm afraid that this nice street will also have to die. Unfortunately, the Thai themselves are the victims.
Thai families used to come to Khao San to watch those weird Westerners.
The neighborhood is much more Banglamphu is indeed much more. You can still stroll along Khlong Banglamphu. From Phra Sumen Fort, a promenade runs along the Mekong to Pinklao Bridge.
Across the bridge from this bridge is the Restaurant Rim Nam Mookate. With extensive buffet and live music in the evening. So close to Khao San and not a falang in sight. From Phra Athit you can take a stop of the express boat to the other side of the Pinklao bridge. There used to be a ferry, but it doesn't run anymore.
Mekong? You will mean the Chaopraya River.