Khao San Road in Bangkok, still worth it
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Khao San Road is perhaps the most famous street of Bangkok. The street does not owe this popularity to its authenticity or sights.
No, you will find hip clubs here with the latest dance hits blasting out of the huge speakers. The food in some restaurants is even adapted to the taste of tourists. However, due to the irrepressible energy and relaxing atmosphere it is Khao San Road still worth a visit.
Own charm
Anyone who was last here 10 years or more ago may be disappointed. Khao San Road no longer has the mystique of times gone by. Yet the street still has its own unmistakable charm. The brightly colored neon signs that illuminate the street at night have not disappeared. Just like the more pushy tuk tuk drivers or the street vendors with fried insects. You will certainly still encounter drunken revelers who, lost in the neon lights, stroll through the streets until late at night. Don't forget the parade of backpackers and budget travelers, frantically hunting for a cheap place to sleep before darkness falls. Finally, there are the Thai beauties who scour the streets looking for a new 'tilac' (cutie).
The energy of youthful ease is prominently present 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Khao San Road's illustrious past has only been partially displaced by the unstoppable flow of Western influences, such as the hideous self-service restaurants including Starbucks and McDonald's. Khao San Road has acquired a different function over the years. Many tourists now mainly use Khao San Road as a place to rest after a day of island hopping. It is also the base for visiting the temples and markets in Bangkok. Yet you can say that Khao San Road has become an attraction in itself. Despite the raw, clumsy, cosmopolitan appearance that you normally don't see in Thailand.
Nightlife in Khao San Road
Khao San Road has plenty of nightlife options for die-hard party animals to choose from. You will find plenty of bars and restaurants on this long nightlife street. Cheap drinks are served here. After sunset, the streets are populated by many colorful mobile bars.
'Buckets' – buckets containing a mix of alcohol and energy drinks – are bought en masse to 'drink in'. This is a popular way to start the evening. Afterwards, visit the nearby clubs to sweat off the amount of booze on the dance floor. The thumping bass rhythm of blazing music, bright disco lights and half-naked bodies gleaming with perspiration are the icons of modern youthful entertainment. Later in the evening there are more and more nightlife options that you can visit.
What is there to see in Khao San Road?
Khao San Road is located within the old city (Rattanakosin). In the area you will find a large number of classical and cultural attractions. You first walk from Khao San to Phra Sumen Fort and Sathi Chaipakran Park on Phra Arthit Road. The fortress was built more than 200 years ago. It was supposed to protect the border with the old city. It is one of the few still standing today.
From the fort you walk along the waterfront boulevard to the famous Royal Ground (Sanum Luang). You will also pass the main tourist attraction of Bangkok: the Royal Palace and the Wat Phra Kaew. Take a taxi boat and explore the gaudy glittering temples along the banks of the mighty Chao Phraya River. Khao San Road itself may not have much to see, but it is the best place in Bangkok to people watch.
Where can you eat in Khao San Road?
The best thing about visiting Khao San is the food. Street stalls sell spicy Thai dishes and delicious Indian curries. You can also try western dishes or special treats there. Don't forget to try the Phad Thai, vegetable spring rolls and noodles. Tasty, popular and of course dirt cheap. Khao San Road has a number of gourmet eateries and yes… the international chains such as McDonald's, Burger King, Starbucks and Subway are also there, unfortunately.
Stay overnight near Khao San Road
Are you looking for a cheap accommodation in Bangkok? Then Khao San Road is the place to be. You will find plenty of budget hotels, cheap hostels and guest houses. Khao San Road is truly a backpacker's paradise. Whatever your budget, you will easily find a suitable room.
Shopping at Khao San Road
Unlike Siam and Chidlom – Ploenchit, Khao San does not have a luxury shopping mall. That's not to say there's nothing for sale. On the contrary, you can shop well there. Bargaining is normal, otherwise you pay too much. On both sides of Khao San Road you will find a bazaar during the day and at night. Here you can buy almost anything you can think of. Such as cheap T-shirts and second-hand travel guides, books and novels.
Drink buckets
Of course you will find souvenirs and counterfeit items. Such as the latest movies and music on pirated CDs and DVDs. There are even fake IDs, press cards, student cards and diplomas for sale. Adapted to your wishes on the spot. On Thanao Road you will also find a few good tailors and jewelery shops.
Transportation in and around Khao San Road
From the Victory Monument, Siam or Silom you can take a taxi to Khao San Road for less than 100 baht journey. Buses 157, 171 and 509 run from Victory Monument (bus stop at Rajavithi hospital) along Ratchadumnoen Road. You can get off at the Khok Wua intersection (a stop in front of the Democracy Monument). From there, Khao San Road is just a short walk away. Once in Khao San, the best way to explore the area is on foot. Do you still want to make a nice exciting trip with a tuk-tuk? Don't forget to agree on a price in advance.
Thailandblog tips for Khao San Road
If you visit Khao San Road in Bangkok, there are plenty of activities that you must experience. Here are ten recommendations for an unforgettable time on this vibrant street:
- Enjoy the street food: Khao San Road is a true paradise for street food lovers. Try the local delicacies such as Pad Thai, Spicy Papaya Salad, Grilled Meat Skewers (Moo Ping), Thai Style Fried Chicken, and the irresistible dessert Roti.
- Discover the night markets: Khao San Road's night markets offer a lively atmosphere with a range of products from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and handmade items.
- Taste traditional Thai desserts: Don't miss the chance to taste traditional Thai desserts such as mango sticky rice, coconut ice cream and fried bananas.
- Go Shopping: Khao San Road is also known for its affordable shopping options. Don't forget to bargain with the sellers; Bargaining is an art in itself here.
- Visit historical places: In the area around Khao San Road you will find important historical sights such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Saket and Wat Arun. These can easily be reached on foot or by tuk-tuk.
- Party all night long: Khao San Road is known for its lively nightlife with countless bars, nightclubs and restaurants where you can dance and enjoy yourself until the early hours.
- Visit the National Gallery of Bangkok: Close to Khao San Road, Bangkok's National Gallery is a stunning example of art and culture, housed in an old colonial building that was once a royal residence.
- Explore the Ghost Tower: The mysterious and unfinished Ghost Tower offers a unique perspective on the city and its history, attracting many visitors.
- Choose from various accommodations: In Khao San Road and the surrounding area you will find a wide range of accommodations, from cheap hostels to medium-sized hotels with modern amenities.
- Make new friends: A backpacker's mecca, Khao San Road has a friendly atmosphere where you can easily connect with fellow travelers from all over the world.
So Khao San Road is much more than just a street; it is an experience in itself, where you can taste the essence of vibrant Bangkok.
About this blogger
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Known as Khun Peter (62), lives alternately in Apeldoorn and Pattaya. In a relationship with Kanchana for 14 years. Not yet retired, have my own company, something with insurance. Crazy about animals, especially dogs and music.
Enough hobbies, but unfortunately little time: writing for Thailandblog, fitness, health and nutrition, shooting sports, chatting with friends and some other oddities.
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