Whether you hate it or love Bangkok, one thing that you cannot deny is that there is plenty to see and do when you visit this fascinating city. If you are planning your first trip to Bangkok and are not sure what to do when you are there, here are some of the top attractions to visit along the river to ensure that you stay will be a memorable one.
Travel Along The Chao Phraya River
One of the best ways to get around Bangkok is by boat, and there are many canals along the river, which can help you to get around the city. If you stay in a hotel in Silom or the Banglamphu areas, you will have easy access to the river, and there are plenty of sights along the shore that you can take in as you go, and you can also get off the boat to explore some more.
Wat Arun (Temple Of Dawn)
If you travel along the river when you stay in Bangkok, you will most likely spot the fantastic Temple Of Dawn, which is called Wat Arun. The temple is open between 8 am and 6 pm, and you can wander around the complex and explore its buildings and gardens as you go. When visiting, you should allow for around an hour, which will enable you to take in everything that this beautiful temple has to offer.
The Grand Palace
A short boat trip from Wat Arun, and on the other side of the river you will find the Grand Palace, which is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. It is a royal palace that has many buildings to explore and beautiful architecture to enjoy. It is sometimes rampant with people offering tour guide services or saying the complex is closed, ignore these people and explore the grounds at your own pace, ensuring to leave the complex before it closes at 3:30 pm.
Wat Phra Kaew (Temple Of The Emerald Buddha)
Wat Phra Kaew is a temple within the grounds of the Grand Palace and is one of the most famous temples in all of Thailand. It is known as the home of the Emerald Buddha which is a small figure of Buddha made from one piece of Jade and decorated with gold, and this is the most sacred place in Thailand and worth a visit.
Khao Sarn Road
Another popular destination not far from the river is Khao Sarn Road, which has been a Mecca for backpackers for many decades. It is a vibrant and cosmopolitan area that sees travellers parting from all over the globe. Walk along the streets and explore the shops during the day, and then wait for darkness to come and watch the area spring into life. No visit to Bangkok is complete without visiting the world-famous Khao Sarn Road.
