Bangkok is the heart of Thai culture, with Buddhist temples, royal tradition and lively street rituals. At temples cover shoulders and knees, remove shoes and be respectful of the royal family.
Historic sites
Democracy Monument – An Art Deco monument on Ratchadamnoen Avenue commemorating the 1932 revolution.
Phra Sumen Fort – A white octagonal fort on the Chao Phraya, a remnant of the old city walls.
Rattanakosin Old Town – The historic core where Bangkok was founded in 1782, packed with palaces and temples.
Traditions
Wai Greeting – A traditional greeting made by pressing palms together at chest level and bowing slightly.
Tak Bat (Alms Giving) – A merit-making ritual of offering food to monks at dawn.
Thai Massage – A traditional therapy of pressure and stretching techniques taught at Wat Pho.
Festivals
Songkran – The Thai New Year on 13–15 April, celebrated with water fights.
Loy Krathong – A light festival at the November full moon, when flower baskets are floated on rivers.
Vegetarian Festival – A Chinese-rooted festival in October that fills Yaowarat with yellow flags and vegetarian street food.
Etiquette
Shoulders and knees must be covered.
Do not touch people's heads, and never point feet at people or Buddha images.
Disrespecting the royal family is illegal, so speak with respect about it and about Buddha images.
Remove your shoes before entering temples and homes, and women should not touch monks.
Map
The interactive map needs JavaScript.
Use two fingers to move and zoom the map.
Places
🎭
Grand Palace
The magnificent royal complex dating from 1782, home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
Category
Palace
Duration
3 h
Price
$$$
Best time
Early morning, at opening
Tip: The dress code is strict; beware of fake guides and buy tickets at the official booth.