Pushpitha Wijesinghe
The magnificent River of Kings, Chao Phraya extends through the city of Bangkok; many noteworthy attractions that will captivate the visitor may be found near its various piers, as described below.
The Sathorn Pier is the principal hub for the numerous rapid boats that travel along the extent of the river. One of the main attractions located in proximity to this pier is the Jieow Eng Bieow Temple, an attractive shrine that displays Chinese characteristics. Another place of worship in the vicinity is Wat Yannawa, or Boat Temple. This shrine is renowned for its distinctive pagoda which resembles a Chinese style junk; this pagoda was constructed by King Rama III as an emblem for commerce and the numerous migrants from China who arrived in Thailand.
This pier is situated in proximity to Thailand's most esteemed landmarks, Wat Phra Kaeo and the Grand Palace. The Grand Palace is a majestic edifice that has served as a royal residence and features many architectural treasures. Meanwhile Wat Phra Kaeo is renowned for housing the Emerald Buddha, the nation's most venerated religious object. The temple also contains exquisite murals depicting the tale of the Ramayana epic. Next to the pier you will encounter Tha Prachan, the Thai capital's oldest and largest marketplace for amulets. Another attraction in the vicinity is the Bangkok National Museum, which features galleries devoted to the arts, Thai history, ethnography and archaeology.
From this pier visitors will be able to conveniently access one of the city's most popular temples, Wat Pho. This shrine is best known for featuring an immense Buddha statue in the reclining position which measures 46 m in length. Another nearby attraction is Pak Klong Talad, which has the distinction of being Thailand's biggest marketplace for flowers. Also in proximity to the pier you will find Museum Siam, an institution which depicts the history of the nation with numerous interactive features. By taking a ferry to cross the river from Tha Tien Pier you will be able to reach Wat Arun, unquestionably one of the city's most splendid landmarks.
The remarkable Asiatique The Riverfront is an appealing shopping attraction that successfully combines the concepts of a mall and a night-time bazaar. This meticulously designed shopping compound features typical Thai architectural motifs and has been designed to present a number of distinct sections. At Asiatique you will find more than 1,500 individual boutiques, a selection of cafes and eateries, a square where outdoor activities are held and a number of beer gardens. You will also be able to enjoy panoramic views over the Chao Phraya River. As you explore these attractions a discerning choice in accommodation would be one of the hotels in Silom Bangkok such as the Anantara Sathorn Bangkok Hotel. This quality hotel offers accommodations that meet a high standard and is located amidst attractive surroundings.
You will find a number of cultural attractions as well as shopping highlights in the environs of this pier. Adjacent to the pier visitors will encounter River City, an auction venue and mall focusing on antiques originating in Asia. Numerous cruises also depart from this pier; in addition you will find an array of cafes and restaurants here which are great places to admire the sunset, drink in hand. In the back streets nearby you will find more places to shop for artworks and other cultural features. Another attraction in the vicinity is the appealing Holy Rosary Church, a rare sight in this Buddhist city.
