Joanna James
Let your holiday Flow!
Bangkok is not all about nightlife, shopping and gastronomical delights, the city's history and site attractions are as interesting as the same. Known as the 'River of the Kings', The Chao Phraya is the lifeblood of bustling Bangkok. Its canals that feed into the river has given it a local title, 'Venice of the East'. Ancient religious sites, 19th-century buildings, festivals, entertainment, happening markets, river cruises and ferries are all built around the flow of Chao Phraya and here are some things to check out.
Thailand's most beloved temple, the Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) is one of the most exquisite temples in Bangkok. Located at a picturesque setting and featuring a unique design, the Wat Arun is a site to behold at dawn and dusk. Try conquering the steep steps that lead to the top! The temple is open from 8.30 am to 5 pm and costs around 50 baht.
Wat Pho Wat Pho temple (Temple of Reclining Buddha), stands opposite Wat Arun and its just a matter of crossing the river through a boat. The 46 meters long reclining Buddha covered in gold leaf is a calming and peaceful sight. Apart from the structural elegance, the temple has a leading school of massages.
Other notable temples that you might want to visit are Wat Kalayanamit and Wat Phra Kaew to name a few. If you happen to be on a Chao Phraya Cruise in Bangkok gives you a glimpse of these sightings from the waters.
Asiatique can be a bit overwhelming for a first time visitor, but never a regrettable option. Since the place has everything you need under one roof and a place for some good bargains as well. A favourite amongst the tourists as well as locals, the bazaar is home to around 1500 boutiques and 40 odd restaurants. Additionally, the place has small vendors, walkways and massage places. This 28-acre market has four-sections, the factory district with modern lifestyle shopping, The Town Square District is a stretch of Thai restaurants and Western sports bars, The Chareonkrung District is a place to get Thai souvenirs and has a performing arts venue as well. The Waterfront District houses restaurants and venues for events.
Chinatown resonates the charms of old Bangkok and has a great mix of Thais and tourists visiting and having a good time. At Chinatown, you will never run out of things to see or do. The place beholds old Chinese temples, gold shops, rows of wooden shophouses, restaurants and markets stalls.
With Thailand's already existing reputation for entertainment, tourist's often want to know what the 'ping-pong shows' and the 'Lady Boy Shows' are like. Catch the Lady Boy cabaret at the Asiatique and those drop-dead gorgeous boys that everybody raves about.
Getting around some of the busy tourist spots beside the river is more than just fun when done Thai Style. Have you tried out a cycling tour? You sure will burn a few extra calories from all those savouring meals that you feast upon. Or maybe you should trade in a cab ride for a scooter. There are custom made tours where a guide will just guide you via a headset while you catch up on time to make it to many places around the river bank. As you move away from the riverside tours make sure to treat yourself to an open ride with a chauffeur-driven tuk-tuk which will cover a few river spots. This is a unique Asian experience.
You'll find ample places to eat and drink along the Chao Phraya River. There's nothing more refreshing than completing your day with a sip of cool beer facing the serene waters of the river. Besides, there are some fantastic live bands that perform as well. Jazz anybody?
Shopping is a frenzy in Bangkok and we already know or have heard about it. Try out and head to the local Thewet Market to experience the various flowers, fish and vegetable stalls and catch a glimpse of local life. it's a different kind of experience than regular shopping right?
The Chao Phraya Riverside is also a go-to place when the city's major events are happening. The 'Songkran' which is the Thai New Year in April and the annual 'Loy Krathong' Festival which occurs in November is a spectacular experience.
Well, we've gone through a list of things to do along the riverside but a trip without cruising the river and experiencing the views from aboard. It is another kind of experience. So book in your river cruise with Manohra Cruises and set sail to take a glimpse of the wonders of Bangkok whilst been spoilt aboard with champaign, lavish tea time savouries and delectable meals.
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