Five Short Things to do in Bangkok – Explore Thai Capital in a Limited Time

Known as Wat Chaeng by the locals, Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn is a majestic temple that is situated on the west Chao Phraya river bank. It is popular not only for its scenic location but also for its unique design that has diverted from the other temples you can see at the Thai capital. Its façade is made of decorative spires. One hour at the right time in this temple is more than enough to be spellbound by its stunning sunset. Although Wat Arun is called the temple of the dawn, it is particularly breathtaking at sunset, since it lights up as the sun goes down. While King Taksin envisioned the temple, it was later decorated with porcelain spires that sparkle in the sunshine by King Rama III.

Looking over from the banks of Chao Phraya River is Thonburi, the ancient capital of Thailand. Although it was merged with Bangkok in 1972, it has evaded the modern development that can be observed elsewhere in the city. A part of its historical ambience is contributed by Thonburi's human-made network of canals or khlongs. Only narrowboats can navigate across these canals, which only measure up to a width of six metres. For an authentic experience on how people used to go about their daily lives in the past, it is recommended that you hire a longtail speedboat or a hang yao, from a tourist pier such as Taksin or Rivercity. During your tour in Khlong Mon, you can look forward to observing old teak houses alternating with modern townhomes, majestic temples, and the odd crumbling shack. You'd also see monks and people getting about their daily lives during your Khlong Tour.

The spectacular Grand Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bangkok. Located close to several Bangkok city hotels the likes of Avani Atrium Bangkok, it's a must-visit site for anyone who visits the capital of the Land of Smiles. Built during the late 1700s, it was the royal residence of the Thai King, the Royal Court, and the administrative seat for over a decade. Anyone who visits this magnificent building falls in love with its splendid architecture, including detailed patterns and intricate carvings. On the same site, one can visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha or the Wat Phra Kaew. It is famous as the Wat Phra and houses the highly-revered Buddha's carving that is fashioned out of a single block of jade. When visiting this site, keep in mind to dress modestly by covering from shoulders to the knee as a sign of respect for these sacred sites.

Shopping in a Chinatown, especially in one that is as large as Bangkok's Chinatown, has a timeless ambience to it, offering a contrasting shopping adventure from the ones you may experience in the high-end shopping malls in Bangkok. In this Chinatown Market, where tradition swirls in the air, one can stroll down alleyways and find themselves lost in the past as merchants continue to sell the same specialised products that their fathers used to sell, ages ago. Here you can find a fascinating array of trinkets and other merchandise at really low prices; however, bargaining is recommended to get the best deals. Don't forget to taste something from the delectable array of Bangkok's famous street food at this place as well.

Combining two of the star shopping adventures in Bangkok – the mall and the night market – the Asiatique Riverfront offers an unparalleled shopping experience to its visitors. It can be tracked if you walk ten minutes down the river from Saphan Taksin BTS Station. Historically it has been an international trading port, which is now converted into a vast complex that is neatly stacked with over 1500 boutique shops and 40 restaurants, out of which you can find anything you want by following a map.