Joanna James
The Old Town of Bangkok is home to some of the city's iconic attractions – the Wat Pho and Golden Palace for example. But there is more, and some attractions you should not miss! Read this article to discover must-see attractions in Old Town, Bangkok.
The Bangkok National Museum is located within the premises of the Front Palace, which is also called the Bowon Sathan Mongkon Palace. This illustrious building is located in front of the more popular Grand Palace and was once the residence for officials noted as second to the king. There you will find the Phutthaisawan Royal Residence, which is the most prominent building in the complex. It is home to a revered Buddha statue the Phra Phuttha Sihing, which was a gift from Sri Lanka. For easy access to the best sites in Old Town Bangkok, choose accommodation at a hotel in Asoke; the area offers easy access to the best attractions in Bangkok and is located close to top shopping malls in Bangkok. Popular options include Avani Atrium Bangkok.
This striking building is an iconic landmark in Bangkok. The colour, apart from the vintage architecture of the building, is a marvellous amalgamation of Khmer, Thai, and Gothic architectural styles. The building served as a crematorium for the crown prince Maha Vajirunhis but was transformed into a library later. It now functions as a museum about the life of King Rama V.
This well-kept street is quite unlike the hustle and bustle of a typical road in Bangkok. The buildings there boast classical architectural styles. The Ministry of Defence building boasts neo-classical architectural stylings. The Royal Thai Survey Department is housed in a building displaying Romany style pillars and stucco tracery. The road too is named after an American diplomat and the Thai name is awarded to him.
The Loha Prasat is designed on the same lines as a magnificent palace that once stood in Sri Lanka. The name translates to 'metal-roofed castle'. And in keeping to its name, the building is a beautiful structure of 37 gold gilded spires. Each one of them symbolises a virtue displayed by the Buddha. Inside are more images of the Buddha as well as a spiral stairwell that takes you to the lookout point at the top of the building. From there you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the Old Town and its prominent landmarks.
This gateway or arch displays a western-style design. It is quite an unusual landmark in the city but fascinating to observe. It's as high as a two-story building and comprises stained-glass panels at the summit, which also features an almost life-size figure of a woman holding up a lantern. This gate served as the entrance to the palace of Prince Thongthaem – child of King Rama IV, who commissioned the construction of the gate.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
