Joanna James
In the widely vibrant metropolis of Thailand, Bangkok also has a side to the city that is not as lively and explored. Unleash your inner adventurer and mystery seeker and set out to explore some of the city's abandoned buildings and sites that make for some unorthodox tourist attractions in Bangkok.
The Sathorn Unique Tower, popularly known as the Ghost Tower, is bound to be high on the list for any curious mystery explorer in Bangkok. The 49-storey skyscraper stands tall in Sathon, Bangkok, soaring high into the azure blue and affording breathtaking views of the Chao Phraya River and the glimmering Bangkok skyline. It is a pity the high-rise has fallen into the misfortune it is today because had everything been all palmy for the Sathorn Unique Tower, it would have been the home to a host of luxury condominiums.
With its origins dating back to the late 19th century, the Bang Rak Fire Station, now abandoned, was originally constructed as a customs house before being transformed into a fire station. Unlike most other forsaken buildings scattered throughout Bangkok, what draws avid explorers to this site is its remarkable architectural magnificence and the serene riverside location. Characterised by a neo-renaissance architectural style, the Bang Rak Fire Station possesses a unique and captivating charm. Enhanced by the enchanting ambience of the Chao Phraya River, this extraordinary location exudes an otherworldly atmosphere that is undeniably worthy of capturing memorable and visually stunning Instagram moments.
Similar in structure to the aforementioned Ghost Tower but not as popular, ICE Tower is another abandoned high-rise occupying some prime real estate in the Din Daeng District of Bangkok City. At 37 storeys high, the view of the cityscape is just as stunning as you'd expect but access is not easy and not advisable as well as you would be technically trespassing on private property that is not designated an open tourist attraction. On the whole, it is up to the curiosity-struck explorers to decide whether to take up the challenge.
Graveyards, regardless of where they are, have this drab and dingy feeling to them, and the aeroplane graveyard, despite being in a city as lively as Bangkok, is no exception. While it may give avid explorers the impression that it is home to a host of dead aeroplanes, visitors should know that only two Boeing 747s and two other smaller planes make up the graveyard, which are now homes to the homeless.
Chalerm La Park, set between Ratchathewi and Siam BTS, is certainly a more appealing site even to the common tourist thanks to the slew of striking graffiti and murals that cover the walls of the knocked-down buildings that surround the park. Treat your eyes to the pleasing combination of colour, art and creativity and retreat to a fine serviced apartment in Bangkok the likes of Chatrium Residence Riverside Bangkok.
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