Experience Bangkok with a Difference - Underrated things to do

Start your day in Bangkok with a serene and peaceful experience by witnessing the sunrise over the Chao Phraya River. One of the best spots to catch the sunrise is at Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn which is an easy drive away from hotels like Gardina Asoke. This iconic temple, with its stunning spires and intricate details, looks magical as the first light of the day illuminates it. Arriving early not only allows you to enjoy the tranquillity but also gives you a chance to explore the temple grounds without the usual crowds. Watching the city wake up from the quiet banks of the river provides a refreshing contrast to Bangkok’s usual hustle and bustle.

Bangkok is famous for its street food, but to truly experience it, embark on a guided street food tour. These tours take you beyond the popular stalls and introduce you to hidden gems known only to locals. This is a rather pleasant change for tourists who have been dining at a Bangkok hotel in Sukhumvit throughout their stay. Whether you’re sampling spicy som tam (papaya salad), savoury pad Thai, or sweet mango sticky rice, each dish tells a story of Bangkok’s diverse culinary heritage. Guided tours often include visits to bustling night markets and lesser-known neighbourhoods, offering a more authentic taste of Bangkok. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the ingredients and cooking techniques that make Thai cuisine so distinctive.

While Bangkok’s temples are spectacular during the day, exploring them by night offers a completely different experience. The Wat Pho temple, home to the reclining Buddha, is beautifully illuminated in the evenings, creating a serene and almost mystical atmosphere. Without the daytime crowds, you can enjoy a more intimate and reflective visit. Another temple to consider visiting at night is Wat Saket, also known as the Golden Mount. Climbing to the top offers stunning panoramic views of the city lights below. Night-time temple visits provide a unique perspective on Bangkok’s spiritual side, enhanced by the tranquility of the evening.

For those who enjoy the unusual and offbeat, a visit to Bangkok’s Airplane Graveyard is a must. Located in the Ramkhamhaeng area, this site features the remains of several decommissioned aeroplanes, including a massive Boeing 747. The aeroplanes have been stripped of their interiors, creating an eerie yet fascinating landscape. The graveyard is also home to a few families who have made the aircraft their homes. Visiting this site offers a stark contrast to Bangkok’s polished tourist attractions and provides an insight into the lives of those living on the fringes of society. It’s an adventurous outing that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Experience a different kind of relaxation with a blind perception massage at one of Bangkok’s specialized spas. These massages are performed by visually impaired therapists who have honed their sense of touch to deliver deeply therapeutic treatments. The concept behind these massages is that the lack of sight enhances the therapist’s ability to detect muscle tension and provide more effective relief. Not only does this offer a unique spa experience, but it also supports the visually impaired community by providing them with meaningful employment. A blind perception massage is a truly unique way to unwind and recharge while contributing to a good cause.