Roger Gary
As one of Bangkok's most urban areas Sukhumvit is home to some of the capital's top retail and dining hubs. From plush malls to Little Arabia the area's must-experience highlights are as follows.
With captivating views across Bangkok's Downtown area Benjakitti Park is one of the most picturesque attractions located down Sukhumvit Road. Spread out across 208,000m2 this iconic park is located cross the street from the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre. Encircling Lake Ratchada this lush green space is home to vast cycling tracks and jogging lanes that cover the park's entire land area. Other highlights include its charming fountain and performance stage which comes alive with musical and light shows during Loy Krathong and other local festivities. Paddle boats are also available while a fitness area and a skateboarding ramp is also part of the landscape.
Although Rama IX Park is the most expansive public green space in all of the Thai capital it is one of Bangkok's lesser known attractions. Constructed as early as 1987 to mark the 60th birthday of King Bhumibol this idyllic patch of green is home to a sprawling botanical garden as well as gardens modelled after major horticultural traditions of the world. A massive lake is also part of the property which offers a welcome respite from Bangkok's busy city landscapes. Visitors based in conveniently located Sukhumvit hotels such as The Westin Grande Sukhumvit Bangkok will enjoy easy access to the park.
As the headquarters of the country's Siam Society Kamthieng House is both an architectural marvel as well as culture epicentre down Sukhumvit Road. As a former 19th century stilted teak home that was transported from Ping River in Chiang Mai to the nation's capital in 1964 the venue is a popular museum space that is home to a variety of artefacts and relics from past centuries. The Lanna type gardens at the venue are equally impressive.
Tipped to be one of Bangkok's most curios art galleries Ardel's Third Place Gallery is located in a three-floored lot. As a premier hub for showcasing Thailand's contemporary art work the venue holds special exhibits through the year with a focus on local talent. Sculpture and installations are also on display at this contemporary art space which hosts photo exhibitions by well-known and upcoming photographers in the country.
Located within one of Bangkok's most popular beach clubs dubbed the Flow House, the Flow Rider is a thrilling wave riding experienced created by a wave generating machine. Ideal for families as well as group travellers the sport of flow riding combines elements of wakeboarding with surfing to provide an exhilarating experience that helps one stay fit and cool off on hot summer days.
Ideal for travel fanatics and culture buffs alike Terminal 21 in the downtown area of Bangkok offers a glimpse of the world's top cities in one all-encompassing location. As a concept based attraction visitors can stroll through the streets of Carnaby Street in London or go shopping in Tokyo before stopping over at a Souq in Istanbul for spices. San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf is also duplicated in this intriguing area which offers visitors a world of experiences in one location.
