Tag Archives: Chao Phraya Express

Bangkok

Chao Phraya Tourist Boat – One Day River Pass

Chao Phraya Tourist Boat, the fastest, most reliable transport in Bangkok; the special boat service to travel unlimited trips along the Chao Phraya River for tourism. Established in September 1971, the Chao Phraya Express Boat Co., Ltd is Bangkok’s biggest public water transportation provider with a total fleet size of 65 boats carrying around 35,000 to 40,000 passengers a day or 13.5 million passengers per year. The Chao Phraya Tourist Boat service provides tourists with the opportunity to see Bangkok from a whole new perspective, within one day, you can easily travel on high quantity boats from pier to pier without worrying about purchasing boat tickets or getting lost. Plus, you can visit many attractive tourist spots such as the temple of Dawn, and the great Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho. Tour guide on board to recommend tourist attraction throughout the trip.

Chao Phraya Tourist Boat – One Day River Pass

Chao Phraya Tourist Boat - One Day River Pass

Chao Phraya Tourist Boat - One Day River Pass

Chao Phraya Tourist Boat Tourists

Chao Phraya Tourist Boat

Route: Sathorn (Central) pier – Phra Arthit Pier (N13)
Services: Daily 9.30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Every 30 minutes from Sathorn Pier
Ticket: Adult 150 Baht, Children (Under 100 cm) 80 Baht
Comfortable with a large and secure boat
Valid for unlimited service per day
Free one handy guide book

Conditions:

1. One coupon per person.
2. The coupon is valid only on the travel date (the stamped date only), no refund.
3. Unauthorized duplication of the coupon is against Chao Phraya Tourist Boat regulations. Penalties will be applied accordingly.
4. Valid only for travel with “Chao Phraya Tourist Boat” for one day unlimited trips (without paying extra charges) within designated route from Sathorn (Central) Pier to Phra Arthit Pier, Asiatique Pier to Phra Arthit Pier.
5. Please have your ticket available at all time for inspection.

Chao Phraya Tourist Boat Piers

Chao Phraya Sathorn (Central) Pier

The Chao Phraya Tourist Boat provides service to 8 piers, which in turn give access to Bangkok’s most famous attractions many of which are in the Rattanakosin Island Historic Area which was settled during the Thonburi and Rattanakosin eras. Old temples, palaces and communities along the Chao Phraya River banks tell us that the Chao Phraya River has provided livelihood for the people and has led to the birth of a civilization. The journey starts from the Sathorn (Central) Pier adjacent to Saphan Taksin BTS Station (S6) and proceeds up the river, stopping at 8 pier and returns back to Sathorn (Central) Pier on the same route. You can freely get on and off at any pier to explore the beauty of sites in surrounding areas. Piers served by the Chao Phraya Tourist Boat are listed below:

– Sathorn (Central) Pier
– The Oriental Pier (N1)
– Si Phraya Pier (N3)
– Ratchawongse Pier (N5)
– Tha Tien Pier (N8)
– Maharaj Pier (N★)
– Wang Lang (Siriraj) Pier (N10)
– Phra Athit Pier (N13)

Where to buy

Chao Phraya Express Boat Co., Ltd.
– Sathorn (Central) Pier – Saphan Taksin BTS Station
– Phra Arthit Pier

Saphan Taksin BTS Station

Take BTS SkyTrain Silom Line and get off at Saphan Taksin BTS Station (S6), Exit 1.

Saphan Taksin BTS Station (S6), Exit 1

Saphan Taksin BTS Station (S6), Exit 1

Chao Phraya Tourist Boat Counter

Single trip ticket/one way ticket is available on the boat, 40 Baht per trip. Valid only for travel with “Chao Phraya Tourist Boat” from Sathorn Pier to Phra Arthit Pier, Asiatique Pier to Phra Arthit Pier.

Chao Phraya Tourist Boat - Single trip ticket

Long Tail Boat Service

Chao Phraya Long Tail Boat Service Counter

Chao Phraya Long Tail Boat Service

If you are interested, you may take Long Tail Boat Service (Sightseeing Canals Tour) for the places below:

Package A:
Sathorn > Klong Dao Khanong > Snake Farm > Temple of Dawn > Klong Bangkok Yai > Sathorn (1½ hour)

Package B:
Sathorn > Klong Mon > Thai Houses > Klong Chak Phra > Tailing Chan Floating Market > Klong Bangkok Noi > Royal Barges Museum > Wat Arun > Sathorn (2 hours)

Package C:
Sathorn > Klong Dao Khanong > Snake Farm > Orchid Farm > Tailing Chan Floating Market > Royal Barges Museum > Klong Bangkok Noi > Wat Arun > Sathorn (3½ hour)

Hotel Shuttle Boat

Chao Phraya Hotel Shuttle Boat

– Ramada Plaze Menam Riverside
– Millennium Hilton Bangkok
– Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa
– The Peninsula Bangkok
– Mandarin Oriental Bangkok

Chao Phraya Travel Guide: Travel along the Chao Phraya River

Bangkok, the City of Angels. The Chao Phraya River, the River of Kings. The Chao Phraya River plays many roles in Thai life, in fact it is regarded as the principal artery of the nation. Much of Thai history can be traced along the bands of the Chao Phraya River. As it flows, the river carries with it the history and culture of the country. Many attractions are to be found at the numerous piers along this historic river. From the magnificent Temple of Dawn to the fascinating Museum of Siam and from the vibrant flower market to the spectacular Grand Palace, this guide tells you what to see, where to go and, perhaps most importantly, how to get there using The Chao Phraya Tourist Boat. It’s also packed with useful information from travel tips and departure times to where to try some delicious Thai delicacies.

Sathorn (Central) Pier

Jieow Eng Bieow Shrine

The shrine was erected 150 years ago, though the exact reason for its construction is a little unclear. One story tells that it was built to commemorate 108 Chinese merchants who set sail from Siam to Vietnam to trade, only to be mistaken for pirates and killed. When their relatives found out, they traveled to Vietnam to invite those souls back home to stay at the purpose built shrine. Another legend claims that the 108 souls who perished were actually Chinese monks. Whatever the true tale, those travelling by water still come here to make offerings and pray for a safe passage to their destination.

How to get there:
Walk from the pier towards the BTS and the shrine is situated on your left hand side.

Wat Yannawa

Known as the “Boat Temple,” Wat Yannawa was originally built in the early 19th century during the Ayutthaya Period and was initially called Wat Kok Krabue. The name was changed to Wat Yannawa when King Rama III ordered the temple renovated and a new pagoda was built to resemble a Chinese junk. It served as a reminder to Thai people of the ships that had helped promote trade and prosperity and brought many Chinese immigrants to the country.

How to get there:
From Sathorn (Central) Pier walk to Charoen Krung Road. Turn right and walk around 100 meters. It’s between Soi 52 and 54 on your right hand side. Open daily 8.00 a.m. to 9.00 p.m.

Lebuh Hotel at State Tower

Sirocco (63/F of the Dome, Lebua Hotel at State Tower) is one of the world’s highest alfresco restaurants and bars. Offering Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and sundowner cocktails, it recently had a starring role in the hit US movie The Hangover II. It’s worth the dizzying journey up in the lift (and the high prices) for the breathtaking views over the city and the river from the vertiginous sky bar. Please note no flip flops, vest tops or shorts allowed and it’s really not for those who suffer from vertigo!

How to get there:
Walk from the Sathorn (Central) Pier to Charoen Krung Road and turn right until you reach the junction with Silom Road. The hotel sits on the right hand corner of the intersection. Open daily 6.00 p.m. to 1.00 a.m. (last order at 11.30 p.m.)

Thai Treats:
There are three famous grilled duck with rice restaurants in this area, Saenyod, Prajak and Charoenviang. The easiest one to get to is Prajak. Walk from Sathorn (Central) Pier then turn left and cross Chareon Krung Road. Turn left again and the shophouse restaurant is on your right.

The Oriental Pier (N1)

Mandarin Oriental Hotel

Not only one of the Bangkok’s most luxurious hotels it also boasts the richest history. For over 130 years it has been serving visitors to the city. Since it first opened its doors in 1879, it has played host to various famous guests from David Beckham and Michael Jackson to the Prince and Princess of Wales and George W. Bush. It’s particularly famed for its literary visitors like Somerset Maugham, Joseph Conrad and Noel Coward. They are remembered in the original Author’s Wing, where visitors can still enjoy high tea in the beautiful colonial style lounge.

How to get there:
The hotel is at the pier.

Shangri-La Hotel and Peninsula Hotel

The Oriental is not the only luxury hotel along the banks of the river. Right next door to the Oriental is the five-star Shangri La Hotel, well known for its daily high tea, especially on Sundays when you get to enjoy the flamboyant ballroom dancers and live classical music. On the opposite bank is the Peninsula Hotel whose unique w-shaped design ensures that all rooms have a river view. The Peninsula is popular for its riverside brunch every Sunday from Nov to Feb.

How to get there:
The Shangri-La Hotel and the Peninsula Hotel can both be reached by private ferry from Central Pier.

Si Phraya Pier (N3)

Holy Rosary Church

Standing out amid all the glittering Buddhist temples, the simple clean spire and muted cream colors of the Holy Rosary Church are a reminder of the trade between the Portuguese and Siam in the 18th century. Built in 1786, four years after Bangkok was founded, it was constructed on land given by King Rama I and is one of Bangkok’s oldest places of Christian worship.

How to get there:
Turn left at the exit from the pier, walk past River City, and head into Soi Wanit 2 for about 80 meters. The church is on your left. Open Monday to Friday from 8.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.

Siam Commercial Bank (Thailand’s First Bank)

The banking sector in Thailand was the brainchild of Prince Mahisara Rachaharuthai, a brother of the then monarch, King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), who started the first local bank in 1906. This building was the site of that first bank, which was originally called a “Book Club.” The building is still the site of a commercial bank and is famous for its classic European-style architecture.

How to get there:
Turn left at the exit from the pier, walk past River City, and head into Soi Wanit 2, the bank is located on the left hand side. Open 9.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m.

River City

Sat right on the banks of the river this high-end shopping mall is a great spot to hunt for unique souvenirs, antiques and art, as well as being the main departure point for many of the popular night time cruising tours. It’s also home to a number of top restaurants and coffee shops where you can refuel and enjoy the views.

How to get there:
Turn left from the pier and walk past the Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel. Open daily 10.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m.

Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel

Recently renovated, this five-star property boasts 726 rooms and two pools. Those who enjoy dinner with a view and breeze should check out their riverside restaurant Sambal, which serves up an intriguing mix of South East Asian dishes.

How to get there:
Located right next to the pier.

Millennium Hilton Hotel

It’s hard to miss this towering structure with the UFO-like structure at its very top. The luxury hotel offers amazing river views from the ThreeSixty Lounge situated on the 32nd floor, or you can enjoy traditional and contemporary Thai dance and theatre at their Thai restaurant, Maya.

How to get there:
Take a cross-river ferry or use the hotel’s private ferry from Sathorn (Central) Pier.

Wat Traimit Wittayaram

Home to the world’s largest golden Buddha image, the 3-meter, 5-ton Phra Buddha Maha Suwanna Patimakorn, this white marble temple is often seen as the gateway to Chinatown proper. After paying your respects at the temple don’t miss the Yaowarat Chinatown Heritage Center which offers a fascinating insight into the neighborhood and offers a history of the early Chinese immigrants to Bangkok.

How to get there:
From the pier turn left onto Charoen Krung Road. Cross the road and keep walking until you pass Soi Charoen Krung 27, the temple and center are in the next road. The walk is around 30 minutes. Or save some time by jumping in a taxi or tuk-tuk. Open daily 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Thai Treats:
Take a ferry boat to Klong San pier and explore Bangkok’s vibrant street food scene. Don’t miss one of most famous shops in town, Bua Loy Khai Khem (Block E 5/2) Open daily 1.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. Prices for their delicious desserts start from 15 Baht.

Ratchawongse Pier (N5)

Wat Mangkon Kamalawat

The temple, whose name means dragon lotus, was built in the reign of King Rama V in 1871. It was the first, and remains the most important, Chinese temple in Bangkok, especially during important festivals such as Chinese New Year and the annual Vegetarian festival in September-October. The temple is usually bustling with worshippers making offerings to their ancestors amid the heady scents of incense and the smoky light from the ever-burning oil lamps. Offering oil is believed to provide a smooth journey into the afterlife and to fuel the fire of the present life. The temple actually contains Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian shrines, representing the diverse religious heritage found in Chinatown.

How to get there:
From Rachawongse Pier, walk up Ratchawongse Road and turn right on to Charoen Krung Road. Continue walking until you reach Mangkon Road, then turn left for 100 meters to find Wat Mangkol Kamalawat. Open daily 6.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m.

Chinatown (Yaowaraj)

The first place many Chinese immigrants settled on arrival in Bangkok, this remains the center for the Thai-Chinese population and continues to be a thriving business quarter and trading neighborhood. The path of the central Yaowaraj Road, which bisects the area is said to resemble a dragon’s curvy body, making it an auspicious location for business. From the colorful lights of the gold shops to the traditional food and from the healing herbs and spices found in the Chinese medicine stores to the ancient tea shops, there are plentiful glimpses of traditional Thai-Chinese culture. If you can, go at night to sample the sights, sounds and delicious street food.

How to get there:
Walk along Ratchawongse Road for 500 meters, to reach the intersection of Yaowaraj Road.

Thai Treats:
The dried pork at Yaowaraj is popular as a snack or eaten with rice. Try it at the famous Lim Ngi Hieng (situated between Yaowaraj Sois 4-6) Open daily 9.00 a.m. to 9.00 p.m. Their Chinese sweet pork sausage is also very tasty.

Phahurat (Indian) Market

Better known as Thailand’s Little India, the market is the place to come for all manner fabrics from cottons to silks in every conceivable pattern and color. The site originally belonged to King Rama V’s daughter, Princess Bahurada Manimaya, but was given to the community when she passed away. The road was named after her before the neighborhood became home to Sikh immigrants who established a thriving textile trading center that remains to this day.

How to get there:
Walk straight along Ratchawongse Road for 350 meters. Turn left on to Soi Wanit 1 and continue walking straight into Trok Hua Med until you hit Phahurat Road. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9.30 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.

Sampheng Market

Sampheng market initially started in the reign of King Rama I and was the first trading center for the earliest Chinese immigrants. Today it is the oldest and biggest wholesale market in Bangkok. Here visitors can enjoy the unique hustle and bustle as traders go about their business among the narrow lanes while shopping for pretty much anything you could think from Chinese medicine to clothes and toys to kitchen tools, all at super cheap wholesale prices.

How to get there:
Turn left on to Soi Shun Lee and then right onto Ratchawongse Road. Walk for another five minutes until you reach Soi Wanit 1 where you will see the busy market on your right. Open daily 2.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Tha Tien Pier (N8)

Wat Pho

Located next to the Grand Palace, Wat Pho is one of the oldest, largest and definitely most significant temples in Bangkok. The royal monastery is perhaps best known for the 46-meter-long Reclining Buddha housed in its Ordination Hall. Wat Pho has also traditionally been a place of education especially for Thai medicine and massage. These days visitors can still enjoy a Thai traditional massage at the school located in the grounds.

How to get there:
From Tha Tien Pier, walk straight to the main road, Maharaj Road and turn right. The temple is on your left. Visitors must wear polite dress. Shorts and short sleeves are not allowed. 100 Baht entrance fee. Open daily 6.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

For more info: Temple of Reclining Buddha Bangkok | How to get to Wat Pho

Wat Arun

One of the most symbolic landmarks in Bangkok, the majestic prang (or Khmer style tower) of the Temple of Dawn dominates the skyline on the Nonthaburi bank of the Chao Phraya river.

Construction on the prang first began in the reign of King Rama II (1809-1824) and was completed by King Rama III (1824-1851). The central tower is 76 meters high, is decorated by thousands of tiny seashells and pieces of Chinese porcelain and is protected by an array of demons and monkeys. Arun means morning and the temple is best viewed at dawn or sunset from the opposite river bank.

How to get there:
Take a ferry across the river to Tha Rue Wat Arun Pier. Ferries run from 5.00 a.m. to 11.00 p.m. The fee is 3 Baht.

Flower Market (Pak Klong Talad)

Originally a fish market during the King Rama I period, it began to solely focus on flowers when the fish traders moved elsewhere during the reign of King Rama V. Today Pak Klong Talad is the largest wholesale and retail flower market in Bangkok and is home to every color and type of flower imaginable. If you can, the best time to go is between 2.00 a.m. to 4.00 a.m., when the day’s deliveries are arriving ad retailers from all over town come to pick the very best bunches.

How to get there:
Walk straight and then turn right at the intersection into Maharaj Road. Walk along for around 800 meters until you reach Chakpet Road where the market is located. Open 24 hours.

Tha Tien Market

Due to its location Tha Tien was originally called Thay Wang Market (the market behind the palace) and was a big trading, transport and cultural center during the late 18th century. However, a major fire saw the area get its new name (tien means being leveled to the ground) and it suffered a decline in importance. Nowadays, Tha Tien Market is famous for its dry fish and seafood stalls and the chance to see its numerous traditional Rattanakosin-period shophouses, many of which are now home to quaint cafes and restaurants.

How to get there:
From Tha Tien Pier, walk straight ahead around 50 meters and the turn right at the Thay Wang-Maharaj Intersection. The market is located along Maharaj Road. Open daily 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Museum of Siam

Opened in December, 2007, The Museum of Siam might be set in a former palace that previously housed the Ministry of Commerce but it is a very modern interpretation of a museum. The main focus is an interactive, audio visual driven exhibition entitled “The Story of Thailand,” which traces the history of the country from its ancient empires up until the present day, focusing on major events and the cultural, religious and political changes that have taken place. The museum also features regularly rotating exhibitions and events.

How to get there:
From Tha Tien Pier, walk straight to Maharaj Road, turn right and walk along the road for about 600 meters. The museum is on your left. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. Tickets: Students older than 15 years old, 50 Baht. Thai adults, 100 Baht. Foreigners, 300 Baht.

Thai Treats:
As Tha Tien is a center for dried seafood of every type you would be remiss not to try something. Those brave enough should grab some dried shrimps, one of the most important ingredients for Somtam Thai and also Pad Thai.

Maharaj Pier (N★)

The Grand Palace

Construction of this stunning Bangkok landmark began in 1782 when King Rama I decided to move his capital across the river from Thonburi. Based on the same plan as his previous palace, it then served as the residence of the first kings of the current Chakri Dynasty and is now divided into three main quarters. The highlights include the Chakri Mahaprasat Hall, nicknamed the ‘Westerner with the Thai hat’ due to its combination of Western-style architecture and traditional Thai-style roof; the Dusit Mahaprasat Hall, which is said to be a model of Thai royal architecture thanks to its breathtakingly beautifully interior design; and Wat Phra Kaeo.

How to get there:
Turn right, go straight for 300 meters and turn left on to Nah Phra Lan Road. The Palace and the temple entrance are on your right. No sleeveless shirt, shorts, mini-skirts or flip-flops, though clothes are available for rent. Tickets for the Palace and Temple are 500 Baht (foreigners). Open daily 8.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. but the palace hall is only open on weekdays. Free tours English are available at 10.00 a.m., 10.30 a.m., 1.30 p.m. and 2.00 p.m.

Slipa Bhirashi National Museum

Created to remember Silpa Bhirashi the Italian-born sculptor, known as the father of modern Thai art, one section contains his sculptures and artifacts while the other contains pieces by leading artists he inspired. Open Monday to Friday from 8.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. The Fine Arts Department, Silpakorn University, Na Pra Lan Rd.

Wat Phra Kaeo

Situated in the compound of the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaeo, better known as the temple of the Emerald Buddha, was built as a royal temple when Bangkok was founded in 1782. The most important building in the temple grounds is the ordination hall, or ubosot, which houses the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most revered religious icon. Exquisitely carved from a single block of jade, the icon’s seasonal robes are changed three times a year by His Majesty the King, a very important tradition believed to bring the country good fortune. You also shouldn’t miss the exquisite mural paintings on the walls of the corridor enclosing the Palace area which depicts the classic story of Thai literature, the Ramakhien.

Bangkok National Museum

Formerly part of Wang Na Palace, these ornate pavilions have been home to the royal collection of King Rama IV and other objects of historical interest since 1926. The museum houses three permanent exhibitions: the gallery of Thai history starting from the Sukothai period, the Archaeological and Art History Collections and the Decorative Arts and Ethnological Gallery.

How to get there:
Go straight to Maharaj road then turn left. Walk until you come to Prachan Road then turn right. At Nah Prathat Road turn left and go straight for 200 meters. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. Closed holidays. Tickets 30 Baht for Thai, 250 Baht for foreigners. Tours in English available at 9.30 a.m. on Wednesday and Thursday.

City Pillar Shrine

The original city pillar was built when Bangkok became Thailand’s capital in 1782. It was constructed based on the Brahmin belief that the establishment of the pillar in a favorable position would bring the city food fortune. After the original pillar fell into disrepair, King Rama IV had a new one made from teakwood and Javanese Cassia and had an accompanying shrine constructed to house both the new and old pillars.

How to get there:
Go straight until you reach Maharaj Road. Turn right, walk along the road before turning left into Nah Pralan Road. Go straight, past the intersection and you’ll be on Lak Mueng Road. The City Pillar Shrine is on your left. Open daily 5.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.

Tha Prachan Amulet Market

Tha Prachan is considered the largest and oldest amulet market in Bangkok. Many Thai Buddhists believe that these religious talismans, often containing images of the Buddha or sacred objects and usually worn around the neck, have special properties of protection and good luck. The market spans an area running from Tha Prachan Pier to Silpakorn University and covers everything related to the sacred objects, from amulet trading centers and decoration services to amulet pawn shops and mini book stores on the subject.

How to get there:
Turn left from the pier and the shops are spread along Maharaj Road. Open daily 8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Wang Lang (Siriraj) Pier (N10)

The Royal Barge Museum

Before recent urbanization, Bangkok was known as the Venice of the East thanks to its extensive network of klongs, interconnecting the city with the river and making water travel the quickest way for everyone to get around. The royal barges, used by Thailand’s monarchy for centuries are suitably ornate. Carved out of giant pieces of teak, gilded with gold and with prows depicting different mythical creatures they need up to 50 rowers to propel them through the water. The museum, which opened to public in 1974, features eight of the barges which are still used in ceremonial events like the Royal Barge Procession.

How to get there:
Walk straight from the pier to Arunamarin Road, then turn right and cross the bridge. Turn right and follow the signs to the museum. Open daily 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Ticket: 100 Baht for foreigner. 20 Baht for Thai.

Top tip:
You can buy a set of tickets at 350 Baht for foreigners and 60 Baht for Thais to get into three museums: Bangkok National Museum, Royal Barge Museum and The National Gallery.

Thai Treats:
The fried pork that can be eaten with rice or sticky rice is incredibly popular there. Walk along the main alley of the market and the Moo Tod Chao Wang (royal fried pork) will be on your right. Open Monday to Saturday from 9.30 a.m. to 6.00 p.m.

Phra Athit Pier (N13)

Khao San Road

Established almost 150 years ago, Khao San Road was originally the site of a “milled rice” (Khaosan) market. Nowadays, it has been transformed into a popular destination to shop and hang out for tourists, thanks to the numerous street stalls, cheap guest houses, cafes and laid back bars and clubs that line both sides of the road and the surrounding streets. From hair braiding to funky tees to second hand books it might be a backpacker’s heaven but it’s also popular with locals who come to enjoy the bohemian vibe and watch the tourists at play.

How to get there:
From the pier walk to Phra Arthit Road and then turn left. Follow the road past Phra Sumane Fort and continue another 300 meters to the intersection with Chakrabongse Road. Cross Chakrabongse Road then turn right and walk about 350 meters, Khao San Road is on your left.

Phra Sumane Fort

This stocky citadel overlooking the river was constructed in 1783 by King Rama I and was originally built to protect the city from invasion. One of only two that still remain from a network of forts it was renovated in 1981. The area around the fort is now a park called Suan Santichaiprakarn and it is a popular destination for those looking to escape the crowds. The park plays host regular events, including the Bangkok Theater Festival held every November.

How to get there:
Walk to Phra Arthit Road then turn left. The park is just 100 meters away. Open daily 6.00 a.m. to 9.00 p.m.

Phra Arthit Road

Lesser known than it’s more famous neighbor Khao San, Phra Arthit offers a more laidback vibe. Formerly a center of politics and art during the early days of the city it now boasts numerous restaurants, cute cafes and hip bars, set in beautiful old shop houses that retain many period details and authentic wooden shutters.

How to get there:
From the pier walk straight to the main road. The first road you see is Phra Arthit Road.

Banglumpoo Market

The area was originally famous for the many fireflies that lived in the Lumpoo trees that grew in the area. Formerly a major trading center the bustling market atmosphere remains thanks to the amazing array of street food – try the traditional pastry of patong ko savoey or the noodle based jira yentafo – and the many quaint and affordable guest houses.

How to get there:
Follow the directions to Khao San Road and then explore the adjacent streets.

Riva Surya:
Opened in 2012, this boutique hotel boasts a location right on the riverfront in the heart of this historic area. Making use of lots of dark woods, it features a ‘tropical colonial vibe. Try bistro dining option Babble and Rum. 23 Phra Arthit Rd.

Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall

Also known as Nitasrattanakosin this impressive building was renovated in 2008, to help fulfill King Rama V’s original objective of creating Thailand’s very own version of the Champ Elysees in Rachadamnoen Road. The exhibition center traces the history of the city from the late 18th century to the present day. Don’t miss the stunning view over the Old City from the rooftop.

How to get there:
Exit Phra Arthit Pier then turn left. Go past Phra Sumane Fort on your left then walk along Phra Sumane Road for about 1.3 km. Turn right at the intersection of Rachadamnoen Glarng Road and the hall is around 100 meters down on the other side of the street. Open Tuesday to Friday from 11.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m., Saturday to Sunday from 10.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m. Adults 100 Baht, Children 30 Baht.

National Theatre

The first official National Theater of Thailand was built in 1961 after Silpakorn Theater, traditionally used for Thai cultural performances, burnt down. The National Theater typically presents showcases of Thai Khon (masked dance) and other traditional cultural performances.

How to get there:
Turn right at Phra Arthit Road and walk along the river before going under Pinklao Bridge, Turn left at Rachini Road and walk towards Sanam Luang. Turn right and the National Theatre is on the right. Open Monday to Friday from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.

Evening sightseeing along the river with Chao Phraya Tourist Boat

Chao Phraya Evening Sightseeing

Chao Phraya Evening Sightseeing

Chao Phraya River The Temple of Dawn

Chao Phraya Tourist Boat invites you to join a cruise along Chao Phraya River to experience the exquisite scenery of various tourist attractions decorated with ravishing night light, including 5-star hotels along the river – Oriental Hotel, Shangri-La Hotel, Peninsula Hotel, etc. – as well as riverside temples – The Temple of Dawn and Kalayanamitr Temple. You will also spot one of the most memorable view of the Grand Palace.

Chao Phraya River Night View

Chao Phraya River Cruise

Chao Phraya River Cruise Princess

Chao Phraya River Cruise