Bangkok is Famous for its vibrant street markets, impressive cultural and religious landmarks, mouthwatering Thai food, and colorful festivals like Songkran.
Bangkok is the renowned capital city of Thailand, located on the Chao Phraya River delta in Central Thailand. Locals call it Krung Thep, which is a shorter version of its 168-letter full name!
Nicknamed ‘The Big Mango’ after the national fruit Bangkok is famous for, the cosmopolitan city has huge shopping districts and commerce. With a population of over 11 million, the chaotic city is peppered with exciting attractions.
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What Is Bangkok Known For?
Bangkok is famous for its visually striking temples, bustling cultural districts and streets, as well as a warm climate. It is also a city heavy on relaxation, admired for its indulgent foods and relaxing massages. Besides this, Bangkok is known for its social scene, whether this is a night in Chinatown or exploring the seemingly never-ending markets.
History, Culture, And Traditions Bangkok Is Famous For
Real Name
A fun fact about Bangkok is that it has the longest name in the world:
Krungthepmahanakhon Amonrattanakosin Mahinthara Yutthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udom Ratchaniwet Mahasathan Amonphiman Awatansathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukamprasi.
It is no wonder that we refer to it as simply ‘Bangkok,’ or as the residents call it, ‘Krung thep’. There are also several nicknames, such as Venice of The East because of the extensive sinking and flooding, as well as City of Angels – this is due to the translation of the city name.
Unique Laws
Thailand is famous for having reverence for its monarchy, and as a result, some strange laws are obeyed. If you are visiting Bangkok, be sure to brush up on them.
Since 1908, it has been illegal to disrespect the royal family, be critical of them, or question them. You are also banned from driving a vehicle shirtless or leaving the house without wearing underwear!
Furthermore, you cannot step on the Thai flag or the Thai currency, baht.
Thai Massage
The equipment is the main difference between a regular and a Thai massage. The massage table is spared, and instead, a mat is placed on the floor. Hence this allows for the masseuse to use a variety of techniques using flexibility that would otherwise be tricky to perform.
Thai massage is famous in Bangkok as it aims to improve blood circulation and lymph flow as well as reduce toxins. And, not forgetting that it is insanely affordable compared to other countries.
Poses include the assisted bow, thigh stretch, and hip lift.
Songkran Festival
One of the main festivals Bangkok is known for is Songkran, a national holiday that is celebrated on April 13th. However, the festivities continue for three more days.
This water festival celebrates an array of things. For one, it marks the Thai New Year based on the Buddhist calendar. Activities include splashing water over monks and submersing figures of the Buddha. But the most famous and fun part of the modern-day celebration is that the streets turn into a battleground for water gun fights.
Many foreigners visit specifically during this time to join in the fun. Conversely, if you don’t want to get wet, it is best to stay off the streets and splash zones during the period.
Overall, it is symbolic to wash off past sins and grievances with water in order to get ready for a virtuous new year. It’s one of the cultural practices and facts of Thailand.
Buddhism
Over 90% of the Bangkok population is Buddhist, making it the predominant religion by a landslide.
Many celebrations that Bangkok is famous for are centered around this. For example, Visakha Bucha is the day of Buddha’s birthday. On this sacred day, locals visit the temples as a sign of respect. Similarly, on Makha Bucha Day, Buddha taught his monks their original teachings.
In the Wat Traimit Temple in Chinatown, you can find the Golden Buddha Statue, one of the most important religious landmarks in Bangkok.
Scorching Climate
Bangkok regularly trades spots with places like Kuwait City and Death Valley as the hottest city in the world. Generally, it is in the top rankings.
It has a tropical savanna climate, meaning that the temperatures reach scorching highs. Throughout the year, it is humid, with April being the hottest month.
Additionally, there is a monsoon season between July and October, where there is heavy rainfall. This is caused by shifting winds in the Andaman Sea and Indian Ocean.
Chinese New Year
There are over 7 million Chinese people residing in Thailand, hence why the Chinese New Year is one of the biggest events of the year. This is sometimes seen as a culmination of events such as the Spring Festival and Lantern Festival.
Roaming the streets of Bangkok, you will find red decorations, lanterns, and animals. This depends on the zodiac assigned to the year. Chinatown, one of the most important cultural areas Bangkok is famous for, is where the largest celebrations are held.
Districts And Areas Bangkok Is Known For
Chinatown
Bangkok is known for having one of the largest Chinatowns in the world. Consequently, there are lots of activities to do here.
If you are interested in doing some shopping, Sampeng Lane is peppered with an array of products, from clothes to ancient medicines. The chaotic atmosphere and narrow streets add to the buzzing atmosphere. Aside from the markets, the food stalls are renowned for their delicious traditional cuisine.
If you don’t have time to explore, be sure to visit Sky View 360 at the Grand China Hotel for a panoramic view of the surroundings.
Sukhumvit
Sukhumvit is recognized for its legendary nightlife, which many of Bangkok’s famous things revolve around. The party scene is buzzing with luxurious clubs, upscale restaurants, and classy coffee places.
During the day, Terminal 21 is the perfect escape from the scorching heat. The huge, air-conditioned mall is home to designer brands, entertainment venues, and a variety of foods.
Additionally, the oldest planetarium in South-East Asia is found in Sukhumvit. The Bangkok Planetarium is located in the Science Centre for Education, consisting of the Planetarium itself, an Aquarium, a Space Museum, and a Natural Science Museum.
Siam
In the district of Pathum Wan, you can find the Siam area. This notorious shopping district in Bangkok is known for its malls, mostly in Siam Square. The MBK Centre is found here, the largest shopping mall in the country.
If you are visiting with children, Sea Life Ocean World is a must-see. It houses over 30,000 marine animals collected from different areas of the world. This includes the Japanese spider crabs and the North Pacific giant octopus.
Pratu Nam
In the district of Ratchathewi, you will find the Pratu Nam neighborhood. Whilst it is a close walk to Siam and its attractions, it is more affordable to stay.
Pratu Nam Market, the largest wholesale market in Bangkok, is famous for selling a range of products at low prices. This includes clothes, shoes, and jewelry, as well as textiles. An alternative to the extortionate prices you may see at the malls, the markets are a hidden gem of reasonably priced things.
Silom
Silom holds the most treasured natural landmark in Bangkok, Lumpini Park. In contrast to the cosmopolitan spaces it is encapsulated by, the public space dominating almost 60 hectares is a haven. There are playgrounds for the kids and an enchanting artificial lake.
Also in Silom is Patpong, infamous for its night markets. There are several entertainment venues, making the red-light district a popular destination.
Ratchaprasong
Ratchaprasong is known as the Intersection of Gods due to the nine Hindu shrines scattered amongst the district. Undoubtedly the most popular is The Erawan Shrine because of the Phra Phrom statue, depicting the god of creation.
Like many districts Bangkok is famous for, the area is heavily influenced by shopping and entertainment. Ratchaprasong becomes especially popular during festival season and other celebrations, whereby it is decorated seasonally.
Landmarks And Architecture Bangkok Is Famous For
The Grand Palace
The Grand Palace in Rattanakosin is one of the most famous things in Bangkok, in the heart of the city. It is also the most significant landmark in Thailand; if you only see one, this has to be it.
Constructed in 1782 during the Chakri Dynasty, the regal residence has been home to royalty from King Rama I. It features visually striking and extremely intricate architecture.
In the outer court of the vast complex, you can find the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Here you can find the green-stoned Buddha statue craped in gold clothing. It is forbidden to explore the inner courts unless you are the king, queen, or consort.
>Check Tour of Grand Palace, Wat Arun and Wat Pho
Wat Arun
Of all the Buddhist temples Bangkok is known for, Wat Arun is arguably the most beautiful. The ornate building overlooks the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in the Bangkok Yai district. It is dedicated to Aruna, the Hindu sun god.
Whilst the temple was founded in 1656, it is unknown how long it has existed. Numerous restorations have taken place to preserve the sacred landmark.
The most breathtaking feature of the temple is its 82-meter Khmer-style spire, made of porcelain and colored glass. As a result, it is often compared to the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
Asiatique The Riverfront
Asiatique The Riverfront is a huge open-air mall with a variety of events. This includes shopping, dining, and entertainment. One of the best ways to achieve a panoramic view of the city is on the gondolas of the 60-meter Ferris wheel looking across the river.
If you visit, be sure to check out the Muay Thai Live Show. This captivating theatrical performance showcases the ancient sport of Thai boxing and its history.
MBK Centre
Mahboonkrong, known colloquially as the MBK center, is a huge shopping complex in the Pathum Wan District. When the mall first opened in 1985, it was the largest in Asia and quickly became an attraction Bangkok is famous for.
Consisting of eight stories, you can spend all day browsing the goods offered at the mall. There are stores for every budget, from designer brands to souvenirs to remember your trip by. Furthermore, the renowned dining areas are a brilliant place to enjoy an array of international cuisine and Thai foods to replenish your energy.
Bangkok Safari World
If you are looking for a thrill-seeking attraction, Bangkok Safari World is perfect. Overall, the park dominates over 250 hectares of land, divided up into an open zoo and a smaller bird park.
The most popular attractions are the elephant shows, orangutan boxing, and zebras. Furthermore, you can watch performances by marine animals such as dolphins and sea lions. Ensure that you have a whole day set out for this, as there are over 100 animals to discover!
Chatuchak Weekend Market
The largest market in Thailand is the Chatuchak Weekend Market, nicknamed JJ Market. Originally the market was relatively small and limited to wholesale; however, it is now visited by locals and expats alike.
The busy attraction is located on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road. It is subdivided into 27 sections due to its sheer size of 25 acres. Fortunately, there is a colossal clock tower to use as a center marking point for navigation.
Famous in Bangkok for their good price and decent quality, you will find fashion items such as clothes and shoes predominantly on offer here.
Food Bangkok Is Known For
Pad Thai
Pad Thai is considered to be superior to all foods Bangkok is famous for. You can find it at any market, as it is one of the most common Thai street foods. Traditionally, it is cooked in a wok.
The dish is a stir fry of rice noodles, shrimp, scrambled eggs, and bean sprouts mixed in a pan. The key to a decadent pad thai is the seasonings, which are imperative. This includes oyster sauce, lime, and peanut oil. When combined, they create a sweet yet tangy flavor that is hard to resist.
>Don’t Miss The Michelin Guide Street Food Tour
Tom Yum Goong
Tom Yum Goong is a spicy shrimp soup. Generally, tom yum means mixed soup, so there are many derivations. However, shrimp is the most common protein in traditional Thai food.
Making the soup is a simple process that involves accessible ingredients you already have stocked in your pantry. The broth is made with chicken stock and coconut milk, seasoned with a trilogy of spices: lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. Shrimp and mushrooms are the main components.
Green Chicken Curry
Green chicken curry has historical roots and dates back as early as the 16th century. It is famous for its characteristic green color, which comes from the cayenne peppers and chili.
These usually come in the form of a paste which can simply be added to coconut milk. Here is the good news if you fall in love with green curry, you can buy these pastes to recreate the dish yourself back home.
The chicken curry is served alongside a bed of white rice, which you can use to savor all that delicious broth. However, it is extremely versatile and also works in a cabbage stir fry or even soups.
Boat Noodles
Boat noodles are a fragrant noodle dish filled with protein and vegetables. Originally, vendors of the Ayutthaya Kingdom would sell their noodles on the canal from their boats, which gave the dish its name.
The meal contains pork and beef shaped into meatballs, as well as spinach and celery. To achieve the optimal fragrant flavor, vendors would use dark soy sauce, chili, and pig’s blood. As a result, boat noodles are spicy and distinct from other typical foods.
If you ask locals what is Bangkok famous for that you cannot find elsewhere, some will inevitably respond with this food. You can even have this as a fulfilling breakfast in Thailand.
Crab Omelet
Potentially the most predominant food at street markets is crab omelet. The tender crab meat paired with a crispy batter and fluffy eggs is a staple amongst locals.
The traditional dish was made exponentially more famous in Bangkok by Jay Fai. The Michelin-star restaurant in the Phra Nakhon District classes this as its signature dish. Despite the steep price, it is raved about and must be sampled at least once.
Mango Sticky Rice
Mango sticky rice has been a popular Thai dessert since the 14th century and is mostly consumed in the northwest. However, it is replicated around the globe, as it is one of the most beautiful desserts that Bangkok is famous for.
To make the dish, sticky rice is boiled with coconut milk and plated on a dish with sliced mangos. It is packed with vitamins and antioxidants from the fruit, as well as slow-release energy. Hence, it is ideal for a canal tour or a day of exploring.
Famous People From Bangkok
Mario Maurer
Mario Maurer is a prominent actor famous in Bangkok for his heart-throb movies. Initially, he began his career through modeling before being cast in The Love of Siam. For this, he won Best Actor in the Cinemanila International Film Festival.
Additionally, Maurer had a main role in the series Jan Dara. Aside from movies, he has also starred in television series and music videos. Maurer is a celebrity figure with multiple endorsements.
His brother Marco is a hip-hop artist, and the two also teamed up to form a duo.
BamBam
Kunpimook Bhuwaku, who is known globally as BamBam, was born in Bangkok in 1997. He is a member of Got7, a South Korean boy band. Furthermore, he is an independent rapper.
He has been in the industry since dancing from the early age of 10, in the same crew as Lisa from Blackpink. Eventually, in 2014, BamBam teamed up with Got7 to release the debut Girls Girls Girls.
Branching out, his first independent studio album was released in 2023.
Purachatra Jayakara
Purachatra Jayakara was born in the Grand Palace in Bangkok in 1881. He is one of the most remembered princes of Siam that Bangkok is famous for. Mostly, this is because he founded the House of Chatrajaya, and the regal surname is still in use today.
Furthermore, the prince is famed for his role in media, creating the first radio station in Thailand called Phaya Thai. Additionally, he had a role in transportation, nicknamed the Father of Thai Railways.
Lakshamilavan
Born in 1899 as Princess Vanbimol Voravan, Lakshamilavan became of the most iconic members of the Siamese Royal Family. She was the only daughter of Prince Naradhip Prapanpongse, who was famous in Bangkok for his poetry.
She married Rama VI in 1922, although he was previously engaged to her sister. Rama VI made her Princess Consort. After his death, Lakshamilavan spent her time writing novels under an assumed name.
Her tragic assassination in 1961, carried out by her gardeners, shocked the nation.
Tammy Duckworth
Tammy Duckworth is an American politician born in Bangkok. Influenced by her father, who served in both World War II and the Vietnam War, Duckworth became an Army National Guard lieutenant colonel. Injuries sustained during the army made her a double amputee.
Despite adversity, Duckworth became a legendary figure that many look up to. She was the first person born in Thailand to be elected to Congress, and likewise, the first woman with a disability elected to be elected to Congress.
Discovering More Things Bangkok Is Famous For
Bangkok offers a diverse range of experiences, from mouth-watering cuisine to luxurious malls and famous personalities who have shaped the city’s identity. When pondering what Bangkok is famous for, it’s impossible not to admire its rich history, captivating culture, and the allure of its bustling street markets.
This vibrant metropolis continues to enchant locals and visitors alike with its unique blend of tradition and modernity. Whether you’re exploring the enchanting temples, indulging in the delectable food, or uncovering the stories of its famous denizens, Bangkok is undoubtedly a city that will leave a lasting impression on your heart.
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