klook day trip bangkok

Bangkok Insiders

Klong Tour Bangkok: The Best Bangkok Boat and Canal Tours

A Klong tour of the canals of Bangkok is an absolute highlight. Here, you can find the best Bangkok boat and canal tours.

The Chao Phraya River is the heart of Bangkok. It has already played an important role in the daily life of the locals for many years.

With a length of about 372 kilometers, the “River of Kings” crosses Bangkok and other important cities and provinces in Thailand.

Branching off from the main river are the klongs – a network of canals that flow through Bangkok and once served as major transportation routes.

You’ll wind through unspoiled villages and residential neighborhoods, past colorful homes and some of the Thai capital’s most famous landmarks.

No wonder, then, that a boat tour is a particularly popular way to explore Bangkok and its sights .

In this article, we will show you the best options and providers for your Klong tour or a boat trip on the Chao Phraya River.

Table of Contents

Klong Tour and Bangkok Boat Tours: These tours are our recommendations

Bangkok is an absolute traffic hell, and especially during rush hour, you will often be stuck in traffic for hours.

Fortunately, many highlights of the metropolis can also be reached by other means of transport – for example, by boat.

Close to the water, for example, are the majestic temple Wat Arun , the Great Palace , and Wat Pho with the reclining Buddha.

A klong tour or a Bangkok boat trip on the Chao Phraya is an ideal way to get to know the city better.

Bangkok Tours

Bangkok Food Tours

Bangkok boat and canal tours

Temple tours in Bangkok

Floating Market Tours

Bangkok excursions

Tours to Ayutthaya

Adventure tours in Bangkok

Classic Klong Tour: Discover the city by longtail boat

Classic Klong tours usually start from the main Chao Phraya river. Here, you will board one of the traditional longtail boats known for their distinctive appearance.

The boat guides usually know the waters of the city exceptionally well and can give you exciting information and tell anecdotes during the Bangkok Canal Tour.

Private long tail boat rental with a guide

As part of this private klong tour , you’ll explore the Chao Phraya River on a traditional longtail boat ride with a guide for 1, 1.5, or 2 hours.

You can choose the sights you want to see and have the opportunity to see Wat Arun, Wat Kalayanamit, the Artists’ House, and much more.

Private Thonburi Longtail Boat Tour & Wat Pho Visit

Embark on an exciting journey back in time by taking a longtail boat tour through the pristine villages and narrow waterways of Bangkok’s Thonburi district.

Afterward, a visit to the famous temple Wat Pho is on the program, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Bangkok Canal Tour ends at your hotel.

Klong Tour with a market visit, National Museum, The Artist’s House, and more

On this Klong tour , you will get a lot: Meet your guide at Pak Klong Talad flower market before boarding the longtail boat.

Explore the National Museum of Royal Barges , The Artist’s House, Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen with the city’s largest Buddha, and, lastly, Chinatown.

Bangkok Canal Tours – Klong boat trip with a food tour or lunch

Do you love Thai cuisine and want to try new dishes in a great ambiance?

Then you should definitely combine your Klong boat trip with a food tour or a very special lunch on the river.

4 hours food tour with klong boat ride

This 4-hour excursion starts with a klong tour. Sail through the picturesque canals and listen to the stories and anecdotes of your guide.

Afterward, visit a popular restaurant for a bowl of Hokkien noodles.

The tour continues with delicious street food on one of the oldest markets in Bangkok – a total of 15 different dishes and drinks are tasted.

History and local dishes by boat and bike

This half-day excursion begins with a bike ride through Bangkok’s hidden alleys to the Chao Phraya River.

From there, we will take a longtail boat down the river and through the canals to Wat Kuhasawan.

Back on land, you’ll bike to an ancient market community and visit a temple before enjoying a traditional Thai lunch at the klong.

After that, the program has more highlights, such as a Chinese-Thai temple, Chinatown, Wat Hongrattanaram and a visit to the Hoon Lek puppeteers.

Bangkok Boat Tours: Dinner Cruises on the River

Do you want to go on a very special Bangkok boat tour?

Then, you can also take a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River and enjoy delicious Thai food while the city lights pass by.

5 star dinner with boat tour

This luxury dinner cruise departs from the ICONSIAM Shopping Center, right on the Chao Phraya River.

You will enjoy a delicious seafood buffet with Thai and international dishes, such as sashimi, papaya salad, Tom Yum Goong, or Pad Thai.

You will be entertained on your Bangkok boat tour with live music, traditional Thai dance performances, and of course, sensational skyline views.

Dinner boat trip on the Chao Phraya Princess

The Chao Phraya Princess also departs from the ICONSIAM Shopping Center and sails along Bangkok’s main waterway.

During the Bangkok boat tour, you’ll enjoy live music with songs from the 80s and 90s while you help yourself to a gourmet buffet.

Bangkok Klong Tour and Boat Rides Conclusion

For many travelers to Thailand, Bangkok is only a short stopover.

The metropolis is incredibly versatile, and it is definitely worth planning a few days for the visit.

If you have enough time, we can definitely recommend a klong tour on a longtail boat or any other kind of boat tour.

After all, the klongs are an important part of the city’s history and offer a unique insight into life on the water.

A tour by boat is a relaxed and authentic way to explore the capital – far away from the bustling streets and crowded tourist attractions.

Here, you will get to know the real Bangkok and the life along the river, an important part of Thai culture.

Frequently Asked Questions about Klong Tour in Bangkok

Finally, we answer some frequently asked questions about the Klong Tour in Bangkok.

What exactly is a Klong Tour in Bangkok?

A klong tour is a boat ride along the canals (klongs) of Bangkok that offers visitors the opportunity to experience the traditional life of the locals and discover hidden corners of the city.

How long is a typical Klong tour?

The duration of a klong tour can vary depending on the provider and route, but most tours last about 1 to 2 hours.

What sights are there to see during a Klong tour?

During a Klong tour you will have the opportunity to see traditional floating markets, picturesque waterways, historic temples like Wat Arun and Wat Pho, as well as the authentic life of the locals along the Klongs.

What kind of boats are used in Klong tours?

Traditional long boats or longtail boats are often used for klong tours. They are known for their characteristic long engines, which serve as a substitute for oars.

Which klongs are visited on a tour in Bangkok?

The most popular klong tours focus on the klongs in Bangkok’s Thonburi district, known for their authentic atmosphere.

Can a Klong tour be customized?

Yes, some operators offer private klong tours where you can customize the route and duration to your liking.

• About the Author

Franzi is a long-term travel blogger, online editor, and content creator specializing in Tourism in Bangkok and Thailand.

Expertises: Tourism in Thailand, Tourism in Bangkok, Tourism, Bangkok, Thailand

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2024 BANGKOK TRAVEL GUIDE with Sample Itinerary & Budget

If backpacking were a college degree, Bangkok would have to be the 101 course.

Not only is Bangkok the the most visited city in the world, it also considered the global epicenter of backpacking culture. The famed Banana Pancake Trail, perhaps Asia’s most used travel route, often starts and ends in the Thai capital. No shock there, given that it sits at the heart of mainland Southeast Asia, boasts affordable prices, serves delicious local cuisine, and is home to some of the most hospitable people you’ll ever meet. Best of all, even during the pandemic, it remains tourist-friendly.

We have just arrived from our ninth — yes, 9th — Bangkok visit, and in this article, we’ll share with you all the tips and latest updates we’ve collected.

ESSENTIAL BANGKOK LINKS

Before we dive into the details, here’s a list of links to some of our recommended hotels, tours, attractions, and other must-haves, for easy reference in the future.

Top Bangkok Hotels Find Deals on Agoda! Top Day Tours on Klook Ayutthaya Day Tour Floating Market & Railway Market Tour Pattaya Day Tour Transportation Passes BTS Rabbit Card BTS One-Day Pass Internet Connection Data SIM Card Pocket Wifi

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING BANGKOK

Bangkok is the capital and the commercial, economic, and political center of Thailand. The name Bangkok is an exonym, something that foreigners use. Thais call it Krung Thep (meaning City of Angels), short for its official name Krung Thep Maha Nakhon , which is also a shortened version of its full, ceremonial name: Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit.

At first glance, Bangkok appears as your typical highly-urbanized metropolis, but a closer look reveals it remains very much in touch with its past. The city’s roots as the capital can be traced back to 1782, when King Rama I, after the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767, ordered the people to move south and establish a new center at a more militarily strategic location along the Chao Phraya River. Many of Bangkok’s most visited attractions today were built under King Rama I, including the Grand Palace complex and the other temples that will be discussed in the guide.

Here are a few more facts you need to know:

• Language : Thai. For newly exposed non-native speakers, it can be quite intimidating, especially its lengthy words. It’s also a tonal language, i.e. the meaning changes with the tone. But many road and establishment signs are also written in Latin alphabet. English isn’t normally spoken. You’ll encounter taxi drivers and vendors who cannot speak English. But most younger locals can. And what the Thais lack in English fluency, they make up for with their friendly attitude toward tourists.
• Timezone: UTC+07:00 (ICT – Indochina Time), year round. No daylight saving time observed. Same time zone as Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. Thailand, in general, is one hour behind the Philippines, Singapore and Malaysia.
• Currency : Thai Baht (THB, ฿). TTHB100 is roughly USD 2.89, EUR 2.72, SGD 3.9, PHP 161 (as of December 2022).
• Modes of payment : Cash. Although some restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, smaller establishments prefer cash.
• Religion: Buddhism is the predominant religion, practiced by almost 93% of the population. Most others identify with Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Confucianism.

WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK

Best area to stay.

Bangkok is a vast city, and many of the key attractions are spread apart. Thankfully, there are also plenty of neighborhoods that are ideal places to stay. What’s best depends on why you’re in Bangkok in the first place.

• If you’re on a budget , SIAM and SILOM have a good selection of hostels and budget hotels, especially the areas around BTS National Stadium Station or MRT Ratchathewi in Siam and BTS Sala Daeng and MRT Si Lom in Silom. From any of these, most of the attractions easily accessible, ensuring savings on transportation. Cheap food spots are also scattered around these districts.
• If you’re backpacking or after Bangkok’s wild nightlife, the KHAO SAN area should be your top choice. Khao San Road is loud, but it is where backpackers from around the world congregate. The area also harbors countless hostels and other lodging options for budget travelers. It’s also easily accessible from the Grand Palace and the city’s popular temples.
• If you’re here to shop ’til you drop , the PRATUNAM and SIAM areas are ideal because of the many bargain centers and shopping malls around.
• If you wish to experience modern Bangkok, the SUKHUMVIT area has a lot of dining, shopping, and clubbing options, including many of its famed rooftop bars. It’s also where most expats are based, creating a more cosmopolitan vibe.
• If you’re a foodie , SILOM and CHINATOWN are home to some of the best but affordable food spots in the city. Silom is the business district with the Lumphini Park, Bangkok’s largest green space, at its center, ensuring a balance between quiet and chaos. The BANGLAMPHU area (near the Democracy Monument and Khao San Road) also has a great selection of Michelin-listed pocket-friendly restaurants.

All these areas are conveniently located because there are BTS/MRT stations nearby. Well, almost. The only exception is KHAO SAN / BANGLAMPHU, which is a 30-minute walk away from the nearest BTS Station (Sam Yot) . But Khao San is close to a pier, where you can board a boat to get to key attractions along Chao Phraya River. Other than that, tuktuk and taxi are the main transportation options to and from Khao San. That said, I can still recommend staying there, especially if you wish to have a taste of Bangkok’s backpacking culture.

If you prefer to stay somewhere easily accessible, the SILOM and SIAM areas are my top recommendations. Both have a number of BTS/MRT stations and offer a little bit of every thing that the other districts have to offer — good food, shopping, and nightlife.

Top Budget Hotels & Hostels in Bangkok

Here are some of the top-reviewed hostels and budget hotels on Agoda that won’t break the bank:

• Tamni , near Hua Lamphong Station & Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Daraya Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Siam Eco Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Kinnon Deluxe Hostel , Silom. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• HOSTEL URBY , Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Baan Kun Mhor Hostel , Chatuchak. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• LOBSUEK Hostel หลบศึก โฮสเทล, Khao San Area. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• VIX Bangkok @ Victory Monument. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Lub d Bangkok Siam Hostel , Siam. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Top Mid-Range/Upscale Hotels in Bangkok

If you have a bigger budget, here are the top properties on Agoda:

• Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, Siam/Silom. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Carlton Hotel Bangkok , Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Bangkok , Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Old Capital Bike Inn , Khao San area. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• ASAI Bangkok Chinatown . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Ago Hotel Chinatown. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Bangkok Hotels

How to get to bangkok.

Bangkok is one of the busiest and most connected cities in the world. If you’re living in a major city, chances are, there’s a direct flight from where you are to Bangkok.

The city is served by two airports:

• Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) , the newer and bigger airport, serving most airlines, except a few low-cost carriers. It’s situated east of the city proper, roughly 1 hour away.
• Don Mueang Airport (DMK) , serving mostly AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and TigerAir Taiwan. It lies north of the city center, 45 minutes to 1 hour away, depending on traffic conditions.

Manila to Bangkok

If you’re flying from Manila, it’s easy to find direct, non-stop flights to Bangkok as multiple airlines operate this route. As of this writing, here are your options:

TO SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT (BKK)

• Philippine Airlines
• Cebu Pacific Air
• Thai Airways

TO DON MUEANG AIRPORT (DMK)

• Philippines AirAsia

Travel time: 3.5 to 4 hours.

For our most recent visit, we flew with Philippine Airlines for many reasons:

• 30 kg check-in baggage allowance. Most other airlines only provide 20kg. Although we had been to Bangkok many times before, this would be the first time we intended to go shopping here. Bangkok is a retail paradise, so bargain hunters can easily have a field day at any of their shopping centers. It turned out to be a great decision because we really did use almost the entire 30 kg.
• FREE rebooking. There were a lot of uncertainties about this recent trip. When we booked our tickets, we still weren’t decided yet on how long we wanted to stay in Thailand. It was a multi-city trip and we weren’t sure if we also wanted to visit Chiang Mai and Koh Samui. We wanted more flexibility, just in case. As of this writing, PAL doesn’t charge additional rebooking fees if the new flight is within 60 days after the original flight. (But double check first because airline policies change often these days.) Fare difference still needs to be settled, though.

HOW TO GET TO DOWNTOWN BANGKOK

Just in case you missed it, Bangkok has two airports: Don Mueang Airport (DMK) , located 25 km north of the city center, and the new Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) , 30 km west of the city center.

We’ll be creating a more detailed guide about this. But here’s a condensed rundown of the ways to get to downtown Bangkok from either airport.

Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok City Center

The AIRPORT RAIL LINK is the fastest way to get to the city proper because you’ll be dodging Bangkok’s infamous traffic jams. You can find the station at the basement of the airport’s passenger terminal. There’s a train every 15 minutes from 6am to 12 midnight (every 10 minutes within the peak hours).

It’s connected to the city’s BTS Skytrain at two stations: Makkasan (฿35) and Phayathai (฿45), the last station. Travel time: around 25 minutes.

Depending on where your hotel is located, you can switch lines.

• To SUKHUMVIT or SILOM Area: You can connect at either Makkasan or Phayathai Station. Find out the station closest to your hotel and transfer to either the MRT Blue Line at Makkasan Station (then to Petchaburi Station) or to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line) at Phayatai Station.
• To SIAM Area: Alight at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kheha. Get off at Siam Station (or whatever station is closest to your final destination).
• To VICTORY MONUMENT Area: Connect at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kho Khot. Alight at Victory Monument Station.
• To KHAO SAN Area: Alight at Makkasan Station, transfer to MRT Blue Line at Petchaburi Station, and get off at Sam Yot Station. From here, take a cab, tuktuk or Grab to Khao San.

By Taxi or Grab

If you’re a group or if you have heavy luggage in tow, consider taking a cab or book a Grab car straight from the airport (especially if you’ll be staying Khao San area). If you opt for a taxi, always insist on using the meter.

Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour

TAXI RATES: Fare: around ฿400 Airport surcharge: ฿50 Highway toll fees: ฿75

GRAB RATES: ฿530 and ฿600, inclusive of toll fee or highway fee. This is based on the experience of our team.

Don Mueang Airport to Bangkok City Center

According to reports, the Don Mueang Airport was finally connected to Bangkok’s train network in August 2022. I say “according to reports” because we haven’t tried this ourselves yet.

From the airport, you can walk to the Don Mueang Station, along the SRT Dark Red Line . Board the train bound for Bang Sue and alight there, at the last stop. Transfer to the MRT Blue Line.

• To SILOM Area: Most stations in Silom are along the Blue Line, so just get off at the station closest to your hotel.
• To SIAM Area: Alight at Chatuchak Park Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line) at Mochit Station. Catch a train bound for Kheha. Get off at Siam Station (or whatever station is closest to your final destination).
• To VICTORY MONUMENT Area: Connect at Phayathai Station and transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). Catch a train bound for Kheha. Alight at Victory Monument Station.
• To SUKHUMVIT Area: The Sukhumvit area has a lot of stations that are either along the MRT Blue Line or the BTS Sukhumvit Line (Light Green Line). If the closest station to your hotel is along the Blue Line, it’s going to be easy because you’re already on the same line. If your hotel is closer to a Light Green line, alight at Chatuchak Park and transfer at Mochit Station. Then, board a train bound for Kheha.
• To KHAO SAN Area: Alight at Sam Yot Station (along the same Blue Line) and take a cab, tuktuk or Grab to Khao San.

If, for whatever reason, you do not like taking the train straight from Don Mueang Airport, you can also take the bus and the switch to BTS/MRT. And follow the steps above.

There are direct buses from Don Mueang Airport to select destinations around Bangkok.

• To MOCHIT BUS TERMINAL: Bus A1
• To BTS MO CHIT STATION: Bus A1
• To VICTORY MONUMENT: Bus A2
• To BTS RATCHADAMRI STATION: Bus A3
• To LUMPHINI PARK: Bus A3
• To KHAO SAN ROAD: Bus A4

Fare: ฿30-50 , depending on route

To see the complete list of stops, visit this page .

If you want a more straightforward journey, consider taking a cab or book a Grab car straight from the airport (especially if you’ll be staying Khao San area).

Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic Fare: around ฿540 (including ฿50 airport surcharge)

If you opt for a taxi, always insist on using the meter.

POCKET WIFI AND DATA SIM CARD IN BANGKOK

Data Sim Card

This is the cheapest and most convenient option. Klook has two main options: TrueMove and dTac. Both offer:

• 15GB data for up to 16 days
• Internet connection anywhere in Thailand
• Inclusive of FREE call credits
• Pickup at Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Muang Airport

✅ RESERVE TRUEMOVE DATA SIM HERE!

✅ RESERVE DTAC DATA SIM HERE!

Pocket Wifi

If your phone is locked to your home network or you have more devices to connect, you can rent a pocket wifi. You’ll find many wifi rental booths around Bangkok, but if you want to stay connected from the get-go, you can reserve one in advance via Klook and just pick it up at the airport, either at Don Muang Airport or Suvarnabhumi Airport.

If you’re coming from Manila, you can also get one at NAIA Terminal 3. Either way, they can accommodate up to five devices at one.

✅ RESERVE POCKET WIFI – BANGKOK PICKUP!

✅ RESERVE POCKET WIFI – NAIA PICKUP!

HOW TO GET AROUND BANGKOK

The Thais have their own address system and first timers in Bangkok can be easily disoriented. Wikitravel explains it really well: “Large roads such as Silom or Sukhumvit are thanon while the side streets branching off from them are called soi. Sois are numbered, with even numbers on one side and odd numbers on the other side. Thus, an address like 25 Sukhumvit Soi 3 means house number 25 on the 3rd soi of Sukhumvit Road.”

Although it is not as sweat-free as in Hong Kong or Singapore, commuting in Bangkok is quite easy. Vehicular traffic can get crazy during rush hour though. But if you’re used to the giant parking lot that runs across Manila called EDSA, you’ll be fine in Bangkok (or any other Southeast Asian city for that matter).

Getting around via public transportation means using one or more of these four modes:

• Train (BTS Skytrain/MRT) . Bangkok’s train system is fast and reliable, and will take you to many attractions throughout the city. I always find myself taking the train most of the time because many attractions are located close to a station. Also, it allows me to bypass traffic jams especially during rush hours. Although connected at a few stations, the BTS and the MRT are completely separate systems, run by different managements and use different tickets. The fares for both are similar, ranging from 16 to 52 baht. Most stations have a counter than can break your large bills and a ticket machine that accepts bills. For a more convenient journey on BTS, use a Rabbit Card (stored-value ticket) or a One-Day Pass (unlimited rides for 1 day).
• Boat . The two boat services operating in Bangkok are the Chao Phraya Express Boat, which plies up and down the Chao Phraya River and is popular among tourists for it stops at many of the city’s most popular landmarks; and the Saen Saep Express Boat, used mostly by locals who commute to work. The Chao Phraya boat is the best option for you if you intend to visit the Grand Palace complex (at Tha Chang) and Wat Pho (at Tha Tien), and Khao San Road (at Phra Athit) within one day! Both the Chao Phraya TOURIST BOAT and the cheaper ORANGE-FLAG BOAT will make a stop at these key tourist attractions. Fare: tourist boat, ฿50 single ride or ฿180 for day pass; orange-flag boat, ฿15 flat rate.
• Taxi/Grab . If my destination is too far from a train or boat station, I would just hail a cab. A ride costs more than in Manila but nowhere near the rates in Hong Kong or Singapore. The flagdown is 35 baht and the average ride within the city is probably around 100. You might encounter cab drivers who take advantage of tourists by not using the meter and then overcharging. If the driver refuses to use the meter, just get off the vehicle. Know that all cabs in Bangkok must use the meter. Many of these drivers wait for tourist passengers at the popular attractions like temples and Khao San Road.
• Tuktuk. I didn’t even bother. They are very expensive, even more expensive than cabs, and many (not all, but it’s hard to know) are involved in scams. If you really want to try for the heck of it, just agree on the price first.

THINGS TO DO IN & AROUND BANGKOK

Before we enumerate the many attractions waiting for you in Bangkok, allow us to introduce KLOOK PASS BANGKOK & PATTAYA . This ticket will give you up to 45% discount. The pass is valid for 30 days upon confirmation.

How it works is simple. With this pass, you’ll have access to a number of attractions. You get to choose how many and what these attractions will be. The first step is to choose how many attractions you want your pass to cover and purchase the pass. Once paid, you can go to the BOOKING section or your app or account, and redeem it. Say, if you purchase a 3-attraction pass, you can book up to 3 attractions from the list. Some attractions might also require you to reserve afterwards.

Here are the attractions in Bangkok and Phuket that you may choose from:

Mahanakhon Skywalk

Siam amazing park.

• Safari World
• SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
• Madame Tussauds Bangkok
• Pororo Aquapark
• Sanctuary of Truth
• Dream World
• Frost Magical Ice of Siam
• Underwater World
• Ancient City Museum
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha
• Wat Pho & Wat Arun Walking Tour
• One More Thai Massage
• Chao Phara Princess Dinner Cruise
• Alcazar Cabaret Show
• Tiffany’s Show
• Bangkok Hop on Hop Off Bus

✅ CHECK RATES & GET PASS HERE!

How much you save depends on what you book. Regardless of the attractions you use it on, the price of the pass remains the same. So what we recommend is to use this pass on pricey attractions.

Here are examples on how you could save using this pass:

Grand Palace and Temples Tour

If you’re fit and you enjoy walking, you’ll be glad to know that many of the city’s key attractions are located within walking distance of each other. For example, Bangkok’s most popular temples and shrines, Chinatown, and even Siriraj Forensic Museum are easily accessible from the Chao Phraya River and can be easily visited in one day.

How to get there : If you’re from Silom, Siam or Sukhumvit areas, take the train to Saphan Taksin Station. Take Exit 2, and walk to the boat terminal. Buy a ticket and board a boat to either Tha Thien or Tha Chang. Boat fare is ฿50 if you board the tourist boat or ฿15 if orange-flag boat.

Here are the usual stops:

• Grand Palace. A complex of structures, pavilions, and courtyards including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The entrance fee also includes admission to “Khon: Thai Classical Masked Dance”. Boat stop: Tha Chang Pier (No. 9). Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Ticket counters close at 3:30 PM). Entrance fee: ฿500.
• Wat Arun. Probably the most recognizable landmark in Bangkok with a 70m tall spire (called prang). Boat stop: Tha Thien pier (N8) and then cross the river on a smaller boat. Opening hours: 8:00 AM-6:00 PM Entrance fee: ฿100, inclusive of bottled water.
• Wat Pho. Famed for the enormous reclining Buddha that it houses. Boat stop: Tha Thien pier (N8) and then walk up the perpendicular road to Wat Pho. Opening hours: 8:00 AM-6:30 PM Entrance fee: ฿200, inclusive of bottled water.

Dress Code : The rule is to have your shoulders, knees, and heels covered. The following are not allowed:

• Shorts, short skirts, mini-skirts, tight fitting trousers
• Torn trousers/pants
• Sando, vests, sleeveless shirts
• See-through shirts

The management used to rent out pants to inadequately dressed tourists, but perhaps because of the pandemic, they only sell those now for ฿200 apiece.

Although it’s completely possible to pull this off DIY-style, it’s still much more recommended to join a guided tour so you have better appreciation of each site. These are historic and cultural landmarks that hold so much significance for the Thai people. You can book a guided tour on Klook, which includes all entrance fees, boat transfer fee, insurance, and the service of an English-speaking guide.

✅ CHECK ITINERARY & BOOK HERE!

Floating Markets & Railway Market

Aside from its ornate spires and temples, Bangkok is also best known for its floating markets. But the truth is, these boat-navigated markets are actually located outside the capital. Two of the most accessible are:

• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi Province
• Amphawa Floating Market in Samut Songkhram

A visit entails boarding a small boat as you negotiate the market canals. Plenty of souvenir and food options around!

Another market that has been attracting throngs of tourists is the Marklong Railway Market. Yes, railway, because it’s set up along the train tracks. And when a train chugs along, watch and be amazed by how the vendors make way for it. You can also spend an hour chilling at a railway cafe.

Klook has tours that combine Maeklong Railway Market with either Damnoen or Amphawa Market — your choice. There are several departure times available so choose the most convenient for you.

✅ CHECK RATES & OPTIONS HERE!

At 314 meters tall, King Power Mahanakhon is one of Thailand’s tallest buildings, housing a hotel, residential units and tourist attractions. From the outside, it looks like a pixelated skyscraper, a design that easily captivates. Inside, a multimedia elevator will take you to the highest outdoor observation deck in the country, allowing a magnificent view of Bangkok and surrounding areas.

But most visitors are here for the Skywalk. Atop the building is an area with a glass floor that you may walk on, creating a nerve-wracking but pretty mind-blowing experience.

You need to wear the shoe covers provided onsite before you’re allowed to step on it. And mobile phones (and other loose items) are NOT allowed within the glass tray area. This means that you won’t be able to take a selfie while on the glass. If you’re after photos, best to visit with someone else. Or if you’re traveling alone, make friends with other solo visitors and just take photos of each other.

Location: 114 1 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Road, Bang Rak, Bangkok Nearest Station: Chong Nonsi BTS Station Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Mahanakhon SkyWalk); Entrance Fee: Mahanakhon SkyWalk (Indoor & Rooftop) – Adult, ฿836; Child (3-15 y/o), ฿250; Senior (Above 60 y/o), ฿250.

Only a limited number of tickets are sold per day, so it’s best to book in advance. You can reserve online via Klook! You can also check out other Mahanakhon experience package options and choose the one that suits your preference.

✅ RESERVE A TICKET HERE!

Bangkok Nightlife

No Bangkok trip is complete without getting a taste of its (in)famous nightlife. We already mentioned Khao San Road , the backpacker mecca. It is crowded, loud, and wild. Thunderous music from nightclubs and the delicious smell of street food fill the air, while tourists fill every vacant seat, table and corner.

Aside from Khao San, Bangkok has several other nightlife districts! Most clubs and bars are safe, but as in any other major city, not all. Scams targeting tourists do exist at some establishments. You’ve probably heard about tourists entering a bar and then not being allowed to leave without paying a hefty price for a ridiculously overpriced drink.

If you want to try Bangkok nightlife and make sure you’re in good hands, you may join a guided tour. Klook has two main options: a bar hopping tour , more like a pub crawl, and a Hangover tour , where you get to visit the bars featured in The Hangover 2 movie (including a ping pong show)!

✅ JOIN HANGOVER TOUR HERE!

✅ BOOK BAR HOPPING TOUR HERE!

Dream World Bangkok

Bangkok has its fair share of theme parks, too! And on top of that list is Dream World , a 25-hectare adventure park featuring over 40 rides, shows, and other attractions, spread around four key zones!

Some of the most popular rides are the cable car, Sky Coaster (rollercoaster), Tornado, Vikings (pendulum ride), and Grand Canyon (water rapids)!

ENTRANCE FEE

• Dream World Visa (26 rides with unlimited time per ride EXCEPT Alien, Bump Car, and Haunted House, which can be enjoyed once only): ฿600
• Dream World Super Visa (includes all the rides for unlimited time): ฿1,000
• Children below 90cm : FREE

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Location: 62 Moo 1, Rangsit-Ongkharak Road (Km.7), Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani How to Get to Dream World: From Victory Monument BTS Station, take Bus No. 523 or 538 to Dream World.

Dream World is very popular even among locals, so you might want to book your ticket in advance to skip the line. You may also add transfers.

✅ GET SKIP-THE-LINE TICKETS HERE!

The Siam Amazing Park is the largest theme park in Thailand and is home to the largest wave pool in the world (according to the Guinness World Records). You can also enjoy exhilarating rides including Southeast Asia’s first suspended looping coaster with five inversions and the 7-story water slides.

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule might change, so it’s best to check updated opening hours before going. Entrance Fee: Adult, ฿1000; Child, ฿850; Children below 101cm, FREE. Location: 203 Suan Sayam Road, Khan Na Yao, Bangkok How to Get There: From Victory Monument BTS Station, head towards Ko Din Daeng Bus Stop via the circular skywalk, then take Bus No. 168 or 36ก to Siam Amazing Park.

Visitors must purchase their tickets at least one day in advance. You can book online via Klook! You can also choose the package — combine your ticket with an international lunch buffet or combine it with both lunch and shared transfer.

✅ GET DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE!

Ayutthaya Day Tour

Founded in the 1350s, Ayutthaya was Siam’s old capital before it was destroyed by the Burmese. Today, however, parts of its glorious past still shine through, especially at the Ayutthaya Historical Park, where four major temples stand up to this day: Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Ratchaburana – the Royal Palace and Wiharn Phra Mongkol Bophit. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

Lying about 80 km from Bangkok, it is easily accessible and can be visited on a day trip. You can do this independently by taking public transportation and then hiring a tuktuk to tour you around. (We’ll write a separate post about it.) But if you need a guide and you want someone else to take care of everything for you, you can book with Klook.

✅ SEE OPTIONS & RESERVE HERE!

Pattaya Day Tour

Pattaya is another popular day trip destination from Bangkok, thanks mainly to its proximity, just around 150 km and roughly 2.5 hours away. The closest major beach destination to the capital, it is best known for water sports, island tours, and beach activities. But it also harbors some cultural structures like Wat Phra Yai Temple and the Sanctuary of Truth.

Jump-Off Point: Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal/Ekkamai Bus Terminal or Mo Chit Bus Terminal (Bus); Hua Lamphong Railway Station (Train) How to Get to Pattaya: By bus, go to Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal, then take the bus bound for Pattaya. The travel time is about two and a half hours. The one-way fare is ฿130-200 per person. By train, go to Hua Lamphong Station and get on a train to Pattaya. The travel time is 2-3 hours, depending on the type of train. The fare is ฿30-฿300, depending on the ticket class. The train for Pattaya normally leaves early in the morning — around 6:00 AM.

If you want a convenient roundtrip transfer between Bangkok and Pattaya, you can just join a guided tour. Klook offers Pattaya Beach and Koh Larn Coral Island Full Day Tour from Bangkok. This covers roundtrip transfers, an English-speaking guide, a Sanctuary of Truth ticket, insurance, and bottled water.

✅ CHECK RATES OR RESERVE HERE!

Muay Thai Match

If you’ve ever wanted to witness a live muay thai match, there’s no better place to make that happen than Bangkok! The two common venues are:

• Lumpinee Boxing Stadium 6 Ramintra Road, Anusawaree, Bangkok
• Rajadamnern Thai Boxing Stadium 1 Ratcha Damnoen Nok Road, Bangkok

You can secure your slot in advance and get discounted ticket by booking online through Klook!

✅ GET LUMPINI STADIUM MATCH TICKET HERE!

✅ GET RAJADAMNERN STADIUM MATCH TICKET HERE!

Other Attractions:

• Siriraj Medical Museum . Not for the faint of heart! Also known as the Museum of Death, it houses a huge collection of artifacts gathered in the 120 years of the Siriraj Hospital’s service as a pioneer in the medical field in the country. These pieces are divided into seven smaller museums dedicated to parasitology, anatomy, and forensic science among others. It’s a must-visit for dark tourism enthusiasts and those who simply wish to learn more about these fields. How to get there : Board the SkyTrain to S6 Saphan Taksin Station, take Exit 2, and hop onto a Chao Phraya Express Boat to Siriraj Pier N10 or Tha Rot Fai Pier, both on the west side of the river. Walk a couple of blocks into the hospital complex. Follow the signs to Adulyadej Vikrom Building. The museum is on the second floor. More info : Siriraj Museum
• iconSIAM . Opened in 2018, this massive shopping mall is one of the largest in Asia. It is bursting with retail shops including luxury labels and budget-friendlier options, and the first Takashiyama Department Store in the country. But it’s best known for its indoor floating market, mimicking those in nearby provinces and showcasing local products and cuisine. Nearest Station: Charoennakorn Station (Sky Train Gold Line via Krung Thon Buri BTS Station) or Saphan Taksin BTS Station (then ferry from Sathorn Pier to IconSIAM) Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
• Bangkok Chinatown . Popular for its shops, especially near Charoenkrung Road. But there are also temples around the district. To be honest, it’s not as grand or as visually arresting as Chinatowns in other countries, unless you visit during the Chinese New Year, when the district really comes to life. How to get there: Take the Skytrain to S6 Saphan Taksin Station (BTS Silom Line), take Exit 2, and walk to the boat terminal. Buy a ticket and board a Chao Phraya Express Boat. Alight at the Ratchawong Pier (N5) and make your way on foot from Ratchawong Road to Sampeng Lane and Yaowarat Road.

WHERE TO SHOP IN BANGKOK

Here are some of the best areas to satiate your inner shopaholic! We’ll be creating a separate, more detailed article about these spots in another post.

• Pratunam . Bangkok’s most popular shopping district. Between its busy alleys are even busier blocks filled with indoor and outdoor stalls selling mostly apparel and accessories. Smack at the heart of the area stand two massive malls — Platinum Shopping Mall and the Paladium World Shopping — both filled to the brim with bargain finds. Most of these specialize in wholesale, they also sell in retail quantities. How to get here : Take the MRT to Ratchaprarop Station and walk south from there. It should take around 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take the BTS Skytrain System and get off at Chit Lom Station.
• Chatuchak Weekend Market . If your visit in Bangkok falls on a weekend, squeeze this into your itinerary. This retail paradise is a labyrinth made of shops, once popular only to wholesale traders but eventually became a favorite attraction among tourists. Here you’ll find almost anything you can think of: from souvenirs to flowers to clothes to furniture to street food! Prioritize this over Pratunam. We found that most of the items in Pratunam are also sold here at a cheaper price. (That said, I think Pratunam has a much more diverse selection when it comes to apparel.) Nearest BTS Station: Mo Chit Station, take exit 1.
• Siam Square . Made more popular to foreigners as the shooting location for the hit movie The Love of Siam, Siam Square does not disguise itself with pretenses of being culturally significant. It is a shopping and entertainment district. Yet, if you think about it, it somehow represents a generation — a younger, more industrialized, more fashionable Bangkok. Catering mostly to college students and young adults, Siam Square comprises several blocks harboring a wide array of stores — over a hundred of ’em — apparel stalls, boutiques, bookshops, record stores, restaurants, cafes, even cinemas. How to get here : Take the BTS Skytrain System and get off at Siam Station.
• Ratchada (Train Night Market) . The colorful rows of tent stalls of Ratchada (New Rot Fai Market) will absolutely fill your stomachs with its wide selection of affordable Thai cuisine and international dishes— snacks, street food, sweets, exotic delicacies, and milk teas! The market also offers affordable clothing, accessories, shoes, and many more! Nearest Train Station: Bangkok MRT Thailand Cultural Centre Station. Take Exit 3, then walk towards Esplanade Mall. Ratchada is located just beside the mall. ⛔️ Opening Hours: As of this writing, Ratchada Night Market remains temporarily CLOSED!

WHERE TO EAT IN BANGKOK

We’ll be creating a more detailed version of this article soon. But in the meantime, here’s a quick rundown of our favorite places to eat in Bangkok.

• Thipsamai , where we had the best pad thai of our lives. It’s said to be the first store to serve the now ubiquitous noodle dish. It uses thinner rice noodles coated in shrimp oil. Michelin bib gourmand awardee Address: 313 315 Maha Chai Rd, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand Bestsellers: Pad Thai, ฿105; Pad Thai with prawns: ฿150 Open: 10AM – 12MN for takeaway only; 5PM – 12MN, dine in & takeout
• Jeh O Chula (Jay Oh) , for the best affordable tom yum noodle soup! It’s crazy popular that queuing can take up to 2 hours, unless you arrive early. We arrived past 4pm, just in time for the opening. But barely 5 minutes after we arrived, the line grew quickly. If you could, reserve a table via Klook. Those who book with Klook have a separate line, which is much shorter. Reserve here! ✅ Michelin bib gourmand awardee Address: 113 ซอย จรัสเมือง Rong Muang, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Bestsellers: Tom yum mama (spicy tom yum noodle soup), plain ฿150, with meatballs, squid, shrimps and crispy pork belly, ฿300; salmon salad, ฿300. Open: Daily 4:30PM-12MN
• Polo Fried Chicken , another Michelin-recognized establishment just across Lumphini Park in Silom area. It started out as a humble street stall but grew to become a proper eatery serving only a few Thai favorites. Address: 137/1-3,9 10 Sanam Khli Alley, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand Bestsellers: Fried chicken half, ฿130; som tam (papaya salad) with salted egg and dried shrimp, ฿80; pork larb/laap (spicy sour minced meat salad), ฿80. Operating Hours: Daily 7am-8:30pm
• Moo Yang Mae Sumontha , a hidden stall inside Chatuchak Market serving moo yang (grilled pork). But its version is roasted honey glazed, which is incredibly tender, succulent, and properly cooked. Address: 587 โครงการ 22 ซอย 4 /2ตลาดนัด จตุจักร 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok Bestseller: Roasted honey glazed pork, ฿60 per 100g. Open: Weekends 8AM-6PM
• Kuang Heng Chicken Rice , established 1932. If you get hungry while shopping around Pratunam, this is the place to refill that empty tummy! It’s located just next to Platinum Mall and across the street from Palladium. Address: 930 Phetchaburi Rd, Makkasan, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400, Thailand Bestsellers: Hainanese chicken and deep-fried chicken, ฿50 (single); chicken/pork satay, ฿80 per 10 sticks. Open: Daily 7am-10pm
• Jay Fai , with one Michelin star and featured on the Netflix series Street Food . It’s so incredibly popular that we still haven’t been able to try it. It doesn’t accept reservations beforehand, so you need to show up and fall in line early to be considered for the waitlist. We attempted three times but the waitlist was always full by the time we arrived. Nevertheless, I’m adding it to this list so you could try it for yourself. Address: 327 Maha Chai Rd, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand Bestsellers: Hainanese chicken and deep-fried chicken, ฿50 (single); chicken/pork satay, ฿80 per 10 sticks. Open: Wednesday-Saturday, 9am-9pm Closed: Sunday-Tuesday

USUAL PRICES IN BANGKOK

Below is the list of the prices of common items that you will need for a comfortable budget stay in Bangkok! Bear in mind that the figures are in Thai Baht.

FAST FOOD & CONVENIENCE STORE

• Bottled water (500ml): ฿6-12
• Bottle of softdrink (550ml): ฿20
• 7-Eleven rice meal: ฿40-55
• Big Mac (McDonald’s): ฿128

STREET FOOD

• Grilled meat: ฿10-30 per stick
• Pad thai: ฿50-60
• Noodle soup: ฿50-70
• Rice meals: ฿50-100

ENTRANCE FEES

• Grand Palace: ฿500
• Wat Pho: ฿200
• Wat Arun: ฿100
• Siriraj Medical Museum: ฿200
• Mahanakhon Skywalk: ฿836
• Dream World Bangkok: ฿575
• Siam Amazing Park: ฿650

TRANSPORTATION

• BTS/MRT fare: ฿16-52
• Taxi flagdown rate: ฿35
• Grabcar within the city: ฿100-280, depending on distance/traffic conditions

TOURS (with Transfers)

• Maeklong Railway Market + Damnoen/Amphawa Floating Market: ฿1356
• Ayutthaya: ฿1690
• Pattaya + Koh Larn: ฿2239

SAMPLE BANGKOK ITINERARY

Here’s a sample itinerary that you may use. We stayed much longer, but if you have only an extended weekend to spend in Bangkok, here’s something to consider.

Note that this itinerary assumes that you’re a party of 2 , splitting some of the costs, and that you’re staying at a hotel in Siam, close to BTS National Stadium Station. Feel free to adjust here and there to match your hotel location, flight schedule, and your travel preferences.

DAY 1: MAHANAKHON SKYWALK & JEH-O-CHULA 01:00 PM – Arrival in Bangkok – Pickup Data SIM Card & Rabbit Card 02:30 PM – Train to Phaya Thai Station ฿45 – Transfer to BTS to Siam, ฿25 03:00 PM – Walk to your hotel, check in, freshen up 04:00 PM – Train to BTS Chong Nonsi Station, ฿28 04:15 PM – Mahanakhon Skywalk, ฿836, Book here! – Chill and wait until sunset 07:00 PM – Train to BTS National Stadium, ฿28 07:15 PM – Walk to Jeh-O Chula 07:30 PM – Eat tom yum set at Jeh-O Chula, ฿350/pax, Reserve here! ! 09:00 PM – Walk or train to Siam, ฿22 09:30 PM – Back to hotel, lights out

DAY 2: DIY TEMPLES TOUR & KHAO SAN ROAD 07:00am – Wake up call 08:00am – Train to BTS Saphan Taksin Station, ฿37 08:30am – Walk to Sathorn Pier 08:45am – Board orange-flag boat, ฿15 09:15am – Get off at N9 Tha Chang Pier 09:30am – Grand Palace Complex, ฿500 10:00am – FREE Tour at Temple of Emerald Buddha 11:00am – Lunch, ฿100 12:00pm – FREE shuttle to Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre 01:00pm – Khon Performance (included in Palace ticket) 01:45pm – Walk to Wat Pho 02:00pm – Wat Pho, ฿200 03:30pm – Boat to the other side of the river, ฿5 03:45pm – Explore Wat Arun, ฿100 05:00pm – Boat to the other side (Tha Thien*), ฿5 05:15pm – Boat to N13 Phra Arthit, ฿15 05:40pm – Walk to Khao San Road 06:00pm – Dinner & drinks at Khao San, ฿400 09:00pm – Taxi/grab to Silom, ฿100/pax *Note: Tha Thien/Tha Tian Pier is temporarily closed for renovation, as of Dec 2022. For now, you may walk all the way back to Tha Chang and catch the boat to Phra Arthit Pier.

Day 4: SHOPPING, DEPARTURE A: If this falls on a weekend 08:00am – Wake up call, check out, leave bags 08:40am – BTS to Chatuchak Park Station, ฿42 09:00am – Shop at Chatuchak Market 11:00am – Lunch at Moo Yang Mae Sumontha, ฿120 11:30am – Continue shopping 02:00 PM – BTS back to hotel, ฿42 02:20pm – Back to hotel, pick up bags 02:50pm – BTS to Phaya Thai Station ฿25 – Transfer to ARL to Suvarnabhumi Airport, ฿45 03:30 PM – Flight check in 06:45 PM – Flight out B: If this falls on a weekday 08:00am – Wake up call, check out, leave bags 08:40am – BTS+ARL to Ratchaprapop Station 09:00am – Platinum + Palladium Malls 11:30 AM – Lunch at Kuang Heng Chicken Rice, ฿120 12:30pm – Continue shopping in Pratunam 02:00 PM – ARL+BTS back to hotel 02:20pm – Back to hotel, pick up bags 02:50pm – BTS to Phaya Thai Station ฿25 – Transfer to ARL to Suvarnabhumi Airport, ฿45 03:30 PM – Flight check in 06:45 PM – Flight out

If you follow this Bangkok itinerary, prepare to shell out ฿5000 (USD 144, EUR 136, SGD 195, PHP 7950) , excluding airfare and hotel but including a bit of allowance for wiggle room and to make up for any possible price adjustments and incidental expenses.

If you spend TH฿600 per night per person on accommodations, the same itinerary will cost you TH฿6800 (USD 197, EUR 185, SGD 264, PHP 10,800) , excluding airfare but with some allowance to cover adjustments and incidental expenses.

(If you’re coming from the Philippines, it doesn’t include the PHP1650 travel tax yet.)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BANGKOK

What are the covid-19-related travel requirements in thailand.

The Thai government has lifted COVID-19 restrictions for tourists. Travelers are only required to present the usual border requirements like passport (and visa if applicable). No proof of vaccination required.

But if your next destination is a country that requires an RT-PCR COVID test (like India and China), travel insurance is mandatory . It must cover the full length of intended stay in Thailand + 7 extra days.

* This section is as of January 2023

Is Bangkok safe?

Yes, Bangkok is generally safe and tourist-friendly. Of course, you should still use common sense at all times, and don’t flash your gadgets in the open or leave your valuables unattended.

My only frustration with Bangkok is that it has more than its share of scams targeting tourists, so always be careful.

What are the common Bangkok scams?

Bangkok’s scams are more organized than they appear. One widespread modus operandi involves people loitering by the gate of temples (or other tourist spots) and approaching tourists. I almost fell for this on my first trip. They are very friendly, and they usually introduce themselves as teachers. They claim that the site you’re about to visit is closed because it is a holiday and that they know a more beautiful place that is not on tourist maps. They then hail a random tuktuk (which isn’t random at all for the driver is part of the scam) and tour you around. You will be taken to a jewelry store selling overpriced gems and accessories. The tuktuk may also overcharge you for the ride.

Khao San Road is also rife with scams. You’ll find tourist agents selling all sorts of transportation tickets that turn out to be less than what they promise. For example, you’ll find plenty of “direct buses” to Siem Reap, but most of them are not really direct as they involve switching vehicles at one point during the trip. Worse, some of these buses stop at “travel agencies” that will sell you fake visa.

Patpong is also notorious for scams. You’ll be invited by barkers to a sexy club to see a “pingpong show” or other mind-blowing presentations, to say the least. They’ll say the show is free but you must order a drink. The catch is, the drink is ridiculously overpriced.

As in any other city, be careful and vigilant. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

When is the best time to visit Bangkok?

November to February , when the temperature and precipitation levels are kind and low. But because of the pleasant weather, it is also the peak season. High season begins in November and ends in April, around Songkran Festival (Thai New Year, April 13-15). If you’re visiting within this period, prepare to share the city with millions of other tourists.

Bangkok could’ve been a year-round destination if it weren’t for the bouts of rain and flooding problems, which is why it is best to avoid the wettest months.

Rainy season is from May to October, but the wettest months are September-October. We have tried traveling to Bangkok in January, July, August, September, October, and November, and we can tell you that the precipitation level can definitely affect your overall travel experience. We’ve been stranded in some sites because of torrential rains and flooding and ended up wasting much of our time.

What is tipping policy in Bangkok?

Tipping is NOT mandatory in Bangkok, but it is surely appreciated.

When eating at sit-down restaurants, a tip of 10% of the bill should be fine. You can also just round off your bill. For example, if your bill is ฿135, you can leave ฿150. Same with cabs. If the meter is ฿105, round it off to ฿110 or ฿120. At hotels, you can give ฿20-50 to the porter who carries your luggage to your room, depending on the number of pieces. For a massage, tip ฿50. For full-day tour guides, at least ฿200 is alright.

Where to exchange money in Bangkok?

Bangkok has countless money changers, but most of them have poor rates, especially those at the airport. Trust me. I made that mistake and lost a lot in the conversion. If you really need to do so at the airport, exchange only a little or enough to get you to the city center.

At the city center, find a SuperRich Thailand branch. SuperRich has the best rates, make sure it’s a legit SuperRich branch.

What is the power socket used in Bangkok?

Most common sockets are sort of a combination of Types A and C. They have two holes that can accept both flat and round pins, the shape of two door knobs or rubber stamps facing each other. This type of socket can take plugs that are Types A, C, and F. If your plug has three pins, you will be needing an adaptor.

Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?

Foreigners holding passports issued by the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, United States, United Kingdom, Germany and 40+ other countries can enter Thailand visa-free , provided that they stay shorter than 30 days.

To see the complete list of countries, visit this: List of Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Countries

However, visitors must have the following upon entry:

• a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
• return or onward ticket
• at least 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family or equivalent in other currencies, cash.

It will also help to have a hotel reservation .

Note that if you’re not arriving by air, you’re only allowed to enter Thailand twice per year.

Do I really need 10,000-baht show money at the immigration?

In theory, yes. It is the law. But it’s not implemented all the time. Lately, they have been a bit stricter.

Our team has been in and out of Thailand recently but none of us were asked how much we carry. But it would help to just comply, just in case.

The amount should be 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family.

It doesn’t need to be in baht. It can be any currency as long as it has the equivalent value.

Updates Log

2024•1•5 – Removed travel insurance for test-requiring next destination as it no longer applies 2022•12•21 – First up

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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I stumbled upon your travel blog website and I’m absolutely loving it! Your posts are so informative and inspiring, and they’ve given me some great ideas for my own travels. I especially enjoyed your recent post on Travel blog, and I can’t wait to see where you’ll take us next!

Thanks for sharing your experiences with the world, and keep up the amazing work! I’ll definitely be following along on your adventures.

Thank you so much for preparing this blog, Yosh!!! I cannot imagine the length of time it took you to lay out this information, so thank you! I appreciate it a lot now that I am in charge of our Thailand itinerary – it’s crazy!

Glad it was helpful. And yes, it takes us days (sometimes, weeks) to produce just one travel guide. But it’s always worth it!

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10 EPIC Day Trips from Bangkok (Do Not Miss These in 2024)

• Last Updated: January 16, 2024

Read on to discover the 10 best day trips from Bangkok that allow you to escape the city and see more of Thailand !

Bangkok undoubtedly has a place on every traveller’s Thailand itinerary . 

It is the capital city and the most populated place in the country and has two major international airports that connect tourists from all over the world. 

Bangkok is vibrant and exciting, with its thriving entertainment scene and nightlife and its gorgeous temples and attractions. 

Once you’ve seen the best part of Bangkok you may be keen to move on and explore more of Thailand . 

Rather than constantly being on the move and sleeping in a new bed every night, it can be more convenient and even more affordable to just stay in Bangkok for a few extra days and take some day trips out of the city. 

There are lots of day trips out of Bangkok that allow you to see a new part of Thailand and then return to Bangkok later in the same day. 

Whether you book one of the many Bangkok day tours, or just venture out on your own and take public transport, there are plenty of opportunities for exploring the areas surrounding the city. 

The great part about Bangkok day trips is the journey there and back usually won’t take more than a few hours. 

So you can chill out and relax on public transport or your tour bus before and after your day of exploring. 

Table of Contents

Getting There:

Best day trips from bangkok.

Here is a list of the 10 best day trips from Bangkok. From islands, floating markets, and vineyards on the Chao Phraya River, to temples, historic villages and more, there is lots to see outside the city!

1) Ayutthaya

This ancient capital of the Kingdom of Siam is easily one of the best day trips from Bangkok. 

The country of Thailand used to be the Kingdom of Siam, and its capital city was Ayutthaya until 1767. 

Nowadays, the ruined yet still standing city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where tourists can come and see the remnants of this once powerful kingdom. 

Throughout the grounds, you can find stone ruins of palaces, temples, and Buddha statues. 

The biggest and most popular temples to visit are Wat Na Phra Mane, Wat Lokayasutharam and Wat Mahathat . Be sure to look for the mysterious head of Buddha nestled in the tree roots outside Wat Mahathat. 

Ayutthaya is packed with things to see and the area is quite spread out, so you may want to hire a tuk-tuk to drive you around for a few hours. It costs roughly 1,000 Baht for the day. 

If you want to save money and you’re feeling active, you can rent a bicycle for only 40 Baht for the day and cycle through the ancient city. 

The easiest way to reach Ayutthaya from Bangkok by public transport is by taking the train. The journey takes just over 2 hours.

Another option is booking a guided tour so you can learn more about the significance of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and enjoy comfortable private transport.

We recommend this tour on Klook .

2) Erawan National Park

This national park founded in 1975 is a hidden gem of Thailand. 

Not many people know about it, but it is overflowing with natural beauty and is one of the best day trips out of Bangkok, especially if you book it as a tour .

The main attraction of the park is Erawan Falls , a gorgeous, 7-tier waterfall with sapphire natural pools at the base.

You can swim in the pools, climb up the walking trails surrounding the waterfall, and bring a picnic (although you’re not allowed to bring food past the 2nd tier of the waterfall). 

Other attractions in Erawan National Park include Ta Duang Cave which is filled with ancient rock paintings and Tha Thung Na Village where you can see incredible traditional pottery. 

The entrance fee to the park is 300 Baht. You can rent a bicycle to cruise around the park if you wish, and it only costs 20 Baht per day.

The best way to get to Erawan National Park from Bangkok is by minivan.

It costs around 300 Baht and takes 4 hours, so the journey is long but if you’re truly looking for some spectacular natural beauty, the journey is worth it.

Or you can take the easier, more efficient way, and book yourself in for a guided tour from the city . This tour combines the park with the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi as well.

READ MORE: Play your trip to Thailand with our comprehensive Thailand Travel Guide .

3) Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Another top day trip from Bangkok is the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. 

Located in the Ratchaburi Province, about 1.5 hours away from Bangkok, this is one of the most famous floating markets in Thailand.

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is a sensory roller coaster, with local vendors floating in their long tail boats decked out in colourful traditional garments and selling a multitude of different products. 

Some of the most common things sold at the floating market are local food dishes and produce, flowers, trinkets, and souvenirs. 

Because Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is so famous, it is very touristy and can get crowded. 

If you can, arrive super early in the morning to beat the crowds and see more of the authentic side of the floating market before the locals start catering to the tourists.

If you’re really interested in this type of day trip, you could also visit Amphawa Floating Market. It’s only a 15 minute drive from Damnoen Saduak Floating Market to Amphawa Floating Market, so you can easily visit the two in one day.

The cheapest way to reach Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is by taking a public bus from the Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok. The buses leave every 40 minutes starting at 6 am and the journey costs 50 Baht. 

Public buses will drop you off about 1 km away from the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, so you’ll need to hire a boat to get to your destination. 

If you’d prefer to book a tour that takes you directly to the market and guides you to the best places, that is an option as well !

4) Kanchanaburi

Another one of the best day trips from Thailand is Kanchanaburi . This quaint Thai town is not very touristy compared to Bangkok, so it’s a great way to see the local way of life.

This town is most famous for two things: The Bridge on the River Kwai and the Death Railway. Both landmarks were created during World War II, and the town is home to other notable monuments from the war.

The Thai Burma Railway, also known as the Death Railway, was built by Prisoners of War and laborers of the Japanese army who were occupying Thailand.

A popular thing to do in Kanchanaburi is riding the slow train journey of the Death Railway and seeing the countryside.

The Bridge on the River Kwai is a steel bridge that was also built by war prisoners during World War II. Walk across the famous bridge and snap some photos, as it’s one of the town’s most well-known landmarks.

Kanchanaburi also has numerous museums and temples to check out. It’s a cool place to learn about history and local culture.

You can easily travel to Kanchanaburi from Bangkok by train, minibus, or taxi. The journey is about 2 hours.

You can also book a guided tour with Klook which is pretty affordable and takes you to all the highlights.

5) Wat Saman Rattanaram

If you’re interested in Eastern religions and are fascinated by Thailand’s temples, this is an awesome Bangkok day trip to take. 

Wat Saman Rattanaram is home to the largest reclining Ganesh statue in all of Thailand.  

Ganesh is a Hindu deity in the form of an elephant, and in this particular statue standing at 16 meters tall and 22 meters long, Ganesh is painted bright pink. 

This site is a significant reminder of the relationship between Hindu and Buddhist faiths in Thailand. 

Though the deity is Hindu, the temple complex surrounding the statue is full of street markets and shops selling both Hindu and Buddhist relics and trinkets.

To reach Wat Saman Rattanaram from Bangkok, you can take a two-hour minibus from the Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal to the town of Chachoengsao which costs about 18 Baht.

There is a pickup from Chachoengsao to the actual temple.  Find more info here .

READ MORE: Start planning your trip to Bangkok with this perfect 3-day itinerary !

If you are craving some sunshine, sand, and sea but don’t have time to visit the Thai islands, you can always take a day trip from Bangkok to the seaside city of Pattaya. 

This is probably the closest beach town to Bangkok, so it’s an easy ocean getaway to escape the city life. 

Pattaya used to be a tiny fishing village, but recently it’s been overrun with tourism and is now filled with hotels, bars, and restaurants. 

But Jomtien Beach is still as beautiful as ever, and there are two gorgeous temples that remain preserved in their traditional state: Wat Phra Yai Temple and the Sanctuary of Truth . 

Book your entry ticket to the Sanctuary of Truth on Klook!

It is very easy to reach Pattaya from Bangkok by public transport on a day trip.

The journey is about 1.5 hours and costs around 100 Baht, and there are lots of different public buses leaving Bangkok every two hours. 

7) Floating Vineyards

Most people probably wouldn’t think to visit a winery or a vineyard in Southeast Asia. But there are actually a few great ones that make for lovely day trips from Bangkok. 

In Samut Sakhon on the Chao Phraya River Delta you can find the “Floating Vineyards”, which are just normal vineyards that appear to be floating on water because the irrigation canals in between each row of grapes are super deep. 

The soil is very fertile and receives lots of rainfall, especially during monsoon season, so the vineyard has to be carefully maintained to ensure the crops don’t collapse into the water. 

But the canopies of grapevines hanging over the canals are such a cool sight to see. And locals harvest the grapes by floating down the canals on wooden boats and picking the grapes by hand. 

The best time to visit the floating vineyard is between November April as that’s when the harvest season is. 

Samut Sakhon is 60 kilometres southwest of Bangkok, and you can get there by minibus, taxi, or train. 

READ MORE: Looking for ideas on what to do in Bangkok? Our epic blog post will tell you everything you need to know!

8) Khao Yai National Park 

To escape the crowded city and immerse yourself in nature, visit Khao Yai National Park. 

Like Erawan National Park, the journey from Bangkok takes about 4 hours. But if you’re a true wilderness-lover, you won’t regret the long hours on the bus. 

As Thailand’s first national park, Khao Yai National Park was established in 1962 and reaches all the way to the Cambodian border. 

The park is full of forests and grasslands that are home to many animals including elephants, monkeys, bears, and more. 

Some of the best activities in the Khao Yai National Park include hiking or biking along the many trails, rafting on the Khun Dan Prakan Chon Chan River, and hiking to some magnificent waterfalls. 

Wang Ta Kari Waterfall and Haew Narok Waterfall are two particularly scenic waterfalls to visit. 

You can reach Khao Yai National Park from Bangkok by public bus or by train. The bus costs around 150-200 Baht, and the train can be anywhere between 100 and 1,000 Baht depending on the class of ticket you get. 

You can also book a 1 day, 2 day, or 3 day tours to Khao Yai National Park with a local guide on Klook .

9) The Ancient City of Mueang Boran

For an interesting day trip from Bangkok packed with history and culture, head south to the province of Samut Prakan to see the ancient city of Mueang Boran.

This collection of buildings is like a giant, outdoor museum full of monuments and opportunities to learn about Thai history, religion, and architecture. 

You can tour the ruined temples and palaces of the ancient city and admire the statues around the area that show different yoga poses. 

Lots of famous and historic Thai buildings that have been destroyed over time have been rebuilt here to showcase their original design, so it’s a lovely look into Thailand’s past.

You can also visit the Erawan Museum to see traditional Thai art and furniture and a huge three-headed elephant statue, or stroll through the King Rama IX Park and relax by the lake. 

To get around the park a bit more quickly, you can also rent a bicycle or take a tram tour. 

The entrance fee to the ancient city is 500 Baht, and it is close enough to Bangkok that the easiest way to get there is to just take a taxi from the city. 

READ MORE: Be sure to add these activities to your list of things to do in Thailand !

10) Koh Kret Island

This man-made island in the Chao Phraya River in Nonthaburi Province is a culturally enriching Bangkok day trip. 

The traditionally isolated indigenous Mon people of the Koh Kret area continue their unique customs and traditions here, and tourists have the privilege of witnessing this special culture. 

One of the Mon people’s most treasured art forms is their pottery, usually made using unglazed terra-cotta and engraved with impressive designs and details. 

You can visit the Kwan Aman Pottery Museum to admire a massive collection of Mon ceramics, or maybe catch a glimpse of the native Mon people still crafting their pottery near the river.

Another highlight of Koh Kret Island is Wat Paramaiyikawat . This Buddhist temple is home to a golden stupa that is 200 years old and supposedly holds relics of the Buddha.

To reach Koh Kret Island from Bangkok, you can take a 15-minute taxi ride for 200 Baht, or a 30-minute public bus ride for 20 Baht to reach the town of Nonthaburi. From there, a long tail boat ticket to Koh Kret Island costs 100 Baht. 

Or if you want to skip the hassle of public transport, you can always book a day tour to the island !

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Interesting list of trips from Bangkok. I went once to Pattaya but I don’t like it much…

Thanks for reading Damian. We were the same also. 🙂

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A klong tour, sailing through old Bangkok!

A klong tour through the canals of Bangkok is the ultimate way to discover Thonburi, the old part of Bangkok. Thonburi is located west of the Chao Phraya River . This is a part of Bangkok where you, as a tourist normally don’t come quickly. You feel like you are far away from the blocks with skyscrapers, large luxury shopping malls and four-lane roads. Yet Thonburi is closer than you think and easy to reach. During the boat trip you will see wooden houses on stilts, friendly locals, unexpected green oasis and colorful temples .

You sail mainly through the narrow canals (klongs) of Bangkok. Because of this you sometimes literally look closely at the houses at the waterfront. You will see the hustle and bustle along and on the water; people who garden, cook, do the laundry or take a nice nap. In short, just life along the river as it has been for generations. For the Thai very normal, for us very special! 

Images: ThailandMagazine.com

Our boat trip through the old Bangkok

In the early morning we traveled with the Sky Train to the BTS station Wutthakat. Here we met our English speaking guide.

We booked our klong tour in advance with the Bangkok Boat Company , this turned out to be a good choice!

When we got out of the BTS station we noticed that there were no high tower blocks here, but small houses and a few low apartment buildings.

Together with our eloquent guide we walked through the narrow streets to the boarding point of the boat. On the way we met an old lady who made slippers and a group school children brushing their teeth in the street. The atmosphere in this part of Bangkok is not to compare with the modern and new part of Bangkok.

In the longtail boat

Arriving at a narrow canal our cute little longtail boat with captain was ready for departure. Because we had booked a private tour we got a smaller version of the longtail boat. Cute, but also a bit exciting, because this one sits quite low on the water!

Sailing through the klongs (canals) of Bangkok

As soon as the boat starts to sail, your eyes won’t rest! The houses on stilts in the water are very nice to see, some are on the verge of collapsing. Other houses look very nice and have beautiful gardens with fruit trees and beautiful flowers. Although you are still in the mega metropolis of Bangkok, there are still parts with nothing but green.

There are quite a few monitor lizards living in this water by the way, we saw a pretty impressive specimen swimming nearby!

From a woman in a small boat we bought freshly baked banana, one of our favorite snacks in Thailand!

During our klong tour our guide gave us a lot of information about the area. She told us that in a decade or so, maybe all the traditional houses on the water will have disappeared. The land in Bangkok is precious and large investors are very interested in the land along the canals of Bangkok. The inhabitants cannot always prove that the land is officially in their possession because it has been passed on from generation to generation. Also, sometimes there is not enough money to repair / renovate the old houses and selling it is the only alternative.

During the boat trip through Thonburi you also make some stops, which are often depending on which tour you book. There are also klong tours where you only stay in the boat. If you book a private tour , you can discuss which stops are planned. For example, you can visit an orchid farm or take cooking lessons in a traditional Thai house. Even an introduction to meditation is possible.

We had agreed that we especially wanted to discover the narrow canals of Bangkok in peace and quiet. We also visited The Artist House, a cultural center and the Buddhist temple Wat Pak Nam.

The Artist House 

The Artist House is an inspiring place on the river of Bangkok. The whole building is made of wood and richly decorated with plants. There is a few hundred year old pagoda where a Thai puppet show is given on Saturday. Admission is free.

There are shops with art objects such as statues, paintings, books and postcards. It is a nice place where there is a lot to discover about Thai culture. You can decorate Thai wooden masks or make your own bracelet (also fun for children!). For some extra luck you can give the fish some of the colorful fish food that is for sale, no nibbles for you but for the fish…

The surroundings of The Artist House are also very worthwhile. The narrow streets are connected by steep bridges, here we will definitely come back!

After exploring the surroundings of The Artist House we got back in the boat. We went to the Wat Paknam temple, we already caught a glimpse of it from the boat earlier. Man, that looked impressive!

Unknown temple, Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen

Wat Paknam is a temple that is very popular with the Buddhist Thai population, but still relatively unknown to tourists. It was very quiet and that gave the temple an extra special serene atmosphere. The Wat Paknam is known for its stupa with beautiful handmade gold decorations. At the very top is a fairytale almost fluorescent ceiling.

We also saw how a new Buddha statue was built. On the picture you see the mouth of the Buddha. Eventually it will be almost 70 meters high, making it the third largest sitting Buddha statue of Thailand! 

Images: dima_trionix (Instagram)

Different kinds of tours

We booked our klong tour in advance with the Bangkok Boat Company because we had heard good stories about it. You can choose from different kinds of tours . Like the Lazy Afternoon Tour, Family Tours and Breeze and Pleased Tours. With a private / custom tour you can decide in consultation with the guide what you will see. Whatever you choose to book a klong tour with these nice people is highly recommended!

Nice (family) outing in Bangkok!

After the beautiful temple we made a last boat trip back to our pick-up point. By now it was around noon and time to say goodbye to our guide. We had been on and around the water for almost 3 hours and the time had passed! A tour through the canals of Bangkok is really fun to do, also for the children. (life jackets are available). For people with walking difficulties it can be difficult to get in and out of the longtail boat. Of course the guide or the captain will help where possible.

Where to book a longtail boat in Bangkok?

It isn’t necessarily necessary to book a longtail boat tour in advance. You can also rent a longtail boat at the Phra Arthit Pier (near Khao San Road and Rambuttri Road ). We did this a few years ago. If you ask us which one we liked better, the answer is easy, the pre-booked tour at the Bangkok Boat Company ! With the tour of Bangkok Boat we went longer and deeper into the canals. This is also because you get on a different location.

During the tour we booked at the pier, we spent a lot of time reaching the narrow tributaries and houses on stilts. After that we went back at a fast pace. Of course this is a pity because there is so much to see! So if you want to see the houses on stilts, at least take the 1.5 hour tour.

Prices longtail boat hire

The price of a longtail boat tour depends on your wishes. At the small tour agencies on the pier the prices seem to be pretty fixed. However, if you can negotiate well, you can sometimes manage to get something off the price. You can also try to negotiate directly with a longtail boat owner. Always make clear in advance what the price is, how long the trip will take and where you are going to take the boat. At the pier you pay around 750 to 1,000 baht for an hour and a half sailing through the klongs of Bangkok. In comparison with the Bangkok Boat Company , you pay 950 baht for 2 hours sailing. The choice is yours!

Even more fun activities on and around the water in Bangkok

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Day Trip from Bangkok: Ayutthaya Historical Park, Thailand

Thailand, for a number of reasons, is one of my favorite countries, and Bangkok is definitely way up there in my list of cities to visit again and again.

Sure, it’s full of tourists; when Westerners visit Asia, Bangkok is most likely their first destination. It’s one of the reasons why I love Bangkok as a solo traveler — the diversity of the people in the capital make for an interesting visit. It doesn’t lack of local color, too, for those who want a “more authentic” experience, whatever it means for them.

If you’re visiting Bangkok for more than just a few days, I would urge you not to miss a day trip to the Kingdom of Ayutthaya , an ancient capital of Siam only a couple of hours from Bangkok. It is very easy to do a DIY Ayutthaya tour. Here’s how.

One Day Ayutthaya Tour — DIY

I first went to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , in 2012 on a DIY trip. I picked up a map from the BTS, went to Hua Lamphong train station, and got a third class seat for around 20 baht. It was really hot, but sitting by the window cooled me up a bit.

The railway is not in Ayutthaya itself, but across the river. When you go out of the train station, just go down straight to the riverside, you will find a lot of boats crossing to Ayutthaya.

Lots of temples in ruins in Ayutthaya.

If you’re going around Ayutthaya on your own, rent a bike. It’s around 50 baht for the whole day. You would have to give some sort of identification (mine was my passport) as collateral for the bike.

If you want, you can also go on an Ayutthaya City Culture Biking Tour via Klook . You will cover Ayutthaya Historical Park, Pom Phet (known as ‘Diamond Fortress’), Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, Wat Mahathat, and other sites.

Rent the bicycle after you have crossed the river! Duh, right, but I rented mine just across the railway station and I ended up lugging the thing down the steep stairway going down to the dock, bringing it on the boat, and doing the same thing again going back. Big mistake!

This bike took me everywhere in Ayutthaya.

Bring a hat and sunscreen. It was December when I first went there, and even a tropical girl like me couldn’t stand the heat.

I ended up spending 2 hours in a restaurant for lunch just to avoid the heat, and had to buy a bottle of (overpriced) sunscreen at 7-11 to avoid getting burned. (Yup even brown skin gets burned!).

Don’t forget to bring your map; it’s what you will use to go around. I went to see Wat Mahathat (Buddha head tangled in the roots of a tree), of course, and Wat Lokaya Sutha (Temple of the Reclining Buddha, with the biggest reclining Buddha in Ayutthaya) among many others in the park.

Some have entrance fees, others didn’t. None charged a fee, though, from November 2016 to January 31, 2017 in honor of their late king.

Taking a Group Tour to Ayutthaya Historical Park

In November last year, I got to do an Ayutthaya tour. I took the Bangkok to Ayutthaya Historical Park Full Day Tour (without the cruise). It was priced reasonably considering all the inclusions.

Check out the Ancient Ayutthaya Tour by Klook as well. Pick up from Bangkok then proceeding to Ayutthaya: Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Ayutthaya Floating Market, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram.

I usually don’t take group tours, but as a solo traveler, it’s definitely one of the ways to save on costs while traveling in convenience, and to meet other travelers as well.

You will be picked up and dropped off at your hotel (though I had to meet them somewhere as I didn’t stay in the center), buffet lunch is provided, there’s a guide, and of course, you didn’t need to worry about how to get to where.

One of the intact Buddha images among the ruins.

From 9am to around 5pm, including travel time, here are the places we covered: Bang Pa-In Royal Palace (the royal family’s summer palace), Ayutthaya Historical Park which included Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon (The Great Monastery of Auspicious Victory) and Wat Mahathat (Monastery of the Great Relic), and the Ayutthaya Floating Market .

Bang Pa-In Royal Palace

Located half an hour from Ayutthaya Historical Park, the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace is a big complex by the Chao Phrya River used the royal family as a summer palace.

The landscaping and the gardens are impressively maintained, and for a 200-baht entrance fee (included already in the group tour ticket), you get to gawk at the beautiful structures inspired by different cultures.

The floating pavilion in Bang Pa-In Royal Palace.

One of the first thing you’ll see from the entrance, for example, is the stupa inspired by Khmer architecture; walk on farther, and you’ll see a gorgeous Thai pavilion in the middle of the lake. Called the Aisawan Dhiphya-Asana Pavilion, it was used as the changing area of the royal family during celebrations.

You can admire the pavilion from the bridge which was inspired by Ponte Sant’Angelo in Rome, or take pictures of the tower inspired by the Portuguese. There are Chinese-styled structures, too, among many others.

The Ponte Sant’Angelo-inspired bridge.

Our guide did his best to get us to rent the carts, because he said it was a long walk to the end of the complex. Good thing I was the odd (wo)man out; each cart could accommodate 4 people, and there were nine of us.

I begged off (cart rental: 200 baht), saying I wanted to walk, and was justified. It took less than 30 minutes to walk from one end of the complex to the other, and that included a lot of picture taking!

Ayutthaya Historical Park

From the summer palace, we went on to the main attraction: the historical park in Ayutthaya. The guide told us a little about two of the most important temples there: Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon and Wat Phra Mahathat, and let us just go around for the rest.

It looked the same as the last time I visited in 2012; what was once one of the richest and most powerful cities in Asia, has now been reduced to ruins due to wars (with the Burmese army), human greed (looting), and natural disasters.

The iconic Buddha head in Ayutthaya.

Founded in 1350, the second capital of the Siamese Kingdom (the first is Sukhothai, another really lovely historical park), enjoyed the peak of its power until the 18th century, when the Burmese army succeeded in burning it down and making the residents leave.

While a lot of the structures are in ruins, there are still a number of intact temples and figures you can see all throughout the park, from stupa or chedi to Buddha images and prang temples (Khmer).

The reclining Buddha in Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon.

There was a reclining Buddha in Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon but it was much smaller than the one in Wat Lokaya Sutha Ram, a giant one at 37 meters long. It’s at the opposite side of Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon and well worth a visit.

You can find the Buddha head entangled in tree roots at Wat Mahathat. All visitors to Ayutthaya go there so you need to wait a bit before you can have your picture taken. Just remember: you can’t be above the Buddha, so you need to squat when you pose in front of it.

Pay your respect; don’t stand over the Buddha’s head.

For more details about the many, many temples and other structures in Ayutthaya Historical Park, check out this Temples Ruins List . It’s a good guide (though the design is so 1990s).

The Floating Market of Ayutthaya

I would have preferred to stay longer and walk around more at the park; unfortunately, the guide wanted us to check out the Ayutthaya floating market . This was the bit I liked the least.

The floating market is completely made for tourists. Nothing in that place was authentic. We were taken to the entrance where we could fall in line to get into the boats, but again, I begged off, knowing what I would see there.

The Westerners in our group (two couples) were initially excited; then begged off when they learned there was a fee (200 baht per person, not included in the tour). The other two couples (Asians) pushed through, and while waiting for them, I just went around.

When our group was complete again, our guide took us to another place (still in the same area) where we could ride an elephant for another 200 baht per person. Only the two Asian couples did it.

Don’t patronize elephant rides in Thailand. 🙁

I was really tempted to ask them not to do it; there have been a lot of flak about how the elephants (and tigers) are treated in the tourism industry in Thailand. Tourists love it, not knowing the abuses the animals suffer in the process.

The seat alone can weigh over 100 kilos; together with the couple plus the mahout (the “driver”), can you imagine how heavy the elephant’s burden is, and how hard it has to work the whole day?

I emailed the tour operator about this, and suggested they partner with tour operators that don’t involve animal attractions in their tours. I understand wanting an experience involving elephants and tigers (huge cat lover here), but not in a lot of places in Thailand where they’re known for unethical treatment. Fortunately, they were very open about the issue and assured me that they will do something about it.

To DIY or not to DIY Ayutthaya?

As a solo traveler, I love being in control of my time and my itinerary. When I went to Ayutthaya on my own in 2012, I saw a lot more of the park, and only went to places that I wanted to see.

However, it was also tiring and hot, and probably not a good idea if you’re traveling with family. (Unless y’all are those nomadic families that I greatly admire.)

So, yes, by all means, if you like convenience, take a group tour when you do an Ayutthaya tour on a day trip. It will save you time and energy, and give you a lot more information than if you just go on your own.

The Floating Pavilion at the Summer Palace.

Just let them know — no riding elephants, no petting drugged tigers (though of course, this wasn’t included in the package), no animals being made to do human tasks (like painting, OMG). Let’s try to be responsible travelers ; if no one wants to take those rides, they would be forced to stop offering them. Maybe.

Despite the last bit, I did enjoy my second time in this UNESCO world heritage site . It’s highly recommended as a day trip from Bangkok if you have time to spare.

Where to Stay in Ayutthaya

If you decide to stay overnight in Ayutthaya, there’s a lot of options there. You can search for great deals on Agoda for a list of properties, or use the search box by Booking.com below.

Have you been to Ayutthaya? How was your experience?

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5 comments . leave new.

Wow, you did a DIY tour to Ayutthaya! We went on a group tour for convenience. You road a boat to Ayutthaya, did I understand that correctly? How long was the travel time? We also went to Ayutthaya recently. Thank you!

Will follow your tips! ? I would also like to ask for some recommended resto near the temples for lunch? Thank you!

I did this day trip by boat and it was fantastic, I should have rented a bike but ended up getting a guide to take me around on a motorbike which was a lot of fun. I did this 10 years ago, so this must be a very busy tourist site by now

I’ll be visiting Bangkok this year and will try to add this to the itinerary! (I suck at following itineraries) I hate when tour groups bring you to places that are obviously designed to make you spend more!

Fabulous breakdown. I love that Buddha head too; awesome-looking image.

We have a few trips to BKK over the next half year with flight layovers so maybe well worth a trip to this charming place.

As for the Floating Market awesome add. We heard – ie were goaded – to go on a FM tour many times by tuk tuk drivers in Bangkok. Shoulda known it would be touristy for my Thai standards 😉 Get lost a bit, find those Thai neighborhoods and add some authentic experiences to those few tourist spots most of us at least breeze through.

Thanks a bunch.

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Day trips from bangkok: damnoen saduak floating market.

Looking for day tours from Bangkok?

Traveling to Thailand will not be complete without experiencing a day at a floating market. So, what are you waiting for? Explore one of Thailand's oldest and unique traditions and visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market! It's a must-do day trip from Bangkok you should not miss!

DAY TOUR ITINERARY

• 08:00 AM - Meet up at Century Mall (next to BTS Victory Monument station)
• 10:00 AM - Arrive at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and enjoy a 60-minute electric boat ride
• 10:30 AM - Feed fish while on a boat
• 11:00 AM - 12:00 NN - Freely explore the floating market
• 12:00 NN - 01:00 PM - Visit a local seafood market
• 02:00/03:00 PM - Return/arrive at Century Mall Bangkok
• You can choose to shop at King Power or end the tour after drop off at King Power

Other Floating Market Tours in Thailand

• Thailand Floating Markets Day Tour
• Bangkok Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Grand Palace Half Day Trip
• Amphawa Floating Market Half Day Trip
• Vana Nava Waterpark & Floating Market Custom Tour from Bangkok
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Chatuchak Weekend Market Private Day Tour
• Maeklong Train Market and Amphawa Floating Night Market with Firefly Viewing Tour
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Chatuchak Weekend Market Half Day Trip

Cheap Flights to Bangkok, Thailand

Hotels in bangkok.

• To help you plan your trip, you may also read my post BANGKOK TRAVEL GUIDE 2018 with a ₱10,000 DIY Itinerary and Budget .

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4D3N Khao Yai Itinerary — The Whimsical City Just 3 Hours From Bangkok

A 3-hour drive from Bangkok lies a city filled with wineries, farms, and massive floral fields. Wait what? That exists in Thailand? Yes it does, and you can find it all in Khao Yai. Here’s how to cover all the must-eat-see-do in this 4D3N Khao Yai itinerary.

Bangkok has been my go-to getaway whenever there’s a short window for travelling. Flights are fairly cheap (being only 3 hours away), food is delicious and affordable, and it’s easy to get around. But there’s only so much the city can continue to excite us, restless travellers.

Right after we landed in Bangkok this time, we drove 3 hours north to the city of Khao Yai where we spent four days exploring places we hardly expected to see in Thailand.

Pre-trip Essentials

Best time to visit: Khao Yai is generally a few degrees cooler than Bangkok but the cool weather and clear skies are best experienced during the post-monsoon/winter season between November – February (flights then are relatively cheap too!). Average temperatures in the day hover around a comfortable mid-20 and drop to 10–15°C at night.

Getting around: Many key sights can be up to an hour’s drive away. There are also no metered taxis or ride-hailing apps around here. So we booked an affordable 4-day private car charter through Klook which gave us complete freedom to decide what we wanted to experience each day in Khao Yai. More on that below!

*Pro-tip: Use code <THETRAVELINTERN> on Klook to get 5% off all activities with a min. spend of S$50 (discount cap at S$15). Apply the promo code upon checkout. One-time use only!

Connectivity: 8-day unlimited data SIM card (pick up from BKK airport)

Travel insurance:  TravelCare covers medical overseas expenses including adventurous activities cover (starts from $4.50/day )

Read also : 11 Whimsical Accommodations in Khao Yai for an Extra Magical Holiday

Arrive in Bangkok

If you’re landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport, you can spot the drivers waiting outside Gate 4 with distinct orange (Klook) signboards. We met our driver, bought some breakfast and were on our way.

*Pro-tip:  The ride will take 2.5–3 hours so grab yourself some food at the airport’s Family Mart. You can get a pretty decent Thai Basil Rice set with a runny fried egg for ฿65.

Yellow Submarine Coffee Tank

After a 2.5-hour drive, we took a coffee stop at the Yellow Submarine Coffee Tank . The black walls and minimalist architecture attract many locals who use the various corners for a mini photoshoot.

But don’t just come for the photos, some notable items on the menu include their Hokkaido Coffee (฿140) and Charcoal Honey Toast (฿185), which comes with a delicious scoop of vanilla ice cream.

The coffee was alright but the charcoal toast was pretty good! It was crisp, evenly buttered throughout and compliments well with the vanilla ice cream.

Cost: From ฿140/dish Opening hours:  9AM – 6PM (Mon – Thu), 9AM – 7PM (Fri – Sun), closed on Tues and PH How to get there:   11min drive from Khao Yai National Park ( Google Maps )

*Note: Might be closed on weekdays during the low season.

Primo Piazza

Just a 3-minute drive from Yellow Submarine Coffee Tank is the famous Primo Piazza  — an Italian-themed village with vintage buildings.

Drop by the cafe for some brunch or the ice cream parlour to cool off under the midday sun.

But perhaps the greatest highlight here is the sheep, donkeys, and alpacas! Your entry ticket can be exchanged for a bunch of animal feed which serves as a good bribe for photos with the animals 😀.

Entrance fee:  ฿200 Opening hours:  9AM – 6PM How to get there:   11min drive from Khao Yai National Park ( Google Maps )

Dinner at Krua Kampan

After exploring hipster cafes, and walking through little Italy, we were craving some homely Thai food and chanced upon Kua Kampan — a 10-minute drive from Palio. Its cosy, open-air setting and affordable prices turned out to be quite popular with local tourists.

The centrepiece is a modified boat made to accommodate a couple of tables on the deck. Popular dishes here are the Red Curry with Snails (฿200) — snails were alright but the curry was really good, and Red Ruby Fish (฿320) — the fish was massive! If there are only two of you, the grilled mackerel (฿220) is a good alternative.

Cost: From ฿200/dish Opening hours:  9AM – 9PM How to get there: 8min drive from Khao Yai National Park ( Google Maps )

PB Wine Valley

Start the day early and hop on the 9AM winery tour at PB Wine Valley — a 350-hectare vineyard and the largest in Khao Yai.

At 350m above sea level, the conditions are perfect for growing certain varieties of wine grapes, as well as other seasonal fruits you can find here.

The tour leaves four times daily (9:15AM, 11:15AM, 1:15PM, and 3:15PM) and will bring you through vineyards, the wine factory, and of course, to taste some wine. Kids as well as those who aren’t up for alcohol can ask for a full glass of 100% Shiraz Grape juice (non-alcoholic) instead.

Cost:  From ~S$14/pax for a 70-minute tour around the winery (includes 3 wine tasters) Opening hours: 8AM – 8PM (Sun – Thu), 8AM – 10PM (Fri and Sat) How to get there: 26min drive from Khao Yai National Park ( Google Maps )

Farm Chokchai

This 100-hectare farm holds tours twice a day from Tuesdays to Fridays and every 20 minutes over the weekends. Unfortunately, we couldn’t book the tour but heard great reviews from the other travellers we met in Khao Yai.

The tour brings you through the farm’s agriculture processes, a rodeo show and even has ice cream-making classes (only available through pre-booking).

If you miss the farm tour, there are also ATV rides (฿360) that bring you into the forest and an open farm with sheep and horses you can feed for ฿40. There’s also a Chokchai Museum that houses a wide range of collections from cowboy merchandise to vintage cars and cameras.

Cost:  ฿300 for a 2-hour Farm Tour Farm tours:  10AM and 2PM (Tues – Fri); 10AM, 11AM, 1PM, 2PM (Sat, Sun and PH); closed on Mondays unless it’s a PH How to get there: 30min drive from PB Wine Valley ( Google Maps )

*Note:  Pre-book the tour by calling +66 4493 5504

Ban Mai Chay Nam

Ban Mai Chay Nam is so much more than just a restaurant. While walking in, you’ll see an extensive collection of characters like Superman, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, and even Colonel Sanders. Walking through the corridor to our tables was a whole journey of childhood nostalgia.

The place is huge but can get quite crowded during lunch hours as tour buses will make a stop here.

We ordered papaya salad (฿60), a medium-sized plate of fried rice with generous servings of real crab meat (฿150), and tom yum soup (฿200) which were all really tasty and priced affordably.

Cost: From ฿60/dish Opening hours:  9AM – 9PM How to get there: 20min drive from Farm Chokchai ( Google Maps )

Baan Suan Noi (Hobbit House)

After lunch, wean off your food coma with a 40-minute nap in the car before arriving at Baan Suan Noi; known as the Hobbit House.   Primarily an accommodation (that gets booked up really quickly ) you can also visit just to take photos and explore the area.

There’s even a whole room full of costumes ranging from Snow White to Harry Potter and of course, The Hobbit characters. Some of the unbooked rooms are even left open for anyone to explore.

There are 13 themed rooms in either Hobbit or Santorini style.

Have to say I was really quite impressed with the Santorini rooms. Not only because of its all-white theme but the little details like the curvatures in the wall and the little trinkets in the room really reminded me of our Airbnb when we were in Santorini .

Cost:  ฿50 (Entrance Only); ฿100 (Entrance + Costume Rental) Opening hours: 8AM – 11PM How to get there:  32min drive from Ban Mai Chay Nam ( Google Maps )

Dinner at Midwinter Green

Up for a castle dining experience? Head to Midwinter Green an hour before the sun sets so you can see the place when there’s still natural light but also at its most beautiful when the outdoor lights go on.

If you’re visiting in the cooler seasons, ask for the outdoor seats so you can enjoy the cool evening breeze and live music, while dining with a view of the castle.

Dishes cost around the same as cafes in Singapore which isn’t too pricey considering the setting and service. We ordered the pork ribs with BBQ sauce (฿490) as well as the Aglio Olio (฿295) which was really fragrant and a must-try for spicy food lovers.

Cost: From ฿295/dish Opening hours: 10AM – 10PM (Sun – Thu), closes at 11PM on Fri and Sat How to get there: 31min drive from Baan Suan Noi ( Google Maps )

Day 3: Khao Yai National Park

Spanning across 2,000 square kilometres, Khao Yai National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to lots of wildlife like elephants, deers, otters and gibbons.

Grab a map from the Visitor Centre before going on self-guided treks to check out waterfalls and viewpoints where you can overlook the vast greenland. Most of the treks are fairly easy and straightforward, with the option of getting your driver to drop you close to the lookout point.

Entrance fee:  ฿400 and ฿50/car Opening hours: 6AM – 6PM How to get there: 10min from Primo Piazza ( Google Maps )

Haew Narok Waterfall

Starting from the furthest point, and also the tallest waterfall in the National Park, Haew Narok measures 100m high. From the closest drop-off point, it’s an easy 900m walk to the lookout point.

If you’re game, there’s also a rocky path from the left side of the barrier where you can climb down to the base. It might look really steep but you’ll see lots of families with young kids attempting the trail too.

Recommended time: 1.5 hours Opening hours:  8AM – 5PM

Pa Deo Die Cliff (Also spelt Pha Diao Dai/Pha Diew Die)

There are a couple of scenic viewpoints from the Pak Chong Entrance towards the visitor centre but Pa Deo Die is arguably the best. There’s a raised wooden path that makes the cliff easily accessible and a round trip around the path only takes 15 – 20 minutes.

Although there are warning signs against getting too close to the edge, the flat boulders are pretty safe to hang your legs over as you enjoy the panoramic view upfront.

Recommended time:  30 – 45 minutes

Haew Suwat Waterfall

Haew Suwat Waterfall is much easier to access than Haew Narok Waterfall so you’ll see a bigger crowd here; though there are more vantage points so you’re more likely to get a photo without getting photobombed. The waterfall is 25m high and splits into two separate streams. You can even walk to the back of the waterfall although you’ll probably get a little bit wet.

Recommended time:  1 hour

Night Safari

At the visitor centre, you can pre-book your night safari for ฿500 a car (fits up to 10 pax) which goes out at two timings (7PM and 8PM). Although if you’re lucky (like us 😀) you can spot wild elephants during the day from the grassland between Haew Narok and the visitor centre.

Popular animals spotted on the safari ride other than elephants include deer, otters, oxes and gibbons. Cost:  ฿500/vehicle Tour timings: 7PM and 8PM

*Pro-tip:  Bring along a sweater as temperatures tend to dip quite a bit at night.

Pak Chong Night Market

After a whole day of hiking, the yummy street food at the Pak Chong Night Market was a treat.

Not the most appetising but it wasn’t as bad as expected!

Some of our favourite finds here were the Mango Sticky Rice (฿60 for a whole mango and generous servings of rice), fresh fruits like papaya (฿20, neatly cut and packed in a box), instant noodle salad (฿60) and the Chilli Cheese Fries (฿39).

Cost: From ฿20/dish Opening hours:  5PM – 10PM How to get there:  32min from Khao Yai National Park ( Google Maps )

Read also : Thailand Road Trip Guide: 5 Epic Ideas Under 3hrs from Bangkok

Our flight back to Singapore wasn’t until at night so we had the afternoon to explore before driving back to Bangkok.

Brunch at The Chocolate Factory

Although called the  Chocolate Factory , this glass building is actually more of a restaurant with a pastry and chocolate store on the first floor.

When you enter, there’s also a small glass kitchen where you can observe chocolate products in the making.

The restaurant serves a wide range of Western to local Thai food with mains starting from ฿180.

Opening hours:  11AM – 10PM How to get there:  12min drive from Khao Yai National Park ( Google Maps )

Jim Thompson Farm

Saving the best for the last (partially also because it was the most out of the way), it takes about 2 hours to drive to the Jim Thompson Farm but if you love flowers, the scale of these flower fields are well worth it!

These sunflowers are taller than the average human being!

Don’t get too carried away though as it takes around 3 hours to drive back to Bangkok in moderate traffic.

There’s also a food court within the Jim Thompson Farm at very affordable prices. Grab a bowl of noodles or rice with curry before heading off for the airport.

Entrance fee: ฿160 (Weekdays), ฿190 (Weekends) Opening hours:  9AM – 5PM How to get there:  2hr drive from The Chocolate Factory ( Google Maps )

Accommodation in Khao Yai

1) luxury: lala mukha tented resort.

Not only is the tent interior one of the cosiest we’ve experienced, the surroundings at  Lala Mukha Tented Resort  is so gorgeous you don’t really want to leave the resort, no kidding!

The area is surrounded by mountains, plenty of greenery and not to mention how cutely designed the accommodation is. You get to pick from three choices:

Loft Tree house — has one double and two single beds

Deluxe Savana Tent — comes with attached shower and toilet

Eco Safari Tent — no attached bathroom but comes with a living room area, a fridge, a sofa and a TV.

We got the Eco Safari Tent as all the others were fully booked but loved every bit of it! The shared bathrooms weren’t too far away from the tents, modernly designed and were exceptionally clean!

Breakfast with a view.

All the tents come with air conditioning although if you’re here from November to January, you’ll want to roll down the tent windows and enjoy the cool, crisp air outside.

Did we mention there’s also a gorgeous infinity pool overlooking the lake?!

Cost:  From ~S$192/night (2 pax) How to get there:  5min drive from Khao Yai National Park ( Google Maps)

2) Fun: The Kids Adventure Khao Yai

Located just 500m from the northern entrance of Khao Yai National Park , The Kids Adventure Khao Yai is a great mid-range alternative.

These are two storied lofts with attached bathrooms in a small but cosy space. However because the beds are located upstairs and cold air sinks, you might want to turn the air conditioning a little colder than you’re usually used to.

Being a kid-friendly accommodation, there are free archery and golf stations you can use anytime.

Cost:  From S$45/night (2 pax) How to get there: 7min walk from Khao Yai National Park ( Google Maps )

3) Budget: At Home Hostel

Photo credit: Booking.com

Located within walking distance from Pak Chong Night Market, At Home Hostel is one of the first few that opened in Khao Yai and is run by a friendly couple.

It’s great if you’re here without your own private driver as you can meet and share transport with the other guests staying here.

Cost: From ~S$27/pax (dorm bed) How to get there:  7min drive from Khao Yai National Park ( Google Maps )

Khao Yai Custom Tours

How this custom tour works is, you’ll be assigned a driver who’ll pick you up from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi, Don Muang or your hotel) and drive 3 hours north to Khao Yai. Each day, you can plan out a 12–hour itinerary to fit around three to five attractions depending on the distance.

*Pro-tip: Use code <THETRAVELINTERN> on Klook to get 5% off all activities with a min. spend of S$50 (discount cap at S$15). Apply the promo code upon checkout. One-time use only!

Read also : Ultimate Khao Yai Guide — 25 Things to Do in Khao Yai

The regular salon cars will cater for three to four passengers but if you’re going with a bigger group, there’s also the option of picking a van for up to 10 passengers . We spoke to travellers in Khao Yai who booked a van with other tour agents and realised Klook’s prices were a lot lower!

If you’d like to follow our itinerary, here’s the concise version:

Day 1: Yellow Submarine Coffee Tank, Primo Piazza, Kua Kampan, back to accommodation

Day 2:  PB Wine Valley, Farm Chokchai, Ban Mai Chay Nam Restaurant, Hobbit House, Midwinter Green, back to the accommodation

Day 3:  Khao Yai National Park, Pak Chong Night Market

Day 4:  Chocolate Factory, Jim Thompson Farm, Suvarnabhumi Airport

For PB Wine Valley and Farm Chokchai , be sure to call up the office to make reservations for the tour at least one day before going. For us, we arrived on a Sunday and many tours were fully booked but our driver was generally quite flexible about making on-the-spot improvisations. Just be sure to have a list of all the places you intend to cover and your driver can help plan the most efficient route.

We hope you found this 4D3N Khao Yai itinerary useful!

Read also: 5D4N Khao Kho Itinerary — The ‘Thai Alps’ just outside Bangkok

This article was first published on 17 Dec 2017 and updated on the date above! If spot any changes to the locations, do let us know in the comments below so we can keep the content updated and fresh!

This post was brought to you by Klook .

For more travel inspiration, follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  YouTube , and  Telegram !

View this post on Instagram A post shared by thetravelintern.com (@thetravelintern)

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75 comments.

Thanks for all the information. Really very helpful as we are planning for a trip in 2018 feb to Khao Yai.. can you also mention overall budget for 4d3n if we follow exactly the same itinerary?

Hi Deepti, we spent about SGD1100 for 2pax excluding flights from Singapore. It can be easily $3-400 cheaper if you pick alternative accommodations, and eat less at the restaurants!

Hi SGD1100, the KLOOK helps to book accommodations as well and included your for expenditure? How much did you spent on just booking the private car?

We paid around $570 for 4 days because we planned to visit places like the Jim Thompson Farm and the Hobbit House which are a little further out. If you’re not visiting these places, it’s around S$480 for 4 days. More info here: http://bit.ly/fussfree-Khaoyai

Hi Cherie, thank you so much for the recommendation. Yours is a private tour right? Any idea if the price same for mini van?

Nope it costs more but fits up to 10pax! You can check out the latest price by “pretending” to book!

Hi Cherie. For the klook package, is it necessary to book with the Guide option?

Nope! You can just pick the option of a driver but some drivers might have a limited command of English.

Hi! Thanks for these info it sure helps us for our upcoming trip in Mar18. One qn thou, does the customised tour by Klook includes the transfer to Lala Mukha? Thanks!:) Ida

Hi Ida, Yes! The tour is fully customisable so you just need to include it in your itinerary when planning the trip with your driver.

Hi Cherie, after reading yours, i totally fall in love & decide Khao Yai for my next vacay nex month for 4D3N…Do i need to book the driver for 4days? Pls advice.. tia

Awesome! If you’re following our itinerary, the 4 day package will fit perfectly 🙂

hi Cherie. Thanks for these info it sure helps us for our upcoming trip in Mar 28th to mar 31st . we will go with 4 adults ( me and my husband and our parent) and a toddler. i will skip your day 3 trip plan, any recommendation for us?

Hi Jenny! The National Park isn’t that tough as the waterfalls are well marked with clear trails and steps. For the elderly it might be tiring but if they are the adventurous kind, it shouldn’t be a problem! We saw many children and toddlers as well.

For ideas, this post might be more useful! https://thetravelintern.com/25-things-to-do-in-khao-yai/

With the family, you guys might want to travel slower and cover less places as well, so the extra day can be used to take things slow. Hope this helps!

– hendric

Hi hendric, during touring the khao yai national park, such as waterfall and the cliff, can we go by ourselves? or do we need to hire a guide? thanks.

It’s quite a straightforward walk from the respective car parks so you won’t need a guide if you’re driving or have hired a private car charter for the day (like us)! Alternatively, you could ask to be dropped off at the Visitor centre and hike to the waterfall and cliff from there. Guides are available for these longer hikes although there are maps provided and there are people who do it on their own too!

Total price for $1100 for 2 pax includes the meals, car and the entrance to all the attractions that was mentioned?

How does it work if we’re planning to spend a few days in BKK first before heading over to Khao Yai, say, we leave BKK in the afternoon and reach Khao Yai just in time to check in and have dinner? Was checking out the different packages at Klook, we can choose just a few places to go instead of their full list right, seeing how it’s customizable?

Thanks! Jacq

Hi jacqueline,

Yup you can do that too! Simply get the driver to pick you up from someone prominent in BKK. Preferably a hotel I guess so there’s an easy place to park and meet.

The list of places is only a suggestion so your route is entirely up to you!

Hi The klook package is per person or per car rate?

It’s per car!

Hi. May I know where exactly is Pa Deo Die cliff located in the national park? Can’t really find the location for it anywhere.

We couldn’t too! But it’s a popular area and our driver knew exactly where it was. 🙂

Planning 2pax to travel to Khao Yai for 5 days 4 nights But out bud is max $800each, will that work . Kindly share what are the key sites and restaurants are must visits ?

Hi Carmen, what we recommend is already in the itinerary! The sites and restaurants are not expensive, your main costs would be the car rental ( https://bit.ly/fussfree-Khaoyai ) and accommodation. The car rental costs and accommodation can be split so it shouldn’t be that bad!

Hi Cherie, Thank you for all your info and itinerary. I’ve booked with Klook on 2 vans for 18 pax. I’ve followed your itinerary for 4d 3n. Can I check with you, how do I booked all the entrance tickets? Is it possible for us to purchase the tickets as we arrived every destination? If need to book first, do you have all the links that you’ve booked?

Hey Carlyn, the only attractions that required pre-booking was the PB Wine Valley Tour (you can email them for reservations), Farm Chokchai (you’ll need to call them) and the Night Safari at Khao Yai National Park (reserved at the National Park’s visitor centre). The email and numbers are all available in the article! 🙂 All the other tickets can be purchased at the entrance.

However, since you’re travelling with a big group, you might also want to make reservations at Ban Mai Chay Nam too as it can get quite crowded over lunch.

Hi.. is the entrance fees to all the attractions place mentioned in the custom tour are inclusive? Price from Klook is only for the driver, fuel and car.?e.g. 4D Package B : S$570 you mentioned above? I’ve contacted Klook, the CS replied really confusing. Cant differentiate between Private Tour and Custom Tour. We cant decide which package to take and no confidence to ask Klook.

The entrance fees aren’t inclusive so you can choose activities that interest you most and pay when you reach the place. Our itinerary was picked based on what we wanted to see but you can mix and match with stuff from this non-exhaustive list: https://thetravelintern.com/25-things-to-do-in-khao-yai/

I’ve just studied the 2 listings and it looks like the Private Car Charter is only for a single day trip to and from Bangkok. Meaning you’ll have to return to Bangkok on the same day. Whereas for the Custom Tour we took, the driver picked us from the airport in Bangkok and only sent us back after our 4 days in Khao Yai. Every night, we’d be sent back to our accommodation in Khao Yai. Hope this helps!

Im planning family trip ( 1 Adult+1 eldery (age 67)+ 1 teen) to Bangkok/Khao Yai in December 2018. Undecide whether to visit on early-Dec or mid-Dec or 23-27 Dec . Which date would you recommend ? Can suggest some itinerary for 5D/4N trip , prefer to spend 3days or 4 days at KhaoYai. Thank you.

Don’t think there’s a difference for December, but I would personally avoid the Christmas season!

For a 5D4N itinerary, you can consider the other attractions here: https://thetravelintern.com/25-things-to-do-in-khao-yai/

Hi Cherie, I’m planning a 4 days trip but during last week of june so may not be the best weather. Will all the places in your article still be open? eg the PB vineyard and the Jim Thompson farm etc. in case they are seasonal.

I think it’s best to give them a call to check since you’ll need to make a booking beforehand anyway 🙂

Morning We are planning about 4-6pax to travel to Khao Yai from 22 Dec onwards 4 Days 3 nights. Can you help us on the Accomondations, Transport etc… What’s the cost for the package? Do you have itinerary for us?

Thank you Clara

Hi Clara, you can try booking here and follow our itinerary in this article. https://www.klook.com/activity/3738-khao-yai-custom-tour-from-bangkok/?aid=312

Hi Cherie Thank you very much for your sharing. I’m planning to go with my family members 8 pax on end Nov 18 for 3N in Khao Yai. Is it book the van with driver & give my own planned itineraries to the driver?

Hi Felice! Yup that’s what you do. During the booking process, you’ll be asked to list down your rough itinerary. The drivers are flexible, but it’s better to have a rough plan.

Hi, Thanks for the great write up. I’m planning for 4d3n in Dec. If I’m leaving on day 4 around 10am to catch the 4pm flight from BKK, then should I get the 4 days package or 3 days? If I take 3 days, then what about my transport to airport on day 4? If I take 4 days, then I would have wasted the day 4 since I’m leaving at 10am. Thanks!

Hi Lilian, Yup you are right! The driver follows you all the way to it’s either you sacrifice the time or find an alternative way. Perhaps you can end Day 3 in BKK then take a taxi or transfer from your hotel in BKK to the airport? That’s what another reader did as well.

May I know if you stayed at 1 accommodation throughout the 4D/3N itinerary? Are all the resort choices in Khao Yai accessible to all your 25 recommended activities?

We are planning to visit during the Christmas week which you caution to avoid. Why so?

Cheers, Sophia

Hi Sophia, we stayed in two different accommodations: – Lala Mukha Tented Resort (our favourite) – The Kids Adventure Khao Yai

You can easily base yourself at one location without worry because of your driver ( https://bit.ly/fussfree-Khaoyai ) No worries!

We mentioned avoiding Christmas as it’ll be crowded that’s all. Other than tourists, there will also be plenty of locals on holiday!

Hi , I’m planning to go Khao Yai during December for 4d3n. Are you able to provide me an itinerary and package rate for 3adult and 1 kid. Hotel we booked ourselves . Pickup at airport to khao yai and return to Bangkok.

Hi Mark, you can book here! https://bit.ly/fussfree-Khaoyai

Hi Cherie, Does the package A or B of each number of days apply to 1 driver to any number of pax ? Does that means – if 2 pax or 5 pax to a driver and choose package A – 3 days, the price is the same ?

Hi Lynette, the price applies to per vehicle!

Hi Cherie If I choose Package A – 4 days at S$482 , but I want to include some other places which are not covered in this package, does the driver accomodate and not charge us ? You mentioned many times driver is accomodating, thus places like Jim Thomson Farm and HobbitHouse can be requested on that day itself if we decide to change the itinerary? I don’t seem to be able to get a reply from KLOOK from some of my enquiries.

Hi Lynette, if it’s within a 50km radius of the national park, it should be ok! However it’s still best to get a confirmation from Klook’s helpdesk. They have a live chat that is quite responsive usually!

Hi, can the car accommodate 4 pax? Is it possible to include Saraburi Sunflower Field in our itinerary. I hope to know before booking.

Hi Jenn, unfortunately the car charter is up to 3 pax for the small car. However you can rent the bigger van that can accommodate up to 10! Should be possible to include!

According to Klook: Standard Car (Toyota Corolla or Vios): 3 Passengers + 3 Pieces of standard luggage Standard Van (Toyota Commuter): 10 Passengers + 5 Pieces of standard luggage The number of passengers and amount of standard luggage should be no more than 6 for car, no more than 15 for van.

Hi, When you visited the National Park is the driver with you the whole time bringing you to the different areas? Did you spend the whole day inside the park or go in and out? Is there food available for dinner if we stay on for the safari?

Hi Loges, Yes the driver drove us around as the areas can be quite far away. We spent majority of the time in the park. There are quite a number of food stalls near the main national park centre where you can get food. Not to worry!

Hi, im planning to go khaoyai in this November, but i am struggling on the transportation part. as i read your blog, you booked a car charter on KLOOK right ? can the car accomodate 4 person ? or more than 3 then i must book a van ==. secondly, the prices in KLOOK for per car is for one person or the whole car ?

The prices are in per car/van. And yup you are right that the car can only fit up to 3pax

Is it possible to do it in a DIY way? Or really need to book a private tour for this Khao Yai experience. Thanks.

Hi Mae, if you’re comfortable with driving you can rent your own car too! We just found this easier and more fuss free in Thailand.

Thank you very much for your sharing. Noted that follow the Plan B you went Jim Thomspson farm on the last day. However, i couldn’t see the location stated in the itinenery. Did you make a special request to the Klook or the Driver ? Can make the request 1 day in advance ? Look forward your kind reply. Thanks 🙂

Hi Sam Sam, For us we made our request on the first day and also indicated it when booking the transport.

I have been trying to email and chat with them on the klook website but it was no respond. Hope that you can help us on the following queries:

1. If we have 8 adults and 3 kids ages 12, 10 & 6, is it ok for us to book for the 10 pax Van?

2. If based on your above reply to others, am i correct that the itinerary can be customized according to ourselves rather than the one posted in Klook website? We are actually looking for 3 days 2 nights trip there?

3. We have 3 elderly travel with us, will the Haew Narok Waterfall, Pa Deo Die Cliff and Haew Suwat Waterfall needs to trek and not suitable for them?

Looking forward to your kind reply. Thank you and have a nice day!

2) Yes! That’s the great thing about the car charter. You can just pick the number of days and select the activities you’d prefer. Have you seen our article on 25 things to do in Khao Yai ? You can pick and choose from the possibilities there.

3) It’s been some time since we went but if my memory doesn’t fail me, only Haew Suwat was a little hard to get to. Pa Deo Die Cliff and Haew Narok Waterfall has proper walkways so if they’re okay with strolling, it’s quite accessible!

Unfortunately I can’t answer #1. If might not be allowed because of safety. Did you try the live chat function on the website? They usually reply quite quickly there!

I try but every time no answer…not sure why.

Btw the trip that you mentioned is “Khao Yai Custom Tour from Bangkok” rather than “Khao Yai All-Time Favorites Private Tour from Bangkok”, am i correct? i get a bit confuse with their package, and not sure i should book which one….If i based on those places that we wanted to visit, i think only Hobbit House is a bit far, others location should still within the 50km radius from Khao Yai National Park. I guess we will need to go with Package B if i understand correctly.

I am wondering what is the different if we book “Khao Yai All-Time Favorites Private Tour from Bangkok”, is that mean the itinerary has to follow exactly shown in the website?

I will love to visit Jim Thompson Farm but they only open in 8 Dec’18 which we have to make it a miss this time.

Btw, thanks a lot for your reply. It was a great help to us!

When I looked through Klook, they mention if our hotel is located other than Pakchung area, there is surcharge to pick us to & from hotel everyday..So if I were to take Package B 4 days as per you, is there any additional charges if I were to stay in Ozone hotel or any other hotels? and for all the hotels you stayed, is there any surcharge for picking you up?

Thanks a lot!

Hi Seok Hoon, I think you will have to check with Klook for the hotel you are staying in to see if it lies within their zone. However for the hotels we stayed at, we did not pay any surcharge.

Cherie, so glad to stumble upon your blog! Cos we are also doing a 4D 3N visit with Klook. I saw you wrote that the PB tours are only till noon. So I was thinking of going there in the morning then the National Park in the afternoon. I mainly want to see the Haew Suwat waterfall (cos you said it is easier to get to!) and Pao Deo Die cliffs. Do you think that is workable or should we go to the National Park in the morning?

sounds possible! Those two can be covered under 3 hours. If you stay till the evening, you can even sign up for the safari tour

I saw your post of this; “Hi Mae, if you’re comfortable with driving you can rent your own car too! We just found this easier and more fuss free in Thailand.”.

May u recommend the good car rental agent of service? is it meant that we could personally drive from Bangkok to Khao Yai? how’s about the road along the Khao Yai, and is it easy or nope to park the vehicles?

Thanks..really enjoyed ur story!

Hi Wanwan, We know it exists but unfortunately have not tried it before so we can’t comment too much! What we replied to Mae was all we are aware of.

Hi Cherie Thanks for the helpful blog. The sim card offered by Klook is 8 days unlimited data sim card. Can it be share with hotspot and for how many persons?

Many thanks.

Hi Angie, last we remembered it does not allow hotspot. But we’re not sure now!

Hi looking at your blog made me booked for a trip coming Nov19 via klook. As I am travelling with kids, would like to check with you the safety level in Khao Yai especially visiting night safari is it very dark/unsafe for kids since it is in the wild?

Hey Coco, it’s pretty safe!

Hi, i am unable to see the itinerary. It ends at arrival at BKK. Anyway to access the full itinerary? Thanks

Hi! Thanks for the heads up, it’s fixed now 🙂

Hi Cherie, we are planning to visit khao yai in Nov. we love your itinerary & plan to go with that. However, when i book the khao yai custom tour from BKK, the pick up field is only for hotel, not BKK Suvarnabhumi airport. I email Klook and was instructed to book a separate private car charter just to send us from BKK airport to khao yai. That does not look like the way you travel. could you plse enlighten me thank you

Hey Julia, thanks for writing in!

We’ve brought this up to Klook and they’re looking at making their listing a little clearer. Would you like them to contact you at the email you’ve provided?

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