Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is a city that never ceases to amaze its visitors. With its diverse range of attractions, from majestic temples and grand palaces to bustling shopping malls and electrifying nightlife, Bangkok has something for everyone. However, if you are seeking a more unique and authentic experience, there are hidden gems tucked away within this bustling metropolis that often go unnoticed by guidebooks and mainstream tourist itineraries.
Venturing off the beaten path, you will discover a world of enchanting secrets that will leave you captivated and craving for more. These hidden gems offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of Bangkok.
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Here are five of them and how you can organize them.
- Back-Alley Cycling Tour
One of the best ways to explore the hidden side of Bangkok is by cycling through its back-alleys and canals. You can join a guided tour by Go Bangkok Bike Tour, which will take you to some of the most interesting places in Chinatown, such as the old Customs House, the Holy Rosary Church, and a local market. You will also get to feed fishes, take a ferry ride on the Chao Phraya River, and learn about the history and culture of the area. The tour costs from S$21 and lasts for about three hours. You can book online or at their headquarters in Charoen Krung Soi 44.
- Ratchada Rot Fai Train Market
If you love shopping and eating, you can’t miss the Ratchada Rot Fai Train Market, which is a huge night market that opened in 2016. It is located near the National Cultural Centre BTS Station and has hundreds of stalls selling everything from clothes and accessories to street food and drinks. You can find some unique items here, such as personalised knick-knacks, bohemian jewellery, and vintage goods. You can also enjoy live music and bars at the edge of the market. The market is open from 7PM to 1AM every day.
- Siriraj Medical Museum
If you are into the macabre and curious, you might want to visit the Siriraj Medical Museum, which is a collection of pathological, forensic, parasitological, and anatomical specimens. You can see preserved organs, skeletons, fetuses, parasites, and even mummified bodies of murderers and victims. The museum is located inside the Siriraj Hospital, which is the oldest and largest hospital in Thailand. You can take a ferry from Tha Chang Pier to Wang Lang Pier and walk for about 10 minutes to reach the museum. The entrance fee is ฿200 Baht.
- Hidden Bangkok Tours
If you want to experience the old Bangkok that still exists in some parts of the city, you can join a Hidden Bangkok Tours, which will take you on a private boat ride along the Chao Phraya River and its canals. You will see traditional wooden houses, temples, markets, and gardens that are hidden from the modern development. You will also get to interact with the locals and learn about their way of life. The tour costs from S$67 and includes drinking water, ice, cooler, cups, tissue, rain coat, bluetooth speaker and travel insurance. You can book online or at their office in Charan Sanit Wong Road.
- Cabbages & Condoms
If you are looking for a quirky and socially responsible place to eat, you can try Cabbages & Condoms, which is a restaurant that promotes family planning and sexual health awareness. The restaurant is decorated with condoms of all shapes and sizes, and even gives out free condoms instead of mints at the end of your meal. The food is Thai cuisine with a twist, such as condom salad, chicken curry with condom bread, and condom ice cream. The restaurant is located in Sukhumvit Soi 12 and is open from 11AM to 10PM every day.
These are just some of the hidden things to do in Bangkok that will give you a true local experience. You can organize them easily by booking online or contacting the providers directly. Have fun exploring Bangkok!
