1. Wat Pho Man Khunaram
Wat Pho Man Khunaram is one of the most stunning examples of temple architecture encompassing Chinese, Thai and Tibetan styles and is considered by many to be not only the most magnificent Chinese temple in Thailand but perhaps the whole of Southeast Asia. The temple was constructed in 1959 by a Chinese spiritual master who later became its first abbot and is currently the center of the Chinese Order of Buddhist Monks.
Opening: Everyday, 08:00 to 17:00
Address: 323 Sathu Pradhit Soi 19, Yannawa, Bangkok
Admission: Free
Travel Tip: Dress appropriately and to remove shoes when entering the temple buildings.
Wat Phoman Khunaram, Bangkok
2. Asiatique The Riverfront
Take a step back to the days of King Rama V's reign at Asiatique The Riverfront, Asia's largest waterfront retail and entertainment venue, created through the renovation of actual buildings from that era. Enjoy the world famous Thai Puppet Show, Joe Louis Theatre, a spectacular live performance of the Calypso Cabaret and more here, just 1 km from Chatrium Residence Riverside Bangkok on Charoenkrung "Historic" Road.
Opening: Everyday, 16:00 to 00:00
Address: Charoen Krung Road 74-76
Admission: Free
Travel Tip: You can bargain for souvenirs and handicrafts at the retail stalls, but food and entertainment are offered at fixed prices.
3. Calypso Cabaret Show
Located beside the Chao Phraya River at Asiatique the Riverfront, a vast open-air mall with a wide selection of restaurants, bars, shops and even a Ferris wheel, night after night the gorgeous ladies of the family-friendly Calypso Cabaret Show put on a stunning Hollywood-esque performance. Except every single one of these exotic ladies was born a gentleman!
The neon-bedecked theatre is situated near Asiatique’s town square and inside the auditorium sits 350 in comfortable groups of five around tables. There’s even a chance to take some selfies with the performers after the show.
Take the BTS to Saphan Taksin Station and jump on the free shuttle boat to Asiatique at the end of the pier.
Opening: Two daily shows at 20:15 and 21:45
Address: Charoen Krung Rd. 72-74
Admission: 1,200 Bahts
Travel Tip: Once the show is done, you will have a chance to meet the performers and take some photos with them. They will gladly accept your tips too. You can also take photos during the performances.
Calypso Cabaret Show, Asiatique the Riverfront, Bangkok
4. Central Rama 3
Central Rama 3 is one of the largest malls of the household name Central Group covering 9 floors of shopping heaven. The sprawling mall features a host of shops selling all manner of brand name and local goods as well as many dining options, an anchor outlet of the Central Department Store and a multi-screen Major Cineplex showing all the latest releases.
Opening: 11:00 - 21:30 on weekdays, 10:30 to 21:30 on weekends
Address: 79/3 Sathu Pradhit Rd.
Admission: Free
5. The Up Rama 3
Bangkok is home to many community malls, smaller shopping and dining zones designed to serve the local community with a variety of unique and interesting outlets. The Up Rama 3 is one of the better known ones and apart from shopping mall staples such as KFC features a range of specialist restaurants, a microbrewery and a “cat café” where you can interact with the many felines inside.
Opening: Everyday, 10:00 - 00:00
Address: 54 Naradhiwat Rajanagarindra Rd.
Admission: Free