PETALING JAYA: With its delicious cuisine, rich culture, and (perhaps most importantly) affordable prices, the city of Bangkok has become one of the most popular travel destinations for Malaysians nowadays.
With so much to see and do there, creating an itinerary for a visit can prove to be a difficult task.
FMT Lifestyle, however, was fortunate to travel to this beautiful city for a few days recently. Here are the most unmissable attractions to visit the next time you’re visiting terrific Thailand.
The Grand Palace
The official residence of the kings of Siam since 1782, this magnificent royal complex continues to wow visitors to this day, with its grand scale and ornate architecture.
Composed of numerous buildings, gardens, pavilions and courtyards, there’s plenty to marvel at here, from the twelve imposing Demon Guardian statues to the striking Phra Siratana Chedi golden stupa.
Its biggest highlight, however, must be the Wat Phra Kaew or Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which houses a revered image of Buddha, clothed in gold and carved out of green jasper.
Learn more about the Grand Palace here.
Siriraj Medical Museum
A disclaimer: this place is not for the easily squeamish or faint of heart.
Located within Bangkok’s oldest hospital, Siriraj, this is one of the more offbeat attractions in the city, hosting various exhibits dedicated to the less wholesome aspects of anatomy and biology.
Among its displays are models of disease-spreading parasites, preserved fetuses with genetic disorders, and reports from violent accident and murder cases.
If you’ve ever considered a medical career, this is an ideal venue to test if you’re ready for the more graphic parts of the job.
Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
This stunning cultural centre is the creation of Boonchai Bencharongkul, a famed businessman and founder of Dtac, a major Thai mobile phone operator. He is also an art collector.
One of the largest contemporary art museums in Asia, the venue hosts many noted works from Thai and international artists, spread over five wide floors. Keep an eye out for some Malaysian works featured here!
Don’t miss The Three Kingdoms, a trio of paintings depicting Heaven, Middle Earth, and Hell by artists Sompop Budtarad, Panya Vijinthanasarn, and Prateep Kochabua.
Learn more about MOCA at its website.
Amphawa Floating Market
One of Bangkok’s biggest claims to fame is its abundance of markets, where you can buy anything from handicrafts to horseshoes.
Since most people already know about the world-famous Chatuchak Weekend Market, here’s the information on a slightly less known attraction.
One of the oldest floating markets in Bangkok, the Amphawa Floating Market is always bustling with activity.
Taking place from Friday to Sunday weekly, this boat-filled bazaar is a great place for wonderful bargains. It’s particularly famous for Thai sweets and souvenirs, and its wide selection of seafood.
Once your shopping is done, take a scenic ride along the canal on a long-tailed boat. Just stay steady and don’t fall overboard, or your next purchase might be a towel and change of clothes!
Learn more about the Amphawa Floating Market here.
ICONSIAM
Markets are awesome, but maybe you want to go shopping somewhere away from the city’s infamous heat. Then head to ICONSIAM, one of Bangkok’s most stylish shopping centres with over 7,000 stores.
Lovers of luxury should make a beeline to ICON Luxe, which features over 30 shops dealing in world-renowned prestige brands.
Or pop by Siam Takashimaya, with seven floors for all your retail therapy needs. The mall even features a beautiful indoor floating market, which must truly be seen to be believed.
Learn more about the Icon SIAM here.
Wat Arun
Named after Aruna, the Hindu god of the sun, this ancient temple is one of the most visited sights in Bangkok.
Head to Phra Phrang, its highest tower, for some breathtaking views of the cityscape. Then make your way to the Ordination Hall, and slowly take in the splendour of its stucco work.
As this is a temple, make sure to wear modest clothing when visiting, or rent a sarong from the premises.
Ironically, while it may be dedicated to the dawn, the best time to visit this majestic monument is in the evening. Wat Arun looks its best when bathed in the golden glow of the sunset.