UNCOVERING KRUNG THEP MAHA NAKHON
ENCHANTING BANGKOK: OLD TRADITIONS WITH A MODERN TWIST
In various rankings of top tourist destinations, it is undeniable that Krung Thep Maha Nakhon is one of the favorites among travelers around the world. Despite centuries of changes, from the old “Bangkok” to the modernized “Krung Thep Maha Nakhon”, the city still holds its original charm that captivates visitors daily. If one takes a closer look, it’s clear that Bangkok’s timeless allure has never faded. Krung Thep still retains its unique identity
TALAT NOI DISTRICT
Discover Talat Noi, a historic Chinese neighborhood that was once a thriving trade hub on the banks of the majestic Chao Phraya River, stretching from the Khudi Chin district to the Sampeng market. This area boasts distinctive architecture that has evolved over time, featuring a blend of traditional shophouses with both wooden and concrete facades, and brick buildings that have remained charmingly intact. While some of the structures have undergone modern renovations, the unique character and enchanting beauty of Talat Noi have been thoughtfully preserved, creating a scenic and harmonious atmosphere.
CHOW SUE KONG SHRINE
Arguably one of the most significant and ancient Chinese shrines in Thailand, Chow Sue Kong Shrine was built in 1804 and is a sacred site where the Chinese deity Qingshui and many other revered gods are enshrined. This shrine is highly respected by the Chinese community and is a must-visit destination for those interested in Chinese culture. The shrine’s front area also features a small pier, which provides a picturesque view of the Chao Phraya River.
Address: 768 Phanu Rangsi Alley, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100
Open: Everyday 6.00 – 18.00
HON MONG KUNG SHRINE
the community of horseshoe maker, hence earning the nickname “Horseshoe Shrine”. The shrine is famous for its ornate architecture which harmoniously combines traditional Chinese styles with local charms. It’s also home to a statue of Cai Shen, the deity of prosperity and fortune.
Address: 1192 San Chao Rong Kueak Alley, Charoen Krung 24, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok
Open: Everyday 6.00 – 18.00
HOLY ROSARY CHURCH
Holy Rosary Church is a Roman Catholic church built by the Portuguese. Its Gothic architecture features high pinnacle with a wooden cross, as well as an emphasis on vaulted doors and windows. The church is actually the third reconstruction, replacing the original one that was taken away by time. One of the main highlights of the church is the “Crucified Christ” and “Holy Rosary” statues, which have been passed down since the Ayutthaya period. Today, they are still used in religious ceremonies and are revered by the Christian community in Thailand.
Address: 1318 Soi Wanich 2, Yotha Rd, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok
Open: Everyday 9.00 – 17.30
HOLY ROSARY CHURCH
Holy Rosary Church is a Roman Catholic church built by the Portuguese. Its Gothic architecture features high pinnacle with a wooden cross, as well as an emphasis on vaulted doors and windows. The church is actually the third reconstruction, replacing the original one that was taken away by time. One of the main highlights of the church is the “Crucified Christ” and “Holy Rosary” statues, which have been passed down since the Ayutthaya period. Today, they are still used in religious ceremonies and are revered by the Christian community in Thailand.
Address: 1318 Soi Wanich 2, Yotha Rd, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok
Open: Everyday 9.00 – 17.30
TALAT NOI DISTRICT
HONG SIENG KONG
Discover a traditional Chinese café nestled on the scenic banks of the Chao Phraya River, boasting decades of rich history and fascinating stories. Admire the impressive interior adorned with intricate wooden carvings, antique furnishings, and traditional Chinese decor that transport you to another time. The café’s original architecture is well preserved, featuring unique brickwork and striking tree roots sprawling across the walls, and setting up a unique atmosphere to unwind with a drink and pastry while soaking up the breathtaking views of the Chao Phraya River.
Address: 734-736 Soi Wanich 2, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok
Tel: 095 998 9895
Open: Tues – Sun 10.00 – 20.00
PATINA BANGKOK
Hidden away in a century-old house in Talat Noi, is a charming coffee shop that exudes a unique blend of Thai and traditional Chinese cultures. The timeless walls and wooden beams are not afraid to reveal their original structure and paint, creating a delightful and nostalgic atmosphere. Patina features a mix of chillout zone and slow bar corner – perfect for relaxing and enjoying a cup of coffee.
Address: 965 Soi Wanich 2, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok
Tel: 095 740 1965
Open: Everyday 9.00 – 17.00
MOTHER ROASTER
Mother Roaster is another check-in spot in the alley of Horseshoe Shrine. As you wander down the alley, you’ll come across huge pile of spare parts on both side of the road. But the real treat awaits near the end of the lane – a charming two-storey café where Grandma Pin expertly prepares your favourite cup of coffee with love.
Address: Horseshoe Shrine Alley, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok
Tel: 061 216 2277
Open: Everyday 10.00 – 18.00
THA TIEN DISTRICT
Tha Tien District is an important historic area on the Phra Nakhon side of Bangkok. Not only was it once home to many noble families and lords, but it was also a key trading district, both on land and water, since the early days of Rattanakosin Kingdom. As you stroll through the area, you’ll be captivated by the distinctive colonial-style two-storey yellow buildings that have stood the test of time. These buildings are a testament to the longstanding community that has called this district home for generations. In addition, to the historic buildings, Tha Tien District boasts a range of trendy cafes, riverside restaurants, and a museum.
THE GRAND PALACE
Built in 1782 during the reign of King Rama I, The Grand Palace covers a vast area of 152 rai and is divided into three sections: the outer court, the middle court, and the inner court. Visitors can explore various areas such as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Grand Palace Hall, the Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall, the Museum of the Emerald Buddha Temple, and the Sri Suda Wong Gate. Every building within the Grand Palace retains its original structure and has been meticulously maintained to keep its stunning beauty.
Address: Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
Open: Everyday 8.30 – 15.30
WAT PHRA CHETTUPHON WIMON MANGKHALARAM (WAT PHO)
Wat Pho is a temple that holds significant historical and cultural importance in Thailand. Initially built as a place for monks to practice Buddhism during the reign of King Rama I, it was later renovated during the reign of King Rama III to incorporate exquisite Thai-Chinese architecture and serve as a repository of various academic texts. Often referred to as the “first university of Thailand,” it is listed as a Memory of the World by UNESCO and is a popular tourist destination today.
Address: 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
Open: Everyday 8.30 – 17.00
WAT PHRA CHETTUPHON WIMON MANGKHALARAM (WAT PHO)
Wat Pho is a temple that holds significant historical and cultural importance in Thailand. Initially built as a place for monks to practice Buddhism during the reign of King Rama I, it was later renovated during the reign of King Rama III to incorporate exquisite Thai-Chinese architecture and serve as a repository of various academic texts. Often referred to as the “first university of Thailand,” it is listed as a Memory of the World by UNESCO and is a popular tourist destination today.
Address: 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
Open: Everyday 8.30 – 17.00
THA TIAN MARKET
Tha Tian Market is a traditional market located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, offering a wide
variety of fresh foods and dried seafood that locals and visitors alike flock to. The surrounding area is dotted with numerous historic buildings, making it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls, shopping, and taking memorable photographs.
Address: Maha Rat Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
Open: Everyday 11.00 – 18.30
MUSEUM SIAM
Museum Siam is a classic and beautifully restored building that was originally used as the Ministry of Commerce. Now, it has been transformed into a modern learning museum that takes visitors on a journey through Thailand’s history. The museum features a rotating exhibition throughout the year and also hosts events like music markets, craft fairs, and flea markets. This creative space helps to continually elevate Thailand’s art scene and keep it up-to-date.
MUST DO
ONE OF THE MUST-DO ACTIVITIES IN THE THA TIEN AREA IS TO VISIT AND CAPTURE PHOTOS OF WAT ARUN, LOCATED ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE CHAO PHRAYA RIVER. THIS FAMOUS TEMPLE HAS MANY POPULAR PHOTO SPOTS, SUCH AS THE PIER NEAR THE NOK YOONG GATE ALLEY, THE PIER AT WAT PHO – WAT ARUN, AND THE VIEWPOINT FROM THE SALA RATTANAKOSIN HOTEL. DON’T MISS THE CHANCE TO SNAP SOME PICTURES OF THESE ICONIC SPOTS DURING YOUR VISIT TO THA TIEN.
HERITAGE CAFÉ & RESTAURANTS
CHAKRABONGSE PRIVATE DINING
If you’re looking for a Thai royal cuisine riverside dining experience, Chakrabongse Private Dining is a mustvisit restaurant. Their Thai cuisine dinner sets include 3 courses with 9 different dishes, all expertly crafted with the finest ingredients and served with carefully selected drinks to complement the flavors. The restaurant’s atmosphere is reminiscent of Thai domestic revival, with a touch of sophistication from the legendary Thai racecar driver, HRH Prince Chulachak Chakrabongse. Dining here is a luxurious and authentic experience that will transport you to a bygone era of Thai nobility mixed with the refreshing river breeze of Chao Phraya.
Address: Maha Rat Rd, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
Tel: 080 045 7778
Open: Tues – Sun 18.00 – 22.00
RONGROS
Rongros is a Michelin Guide Thai fine dining establishment located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Its stunning river view boasts a clear view of the majestic spires of Wat Arun on the other side of the river. The restaurant provides a luxurious traditional Thai dining experience that is truly unique and unforgettable.
Address: 392/16 Maha Rat Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
Tel: 096 946 1785
Open: Everyday 11.00 – 22.00
HA TIEN
Ha Tien Cafe is exquisitely decorated in a fusion of Oriental Chinese, Vietnamese, and Western styles, complete with antique wooden furniture and embellishments that add to the cafe’s character. As you explore the three-storey café, you’ll discover a distinct identity on each floor, leaving you with an impression of strolling through a timeless museum.
Address: 4 Maha Rat Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
Tel: 082 465 5549
Open: Everyday 10.00 – 18.00
KUDI CHIN
Kudi Chin, also known as Kadi Chin, is an old community area on the Thonburi side with a long history dating back to the time of the Thonburi Kingdom. It was originally a community of Portuguese soldiers who fought alongside the Thai army. After Thonburi Kingdom was established, the soldiers were granted land to build houses along the Kudi Chin canal. Nowadays, it’s a diverse community where Thai, Chinese, Western, Vietnamese and Mon come together to create a unique blend of cultures, religions, and customs.
WAT ARUN RATCHAWARARAM
Located across from Wat Pho on the other side of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun Ratchawararam is a magnificent royal temple that serves as a symbolic landmark of Rattanakosin Island. The temple’s ruch history and stunning architecture feature the towering Khmer-style pagoda, which is decorated with exquisite porcelain and rare Benjarong enamel work imported from China. The temple’s grandeur and beauty are the pride of Thai people and a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok
Open: Everyday 6.00 – 17.30
BANG LUANG MOSQUE
Bang Luang Mosque is the main mosque of the Sunni Muslim community who migrated from Ayutthaya to settle in the Bang Luang canal area. It’s the only mosque in Thailand built with traditional Thai Buddhist influence. Its stunning roof adorned with glazed tiles and intricate carvings depicting delicate peony, the popular flower motif used in Thai temple decorations during the reign of King Rama III. Despite its Buddhist-style architecture, the mosque’s color scheme sets it apart with green roof and white façade, giving the mosque the nickname “White Kudi”. The mosque is a testament to the diverse cultural heritage of the Kudi Chin community.
Address: 151 Arun Amarin Rd, Wat Kanlaya, Thon Buri, Bangkok
Open: Everyday 6.00 – 17.30
TIP
THIS DIVERSE COMMUNITY IS HOME TO PEOPLE FROM VARIOUS ETHNIC BACKGROUNDS, RESULTING IN A DISTINCTIVE CUISINE WITH SOME OF THE MOST FAMOUS DISHES LIKE “KANOM KUSALA”, “KANOM NHA NUAN”, AND “KANOM JEEN KAENG KUA GAI”.
SANTA CRUZ CHURCH
Santa Cruz Church, also locally called “Wat Kudi Chin”, was built in 1770 on the land granted to the Portuguese community by King Taksin. Its original teak structure, made entirely of teak wood, was destroyed by fire, and was later reconstructed with a stunning mix of Renaissance and Neo-Classical architecture using bricks and cement. The highlight of the temple is its magnificent red dome, which bears a striking resemblance to the dome of the famous Florence Cathedral in Italy
Address: 112 Soi Kudeejeen, Wat Kanlaya, Thon Buri, Bangkok
Open: Mon – Fri 8.30 – 16.30
RULES
SANTA CRUZ CHURCH IS OPEN FOR RELIGIOUS CEREMONIES ONLY. TRAVELERS WISHING TO EXPERIENCE THE INTERIOR MUST CONTACT THE CHURCH AND RESERVE THEIR VISIT AT LEAST 3 DAYS IN ADVANCE. WHILE TAKING PICTURES OF THE EXTERIOR OF THE BUILDING IS ALLOWED, USING THE TEMPLE AS A BACKGROUND IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
HERITAGE CAFÉ & RESTAURANTS
THANUSINGHA BAKERY HOUSE
Take a break to satisfy your sweet tooth while exploring Kudi Chin. Check out Thanusingha Bakery House, a traditional western style bakery, which is known for its delectable treats that have been passed down through five generations. The bakery sets in a picturesque wooden house painted in pastel colors, and it’s definitely worth a visit during your time in the area.
Address: 237 7 Soi Kudi Chin, Wat Kanlaya, Thon Buri, Bangkok
Tel: 02 465 5882
Open: Everyday 10.00 – 17.00
HELO NOMSOD
Take a break to satisfy your sweet tooth while exploring Kudi Chin. Check out Thanusingha Bakery House, a traditional western style bakery, which is known for its delectable treats that have been passed down through five generations. The bakery sets in a picturesque wooden house painted in pastel colors, and it’s definitely worth a visit during your time in the area.
Address: 237 7 Soi Kudi Chin, Wat Kanlaya, Thon Buri, Bangkok
Tel: 02 465 5882
Open: Everyday 10.00 – 17.00
SAKULTHONG'S HOUSE
Sakulthong’s House offers a cozy and intimate private dining course in a warm and inviting ambiance. Their menu focuses on the exquisite flavors of traditional Thai royal cuisine and Portuguese-inspired dishes.
Address: 219 Kudi Chin Soi 3, Thetsaban Sai 1 Road, Thon Buri, Bangkok
Tel: 062 605 5665
Open: Everyday 10.30 – 17.30 (Must book in advance)
