Step back in time in the historic heart of Bangkok

By MiNDFOOD

Step back in time in the historic heart of Bangkok
Thailand’s Bangkok offers up a range of treasures for travellers - from bustling markets, to sacred sights, to ancient architecture. And the best way to experience the true essence of Bangkok is on foot.

The Sao Ching Cha, Dinso Road and Chaopho Suea Shrine walking tour takes you through the hub of Rattanakosin. 

The neighbourhood is situated on an island and is the historic heart of Bangkok, where most of the city’s “must-see” sights are found. 

The walking tour starts off with a visit at the Sao Ching Cha Giant Swing, constructed in the front of a temple for the Swinging Ceremony, a Brahmin-Hindu ritual. 

The next stop is a visit to the Trok Mo fresh food market, where your senses will be drawn in with smells of delicious street food and exotic fruit. After the market, head along to the Ban Mo Wan, a colonial-style building and a place for traditional medicine.

Giant Swing located in front of Suthat Thepphawararam Temple, Bangkok

When you’re done purveying the antique medical objects, it’s time to visit Bangkok’s first-class royal temple, Wat Suthat Thepphawararam Rathchaworamahawihan. Built for King Rama I, the historic site features stunning Buddha images in the chapel and a memorial to King Ananda Mahidol. 

Escaping the bustling crowds of the royal temple, your next stop is the Dev Mandir temple. Nestled in the heart of the Sao Ching Cha area, inside the temple you’ll discover marble idols of gods.

Visit the Hindu Samaj Association to learn about the Indian Hindus of Thailand, then wander over to the Sam Phraeng district, a much-loved community of Bangkok which is known for its first-class restaurants, dessert shops and vibrant sacred shrine. 

As you wind up your historical tour, stop off at Wat Thepthidaram, a royal temple built for the King’s daughter, the fascinating octagonal-shaped Pom Mahakan, one of 14 forts built to protect the city, and Loha Prasat of Wat Ratchanatdaram, Thailand’s only metal castle, featuring beautiful golden spires enrishined with relics. 

The last stop takes you to a 2-storey golden teak wood house, built over 100 years ago and honoured with an Architectural Conservation Award.

For more information on the walking tours around Bangkok, or to plan your next Thailand adventure, visit amazingthailand.com.au and @Hug Thailand on Facebook.

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