West of Bangkok Travel Guide

Explore the beautiful and culturally rich West of Bangkok in Thailand. This travel guide provides a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, what to buy, local customs, safety and health, transportation options, nearby destinations, and more.


Introduction to West of Bangkok

West of Bangkok is situated in Central Thailand and is known for its rich culture and beautiful scenery. This region offers a mix of natural and cultural attractions that are worth exploring. The area is easily accessible by public transportation and is an affordable destination for travelers.

This travel guide will help you discover the best things to do, see, and eat in West Bangkok. From hiking and biking routes to delicious local dishes and souvenirs, this guide has got you covered.

List of Places to Visit in West of Bangkok

Here is a list of must-visit places in West of Bangkok:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The Royal Barge Museum: Learn about the history of Thailand’s magnificent and ornate royal barges.

  2. Wat Arun: Also known as the Temple of Dawn, this iconic temple is situated on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River.

  3. The Grand Palace: The most famous attraction in Bangkok, the Grand Palace is a complex of buildings that was once the official residence of the Kings of Siam.

  4. National Museum Bangkok: This museum offers a glimpse into Thailand’s rich culture and history.

Natural Attractions of West of Bangkok: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Khao Yai National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to lush forests, diverse wildlife, and stunning waterfalls.

  2. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market: Experience authentic Thai culture by seeing boats filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, and local goods.

  3. Mae Klong Railway Market: A unique market that sits literally right on the railway tracks, with vendors folding back their goods just before the train comes through.

  4. The Erawan Museum: A stunning three-headed elephant statue houses artifacts and other artwork.

Hiking/Biking Routes of West of Bangkok

West of Bangkok has a range of hiking and biking routes, including:

  1. Sanam Chandra Palace Cycling Route: This 14-kilometer route passes through local markets, waterfalls, and beautiful countryside.

  2. Khlong Bang Luang Artist House Walking Tour: Explore the rich traditional art and architecture of this riverside market.

  3. Kaset Canal and the Green Lung: A scenic bicycle route that shows the hidden countryside of Bangkok.

Best Things to Do in West of Bangkok: Activities and Tours

There are a variety of activities and tours to choose from in West Bangkok. Here are some of the best:

  1. Thai Cooking Class: Take a cooking class and learn how to make delicious local dishes.

  2. Evening Walking Tour: Explore the city’s cultural sites as the sun goes down.

  3. Thai Massage: Relax and rejuvenate with a traditional Thai massage.

  4. Local Night Market Tour: Experience authentic Thai cuisine and culture at the many local markets in the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for West of Bangkok

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for exploring West of Bangkok:

Day 1: The Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun

Day 2: The Royal Barge Museum and the Erawan Museum

Day 3: Visit the Mae Klong Railway Market, the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, and take a Thai cooking class.

Day 4: Explore Khlong Bang Luang Artist House, the Thonburi Canals, and Kaset Canal.

Day 5: Take a nature hike through Khao Yai National Park.

Day 6: Relax and enjoy a traditional Thai massage and go on a local night market tour.

Day 7: Shop for souvenirs and enjoy one last meal before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of West of Bangkok

Thai cuisine is famous for its aromatic spices and unique flavors. Here are some must-try dishes in West of Bangkok:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pad Thai: A classic Thai dish that is packed full of flavor.

  2. Tom Yum Soup: A spicy and sour soup that is perfect for cleansing the palate.

  3. Som Tam: A delicious salad made with green papaya, tomatoes, and dried shrimp.

  4. Khao Soi: A coconut-based curry dish that is popular in northern Thailand.

Local Beverages

  1. Thai Iced Tea: A sweet, creamy, and refreshing drink made with evaporated milk and crushed ice.

  2. Singha Beer: One of Thailand’s most popular beers, it has a light and crisp taste.

  3. Cha Yen: Thai iced tea made from black tea, sugar, and condensed milk.

Where to Stay in West of Bangkok: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many affordable accommodation options in West of Bangkok. Here are a few recommendations:

  1. The Sukhothai Bangkok: A luxurious 5-star hotel that is perfect for a special occasion.

  2. Adelphi Forty-Nine: A boutique hotel that is conveniently located next to the BTS Skytrain station.

  3. Soi Viengtai: A budget-friendly hostel with a great communal vibe.

  4. Baan Noppawong: A charming guesthouse that is perfect for travelers who want to experience local culture.

What to Buy in West of Bangkok: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are plenty of unique souvenirs and local products to bring home from West Bangok. Here are a few ideas:

  1. Thai Silk: Rich and vibrant silk fabrics are an excellent souvenir to bring back home.

  2. Benjarong Ceramics: These delicate and beautiful ceramics have been made in Thailand for centuries.

  3. Thai Spa Products: Bring home natural spa products made with herbs and spices from Thailand.

Local Culture and Customs of West of Bangkok

Thai culture is unique and exciting. It is important to respect the local customs and traditions while traveling in Thailand. Here are a few customs to be aware of:

  • Shoes should be removed when entering homes, temples, and some businesses.

  • Public displays of affection are not common in Thailand, and it is considered rude.

  • It is customary to greet people with a wai (a bow or a nod of the head) as a sign of respect.

Best Time to Visit West of Bangkok

The best time to visit West of Bangkok is from November to February when the weather is dry and mild.

Do’s and Don’ts of West of Bangkok

Do:

  • Dress conservatively when visiting temples and other religious sites.

  • Try local food and drinks to experience Thai culture.

  • Use public transportation to get around.

Don’t:

  • Touch the head of a Thai person (it is considered disrespectful).

  • Point your feet at someone or an object (feet are considered the lowest part of the body).

  • Disrespect the Thai royal family.

Safety and Health

Safety in West of Bangkok

West of Bangkok is generally a safe place to visit. However, like any other major city, it is important to take precautions. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and valuable items.

  • Be aware of your surroundings when using public transportation and walking on dark streets.

  • Always use a registered taxi or ride-sharing service.

Health in West of Bangkok

It is important to take precautions to stay healthy while traveling in Thailand. Here are a few tips:

  • Drink bottled water and avoid eating street food from unhygienic vendors.

  • Apply mosquito repellent to prevent Dengue and Zika viruses.

  • Make sure you have the necessary vaccinations before traveling.

Getting to West of Bangkok: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near West of Bangkok

The two main airports that serve Bangkok are Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. Both airports offer flights from many international destinations and have good connections to the city center.

Bus Stations Near West of Bangkok

Bangkok has a wide network of bus stations. Sai Tai Mai (the southern bus terminal) and Mo Chit (the northern bus terminal) are the two main bus stations in Bangkok.

Other Options

There are also several train stations in Bangkok, including Hua Lamphong Station, which is Thailand’s central railway station.

How to Get Around in West of Bangkok

West of Bangkok is easily accessible by public transportation. The BTS Skytrain and MRT underground rail system are the most efficient and economical ways to travel within the city.

Taxis are also available, and ride-hailing apps like Grab and Uber are popular options for getting around.

Where to Go Next from West of Bangkok: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you can consider:

  • Ayutthaya Historical Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site just an hour from Bangkok that features ruins of the old city.

  • Kanchanaburi: This province in western Thailand is known for its beautiful nature parks and World War II history.

  • Amphawa Floating Market: A less touristy market for locals and tourists that is open on the weekends.

Conclusion

West of Bangkok offers a mix of natural and cultural attractions that are worth exploring. This travel guide has provided a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, accommodation options, and other useful tips to help you plan your trip. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Thailand or a seasoned traveler, West of Bangkok has something to offer.



    Damnoen Saduak
    Kanchanaburi
    Nakhon Pathom
    Samut Sakhon
    Sangkhla Buri