Bangkok – 5 Lesser-known Highlights to Visit

Almost everyone who has been to Bangkok knows the well-known highlights. Khao San Road, Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, etc. Lately, a lot of lists have come by in which all temples are highlighted. And no matter how beautiful they are, there is much more you can do in Bangkok.

Best Lesser-known Things to Do in Bangkok

Indeed, there are still a lot of sights in Bangkok you may not have heard about. We have been to this great city 4 times and during our adventures, we have seen more than the well-known list. You can learn a lot by talking with the locals or with a stoned hostel owner. That is why we have listed 5 not-so-standard attractions in Bangkok for you, let’s take a look!

1. Jim Thompson House

Jim Thompson was an American major and businessman. After the Second World War, he left for Thailand in the late 1940s. He wanted tourism to flourish and focused on silk production. He founded the Thai Silk Company, which was a great success. In 1967 he went to Malaysia to celebrate a holiday in the Cameron Highlands, where he disappeared mysteriously. To this day it is not known whether he has been killed, abducted, or just left.

He built his house in Bangkok in the traditional Thai style with beautifully decorated teak wood and a garden. There are guided tours in the house that have since become a great attraction. The profit from entry fees goes to disadvantaged children.

2. Muay Thai

If you have already visited all the temples and have scoured all the markets and you have a little bit of energy left, then visit a Muay Thai competition. Muay Thai is extremely popular in Thailand, and especially in Bangkok. It is, therefore, taken very seriously.

Fighters train for years to become so good. Many demonstrations and competitions are given on the islands in southern Thailand, but these are often very touristy. Instead of that, it’s better to visit a match at the Rajadamnern Stadium where you can see world class Muay Thai fighters.

3. Lumpini Park

This is the ‘Central Park’ of Bangkok. This park is located in the center of the city and is a nice sight if you’re going for a day trip. At any hour of the day, people are exercising, walking, cycling, practicing tai chi, or just relaxing. In a city like Bangkok where not too much “green” can be found, this is quite a nice outing. It is, again, something different from the busy chaotic streets.

The park dates from the 1920s and was actually intended to hold exhibitions for Thai crafts and flowers. Although this original idea was never realized, Lumpini Park has over the years become the center for outdoor activities for Bangkok locals.

4. Food Tour

Bangkok is a big paradise for people who love good food. Once you start, it’s hard to stop. The versatility and the low price of the delicious dishes are so tempting that you will always try one or two when you see them being made.

If you want to know more about eating in Bangkok then take a food tour. In addition to tasting great food, you can also learn a lot about the fascinating history and rich culture of the neighborhoods that you visit.

5. Wakeboarding

Wakeboarding in Bangkok? Not quite. It is just outside of Bangkok but it is a fun activity for those who want something different than seeing temples and visiting markets. The lake where it takes place is Taco Lake and it is only an hour’s drive from Bangkok.

You can even sleep there. Do you have no experience with wakeboarding? Don’t panic, you can also take lessons here. For more information, you can look at their website.