Bangkok is a fascinating, intoxicating and chaotic place brimming with sights, smells,
thrills, gracious people, contradictions, cultures, cars, noise and bedlam. One
of the first surprises about Bangkok is that the city is not called Bangkok in the
Thai language. It is called Krung Thep (‘the City of the Angels’) and the name Bangkok
refers strictly to only a small part of the city. These days most Thais understand
what foreigners mean when they say “Bangkok”, but it is also useful for us to understand
what Thais mean when they say “Krung Thep”.
Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand and has dominated its urban hierarchy and
political, commercial and cultural life since the late 18th century. The city is
regarded as one of the most famous holiday destinations in the world for its rich
culture and heritage, modern developments and plethora of attractions. Bangkok was
founded in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri dynasty. It is now the
country’s spiritual, cultural, diplomatic, commercial and educational hub. It covers
an area of more than 1,500 square kilometers, and it is home to more than 10% of
the country’s population.
The history of Bangkok depicts that when Ayutthaya - the capital of Thailand earlier
was demolished by the Burmese army in 1767, the army of Thailand established Thonburi
as the new capital in 1782. Bangkok was declared the capital of Thailand in 1782
by King Chakri. Here he asked the Chinese merchants to move away and built the Temple
of Emerald Buddha. The merchants and missionaries who were driven out from other
parts of Thailand came to Bangkok and later on trade treaties were established with
Europe and North America. 20th century saw much growth in Bangkok and the Memorial
Bridge was constructed in 1932.An important chapter in the history of Bangkok was
the Vietnam War which proved beneficial for the city as roads were widened, Don
Muang Airport was constructed. The progress of the city of Bangkok has continued
since 1960. Bangkok for long had been an important gateway because of its route
connecting to Gulf of Thailand.
Over the last few decades, Thailand’s capital city, Bangkok, has changed into a
modern, exciting and sophisticated city. It offers to visitors not only the cosmopolitan
amenities they would expect from other big cities, but also a unique treasure trove
of cultural attractions. Thailand, in the heart of Southeast Asia, was never colonized
and thus kept its unique culture and heritage intact. Bangkok offers visitors the
opportunity to experience fascinating glimpse of Thailand’s gentle culture amidst
the bustle of a great and dynamic metropolis. This great city has had astounding
success in combining the ancient and modern world.
Bangkok has a feast of attractions to offer. The city is dotted with 400 glittering
Buddhist temples of great beauty and fascination, magnificent palaces, classical
dance extravaganzas, numerous shopping centres and traditional ways of life, especially
along the "Venice of the East" timeless canals and the Chao Phraya River
of the "River of Kings" winding through the city. It is worth taking a
trip along its waters before exploring further into different canals to take a glimpse
of old Bangkok.
Bangkok Tourism is held in high esteem as the capital city of Thailand is one of
the world's top tourist destinations. And it tops the list of tourist hotspots in
Asia. Bangkok has not only lured the tourists but have also foreigners settled here
only owing to its unique features and life of ease and comfort.
Tourism in Bangkok comprises of exploring the historical landmark of the city, the
Grand Palace and other historical sites here like Wat Arun Wat Pho which houses
a reclining statue of Buddha. Not to forget the three palaces of which the Chitralada
Palace is truly praiseworthy. There are many Buddhist temples, then Science Museum,
Benjasiri Park. Bangkok’s tourism is further boosted with the presence of some of
the most luxurious hotels in Bangkok. The shopping extravaganza with the various
markets and bazaars, have always attracted tourists here in Bangkok. The Chatuchak
Market is one of the kinds being the largest shopping destination in Bangkok. Also
you can just enjoy shopping in the floating markets. If you are a party animal then
you will find a number of night clubs, westernized clubs and cafes here in Bangkok.
There is so much to see in Bangkok that of you wish to include everything in your
itinerary; you have to ensure that you extend your stay.