Hajar RoslanIt seems like everyone’s been flocking to Bangkok these days, and trust us – There’s a good reason for all the hype! This vibrant capital of Thailand is famous for its rich culture, mouth-watering food, and of course, unbeatable shopping.
Whether you’re in Bangkok to check out the new Nintendo store or attending the highly anticipated Wonderfruit Festival, there’s always something fresh happening in the Big Mango. This list will highlight some exciting things you can do in this city in 2024, so why not spice up your next trip by ticking off some (or all) of the items on this list? Plus, here’s a fun suggestion – Don’t come home until you’ve completed everything on this Bangkok Bucket List.
So go out there and kickstart your adventure with an open mind – You might leave the city having experienced something totally unexpected, and you could even come back with a whole new perspective!
Also Read: 20 Best Places to Visit in Bangkok, As Recommended by This Expat
Snack on Crickets, Grasshoppers and Worms
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Snacking on insects is definitely the trend right now. Grab a plate of fried crickets, grasshoppers, or worms and tuck in. For an extra burst of flavour, try dipping them in some soy sauce and sprinkling with powdered pepper. It’s a whole new world of crisps – Think of it as a wild twist on Cheetos!
Visit a Floating Market
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The market floats. Literally. This is one item that’s easy to tick off your list because, let’s face it, you can’t visit Bangkok and not explore one of these! Markets like Tha Kha and Damnoen Saduak are lined with boats piled high with fresh tropical fruits, ready-to-drink coconut juice, and delicious local food. Get on with it and experience this unique way of shopping and eating!
Also Read: 5 Must-Visit Markets in Bangkok
Let Live Shrimps Dance in Your Mouth
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The delicacy known as Goong Ten, which literally translates to “dancing shrimp”, is only found at street food corners in Bangkok. The live shrimp are mixed with spices and herbs to create a unique dancing shrimp salad. Don’t worry, these little guys settle down quickly enough in your mouth after you give them that deadly crunch! It’s definitely a dish for the adventurous eater.
Spend a Whole Night Partying at the Best Spots in Town
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The mega-clubs and underground haunts of Bangkok are alive with music and energy every night of the week. The must-visit list is endless, but I’ve narrowed it down to three spots that are guaranteed to give you an unforgettable night: Level Club & Lounge, MUIN, and Onyx. Pick one, or go club-hopping, and don’t even think about heading back to your hotel room until the sun is up and shining!
Hunt Down and Step into the PAPAYA Studio Vintage Shop
Image credit: PAPAYA Studio | Official Website
The PAPAYA Studio Vintage Shop is a place that many have heard of, but few have actually visited. Take a trip down memory lane by wandering through this incredible shop, filled with thousands of vintage items, from massive pinball machines to old-school life-size figurines of your favourite superheroes. It’s a treasure trove of nostalgia that’s definitely worth a visit!
Embark on a Full-Day Shopping Marathon with No Breaks
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Shopping in Bangkok is ridiculously fun, and we challenge you to a full-day shopping marathon – No massages or sightseeing breaks in between! Finding places to shop will be the least of your worries, with malls like MBK, Siam Paragon, Platinum Fashion Mall, and Emporium, as well as markets like Chatuchak, Pratunam, and Talad Rot Fai. You’ll be absolutely spoilt for choice!
Also Read: 8 Must-Buy Treats From Bangkok’s Big-C Supercenter
Learn Muay Thai
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When in Thailand, fight like a Muay Thai champion. Enrol in lessons at the Muay Thai Institute in Rangsit, where you can train with some of the best. Graduates even receive a certificate – How’s that for a unique souvenir? It’s a thrilling way to immerse yourself in Thai culture while learning a new skill!
Have Dinner on the Chao Phraya River
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Life along the Chao Phraya River settles down beautifully after sunset. The view of the skyline from the river is nothing short of phenomenal. Whether you’re enjoying dinner on a traditional teak wood boat or a luxurious yacht, it promises to be an unforgettable experience – One that captures the essence of Bangkok’s evening charm.
Creep Yourself Out at Siriraj Medical Museum
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Deformed babies, parasites in human organs, and bodies of accident victims are just some of the subjects displayed at the Siriraj Medical Museum. It’s definitely a far cry from the typical artsy museums, offering a fascinating yet unsettling look into the world of medical science. Be prepared for lasting impressions – and perhaps a few nightmares – after visiting this unique and intense museum.
Visit the Rustic Thonburi District
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When the hustle and bustle of the city wears you out, head over to Thonburi. Here, you can catch a glimpse of how people in Bangkok once lived – and for some, still do – inhabiting stilted homes and rustic wooden townhouses. It’s a peaceful escape that offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life, a stark contrast to the modern city centre.
Fish for a River Monster at Amazon BKK
Image credit: Amazon BKK Fishing Park | Official Facebook
No matter how little faith you have in your fishing skills, you still stand a great chance of catching a river monster at Amazon BKK. With over 400 kinds of large and unusual fish bred in the lake, visitors are likely to reel in some impressive catches – Some are even the size of a small child! So why not snap a few selfies with your oversized fishy friend before releasing it back into the water? It’s a fun and unforgettable experience.
Enjoy a Thai Massage in Public
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There is no shortage of massage parlours in Bangkok, but one offers a truly unique experience. The Wat Pho Massage School provides affordable massages right in the heart of the temple compound at Wat Pho. Imagine lying next to strangers, all receiving massages in full view of one another, surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the temple. It’s a relaxing experience with a cultural twist!
Be Fearless and Catch a King Cobra
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Well, not really. However, you can watch someone do it – and with his bare hands, no less! The snake handling show at the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute is the real deal. Drop by the Institute at 2pm for an edge-of-your-seat experience as a professional handles some of Thailand’s most dangerous snakes right before your eyes. It’s an unforgettable, adrenaline-pumping spectacle!
Go For a Casual Swim with Sharks
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The very modern Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World offers an exciting opportunity to put on a wetsuit and swim with the sharks! However, if you’re not quite up for such an intimate encounter, you can still view them from the other side of the glass. It’s just as thrilling, in my humble opinion, as you get to experience these magnificent creatures up close in their own environment.
Catch a Crocodile Wrestling Session
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The stunt performers at Samphran Elephant Ground and Zoo can appear absolutely wild during their shows. In addition to the jaw-dropping elephant show, you can also watch them take on the fiercest crocodiles in the thrilling crocodile wrestling show! It’s a heart-pounding experience that will leave you amazed at their bravery and skill.
Taste the Half-Century Stew at Wattana Panich
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At Wattana Panich in Bangkok’s bustling Ekamai neighbourhood, a pot of neua tune beef stew has been simmering non-stop for half a century, using a perpetual stew technique passed down through generations. Don’t miss the chance to taste this legendary soup and experience a delicious slice of Bangkok’s culinary history!
Check Out the Giant Dragon At Wat Sam Phran
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Wat Sam Phran, also known as the Dragon Temple, is a hidden gem just outside Bangkok featuring a striking 17-story pink tower embraced by a massive dragon. While its origins remain a mystery, this off-the-beaten-path Buddhist temple captivates visitors with its stunning statues, shrines, and a hollow dragon you can walk through.
Also Read: A Guide to the Best Areas to Stay in Bangkok, Thailand
You ought to be making some adjustments to that Bangkok itinerary right about now. With so many unique experiences to try, it’s time to dive in and explore everything this vibrant city has to offer. All the best in checking off all 17 items on this Bangkok Bucket List, and don’t forget to savour every moment along the way!
