Things to do in Phaya Thai – Bangkok – Thailand

Phaya Thai is a bustling district in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand, that is known for its vibrant culture, delicious food, and fascinating tourist sites. From beautiful palaces to mouth-watering street food, there is something for everyone in Phaya Thai. In this article, we will explore the top things to do in Phaya Thai, including the best tourist sites, street food and food courts, restaurants, places to stay, and shopping centers and markets.

The History of Phaya Thai

Phaya Thai is a bustling district in the heart of Bangkok, known for its vibrant street food scene, modern shopping centers, and historical landmarks. However, the history of Phaya Thai stretches back centuries, to a time when the area was little more than a rural outpost on the outskirts of the city.

The early history of Phaya Thai is closely linked to that of the broader Bangkok region. For centuries, the area was home to small communities of farmers, fishermen, and traders who made their living from the fertile land and abundant waterways.

In the 18th century, Bangkok emerged as a major center of trade and commerce, attracting merchants and traders from across the region. As the city grew, so too did the communities around it, including Phaya Thai.

One of the defining moments in Phaya Thai’s history came in the 19th century, when Thailand, then known as Siam, came under increasing pressure from European colonial powers. In 1893, France occupied several parts of the country, including what is now Laos and Cambodia. In response, King Chulalongkorn, also known as King Rama V, initiated a series of reforms aimed at modernizing and strengthening the Thai state.

As part of these reforms, King Chulalongkorn ordered the construction of a new palace in Phaya Thai, which would serve as a symbol of the country’s strength and sovereignty. The palace was completed in 1909 and served as a royal residence until the 1920s.

In the years that followed, Phaya Thai continued to grow and develop, becoming a hub for commerce, culture, and education. The district is home to several prestigious universities, including Chulalongkorn University, as well as numerous museums, galleries, and cultural institutions.

Today, Phaya Thai is a vibrant and dynamic district that reflects the rich history and diverse culture of Bangkok. From its bustling markets and street food stalls to its towering skyscrapers and historic landmarks, Phaya Thai offers visitors a unique and unforgettable glimpse into the heart of Thailand’s capital city. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or a shopaholic, there’s something for everyone in Phaya Thai.

Tourist Sites

One of the top tourist sites in Phaya Thai is the Suan Pakkad Palace Museum, which was once the home of Prince Chumbhot of Nagara Svarga. The museum features eight traditional Thai houses that showcase the prince’s extensive collection of antiques, artifacts, and art pieces.

Another must-visit site in Phaya Thai is the Victory Monument, a towering structure that was built in 1941 to commemorate the Thai victory in the Franco-Thai War. The monument is surrounded by a roundabout that is a popular meeting place for locals.

For those interested in the history of the Thai monarchy, the Phyathai Palace is a fascinating destination. The palace was built in 1909 by King Chulalongkorn as a summer residence for his son, Prince Paribatra. Today, the palace is open to the public and features beautiful gardens and traditional Thai architecture.

Finally, no visit to Phaya Thai would be complete without a trip to the Baiyoke Sky Tower, which is the tallest building in Thailand. Visitors can take a high-speed elevator to the observation deck on the 84th floor, which offers stunning views of the city.

Street Food and Food Courts

Phaya Thai is home to some of the best street food and food courts in Bangkok. Soi Rangnam is a popular destination for street food, with vendors selling everything from grilled meat skewers to sweet desserts. Another popular street food destination is Baan Khun Mae, which is known for its traditional Thai dishes.

For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, the Platinum Fashion Mall Food Court is a great option. The food court features a wide variety of cuisines, including Thai, Japanese, and Chinese. The Union Mall Food Court is also a popular destination for foodies, with vendors selling everything from noodles to sushi.

Restaurants

If you’re looking for a sit-down meal, there are plenty of great restaurants in Phaya Thai. Sabai Jai Gai Yang is a popular destination for grilled chicken and other Thai dishes. Thip Samai Pad Thai is another must-visit restaurant, known for its delicious Pad Thai noodles.

For those interested in Chinese cuisine, Hua Seng Hong Restaurant is a great option. The restaurant serves a wide variety of dishes, including dim sum and roast duck. Finally, Boon Tong Kee is a popular Singaporean restaurant that serves delicious Hainanese chicken rice and other dishes.

Places to Stay

Phaya Thai has a wide variety of accommodations to suit every budget. For those looking for a luxurious stay, the Siam@Siam Design Hotel Bangkok is a great option. The hotel features stylish rooms, a rooftop bar, and a swimming pool.

The Pullman Bangkok King Power is another great choice for those looking for a luxurious stay. The hotel features spacious rooms, a fitness center, and several dining options.

For those on a budget, the Novotel Bangkok Platinum Pratunam is a great option. The hotel is located near several shopping centers and features comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool. Finally, the VIE Hotel Bangkok is a great choice for those looking for a mid-range option. The hotel features stylish rooms and several dining options, as well as a rooftop pool and a spa.

Shopping Centres and Markets

Phaya Thai is a great destination for shoppers, with several shopping centers and markets to choose from. The Platinum Fashion Mall is a popular destination for fashion lovers, with over 1,000 shops selling everything from clothes to accessories. The mall also has a food court that is a great spot for lunch or dinner.

Another popular shopping destination in Phaya Thai is the Pratunam Market, which is located near the Platinum Fashion Mall. The market features several vendors selling clothes, accessories, and other souvenirs. The market is known for its bargaining culture, so be prepared to haggle for the best prices.

For those looking for a more upscale shopping experience, the Central World shopping center is a great option. The mall features several high-end shops, as well as a cinema and a food court. The mall also has a beautiful outdoor area that is a great spot to relax and enjoy the view.

Finally, the Ratchaprarop Market is a great destination for those interested in electronics and gadgets. The market features several vendors selling phones, cameras, and other tech items at competitive prices.

10 interesting facts about Phaya Thai

1. The name “Phaya Thai” means “the lord of elephants” in Thai. The district was named after a historical incident where a king rode an elephant to the area to watch a military parade.
2. Phaya Thai is home to the Victory Monument, which was built to commemorate Thailand’s victory over France in a border dispute in the 1940s.
3. The district is also home to the Ratchathewi Palace, which was built in the early 20th century as a royal residence. Today, the palace is used for government ceremonies and functions.
4. Phaya Thai is located in the heart of Bangkok and is easily accessible by public transportation. It is home to two major train stations: the Phaya Thai BTS station and the Phaya Thai MRT station.
5. The district is known for its vibrant street food scene, with many stalls selling local favorites like pad thai, som tam, and khao man gai.
6. Phaya Thai is home to the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, which features contemporary art exhibits and performances. The center is a great destination for art lovers visiting Bangkok.
7. The district is also home to the Suan Pakkad Palace, which houses a collection of Thai art and antiques. The palace was once the residence of a Thai prince and is now open to the public as a museum.
8. Phaya Thai is a popular destination for shoppers, with several malls and markets in the area. The Platinum Fashion Mall and the Pratunam Market are both great spots to find affordable clothing and accessories.
9. The district is also home to the Phya Thai Palace, which was built in the 1900s as a royal residence. Today, the palace is used as a government office and is not open to the public.
10. Finally, Phaya Thai is home to several universities, including the prestigious Chulalongkorn University. The university is one of the oldest and most respected institutions of higher education in Thailand.

In conclusion, Phaya Thai is a great district to visit for those looking to experience the best of Bangkok’s culture, food, and shopping. From beautiful palaces and museums to mouth-watering street food and high-end shopping centers, there is something for everyone in Phaya Thai.