Explore Bangkok

Shangri-La Bangkok, located by the Chao Phraya River in the central business district of Bangkok, is minutes away from well-known attractions via various means of transportation. These attractions include shopping districts and famous sights that capture the feel of traditional and modern Bangkok.

Quick Facts

The city of Bangkok, known in Thai as Krung Thep or “City of Angels”, is the capital of Thailand.
Bangkok is the country's principal gateway and port. It is 30 kilometers (19 miles) from the sea. The city sprawls 1,500 sq km (58 square miles), on both sides of Thailand's main river, the Chao Phraya.
The name "Bangkok" historically refers to one section of the city. This neighborhood became so well-known that, for international visitors today, Bangkok is the name of the city itself.

Currency

The Thai currency is the baht, divided into 100 satang.

Dress

Light clothing is suitable for the summer months and a sweater for the cooler months. Suits are appropriate for business occasions. Shorts and t-shirts are frowned upon in government offices and modest dress should be worn in temples.

Tipping

A service charge of 10% is usually added automatically to all hotel and restaurant bills in Bangkok. If not, a 10% tip is appropriate for waiters.

Weather

As a tropical city, Bangkok enjoys warm to hot temperatures throughout the year. The May and June summer temperatures range from 35 C to 40 C (95 F to 104 F) while winter temperatures range from 30 C to 34 C (56 F to 93 F).

Transportation

Shangri-La Bangkok is adjacent to the Saphan Taksin station of the BTS SkyTrain, Bangkok’s elevated metro system, with easy connections to the MRT subway. The Saphan Taksin BTS station is about a 1-minute walk from the exclusive Krungthep Wing of the hotel. Day passes are available for purchase at the station.

There are river ferry services offered from the nearby Sathon pier by the Chao Phraya Express Company.

Taxis are plentiful and inexpensive, though dense traffic in the centre can make even short distances a long trip. Taxis cost approximately USD 1 for the first two kilometres, then about USD 0.10 for each kilometre thereafter.

The tuk-tuk, a motorised 3-wheeler with covered seats, is only suitable for short journeys. Prices must be agreed beforehand. Note that tuk-tuk drivers often receive commissions from local establishments. They may drop you off in front of a business you did not request to go to.

Attractions

Grand Palace - A visit to Bangkok would be incomplete without exploring the magnificent Grand Palace, the city’s prominent landmark. The Grand Palace was built in 1782. For about 150 years it housed the residence of the Thai King, the government’s administrative seat and the Royal court. Grand in every sense of the word, the Grand Palace amazes people due to its magnificent architecture and intricate designs. Apart from being the country’s notable landmark, it also mirrors the creativity and craftsmanship of the Thai people. Shangri La Hotel, Bangkok, is situated close by to the Grand Palace, providing easy access to guests staying at the hotel.

River and Canal Tour - A variety of tours in long-tail or other boats can be arranged for visitors to travel on the river and canals. Visits usually include a stop at the impressive Temple of Dawn and the Royal Barge Museum. The tour then continues along the canal to see charming wooden homes built on stilts along the river.

Arts & Culture

Jim Thompson Museum - This small museum is filled with art treasures. It was the former home of Jim Thompson, the legendary American who helped revive the silk industry in Thailand. Situated on the banks of a canal just opposite a silk weaving village, the home consists of traditional Thai style buildings filled with an interesting collection of antiques.

National Museum - Bangkok National Museum is worth a visit, as it is located nearby the Grand Palace. It houses a large collection of Thai art and artifacts in the country. In addition, there are interesting collections in the decorative arts and ethnological collection, including Chinese weapons, gold treasures, precious stones, Khon masks, puppets, ceramics, clothing and textiles, woodcarving and traditional musical instruments from around Southeast Asia.

Shopping

Bangkok has earned a famous reputation for being one of the finest places to shop in Asia.

Bangkok is famous for its markets. However, not all of the city's markets are hot and humid places, like Chatuchak Weekend Market and Pratunam. There are also more sophisticated night bazaars by the river, including Asiatique The Riverfront. The city's other well-known markets include Patpong Night Market, Taling Chan Market, Damnoen Saduak, Pahurat Textile Market, Bai Yoke, Bo-bae Market, Pak Khlong Talat and Klong Toey.

Furthermore, Bangkok is home to the Central World Shopping Complex, the shopping mall in Southeast Asia. Some of the luxurious upmarket shopping centres in Bangkok also include Siam Paragon Shopping Centre, MBK Shopping Centre, Siam Centre Bangkok, Amarin Plaza Bangkok, Gaysorn Bangkok, Siam Discovery, Erawan Bangkok, All Seasons Place, Platinum Fashion Mall Bangkok and much more.

The nearby shopping mall to Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok is ICONSIAM. It is a new mall in town, featuring luxurious and brand name shops. It is located on the opposite of the Chao Phraya River with an easy access from Sathorn Pier by public boat.