Bangkok Hidden Gems Attrations in Thonburi Area

In the western part of Bangkok, within the Thonburi area, lies a treasure trove of Bangkok hidden gems attractions waiting to be explored. Unlike the bustling, modernized center of Bangkok, Thonburi retains an authentic charm that offers a glimpse into the real Bangkok way of life. From picturesque roads and vibrant markets to unique museums and serene temples, Thonburi promises an enriching and unforgettable experience. Join us as we delve into this enchanting part of the city and will show you the following Bangkok hidden gems: Wat Paknam Phasicharoen, Wat Nimmanoradee, Artist House

Thanon Utthayan: The Most Beautiful Road in Thailand

Thanon Utthayan by wikipedia.com

Thanon Utthayan, also known as Thanon Aksa, is renowned as the most beautiful road in Thailand and a Bangkok hidden gem that is worth experiencing. This picturesque road intersects Thanon Phutthamonthon Sai 3 and Thanon Phutthamonthon Sai 4, running parallel to Thanon Borommaratchachonnani and Thanon Phet Kasem. Officially opened in 1999 to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of King Rama IX, Thanon Utthayan enhances the scenic beauty of the Phutthamonthon District.

Adorned with 979 swan-shaped lamps and a variety of trees, this road is a visual delight. A fountain and multi-layer waterfall add to its charm, making it a popular recreational space and bike path. Whether you’re cycling, walking, or simply driving through, Thanon Utthayan, in Thonburi Area, offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle

Thonburi Market: A New Hub for Plant Lovers

Thon Buri Market

Thonburi Market, a large, vibrant and Bangkok hidden gem marketplace, was established as a new public space for the residents of Thon Buri District. Open daily and located near a public park, it mirrors the concept of the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market. Here, you can find a wide range of goods, including clothes, home decorations, antiques, pets, food, and most notably, plants.

The thonburi market’s standout feature is its extensive selection of flowering and foliage plants, along with garden tools, making it a paradise for plant lovers. Whether you’re searching for unique flora or just enjoying the lively atmosphere, Thon Buri Market is a must-visit destination.

House of Museums: A Journey Through Time

Anek Navikamool and his colleagues established the House of Museums, another Bangkok hidded gem in Thonburi Area, in 2001. This unique museum is dedicated to preserving everyday objects from the past. Navikamool, a well-known academic and collector, believed in the value of collecting contemporary items, which would become valuable historical artifacts over time.

The museum consists of two buildings designed to resemble row houses in an old market, depicting Thai urban life around 1957. Exhibits include a drugstore, clothes shop, toy shop, barber, convenience shop, cinema, gold shop, gramophone record shop, coffee shop, camera shop, and a reproduction of a floating market atmosphere. This fascinating collection offers a nostalgic look into Thailand’s urban history.

Talad Khlong Ratcha Montri: A Charming Thonburi Floating Market

Talad Khlong Ratcha Montri is a charming floating market that reflects traditional waterside life in Thonburi neighborhood which is one of Bangkok hidden gem that we are pround to present. With clean, scenic surroundings and a lively atmosphere, it’s a wonderful place to explore. The canal, bustling with fish and lined with crowded houses, connects with many smaller canals, creating a picturesque community.

Fruit gardeners grow bananas, coconuts, and mangoes, providing shade and a pleasant environment. The market features shops with an ancient style, including Lea Long Osod drugstore selling Chinese and Thai medicine, and Wimonpan ice cream. It’s also a hub for salons and tailor shops. For those looking to explore further, long-tailed boats are available for rent, offering a unique way to experience this Bangkok hidden gem area.

Talad Kao Wat Nimmanoradee: Preserving Tradition

Another hidden gem in Thonburi Area that we would like to show is Talad Kao Wat Nimmanoradee. Talad Kao Wat Nimmanoradee, or Wat Nimmanoradee Old Market, is a historic Bangkok hidden gem  market that has existed through five reigns of the Rattanakosin era. Villagers have renovated it to maintain its traditional shopping experience, including food and sweets markets, merit-making, and boat travel.

Waterside shops and wooden row houses, built in traditional style, are carefully preserved. This hidden gem market of Bangkok offers a variety of foods, such as Vietnamese stuffed crispy omelets, grilled sticky rice, and steamed fish curry in banana leaves. Visitors can also find old-style grocer’s shops, herbal massage services, tree houses, flower gardens, a local museum, and rare souvenirs like small ancient wooden boat models. The artist house exhibits artistic works, adding to the market’s cultural richness.

Wat Nimmanoradee: A Historic Bangkok Hidden Gem Temple

Formerly known as Wat Bang Khae, Wat Nimmanoradee is located near Khlong Phasi Charoen and dates back to the first reign. In 1971, during the ninth reign, the temple received a monastic boundary and the King’s signature, Por.Por.Ror. (ภ.ป.ร.), was carved on the edges of the church roof. In 1980, Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn lifted the white tiered umbrella of the pagoda and poured gold for Phra Siwalee, also leaving her signature, Sor.Thor. (ส.6.), on the holy cloth of Phra Siwalee.

Visitors can walk from the temple to Talad Nam Wat Nimmanoradee or Talad Nam Khlong Phasi Charoen, enjoying the serene atmosphere and historical significance of this ancient site.

Ban Silapin (Khlong Bang Luang Artist House): A Hub of Creativity

Ban Silapin, or the Artist House, is a century-old, two-story wooden house located near Khlong Bang Luang. Originally owned by the Raksumrouj family, it was later sold to Chumpon Akkapunthanon, who transformed it into a small art gallery. The house, built in an L-shape in the Manila style, surrounds a square-based stupa with twelve indented corners.

Ban Silapin showcases a variety of artworks, including photographs and paintings, and features postcard and souvenir shops with items created by local artists. Every Saturday, visitors can enjoy a free puppet show. Part of the grounds is connected to Wat Kampaeng, where an old stupa stands. The temple is undergoing renovations to become a national artistic heritage site, offering beautiful ancient architecture and delicious local cuisine. A dance troupe specializing in the tiger dance frequently performs at local events, adding to the cultural experience.

Wat Nang Chee Chotikaram: A Festival of Traditions

Phraya Pichiychai built Wat Nang Chee Chotikaram during the middle Ayutthaya period. The temple was restored during the reign of King Rama I by a Chinese merchant. The ubosot and vihara feature Chinese-style ornaments made of porcelain and Chinese dolls. Wat Nang Chee Chotikaram is unique for holding the Chak Phra Festival, where tugboats and decorated carriages carrying Buddha relics are towed along the river for worship.

Wat Paknam Phasicharoen: A Center of Dharma Practice

Wat Paknam Phasiharoen, an important temple built in the middle Ayutthaya period, is located on the low plain at the mouth of the Chao Phraya River. Recognized as a royal temple during the third reign, it houses antiques and ancient remains from the Ayutthaya period. The temple features the ho phra tripidok and a phra tripidok cabinet with a bussabok shape, crafted by royal artisans during King Narai’s period.

Wat Paknam Phasiharoen is a center for practicing dharma and learning Pali, with Phra Khru Thanaratchamuti Wat Paknam, or Luang Pho Wat Paknam, as its prominent leader. The temple was renovated during the ninth reign, with improvements to its scenery and Rattanakosin art decorations in the church and hall.

Wat Khoohasawan Woravihara: An Ancient Sanctuary

Wat Khoohasawan Woravihara, an ancient temple from the Ayutthaya period, is shrouded in mystery as the builder’s name remains unknown. Originally called Wat Sala Sina, it appears in maps of Ayutthaya period temples. The first reign established it as a third-level royal temple, Woravihara. The Religious Place Department, part of the Office of National Buddhism, records that the temple was built and received Wisungamasima in 1777.

Wat Apsorn Sawan: A Blend of Styles

King Rama III granted the name ‘Wat Apsorn Sawan’ after the temple’s restoration and re-establishment. The architecture of Wat Apsorn Sawan blends Chinese and Ayutthaya styles, with the tripitaka hall reflecting Ayutthaya architecture. The main attraction is the ubosot, which houses 28 Buddha images, all identical in dimension and character.

Chao Pho Suea Shrine, Phasi Charoen: A Story of Faith

The Chao Pho Suea Shrine in Phasi Charoen has a fascinating history. Originally a small roadside joss house, it was buried when the road expanded. A villager dreamt of a warrior instructing him to dig up and renovate the joss house, which houses the principal deity ‘Tua Lao lea’ or ‘Chao Pho Suea’ (Suea Godfather). Known for granting vows, the shrine is similar to Chao Pho Suea Joss House in Phra Nakhon District and Chao Pho Khun Dan. Travelers passing by often pay their respects and honk their horns. During the Chinese New Year, the statue of Chao Pho Suea is displayed in front of the joss house for public veneration.

Conclusion: Embrace the Authentic Spirit of Thonburi

Exploring Thonburi offers a unique and enriching experience that contrasts with the modernity of central Bangkok. From the scenic beauty of Thanon Utthayan and the vibrant Thon Buri Market to the historical significance of Wat Nimmanoradee and the cultural richness of Ban Silapin, Thonburi’s hidden gems provide a deeper understanding of Bangkok’s authentic way of life. Each site tells a story, preserving the traditions and heritage that make this area so special. So, take a step off the beaten path and immerse yourself in the authentic spirit of Thonburi. You’ll discover a side of Bangkok that is as enchanting as it is unforgettable. If you are interested in visiting these hidden gems in Bangkok, contact us. With our “Private and Custom Tour Expereince,” you can customize your own itinerary experiencing Bangkok you way.