Bangkok Yai is located in the west of Bangkok, across the Chao Phraya river. Remnants of The Kingdom of Thon Buri, the old capital. It is the lower half of what used to be a peninsula until the river was diverted. It offers a true riverside experience of Bangkok with quiet local neighborhoods. This area has a relaxed feel of ancient times, with the river and temples scattered in high numbers, A number of condos have been built in recent years along with shopping malls, but it is still a quiet area, dominated by local shops and government offices. This will probably change drastically with the newly built MRT lines, making the area more accessible for most people.
You will still find plenty of modern condos in Bangkok Yai, with great views and excellent atmosphere. There are also some good apartments for rent in Way Tha Phra area, off Ratchadaphisek Road such as Unio and The Privacy, which offers very comfortable apartments for long term rent.
Bangkok Yai has plenty of shopping malls like Terminal 21, and Central Department Store, open daily. The busy streets are packed with local shops offering anything you could possibly imagine. The area is best explored by both walking the small streets and by long tail boats through the plentiful small canals. Both offering unique experiences and perspectives.
The area is famous for it’s plethora of buddhist temples and stupas in all sizes. Most famous is probably Wat Arun with it’s iconic and monumental presence. A timeless landmark of Bangkok, covering the front page of every architecture book and Travel guide. Wat Arun is just one of many temples that has been preserved since the time this area was the capital and a kingdom in it’s own right. If you want to be neighbors with temples, Bangkok Yai is definitely for you.
Bangkok Yai offers more restaurants than you will be able to try out in a life time. Everything from traditional Siamese kitchen to modern international cuisine is available in every price range. Bangkok Yai offers a culinary exploration that is off the beaten track. Hidden in plain sight as it is an area seldom visited by most local foreigners and “forgotten” as most of the attention is drawn to the tourist attractions in the area. The districts old history is very well felt by exploring the area, although times have changed the face of things.
Bangkok Yai is the home of many floating markets that still operate to this day. Khlong Bang Luang, Khlong Lat Mayom, Wat Saphan and Thaling Chan are all unique and well worth a visit, not just for sightseeing but for daily grocery shopping. For those who love history and for the melancholy lover of remnants of the “real” Bangkok, Bangkok Yai will not disappoint.