Bangkok / Khao San Road Sights

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Although there aren't any famous historical sites to speak of on the road itself, Khao San is on the Rattanakosin island. Around the street, there are a number of old buildings and temples, some of which have been transformed into restaurants and even tattoo parlours, although you will still find quiet family homes if you look deep enough. Aside from some interesting architecture, Banglampoo shows the mix of peoples and heritages that is the character of Bangkok. There are Muslims, Buddhists, Mons, and of course a great number of foreigners in this small area. All of this makes the area an interesting place for a glimpse of Thai life. Thais also appreciate the area for the many types of traditional kanom or Thai snacks and desserts available and the cheap clothing available in the Banglampoo Market (see below).

• Democracy Monument, Rajdamnoen Klang. Completely occupying a roundabout on this major thoroughfare is the Democracy Monument. Its distinguishing features are the four 'wings' which are located at four equally spaced points around a smaller central shrine. The wings are decorated with relief artworks of war, or war-related events. Quite impressive when seen from the distance (especially as sunrise/sunset), but maybe not worth the hazard involved in running across 5 lanes of Bangkok traffic for a closer look. It commemorates the June 1932 military coup that led to the country's first democratic constitution in place of absolute rule. Pro-democracy demonstrators gathered here in 1973, 1976 and 1992 in their struggle for democracy, signifying the important role this monument has played in recent Thai history.

• October 14 Memorial, Ratchadamnoen Klang. October 14, 1973 is one of the most important dates in the history of Thailand. Millions of pro-democracy protesters gathered at Ratchadamnoen Klang against the military dictatorship of Thanom Kittikachorn. The junta attacked the masses with snipers from rooftops killing dozens of civilians. Eventually the regime was toppled and Thailand became a constitutional monarchy. This memorial memorates those who died that day, as well as those that died at similar protests in 1976 and 1992. You can read more about this hectic period in Thai history in the small museum. Free.

• Phra Sumen Fort, Phra Athit. Best viewed from Santichaiprakarn Park, Phra Sumen Fort is one of the two remaining towers of the historic city wall that once surrounded Rattanakosin Island. The canal under the Phra Pinklao Bridge was once a part of the old city moat. Phra Athit Rd is now surrounded by many old townhouses that are now hip restaurants and cafes.

• Santichaiprakarn Park (พระที่นั่งและสวนสาธารณะสันติชัยปราการ), Pra Athit Rd (North West of Khao San Rd). This park has a great view of the Chao Phraya river and the ultra-modern Rama VIII suspension bridge. Activities held in the park include Thai classical music, juggling and aerobic exercises at 6PM. The park has also become a gathering place for new breakdancers to exchange their techniques. Free.

• Sunset Street Art Gallery, (Inside Sunset Street Complex). 12:00 - 22:00 Daily. Free.

• Wat Bowonniwet (วัดบวรนิเวศ), Phra Sumen Road (North of the Democracy Monument), ☎ 022812831-3. 08:00-17:00 Daily. Built in 1829, it is the shrine-hall of Phra Phutthachinnasi, a very beautiful Buddha image which was moulded in about 1357. This is one of the most important temples of Bangkok, whose one-time chief abbot was King Rama IV before he ascended the throne. King Rama IV and King Rama VII, as well as His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej resided there during their monkhood. Be careful in the afternoon, as you must take your shoes off, but the ground can start to cook from the heat. Wearing socks would protect you from it. Free.

• Wat Chana Songkhram (War Victory Temple), (Western end of Khao San Rd). Centuries ago, following a war with the Burmese, the Thai government gave land in this area to people from the Mon minority who had fought beside the Thai. The Mon established a community here including this temple. Many travelers use the temple grounds to connect between Khao San and Phra Athit Rd where the ferry pier is located. The temple is worth a visit, though, with nice murals, crisp sounding temple bells hanging from the eves, Bougainvillea vines and beautiful trees. There is no charge for admission and you are welcome to pay respect to the Buddha images or just find a little tranquility away from the throngs of backpackers on Khao San proper. Free.

Famous sites within walking distance from Khao San Road include the Grand Palace (with Wat Phra Kaew), Wat Pho, Sanam Luang (Royal Grounds), Wat Rajanadda and the Golden Mount (Phu Khao Thong). See Rattanakosin for details.