10 Top Photography Spots in Bangkok
Whether you’re a hard core Instagrammer, a Vimeo vulture or a Snapchat superstar you’ll sure be spoilt of choice in Bangkok. As Thailand’s capital, this large city is well known for its bustling street life, opulent shrines, and busy network of canals.
If you’ve ever seen the video of the market that operates around a busy train line with people literally pulling stall awnings out of the way seconds before the train hits – that’s Bangkok. Having a market on a train line might sound crazy, but Bangkok is a city of contrasts that doesn’t apologise. There are so many things to do in Bangkok, and an abundance of opportunities to whip out the camera. Here are my top 10 spots for super snaps that will send your Instagram into frenzy.
- Wat Arun
On the west side of the Chao Phraya River, the Temple of Dawn is a 17th century structure that deserves the crown for the most spectacular sight in Bangkok. Standing proudly at the river’s edge, it’s easy to spend an hour exploring the inner and outer structure. At its tallest point the spire is 70m from the ground, decorated with pieces of glass that shimmer in the light. For truly spectacular photos, visit before sunset and catch the temple as it glimmers in the last of the day’s sun.
- The Temple of the Reclining Buddha
Across the river from Wat Arun, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha offers peace and quiet in an otherwise bustling city. The Buddha itself is 15m high and 46m long, and is inspiring to behold. If you’re visiting during Songkran, be sure to come here as there is an annual celebration of the Reclining Buddha.
Have your camera ready as you’ll want to take snaps from every angle, but be aware that there are always lots of other visitors, so coming early, at lunch, or later in the day may be less crowded. You’ll need to wear long trousers when visiting the temple, and it does get very hot so be sure to carry plenty of water.
- Art in Paradise
This interactive 3D art gallery really has to be seen to be believed. The exhibits are more like movie sets than traditional paintings, and you can get in on the action yourself. Aside for being heaps of fun, the gallery is a great place to get snappy. Ride the waves on a surf board, strike a pose with a rhino, or reach into a painting and create fun pics that last a lifetime.
- Asiatique Sky
Bangkok’s Ferris wheel stands 60m tall and is a great way to get up high and take some aerial shots of the city looking out over the river. The wheel itself is also stunning with 42 gondolas around the perimeter, so join the fun and get up high. The whole structure is lit at night, like a beacon for the surrounding restaurants and other entertainments.
- Chatuchak Market
One of the largest weekend markets and covering almost 30 acres, the Chatuchak Market
provides plenty of photo opportunities. 200,000 people visit every weekend, shopping at 15,000 stalls that sell all manner of goods. Capture the truth of a Bangkok market with your camera, just be careful to not get lost in the crowds!
- Sky Bar at Lebua
At 820 feet, the Sky Bar in Lebua is one of the highest rooftop bars in the world, so there’s no better place to get evening shots of the city. This particular bar was also the location for shots in The Hangover 2, so you can feel like a star with a cocktail in hand while taking the pics that turn friends green with envy.
Open 6pm-1am daily, the bar has a smart-casual dress code. Also be aware that tri-pods, extensions and external flash units are not permitted.
- Lumphini Park
Public space is a rarity in Bangkok, so the 142 acre Lumphini Park is a breath of fresh air for locals and visitors. There is so much so see and snap here, from the statue of the king at the southwest entrance, to the bikes riding the park’s perimeter between 10am and 3pm. You can also hire a paddle boat on the lake, which is a great way to get a new perspective and some photos on the water.
- Khao San Road
The Khaosan area comes alive when the sun goes down. It’s backpacker central and full of food and fun, so when choosing from the many hotels in Bangkok, you might want to stay in another area and travel in, or stay and enjoy the party.
Arguably the most famous street in Bangkok, the area is packed with market stalls, tattoo artists, restaurants and bars, so get that camera charged and ready to capture the spirit of this buzzing area. When in Khao San Road, be aware that there will be many vendors vying for your attention. Keep your wits about you and any travel buddies close – you’ll struggle to find them again in the crowds!
- Giant Swing
The Giant Swing in Phra Nakhon is one of the most photographed structures in the city, so you’ll be hard pushed for an original photo. Even if it’s been snapped a million times, the giant swing is a photo-op not to be missed.
Although not operational today, the swing is a lasting symbol of the country’s Hindu history. Find out about the story associated with the swing, view the original timbers in the Bangkok National Museum and immerse yourself in the culture of Thailand.
- Bangkok Flower Market
Vibrant colors in every shape and size lining market stalls as far as you can see, Bangkok Flower Market is a photographer’s delight. There are so many great times to visit the market. It gets lively after midnight, but for snaps like no other the best time to go is between 3 and 4am when the flowers arrive and are sold to vendors. If visiting around this time, just be aware that locals might not have much time for tourists getting in the way.