Understand

In the 19th century, daily life in Bangkok was centered around the canals. Silom, previously a rural farmland with rice fields and windmills, had a bustling riverside trading quarter called Bang Rak. This area still exudes a European atmosphere with its colonial-style hotels and abandoned warehouses. The modernization of Silom has transformed it into Thailand's major financial center, filled with banking institutions, corporate high-rises, and condominiums. But despite its importance as a business hub, traffic congestion remains a serious issue. However, Silom comes to life at night, offering a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Soi Patpong, though small, is Bangkok's hedonistic playground. For those seeking a more upscale experience, Silom also caters to rich visitors in its luxurious hotels, providing breathtaking views of Southeast Asia. The area is easily navigable, with Silom Road at the heart of the action, surrounded by Sathorn Road and Surawong Road. Recently, the Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Road has rejuvenated as a creative and tourism hub, known as SOLU, South of Lumpini, boasting new attractions such as Mahankorn Pavilion, Cube, and W Hotel.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Pad Thai: Pad Thai is a signature Thai dish consisting of stir-fried rice noodles with a uniquely balanced blend of sweet, sour, salty, and tangy flavors. It typically includes shrimp or chicken (though can be prepared with tofu for a vegetarian version), scrambled eggs, bean sprouts, and is garnished with crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions. The dish is served with a side of som tam (green papaya salad) and mango sticky rice for a complete meal.

Tom Yum Goong: This spicy and aromatic soup is a beloved Thai classic that features a fragrant broth made from stock, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, galangal, lime juice, fish sauce, and chili paste. It's packed with succulent prawns, mushrooms, tomatoes, and other vegetables, with optional additions like snakehead fish or even chicken. The dish is often garnished with fresh cilantro and a sprinkling of pepper.

Mango Sticky Rice: This iconic Thai dessert is a delightful combination of sweet, creamy mango and glutinous rice. The sticky rice is cooked in coconut milk and sugar until it achieves a chewy texture, then served alongside ripe, juicy mango slices. The dish is sometimes garnished with toasted coconut flakes or sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor. It's typically enjoyed during the mango season (May to September) as a sumptuous, refreshing treat.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing