Unusual Things To Do In Bangkok That Are Not In Your Guidebook

This constitutes one of the unusual things to do in Bangkok, because I’m sure you’ve never considered the city a street art hub? Well, this is changing, and the trick is knowing where to look! Charoen Krung Road is famous for its street art, but it's the sois, or branching off alleyways, where you’ll really want to be. Soi numbers 28, 30 and 32 are particular favourites among visitors, as these were the main sites for the BUKRUK Urban Arts Festival in 2016. The large works by prominent artists like Bonus TMC, Alex Face and Lolay are still perfectly intact and add a riot of colour to the sprawling urban jungle of Bangkok. Just around the corner you’ll find the Speedy Grandma Art Gallery, which provides some incredible work, minus all the crowds.

Instead of taking photos of monks going about their daily business, why not join them for a group meditation class? Mindfulness has lost its reputation as a purely spiritual pursuit, and can be enjoyed by everybody, regardless of your denomination. Participate, don’t just spectate, that’s the idea here! And whilst every tourist can say they’ve visited a particular site, not many can claim they’ve really gotten in touch with the city’s essence. A popular class is run by Little Bangkok Sangha in Ekkamai. You can join the Buddhist monks here every Monday from 7PM.

Many charters take tourists on longtail boat rides to floating markets across the city, but what you might not know is that some time ago, this was the main means of transport in Bangkok. One of the non touristy things to do in Bangkok is to find a boat that locals actually use, and float along the less commercial canals. Head down to a discreet pier - there are many - and see which vessels appear to be taking commuters to local destinations. If you’d like a suggestion, try Khlong Phra Khanong’s docks. These boats travel the waterways between Sukhumvit Road and Srinakarin Road, so you’ll still be in a touristy centre, but following a much more authentic route. If you do this trip in the evening, Sukhumvit comes alive after nightfall and you’ll discover all sorts of things to do in Bangkok at night once you hop off. Check out these things to do in Bangkok at night for some more ideas and tips offs on Bangkok’s secret bars.

Night markets are a dime a dozen in Bangkok, but if you’re looking for a less-touristy one, look no further than the Hua Mum Night Market. Granted, it’s a little out of the way, being situated in Lat Phrao, but a readily available taxi service should do the trick! With lots of variety, plenty of stalls and a certifiable mountain of food before you, there’s much to delight the senses here; vendors are less pushy, prices are decent and a great perk is that it’s kiddy-friendly too due to its sprawling layout. From unique artefacts to bright prints and even haircuts done whilst you wait, you can find all manner of weird and wonderful here! As you browse the stalls, be amazed by the hidden gems in Bangkok. Never has every corner of a city had so much to delight, entertain and intrigue. Enjoy a refreshing coconut shake after all your shopping to cool down and unwind.

The old Thai capital of Thonburi has been around since the 1700s. For some reason, however, not many tourists venture here, and it is all but forgotten on the western banks of the river. You can venture into this tangle of alleyways and narrow canals and discover all the historic neighbourhood has to offer. Catch a traditional puppet show at the Artist’s House or visit the stunning Wat Arun, otherwise known as the Temple of Dawn - which is the only reason most visitors find themselves in this neighbourhood. The area is also home to the oldest mosque in Bangkok, as well as Talat Phlu, where you’ll be able to enjoy some authentic local food. Beware, the menus are not in English, nor are the locals particularly proficient in the language, but hey, you asked for the real Bangkok! Consider it an adventure.