10 interesting fun facts about Bangkok, Thailand that will make you say "Cool!"

Bangkok beckons with its vibrant energy and rich culture! To truly immerse yourself in the City of Angles, we discovered 10 unique fun facts to share before you embark on your adventure. These insights will help you navigate traditions and avoid any travel mishaps. Let’s dive into these fascinating facts and get you ready for an unforgettable trip in Bangkok!

#1: Can you pronounce Bangkok's full name? We dare you!

Did you know Bangkok's name has ancient roots? "Bangkok" predates the city, referring to a village known for its wild plums. Thais call their capital "Krung Thep," meaning "City of Angels."

Its full official name is a detailed description, translating to "the city of gods, the great city, the residence of the Emerald Buddha, the impregnable city of god Indra, the grand capital of the world endowed with nine precious gems, the happy city abounding in enormous royal palaces resembling the heavenly abode wherein dwell reincarnated gods, a city given by Indra and built by Vishnukarm."

Try saying the full name in one breath: "Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit."

#2: Did you know? Bangkok's temples are hidden in your pocket change

Take a look at the back of your Thai baht coins! You’ll see stunning images of Bangkok’s most significant and sacred temples. These images showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage, with each temple representing an iconic landmark.

10 Baht Coin: Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan

Photo by REY MELVIN CARAAN on Unsplash

5 Baht Coin: Wat Benchamabophit Dusitwanaram

Download from shutterstock

2 Baht coin: Wat Sa ket Ratchaworamahawihan (The Golden Mount)

Download from shutterstock

1 Baht Coin: Wat Phra Kaew (The temple of the Emerald Buddha)

Photo by freestockcenter on Freepik

 

50 Satang Coin: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Photo by tawatchai07 on Freepik

25 Satang Coin: Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan

Download from shutterstock

Planning a trip to Bangkok? Use your baht coins as a temple-hopping guide and see which famous site you can visit next!

#3: You can own a pet monitor lizard in Thailand, but not in Bangkok

Photo by John Thomas on Unsplash

While the permit allows monitoring lizards as pets in Thailand, Bangkok has a ban. This likely prioritizes wildlife conservation and safety concerns due to the animal’s size, their specific needs in spacious enclosures and the risk of uncontrolled breeding within the city limits.

#4: SEALIFE Bangkok is home to Thailand's only large-tooth sawfish

Did you know sawfish are some of the biggest fish on earth, reaching up to 7 meters and 23 feet long? They’ve been around for an incredibly long time – around 56 to 61 million years! Meet Makita, Thailand’s only large-tooth sawfish at SEALIFE Bangkok aquarium. Despite its unique saw-like snouts and shark-like bodies, Makita is friendly and lovable! Unfortunately, sawfishes have been listed as critically endangered since 2006.

The good news is Makita is getting excellent care at SEALIFE Bangkok Aquarium. You can visit Makita and learn more about wildlife conservation efforts. Seeing Makita firsthand can help you understand why protecting endangered species matters and how you can contribute to a healthy ecosystem!

 

#5: Bangkok takes the crown for the hottest city in the world

Bangkok sizzles all year round! While temperature lowers between November to February (averaging around 22 °C), every month sees highs exceeding 32 °C. Pack your sunscreen and consider a portable fan for exploring the streets!

 

#6: Eat Pad Thai another day and go for other regional specialities like Khao Soi!

 

Photo by Kittitep Khotchalee on Unsplash

Bangkok is famous for Pad Thai and Tom Yum but have you tried Khao Soi? This special northern Thai dish is a must-try for noodle lovers! It features crispy wheat egg noodles in a rich and creamy coconut curry broth. Next time you’re in Bangkok, skip the Pad Thai (or maybe have both!) and give Khao Soi a try. You won't regret it!

#7: One of the first countries to implement transgender washrooms in public spaces

Restroom access can be a hurdle for LGBTQ+ Thais. Thailand, recognising this ongoing challenge faced by transgender and non-binary individuals, has begun implementing gender-neutral restrooms and is one of the first countries to do so, to promote inclusivity and combat discrimination.  

#8: World's largest gold Buddha is in Bangkok's Chinatown! (Wat Traimit Withayaram Worawihan)

Wat Traimit, a peaceful temple near Bangkok’s Chinatown, holds a magnificent statue – Phra Buddha Maha Suwanna Patimakorn, the world’s largest solid gold Buddha statue. This 10-foot-tall Buddha, crafted from approximately 83% pure gold, weighs over five tons and is worth millions today. Don’t miss the chance to marvel at this priceless treasure!

Photo by Branislav Rodman on Unsplash                    Photo by Benjamin on Unsplash

#9:Bangkok's taxis are company colours in disguise!

You can’t miss those colourful taxis, can you? They’re more than just eye-catching, each colour belongs to a different taxi company!

 

Single-colored taxis

Often seen in colours like bright green, sky blue, red, orange, yellow, blue, pink and purple, these single-coloured taxis represent different taxi companies or alliances.

Photo by José Ramon Martinez on Unsplash

 

Bi-colored taxis

There are also two-coloured taxis which are the older series, typically in colours blue-red or yellow-green, also belonging to companies and cooperatives.

Photo by The Transport Enthusiast DC on Unsplash

#10: That's the national anthem you hear before your movies play.

In Thai cinemas, it's customary for the audience to stand respectfully during the King’s Anthem before the movie starts. While no longer legally mandated, it’s a way to show respect for Thai culture and the monarchy. Though some people may not stand these days, it's still a good idea to be mindful of the tradition.

We hope these intriguing Bangkok fun facts ignite your curiosity for your upcoming trip! By discovering the city’s unique offerings, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories and experiences.