Bangkok Area Guide

Sukhumvit Area
What to do in Sukhumvit ?
Sukhumvit Road (ถนน สุขุมวิท), has become the
capital’s main commercial axis, often refered to as the city
center. The many small streets crisscrossing the area are home
to a wide selection of restaurants, small cozy hotels as well
as some nightclubs, whereas the main street front areas are
populated with luxury hotels and a number of tailor shops. The
side walk turns into a buzzing night market once the sun has
set and souvenirs of all types can be purchased at a bargain.
How to get there?
Sukhumvit Rd. runs from the Ploenchit Rd. and Rama I Rd. in the west
to the Cambodian border in the East. The focus of this article, however,
is on this part of the road which can be easily accessed by the BTS Skytrain
(Sukhumvit Line). BTS is a cheap, fast and convenient way to explore Bangkok City.
Every location described in this article is in close proximity to one of
the BTS stations.
From the Suvarnabhumi International Airport you can take the AE3 Airport
Bus that runs up Bangna-Trad and along Sukhumvit all the way down Ploenchit
to Central World Plaza (formerly World Trade Center) then loops back around to
Nana and then back out to the Airport. Alternatively take the 552 bus to On Nut BTS Station.
There are many stops and depending on traffic it can take one to three hours to get to Ploenchit
1. Benchasiri Park
Benchasiri Park has been built to commemorate the 60th birthday of HM Queen Sirikit in 1992.
The landscape of the park consists of a vast green space. A lot of big trees around the park
create shady and cool environment - a perfect setting to get some rest from the buzz of the city.
HM Queen Sirikit conferred the name of Benchasiri Park. As a tribute, there is a 3 meter sculpture
of HM the Queen in a standing posture. As the concept of the Benchasiri Park is to be the “Park of
Sculptures” there are several other sculptures created by well-known artists present in the area.
They reflect delicate art, new ideas and philosophy of the artists. One of the sculptures is a huge
commemorative coin illustrating an image of HM Queen Sirikit. There are two Thai styled pavilions
in the front part of the park. dedicated to exhibit the Queen’s activities.
How to get there: The park is located on the Sukhmvit Rd. between Sukhumvit Soi 22 and Soi 24. Take the BTS to the Phrom
Pong station and walk northwest from there. Alternatively take one of the following buses 2, 25, 38,
48, 98, 119 Air-con No. 1, 8, 13, Micro Bus routes 6.
Opening Hours: Daily from 05.00 am. - 09.00 pm.
2. Museum of Thai Pharmacy
The museum of Thai Pharmacy was established to publicize the history of the traditional
Thai medicine from the past to present time. The exhibition is categorized by different
topics; namely, the Birth of Pharmacy, the Evolution of Oriental Pharmacy and Basic Wisdom,
the Evolution of Western Thai Pharmacy and the Evolution of Herbs and Natural Products.
How to get there: The museum is located on the 3
rd Fl. of the Pharmaceutical Association
of Thailand in the Royal Patronage Building at 40 Soi Santisuk, Sukhumvit Soi 38, Sukhumvit Rd., (opposite Soi Thonglor).
Take the BTS to the Thong Lo station and walk from there.
Contact: Tel: 02-391-6243, 02-712-1624
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri from 10.00 am. - 04.00 pm. (Advance contact in writing is required for a group visit)
Admission: Free
3. Kamthieng House
The Kamthieng House is of great interest to all who are interested in Thai culture. This well-maintained
example of the Northern Thai architecture is more than 160 years old. It has been handed down through
generations of the Nimmanahaemida family before being generously donated to the Siam Society by Nang
Kinhaw Nimmanahaemida . With the financial support of the Asia foundation, the house was relocated from
Chiang Mai to Bangkok in 1964. The Kamthieng House is the center-piece at the Siam Society, which promotes
the preservation of heritage, culture, arts and the environment.
How to get there: Take the BTS to the Asoke station or the MRT to the Sukhumvit Station. Walk along the Asoke Rd.
The Siam Society and the Kamthieng House will be on your right handside.
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday (except public holidays) 09.00 am. - 05.00 pm.
Admission: 100 baht
Angsana Private Thai Cooking Course
Whether Thai food is your favorite one, or cooking is your hobby - there is no better way to learn
Thai cooking than taking a Thai Cooking Course in the Land of the Smiles, taught by qualified Thai
professional. Unlike traditional cooking schools, Angsana holds private Thai cooking lessons in
English or in Thai. You choose day, time, and the dishes you want to cook from her family cookbook
containing 60+ recipes gathered over three generations. Each lesson covers three dishes of your choice.
Optional market trip is available for morning lessons, please let Angsana know when booking if you want
to go to the market with her. All ingredients are included along with copies of the recipes in English.
How to get there: Angsana’s house is located at the 81/3 Sukhumvit soi 50, a short walk from the On Nut BTS station.
Contact: Tel: 081-455-5808; Website: www.thaihomecooking.com
1. PRO Language (Sukhumvit)
Pro Language was founded in the year 2000 to provide multi-language services to the government
agencies, business sectors and the general public. The school has been awarded "The Best Private
Language School for 2008" by the Thai Ministry of Education. They teach Thai, English, Chinese,
Japanese, German, French, Spanish, Russian and Italian.
How to get there: The school so located on the 10
th floor of the Times Square Building on the Sukhumvit Rd.,
between soi 12 and 14. Take the BTS to the Asoke station or the MRT to the Sukhumvit station
and walk from there.
Contact: Tel: 02-250-0072; Fax: 02-250-0129; Website: www.prolanguage.co.th
2. Unity Thai Language School (Sukhumvit)
Unity Thai Language School was established four years ago, however, the teaching method used in the school
is more than 40 years old. It was designed to train missionary’s fluency in Thai language in 6 to 7
months. Now the course has been expanded for general Thai learners.
How to get there: The school is located on the 15
th Fl.
of the Times Square Building on the Sukhumvit Rd. between Soi 12 and Soi 14.
Take the BTS to the Asoke station or the MRT to the Sukhumvit station and walk from there
Contact: Tel: 02-653-1538
Soi Klang Racquet Club
Soi Klang Racquet Club offers its guests and members many different attractions like rock climbing, courts
(badminton, tennis, squash, racquet ball), gym, swimming pool, snooker tables, sauna and steam rooms and a
selection of relaxation services (foot/body massage, aromatherapy). Additional services include Pro Shop,
Juice Bar, Lounge, Convenience Store, Internet, Coffee Shops, Restaurants and Shuttle Service to/from
Phrompong BTS station.
How to get there: Soi Klang Racquet Club is located on 6, 8 Amara 3, Sukhumvit 49/9.
It’s within a walking distance from Thonglor and Phrompong BTS stations.
Contact: Tel: 02-714-7200; Website: www.rqclub.com
Frank Cuesta Tennis Academy
The Frank Cuesta Tennis Academy (FCTA) is the place to go if you want to practice your tennis
skills. The facilities include 6 tennis courts, gym, wireless internet, restaurant and coffee
shop, conference room, video room, game room and 24 hours security.
How to get there: The Frank Cuesta Tennis Academy is located at Sukhumvit Soi 50.
Take the BTS to the On Nut Station and walk from there.
Contact: Tel: 081-913-2525
1. Ana Garden
Ana Garden is set in Bangkok's most prestigious and fashionable area. They have been providing customers
with the Thai and BBQ cuisine for more than 10 years. The interior resembles the tropical rainforest setting.
How to get there: The restaurant is located at the 67 Thonglor between Soi 1 and Soi 3 of the Sukhumvit Soi 55 Rd.
Take the BTS to the Thonglor station and walk from there.
Contact: Tel: 02-391-1762
Opening Hours: Daily from 05.00 pm. - 12.00 am. (Restaurant), and 08.00 pm. - 01.00 am. (Groove Kitchen nightclub)
2. Baan Khanitha
Baan Khanitha with a homely Thai ambience, the use of traditional and antique handicrafts and sculptures,
paintings, plants, decor, and delicious Thai cuisine, Baan Khantitha is well worth a visit. The restaurant
has won more than ten consecutive Bangkok's Best Thai Restaurant' awards from Bangkok Dining &
Entertainment magazine.
How to get there: The restaurant is located on 36/1 Sukhumvit Soi 23.
Take the BTS to the Asoke station or the MRT to the Sukhumvit station an walk from there.
Contact: Tel: 02-258-4181
Opening Hours: Daily from 11.00 am. - 02.00 pm. and 06.00 pm. - 10.30 pm.
1. Beccofino
Beccofino offers authentic and high-quality Italian cuisine prepared by the Executive Chef and
Co-Owner Angelo Rottoli. The menu includes a range of appetizers, entrees and handmade, hand-rolled
or hand-twisted pasta as well as crisp, thin pizza from specially built wood-fire oven.
How to get there: The restaurant is located on the 146 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglo Soi 4).
Take the BTS to the Thonglor station and walk from there.
Contact: Tel: 02-392-1881
Opening Hours: Daily from 11.00 am. - 12.00 am.
2. Bei Otto
Bei Otto has been established by Otto Duffner in 1984. It has been specializing in German cuisine
since then. Today the Bei Otto is a combination of a restaurant, bakery, butchery and delicatessen.
How to get there: The restaurant is located on 1 Sukhumvit Soi 20.
Take the BTS to the Asoke station or the MRT to the Sukhumvit station and walk from there.
Contact: Tel: 02-262-0892
Opening Hours: Daily from 11.00 am. - 12.00 am.
1. Bourbon Street
Bourbon Street Restaurant and Oyster Bar is Bangkok's only 100% owned and operated American restaurant
with the specialty of the house being famous Louisiana “Cajun/Creole” dishes such as Boiled “Live”
Crawfish, Blackened Redfish, Jambalaya, Gumbo, Blackened Crab Cakes and many more "New Orleans"
favorites.
How to get there: The restaurant is located on 29/4-6 Sukhumvit Soi 22 (Behind Washington Square).
Take the BTS to the Asoke station or the MRT to the Sukhumvit station and walk from there.
Opening Hours: Daily from 07.00 pm. - 01.00 am.
Contact: Tel: 02-259-0328
2. Greyhound (Emporium)
Greyhound (Emporium) was established in Thailand in 1980 with men's casual wear at Siam Center. Later,
in 1990, their line of products expanded to women's wear and shortly followed by shoes, bags and
accessories. In 1997, Greyhound has added more aspects to its brand by expanding to food business.
The first Greyhound Café was opened at the Emporium Shopping Complex and became instantly famous.
In 2005 they added a new concept restaurant to their portfolio. "Another Hound Cafe" is a half breed
Thai/Italian gourmet.
How to get there: The restaurant is located on the 2
nd Fl. of
the Emporium Shopping Complex on Sukhumvit Soi 24. Take the BTS to the Phrom Pong BTS station
and walk via sky bridge to the complex.
Contact: Tel: 02-664-8663
Khun Churn Vegetarian
Enjoy a healthy Thai food menu such as Fresh Spring rolls, Pomelo salad, Som Tum and
Thai main dish such as Pad Thai (Thai Fried Noodle), Tom Yum Mushroom etc. You will
love our menu. Vegetarian will be good for your health, it make your digestive system
and detoxify. Vegetable have a lot anti-oxidant that help you look younger. You also
can get protein from Mushroom, Tofu and Soy bean which more easy to digest than protein
from flesh.
How to get there: Located at the corner of Sukhumvit Soi 42, Bangkok Mediplex Building on Ground Fl.
Contact: Tel: 02-713-6599
Opening Hours: Daily from 10.00 am. – 09.30 pm.
Ananda Spa
Ananda Spa comes from the Sanskrit word meaning "harmony", and staff at Ananda Spa are devoted to restoring
yours. All theta treatments are carefully customized to beautify the body, transform the mind and nurture
the soul.
How to get there: Located at the President Solitaire Hotel on
Sukhumvit Soi 11. Take the BTS to the Nana station and walk from there.
Contact: Tel: 02-255-7200, Fax: 02-253-2330
Opening Hours: Daily from 07.00 am. - 11.00 pm.
The Spa - Ambassador Hotel
The Spa offers exclusive therapy rooms where tranquility and skilled hands will contribute to an overall
feeling of wellness with treatments designed to your individual preferences. The treatments include,
but are not limited to Sport Recovery Oil Massage, Flight Reviver and Traditional Thai massage.
How to get there: The Spa is located on the 2nd floor of the Ambassador Hotel,
171 Sukhumvit Soi 11, Sukhumvit Rd., Klongteoy Nue. Take the BTS to the Nana station or MRT
to the Sukhumvit station and walk from there.
Contact: Tel: 02-254-0444 Ext.1254-5; Fax: 02-253-4123
Opening Hours: Daily from 07.00 am. - 11.00 pm.
The Grande Spa
The Grande Spa's environment offers a retreat in a setting decorated with warm golden teak wood
and soft silk paneling. Small stone fountains create a backdrop of running water, while displays of
tall palm leaves and blossoming orchids add an exotic touch. Guests of the Grande Spa may also enjoy
the separate suites of steam rooms, saunas, and Jacuzzi's in the Ladies' and Gentlemen's changing rooms.
How to get there: The Grande Spa is located in the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Hotel on 250 Sukhumvit Rd.
Contact: Tel: 02-649-8269; Fax: 02-653-1078
Opening Hours: Daily from 09.00 am. - 11.00 pm. (last appointment 10.00 pm.)
Sabai Sabai Traditional Thai Massage
Traditional Thai Massage or Nuat Phaen Boran has the history reaching thousand years. The origins of
the massage are from India and the ancient art was derived from one generation to the next. The words
"Sabai Sabai" mean happiness which is exactly what this massage shop offers.
How to get there: The Sabai Sabai Traditional Thai Massage is located on the
Sukhumvit Soi 11 off the Sukhumvit Rd. Take the BTS to the Nana station and walk from there.
Contact: Tel: 02-651-0188, 02-253-4523
Opening Hours: Daily 24 hours on appointment
1. Emporium Shopping Center
Emporium Shopping Center is the top competitor to Gaysorn Plaza, with lower floors
dedicated to brands like Louis Vuitton and Rolex, but (unlike Gaysorn) it has more
affordably priced goods on the upper levels. Emporium also has a popular food court
and a good selection of restaurants on the 5th floor. Go to the cinema on the top floor
and you will find an amazing private library centered around design. You can get a
free day pass if you bring your passport. Spend the day reading amazing books.
How to get there: Emporium Shopping Center is located on the
Sukhumvit Soi 24 (Phrom Phong BTS Station).
2. Robinson Department Store Sukhumvit
Robinson Department Store Sukhumvit located on 259 Sukhumvit Rd. Some good bargains can be had
in the clothing department, especially with regular sales promotions.
How to get there: Take a taxi to Sukhumvit Rd. and look for Robinson in
between Soi 17 and Soi 19. Or take the BTS to Asok station or the MRT to Sukhumvit station and walk.
Contact: Tel: 02-252-5121, 02-651-1533
Opening Hours: Daily from 10.00 am. - 10.00 pm.
Street market
Street Market on Sukhumvit, between soi 1 and 20, offers many of the same items as the Patpong night
market (Silom Rd.) (although usually at somewhat better prices). Haggling is generally expected.
Many tailor shops can be found here.
How to get there: BTS Sky Nana Station / Asoke Station. Taxi / Bus routes 2, 25, 501, 508, 511, 513
1. Bed Supperclub
Dress to impress at the most High-Society Club in Bangkok. Super modern décor. Obvious from the name;
the main room is lined with beds. Its all white interior is pristinely clinical so you'll want to look
your best in here. Fabulous food menu if you make it early enough before the crowds swarm in. Serving
anything from Thai classics with a twist, Western dishes to even tastes from Morocco. Bring a loaded
wallet as it's going to be an expensive evening.
How to get there: BTS Sky Train to Ekkamai Station, Subway to Asoke Station
Contact: Tel: 02-651-3537; Fax: 02-651-3538
Opening Hours: Daily from 08.00 pm. - 01.00 am.
Pricing: Moderate
2. Soi Cowboy
Soi Cowboy is a red-light district in Bangkok. A short street with approximately 40 bars is similar
to Nana Plaza and Patpong. It caters mainly to tourists and expatriates. There are also a number
of restaurants at Soi Cowboy, including what is perhaps Bangkok's best known fish and chips shop.
The area is named after T. G. "Cowboy" Edwards, a retired American airman who opened one of the
first bars there in 1977. A tall African-American, Edwards got his nickname because he wore a cowboy hat.
One attraction of the Soi Cowboy nightlife are elephants frequently marched up and down the
street by their handlers who are in the business of selling elephant food to tourists.
How to get there: Soi Cowboy is located near the Sukhumvit Rd., between
Sukhumvit Soi 21 (also called soi Asoke) and Soi 23, within a walking distance from the BTS
Asoke station and MRT’s Sukhumvity Station.