Khao San Road Information Guide
The popular book 'The Beach' famously described Khao San Road as "the centre of the backpacking universe". Judging by the truth-seeking travellers who converge here to shop, exchange tales and prepare for their next stint on the backpacker trail, it's a phrase that sums it up pretty much perfectly. For over twenty years now, this has been the base camp of choice for budget backpackers delving intoThailand and South East Asia.
Little wonder, then, that everything they could need or want can be found here. Packed into a straight 1km long strip that spans only a couple of blocks are countless budget guesthouses and hotels, internet cafes, restaurants, massage parlours, travel agents, clubs, bars, bookshops, tailors, chemists, market stalls, tattoo shops and much, much more. So much in fact, that the people, peddlers and party spirit have spilled over into nearby Soi Rambuttri.
With its carefree, anything-goes vibe it's quite unlike anywhere else in Bangkok and, probably, the world. In recent years there's been a subtle makeover, an influx of fast-food outlets, swanky bars and mid-range hotels helping the area to shed its shabby image. Only slightly though - it's still got an in-your-face energy that is all its own, and is still the stage for a cast of quirksome characters. Today, so infectious is its atmosphere it's also popular with locals, especially young hipsters and art students. Stay too long though and it may all wear a little thin. |
Stay in or around Khao San Road for a great location in the heart of the Old City. The Banglamphu area in which it falls may not be served by the Skytrain (BTS) or underground (MRT), and be a fair distance from shopping hubs like Siam and Sukhumvit.
However, it does give brilliant access to the famous backpacker area, with its great shopping and throngs of cosmopolitan and carefree. What's more, you couldn't be better placed for exploring Bangkok's more traditional and austere charms either. (READ MORE)
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Bustling with a bevy of budget accommodation, Khao San Road is undoubtedly packbackers' heaven. Organised in an alphabetical order, our Khao San Road's list of hotels will guide you through the A to Z, along with some of the best deals you'll ever find. (READ MORE)
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If you would like to know more about Khao San Road's atmosphere and ambiance, about where this backpacker behemoth has been, is now, and where its heading, then read this overview of the scene. (READ MORE)
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There are no famous historical sights to speak of on Khao San Road. That said, its location in the Old City (Rattanakosin) makes it an ideal base from which to explore the city's classic attractions. That's not to say there's nothing to look at or admire. On the contrary, being a hub of unwashed humanity means Khao San Road is the perfect place to do some people watching, and only minutes walk away lie the area's hidden charms, among them Phra Arthit Road. (READ MORE)
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Khao San Road is bursting with youth-orientated things for you to spend your precious baht on. Market stalls come piled high with beach attire, fisherman pants, T-shirts, ethnic clothing and other items that will help you achieve the dishevelled, scruffy-chic look so common in these parts of town.
More refined items - silver jewellery, dainty dresses and, for the guys, tailored suits - are also abundant. Come in the evenings for the best range of wares on display, many of which have been lovingly crafted by hand. (READ MORE)
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Khao San Road takes off at night: neon signs flicker into life, music begins blasting from streetside sound systems, while the masses begin mapping out about the long, typically alcohol-fuelled night in front of them. And there's no shortage of choices.(READ MORE)
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In addition to being perfect for adjusting to the culture and climate, Khao San Road is also a great place to ease yourself into the intense sensory m-lange that is Thai cuisine. Restaurants, shacks and stalls on wheels abound, and most of what's sold at them toned down to cater to the unadjusted Western palate. In particular, the spiciness of curries, salads and noodles is much less than locals enjoy eating. If you like it spicy, the phrase 'ped maak' should do the trick. (READ MORE)
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Despite the odd motorcyclist attempting to prove otherwise, the only way to navigate Khao San Road itself is by foot. To plot your escape from backpacker central you never have to go far - eager tuk-tuk drivers are always hawking for trade from either end, and there's a steady stream of taxis coming and going. Agree a price with a tuk-tuk driver before setting off, and when it comes to taxi drivers always insist he switch his metre on. (READ MORE)
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