Bangkok Riverside Attractions

Bangkok became the capital of Thailand in the tumultuous years following the Burmese sacking of the former Siamese capital of Ayutthaya in 1767. Originally established on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River (known as Thonburi), the capital was later moved to the eastern side (Old City or Rattanakosin). As a result, the Thonburi side is much less developed. A series of 'khlongs' (canals) branch off into local neighborhoods where communities still live above the water, and where life takes place on the waterline. On the other side, too, many of the 'khlongs' that formerly formed a major transportation network still exist - the reason Bangkok was dubbed 'The Venice of the East' by early explorers. Even today it is still possible to catch a water taxi from the center of the city to the riverside.

Flowing south from the highlands on the country's northern border to the Gulf of Thailand near Bangkok, the Chao Phraya River - or 'River of Kings' - is some 365 km (225 miles) long and is Thailand's principal river. Throughout many centuries is has been both the country's and city's lifeblood, used for transportation, agriculture and providing in the day-to-day needs and livelihood of the people living along the water's edge. There are several islands in the Chao Phraya too, most notably Ko Kret, home to the minority Mon community who are renowned for their pottery skills, and believed to have been the first inhabitants of the Bangkok area.

During the day, the riverside offers plentiful exciting exploration opportunities and, by night, a romantic dinner cruise along the river with its many beautifully illuminated historical highlights rates among one of the most memorable experiences you can possibly have in Bangkok.

Assumption Cathedral

Located in Bangrak, this is Bangkok's principal Roman Catholic cathedral and the main church of the Archdiocese of Bangkok, which dates back to 1662. It was built between 1910 and 1918 to replace an earlier church on the same spot, and repaired after sustaining severe damage during World War II. Pope John Paul II visited the church during his trip in 1984.

An impressive tall structure, it has a striking, almost luminescent red brick facade that contrasts pleasingly with surrounding buildings. The beautiful interior is classic Romanesque, with round arches, looming ceilings covered in rich rococo and stained glass. Murals on the walls of the nave at the end depict biblical scenes. There's a choir here, and although open everyday, mass on Sundays is especially popular (at 6am, 7:30am, 8:30am, 10am and 5pm).

Royal Barges Museum

Once upon a time in Bangkok the Chao Phraya River and its tributaries were the most important avenue of communication, boats the main mode of transport for all, even royalty. Here you can discover eight of the country's most unique and stunning - the Royal Barges reserved for auspicious ceremonies and state occasions like the very rare Royal Barge Procession.

Each is carved from huge pieces of teak with prows carved into mythical creatures, gilded in gold and intricately decorated with tiny shimmering pieces of glass. Rowed by up to 50 specially trained oarsmen, the boats leave their dry dock at festival times and important state occasions for these spectacular processions along the river.

King Rama I Monument

Otherwise known as King Puttayodfa, this double life-size monument to King Rama I was built to mark the city's 150th anniversary in 1932, along with the Puttayodfa Memorial Bridge next to which it sits. It was designed by HRH Prince Naris, and architect Silpa Bhirasri sculpted it in bronze. Born on March 20, 1736, King Rama I was the first king in the Chakri Dynasty which continues to this day. He ascended to the throne on April 6, 1782, and died 27 years later.