Things to Do Around Chaeng Watthana and Laksi: A Local Guide to North Bangkok

Most visitors come to Chaeng Watthana and Laksi for business. They might be here for a government appointment, a conference or a concert. However, with a few spare hours, this corner of north Bangkok has plenty to explore. There are royal temples, busy fresh markets, an aviation museum and easy rail links to the rest of the city. Here is how to make the most of your time.

Start at the Government Complex

The Chaeng Watthana Government Complex is more than an office district. It holds over 50 official departments and agencies and it also works like a small town, with banks, shops, restaurants and clinics.

Step inside Building B and look up. Its giant hall sometimes hosts markets, fairs and special events. Few visitors know that it also has an elevated indoor running track on level 4, used by joggers and staff alike. If you need a quick bite or some cash, head to the basement, where you will find shops, restaurants and banks.

Visit Wat Phra Si Mahathat

For a quiet cultural break, visit Wat Phra Si Mahathat in nearby Bang Khen. Wat Phra Si Mahathat became a first-class royal monastery in 1942, placing it among Thailand's most important temples.

The temple has an unusual story. It was built as a memorial to democratic government and was first called the "Democracy Temple". It was later renamed after Buddha relics and a branch of the Sri Maha Bodhi tree were brought from India and enshrined there.

Inside the ordination hall, the main Buddha image closely resembles the famous Phra Buddha Chinnarat. The hall's design is thought to draw on Bangkok's Wat Benchamabophit, the Marble Temple.

Tip: Dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered, and visit early in the morning, when it's cooler and calmer.

Explore a Real Bangkok Fresh Market

For a taste of everyday Bangkok, visit Saphan Mai Market, also known as Ying Charoen Market. It's a large fresh market that has served the area since August 1955. It is known for being well run, clean and full of fresh produce, and it sits on Phahonyothin Road near BTS Saphan Mai station.

Go early to see the market at its busiest. Look out for seasonal Thai fruit, fresh snacks and ready-to-eat dishes. It is a great way to see how locals shop and eat.

Discover Aviation History

The Royal Thai Air Force Museum is one of north Bangkok's hidden gems. It sits near Don Mueang Airport and holds around thirty aircraft from the Royal Thai Air Force's history. Entry is free, and it's open daily from 08:00 to 16:00, except on public holidays.
Don't miss the Boripatra, the first plane designed and built in Thailand, dating back to 1927. The museum also has its own BTS station, so it's easy to reach without a taxi.

Go Shopping

North Bangkok has plenty of shopping, all close to the MRT Pink Line:
•    Central Chaeng Watthana sits beside Chaeng Watthana–Pak Kret 28 station.
•    Big C Chaeng Watthana is next to Chaeng Watthana 14 station.
•    IT Square Laksi is close to Lak Si station, ideal for electronics and gadgets.

For a bigger day out, ride the BTS Green Line south to Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of Bangkok's most famous markets.

Catch a Show or Expo

IMPACT Muang Thong Thani is one of Thailand's biggest event venues, hosting concerts, trade shows and exhibitions. It is only a few stops west on the Pink Line, at Muang Thong Thani station.

Getting Around

The MRT Pink Line has made this area much easier to explore. Government Complex station sits right on Chaeng Watthana Road beside the complex. A skywalk links it to the Government Complex, and passengers can switch to the Green Line at Wat Phra Si Mahathat and to the Red Line at Lak Si.

A Simple Half-Day Itinerary
•    Morning: Breakfast and fresh fruit at Saphan Mai Market.
•    Late morning: A peaceful visit to Wat Phra Si Mahathat.
•    Lunch: Street food near the temple or back at the Government Complex.
•    Afternoon: Aircraft spotting at the Royal Thai Air Force Museum.
•    Evening: Shopping and dinner at Central Chaeng Watthana.

Where to Stay

Staying close by makes all of this simple. Centara Life Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre Chaeng Watthana is set inside the complex, so you can walk to your appointments in the morning and explore in the afternoon. After a long day, the hotel's Bistro 4 serves Thai and international dishes until 22:00.