A mecca for budget backpackers in Southeast Asia is here, only 1 km north of the Grand Palace. Sprouted along the short road are guesthouses, cheap hostels, some boutique hotels, trendy pubs and bars, restaurants, food stalls and souvenir shops. Recently, the area is popular among Thai hipsters and artists as well.
Running parallel to Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue, this 412 metres long lane starts from Chakraphong Rd. and ends at Tanao Rd. Khao San is in Banglamphu District, the old town area which has many attractions in close proximity.
Easy access: Though the subway and skytrain have not reached the area yet, you can easily get there by taxis, buses, and river ferries (Phra Athit Pier).
For taxi : ถนนข้าวสาร
Wat Chana Songkram
The temple ground connects Khao San Rd. and Phra Athit Rd. It is nice to take a break from the crowded lane and pay homage to the Buddha and appreciate the beautiful murals.
For taxi : วัดชนะสงคราม
Santichaiprakan Park
The park features a great river view with the Rama VII Bridge. Free activities like music and exercises are held in the evening.
For taxi : สวนสันติไชยปราการ
Phra Athit Road
Another old area in Bangkok where old townhouses along the road have been turned into cafe and restaurants and buildings once served as residences of important persons have been turned into offices of many organisations. The area is lively at night.
For taxi : ถนนพระอาทิตย์
Phra Sumeru Fortress
Built in 1783, the old hexagonal-shape fort situated next to Santichaiprakan Park is one of the two remaining fortresses. Its old cannons are still in place.
For taxi : ป้อมพระสุเมรุ
Banglamphu Market
One of the favourite shopping grounds for Thais. It abounds with local food stalls and has all kinds of knock-off clothes.
For taxi : ตลาดบางลำพู
Thai and ethnic restaurants can be easily found on Khao San Rd. You will also find countless numbers of street carts selling economic menus such as Phat Thai (fried noodles), rice with Thai style omelets, various kinds of eatable bugs and cocktails.
The area features a large numbers of pubs and bars popular among tourists and Thai teens. Some of the cheapest bars in town are located here.
