Wet Weather: 15 Things to do in Bangkok when it’s raining

huibing 13 Jul 2017

1/15
The Grand Palace
The Grand Palace is a sight to behold, no matter how temperamental or unfavorable the weather gets. Tourists flock to this place because of its majestic stature and undeniable beauty, and you definitely shouldn't miss this architectural marvel. Also, don’t miss out on The Emerald Buddha temple right beside the palace, the country’s most sacred temple with exquisite detailing and workmanship that will leave you in awe.

Photo: Getty Images
2/15
Suan Pakkad Palace
It is an undeniable fact that Thailand has undergone a rapid amount of modernisation in recent years, but the impressive thing about the country is its connection to its roots. And, when you visit Suan Pakkad Palace, you will be greeted with an intimate view of the Thai culture. Five traditional houses are open for your perusal, where you can admire the architecture, and each contains a carefully curated selection of artwork and pieces that will impress.

Photo: Getty Images
3/15
Royal Thai Elephant Museum
Elephants play an important role for the Thais, serving as the national animal of the country and holding an utmost amount of importance to the Thai royalty. Get a clear appreciation of this large mammal at the Royal Elephant Museum, where you will get an insight into the significance of the white elephants to Thailand. While this isn’t going to fill your entire day up, this is an interesting and niche museum that you should not miss out on.

Photo: Getty Images
4/15
Siam Paragon
Okay, a popular pick during rainy days are the shopping malls, and Bangkok is no different. This luxurious shopping mall provides a high-end experience that will fill your arms up with designer labels. But, if that’s not really your style, go for the Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World, the largest aquarium in Southeast Asia. And, for those with children, Kidzania is located here too, so you’ll have plenty of options to entertain the whole family.

Photo: Getty Images
5/15
Wat Pho Thai Traditional Massage School
And for the days where you just want to relax and feel pampered, why not go for a massage? Located at the beautiful temple of Wat Pho, be greeted with a traditional massage that will rejuvenate your entire body. Opt for a morning massage for the least amount of people, and to walk around the entire day with a feeling of wellness that is unbeatable.

Photo: Getty Images
6/15
MBK Center
If you were really looking forward to night markets but are unable to go, MBK would not disappoint. Filled with nearly 2000 shops, each floor of the mall is filled with an array of stores that are affordable, while providing an array of variety to please. The best thing about MBK is that you can haggle, so put your negotiation skills to the test to get the best bang for your buck.

Photo: Getty Images
7/15
Siriraj Medical Museum
Looking for something a little more unorthodox? Thailand is home to (more than) a few unique museums that will raise your eyebrows, and the Siriraj Medical Museum (known, aptly, as the Museum of Death) will fit the bill.This is not for the faint-hearted, so go in expecting to see mummified and dried bodies, and leave with a better understanding of the human anatomy.

Photo: @littleameba
8/15
Centralworld
Yes, we are featuring yet another mall, but we couldn’t resist. Bangkok is, after all, a shopping haven, and the rain should not deprive you of this. If you are travelling with your family, consider dropping your children (and husband) off at the ice-skating rink indoors or the food court if they are feeling a little peckish. And then, shop till you drop with the extensive list of shops contained within this large building.

Photo: Getty Images
9/15
Art in Paradise Bangkok
If you’ve never been to the Trick Eye Museum in either South Korea, Singapore, or Hong Kong, definitely drop by Art in Paradise. Located in the Esplanade Mall, prepare to take a lot of photos as you pose with the characters. And, when you view the images, be prepared to be shocked as it’ll seem like you’re actually in the scene. Charge your camera up before going, and prepare to snap, snap, and snap!

Photo: Art in Bangkok Facebook
10/15
Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre
The Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre, or BACC, is an art gallery that holds exhibitions featuring works from local artists. While some are permanent, others traverse around the world, which means you’ll never be bored even if you have visited this place before. Get your portrait drawn for a small fee, or lay down in one of their experience booths where you can play music and appreciate the artwork. Or, of course, awe in the talent from the local community.

Photo: @ohneyc
11/15
Easy Kart
Exhilaration need not come from being out in the sun, and East Kart proves that. As the largest indoor go-karting track in the country, Easy Kart provides you with an experience that will definitely excite. From 1pm to 12am, drop by to race your family and friends (or random strangers!), suitable for anyone from ages seven and up. Your lap timings will be shown on screen, so put your game face on and go-kart!

Photo: @wewinnerphoto
12/15
Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall
If you’ve bought a ticket to the Grand Palace, you will get a free entrance into this throne hall, so keep them well! From the outside alone, you will probably be stunned at the amazing Western architecture with infusion of Thai influences. Pro-tip: photos aren’t allowed here, so appreciate the views with your eyes and marvel at the wood carvings and silk embroidery that are true works of art.

Photo: Getty Images
13/15
Museum of Floral Culture
If you have a soft spot for flowers, head down to the Museum of Floral Culture to be greeted with an array that will put a smile on your face. While it may be slightly hard to access, horticulture enthusiasts should not give this a miss. In this hundred-year-old teak house, be prepared to be given an educational lesson on flowers and their origins. Participate in their workshops after that, or choose to sip tea nearby and enjoy the beauty of the leaves.

Photo: Museum of Floral Culture Facebook
14/15
Imaginia Playland
Okay, if the trip’s main intention is to bond with your child, Imaginia Playland is an option you should definitely consider. This is a great place for your child to run about freely, though it is probably better for those below the ages of seven. This two-floor playland provides a list of attractions that your child will zoom through, from a slide (where both parent and child could slide down), a theater, and a climbing net.

Photo: @chloe__chia
15/15
Royal City Avenue
And, of course, to end the trip on a high note, get a taste of the Bangkok nightlife. Though Easy Kart is also at Royal City Avenue (RCA), we had to list it by itself. Known as an entertainment hotspot, RCA will prove that Bangkok is a city that never sleeps. Throughout the street, find yourself entering clubs and bars that cater to different preferences, providing you with a nighttime experience that will delight.

Photo: Onyx Facebook

Don’t let the rain dampen your plans!

Bangkok is known for its night markets and amazingly delicious food, which are often reasons why people visit the capital. But, there is more to the city than incredible finds and mouthwatering dining options. After all, the world’s most visited city is no one-trick pony, offering up a plethora of attractions up its sleeves that will excite. But, if you have never been, we would highly recommend taking the plunge to experience this exciting city with bright lights and mega malls that will certainly enthrall and enchant.

But, of course, it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in the event the skies decide to start drenching you. Even if you are not out and about during the rainy season (July to October), the bad weather can last the entire day. This is no excuse to stay indoors though — so, get out from under your comfy sheets (yes, it’s hard), and step out of your accommodation. While the rain might have dashed your plans, don’t let it ruin your holiday. And with this (non-exhaustive) list of places to go and things to do, you’ll forget the rain ever started!

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