Explore the 12 Most Fascinating Buildings in Thailand

Thailand, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, also boasts an impressive skyline filled with architectural wonders.

From modern skyscrapers to ancient temples, each structure tells a story of innovation, spirituality, and tradition.

Here’s a detailed look at 12 iconic buildings across Thailand.

1. King Power Mahanakhon

Highlights:

• Mahanakhon SkyWalk: Step onto one of the world’s highest observation decks with a thrilling glass floor at 314 meters.

• 360-Degree View: Soak in panoramic views of Bangkok’s dynamic skyline.

• Fine Dining: Dine at the luxurious Mahanathi restaurant and enjoy authentic Thai flavors.

Architecture:

• Designed by German architect Ole Scheeren.

• Features a “pixelated” ribbon spiral design that wraps around the building.

• King Power Mahanakhon is 78 stories high, with a height of 314 meters, making it one of Thailand’s tallest structures.

Facilities

• Multiple restrooms are throughout the tower.

• Gift shops with exclusive souvenirs.

• Lockers for personal belongings.

• Prayer rooms for visitors.

Accessibility

• Fully accessible for wheelchair users with ramps and elevators.

• Accessible restrooms and dedicated parking spaces are available.

Costs Involved

• Mahanakhon SkyWalk Ticket: Starts from THB 880 (approx. USD 24).

Pro Tip: Visit during sunset for a stunning transition from golden hour to dazzling night lights!

Location & How to Get There

• Address: 114 Narathiwas Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok, Thailand.

• How to Get There:

  • BTS Skytrain: Take the Silom Line to Chong Nonsi Station. Direct access via skywalk.

  • Taxi: Easily accessible from central Bangkok; fares vary from THB 80–150.

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2. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wat_Arun

Highlights

• Main Prang: Climb the central Khmer-style tower adorned with colorful porcelain.

• Sunset Views: Best experienced at sunset when the temple glows golden over the Chao Phraya River.

• Cultural Significance: Symbolizes the birth of the Rattanakosin Period.

Architecture

• Built in the early 19th century by King Rama II.

• Wat Arun was designed in a Khmer style with a central prang (spire) surrounded by four smaller ones.

• Decorated with Chinese porcelain and seashells.

Facilities

• Restrooms at the entrance area.

• Souvenir shops selling local crafts and temple-themed merchandise.

• Modest eateries are along the temple grounds.

Accessibility

• Limited wheelchair accessibility due to steep steps.

• Accessible boat services are available to the temple pier.

Costs Involved

• Entrance Fee: THB 100 (approx. USD 3).

Pro Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowd and intense heat.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok, Thailand.

• How to Get There:

  • Boat: Take a ferry across the river from Tha Tien Pier.

  • Taxi: Easily reachable from any part of Bangkok.

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3. The Grand Palace

Highlights

• Emerald Buddha: Houses the highly revered Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew.

• Royal Residence: Former residence of the Kings of Siam.

• Architectural Tour: Marvel at the intricate murals, golden stupas, and throne halls.

Architecture

• Construction began in 1782 under King Rama I.

• The Grand Palace is a blend of Thai, European, and traditional Ayutthaya architecture.

• Features include pointed spires, gold accents, and elaborate murals.

Facilities

• Guided tours are available in multiple languages.

• Restrooms and prayer areas are throughout.

• Shops for temple and cultural souvenirs.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible paths are available in most areas.

• Accessible restrooms are provided.

Costs Involved

• Entrance Fee: THB 500 (approx. USD 14).

Pro Tip: Dress modestly, shoulders and knees must be covered, or you can rent clothing at the entrance.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand.

• How to Get There:

  • Boat: Take a Chao Phraya Express Boat to Tha Chang Pier.

  • Taxi: Widely available in Bangkok.

4. ICONSIAM

Highlights

• Luxury Shopping: Hosts brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Dior.

• SookSiam: A traditional Thai floating market recreated indoors.

• Spectacular Fountain Show: Southeast Asia’s longest fountain show.

Architecture

• Collaboration between Thai firms Urban Architects and Architects 49 Limited.

• ICONSIAM features sweeping curves inspired by river waves and traditional Thai culture

• A massive space of over 750,000 square meters.

Facilities

• Extensive shopping malls.

• Cinemas, gyms, and art galleries.

• Food courts with diverse international cuisine.

Accessibility

• Fully wheelchair accessible.

• Ample parking and dedicated taxi ranks.

Costs Involved

• Free entry; costs depend on shopping and dining.

Pro Tip: Visit in the evening to enjoy the mesmerizing outdoor light-and-fountain show.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: 299 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San, Bangkok, Thailand.

• How to Get There:

  • Boat: ICONSIAM’s free shuttle boat from Sathorn Pier.

  • BTS: Gold Line to Charoen Nakhon Station.

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5. Baiyoke Tower II

Highlights

• Observation Deck (77th floor): Offers 360-degree panoramic views of Bangkok.

• Revolving Viewpoint (84th floor): The platform slowly rotates to provide an ever-changing view.

• Baiyoke Sky Hotel: One of Thailand’s tallest hotels, located inside the tower.

Architecture

• Completed in 1997 and stands at 309 meters tall (with antenna, 328 meters).

• Designed by Plan Architects with a sleek, modernist style.

• Its structure tapers upward to enhance aerodynamics.

Facilities

• Multiple restaurants and buffets.

• Hotel accommodation with over 600 rooms.

• Shopping plaza on the lower floors.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible entrances and elevators.

• Accessible restrooms are available.

Costs Involved

• Observation Deck Entry: THB 400 (approx. USD 11).

Pro Tip: Head up before sunset to catch both daytime views and the sparkling nightscape.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: 222 Ratchaprarop Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok, Thailand.

• How to Get There:

  • BTS: Get off at Ratchaprarop Station (Airport Rail Link).

  • Taxi: Easily reachable from anywhere in central Bangkok.

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6. Sanctuary of Truth

Highlights

• All-Wood Structure: Entirely carved wooden building without any metal nails.

• Cultural Performances: Daily traditional Thai dance and martial arts shows.

• Elephant Rides and Boat Tours: Explore the temple grounds uniquely.

Architecture

• Began construction in 1981 (still ongoing) by visionary Lek Viriyaphant.

• Features Thai, Khmer, Chinese, and Indian architectural influences.

• Symbolizes philosophical and religious truths through intricate wood carvings.

Facilities

• Cafes and local dining options are available.

• Gift shops selling handmade crafts.

• Guided tour services are provided.

Accessibility

• Pathways around are accessible, but the temple interiors have uneven flooring.

• Assistance available on request.

Costs Involved

• Entrance Fee: THB 500 (approx. USD 14).

Pro Tip: Visit in the morning for cooler temperatures and better photos without strong sunlight.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: 206/2 Moo 5, Soi Naklua 12, Pattaya, Thailand.

• How to Get There:

  • Taxi: Direct taxi or private car recommended.

7. Elephant Tower (Chang Building)

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elephant_Building

Highlights

• Unique Shape: Designed to look like an elephant, one of Thailand’s national symbols.

• Mixed-Use Complex: Contains offices, residential apartments, and shops.

Architecture

• Completed in 1997, designed by architect Ong-ard Satrabhandhu.

• 102 meters tall and divided into three main towers forming an elephant.

• Features symbolic elements like tusks and an eye.

Facilities

• Residential condos, office spaces.

• Restaurants and coffee shops.

• Fitness centers are within the complex.

Accessibility

• Fully accessible with elevators and ramps.

• Accessible toilets are available.

Costs Involved

• No specific entry fee; businesses inside have their own pricing.

Pro Tip: Best viewed from a distance, take pictures from Paholyothin Road for a full view.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: 349 Paholyothin Road, Bangkok, Thailand.

• How to Get There:

  • BTS: Get off at Phahon Yothin Station.

  • Taxi: Short ride from the Chatuchak area.

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8. Terminal 21 Bangkok

Highlights

• Airport Theme: Each floor represents a different city (Rome, Tokyo, Istanbul, etc.).

• Shopping Experience: More than 600 shops and a massive food court.

• Cinema Complex: Modern theaters offering the latest films.

Architecture

• Designed by Thewathawan Architects Co., Ltd.

• Emulates an airport terminal, complete with departure boards and runway-themed escalators.

• Multi-themed decor across each level.

Facilities

• Free Wi-Fi throughout.

• The food court offers affordable and delicious Thai meals.

• Lounge areas and kids’ playgrounds.

Accessibility

• Fully accessible with elevators and wide corridors.

• Designated parking for people with disabilities.

Costs Involved

• Free Entry; costs depend on shopping/dining.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss Pier 21 Food Court, some of the best cheap eats in Bangkok!

Location & How to Get There

• Address: 2,88 Sukhumvit Soi 19, Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok, Thailand.

• How to Get There:

  • BTS: Asok Station (direct skybridge access).

  • MRT: Sukhumvit Station.

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9. MahaNakhon Cube

Highlights

• Luxury Mall: Upscale brands and gourmet restaurants.

• Architectural Beauty: Complements King Power Mahanakhon Tower.

Architecture

• MahaNakhon Cube has a sleek, modern glass design.

• Small sister building to King Power Mahanakhon.

Facilities

• Fine-dining restaurants.

• Boutique fashion stores.

• Event space for exhibitions.

Accessibility

• Fully accessible for wheelchairs.

• Dedicated lifts and accessible washrooms.

Costs Involved

• Free Entry; shopping and dining vary in cost.

Pro Tip: Great spot for a luxury dining experience in downtown Bangkok.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: 96 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Rd, Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok, Thailand.

• How to Get There:

  • BTS: Chong Nonsi Station.

10. CentralWorld

Highlights

• One of the Largest Malls: Features over 500 shops and 100 restaurants.

• Festive Celebrations: Best known for its epic New Year’s Eve parties.

Architecture

• Originally opened in 1990, with several renovations.

• Sleek glass façade with a sprawling, open-plan layout inside.

Facilities

• Large food court, movie theaters, ice-skating rink.

• Dedicated kids’ play zones.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible entrances and elevators.

• Priority parking is available.

Costs Involved

• Free Entry; expenses vary by activity.

Pro Tip: Visit during December to see its dazzling Christmas tree and festive lights.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: 999/9 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok, Thailand.

• How to Get There:

  • BTS: Chit Lom or Siam Station.

11. EmQuartier

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EmQuartier

Highlights

• Luxury Shopping Complex: Home to global luxury brands.

• Rainforest Indoor Garden: Beautiful indoor waterfall and tropical greenery.

• Sky Dining: Restaurants with city views.

Architecture

• Designed by The Mall Group and Benoy Architects.

• Features futuristic curves and glass skybridges.

Facilities

• Upscale shops, movie theaters, and food zones.

• Rooftop garden areas.

Accessibility

• Fully accessible with ramps and elevators.

Costs Involved

• Free Entry; shopping and dining costs vary.

Pro Tip: Check out the Helix Sky Dining zone on the top floors!

Location & How to Get There

• Address: 689 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok, Thailand.

• How to Get There:

  • BTS: Phrom Phong Station (direct link).

12. Sathorn Unique Tower (The Ghost Tower)

Highlights

• Unfinished Skyscraper: Eerie abandoned skyscraper, a Bangkok urban legend.

• Adventure Tours: Some organized tours visit nearby areas.

Architecture

• Began in 1990, halted during the 1997 financial crisis.

• Meant to be a luxury condo, featuring neoclassical design elements.

Facilities

• No official facilities; climbing is restricted.

Accessibility

• Not wheelchair accessible and generally off-limits.

Costs Involved

• No entry allowed legally; only viewable from outside.

Pro Tip: View it from a nearby rooftop bar like Sky Bar for the best experience.

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Charoen Krung Road, Bangkok, Thailand.

• How to Get There:

  • BTS: Saphan Taksin Station, a short walk from the station.

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FAQs

1. What is the tallest building in Thailand?

King Power Mahanakhon is currently Thailand’s tallest completed building at 314 meters.

2. Are the observation decks in Bangkok wheelchair accessible?

Yes, most modern buildings like King Power Mahanakhon and Baiyoke Tower II have full wheelchair accessibility.

3. Can I visit the Sanctuary of Truth all year round?

Yes, it is open year-round, but mornings and weekdays are recommended to avoid crowds.

4. Is there a dress code for visiting temples like Wat Arun or the Grand Palace?

Yes, visitors must dress modestly, no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops. Cover shoulders and knees.

5. What’s the best way to get around to see these buildings in Thailand?

The BTS Skytrain and MRT are the easiest ways in Bangkok, supplemented by taxis and boats for riverfront locations.

6. Why are buildings in Thailand architecturally unique?

Buildings in Thailand stand out for their architectural diversity, ranging from traditional temples adorned with intricate carvings to futuristic skyscrapers like King Power Mahanakhon. This blend of old and new makes the architecture of buildings in Thailand both visually stunning and culturally meaningful.