5 Best Sights in Bangkok, Thailand

The large, striking white building opened in 2008 and is the main showcase for cutting-edge contemporary art, music, theater, and film in Bangkok. Past exhibitions have included work by Thai and international artists. Inside, the curving stairway of the central atrium is reminiscent of the Guggenheim in New York City.

One of Bangkok's biggest and best-known landmarks, the monument anchors a large traffic circle three blocks from the eastern end of Khao San Road. Not frequented much by tourists, it commemorates the establishment of a constitutional monarchy in Thailand in 1932.

Completed in 1956, this is not a particularly old shrine by Bangkok standards, but it's one of the more active and highly revered ones, with many people stopping by on their way home to pray to a gleaming image of Brahma, the Hindu creator god. Thai dancers in traditional dress and a small orchestra perform for a fee to increase the likelihood that your wish will be granted. Even with a traffic jam right outside the gates, the mix of burning incense, dancers, and worshippers is an intoxicating sight. Entry is free, but many leave a small donation. There are also fantastic views of the shrine from the Rajaprasong Skywalk up above, from where many visitors take pictures.

Originally built by King Rama I in 1784, this towering 27-meter (88-foot) wood structure has a great backstory but today it is just a random photo op. If you find yourself posing in front of it, or just walking by, know that it was once used in Hindu ceremonies where teams of men would launch themselves into the air and catch gold coins with their teeth; slingshotting them to good fortunes on heaven and Earth. The competitions were banned in 1935 after several fell to untimely deaths.