Khao San Road, Bangkok
Khao San Road is a popular destination in Bangkok, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and budget-friendly hotels. It’s a favorite among backpackers and international travelers as well as local tourists. While Khao San Road itself covers only a few blocks, its lively atmosphere extends to Rambuttri Road and Phra Athit Road nearby.
What sets Khao San Road apart and draws travelers from all around the world is its dynamic energy. It boasts numerous budget-friendly hotels, always-friendly bars ready to welcome everyone, and a plethora of shops selling items that appeal to tourists. While Khao San Road’s reputation may have evolved over the years, it still holds a charm that’s unique, making it a melting pot of diverse people, making any visit here exciting. You never know who you’ll encounter.
Another highlight of visiting Khao San Road is the street food. Many rare and exotic dishes can be found here, adding to the adventure of exploring the area. Additionally, the bookstores in the Khao San area are worth checking out as they often stock hard-to-find books and unique titles.
One more advantage of visiting Khao San Road is its proximity to various historical attractions. The Grand Palace and the option to take a riverboat ride along the Chao Phraya River from Tha Phra Atit to Sathorn Pier, where you can catch the BTS Skytrain, provide easy access to explore more of Bangkok.
Recommended Bars on Khao San Road:
Brick Bar – A renowned establishment on Khao San Road, Brick Bar offers live music that captivates its audience. Each night features three different bands taking turns to perform, and the bar closes around 1 AM when the last band finishes. Due to its popularity, it can get crowded quickly, so be prepared for a short wait if you plan to visit during peak hours.
Bombay Blues – Bombay Blues is a relaxed Indian-style bar located near Rambuttri Road, just a short walk from Khao San Road. The bar is known for its chill atmosphere and is an excellent choice if you want to try Indian cuisine in Bangkok. During the day, it’s a peaceful spot to enjoy a meal, while on weekend nights, there’s a DJ playing Bollywood tunes for those who like to dance.
Adhere The 13th Blue Bar – Situated a few minutes’ walk from Khao San Road on Samsen Road, Adhere The 13th Blue Bar is a tiny yet immensely popular bar among Thai tourists. It hosts live blues music nightly, typically starting around 8 PM. If you want to enjoy the music, it’s advisable to reserve a seat in advance. The bar also offers very affordable beers.
Molly Bar – Located on the eastern side of Rambuttri Road, Molly Bar is a lively spot for those who love good drinks and fun music. It features an outdoor area with ample seating where you can enjoy the evening breeze before moving indoors to dance. The bar hosts live music and DJs, catering to various musical tastes.
Jazz Happens – Jazz enthusiasts will find Jazz Happens an exciting venue. It’s not far from Khao San Road, and it’s close to the Chao Phraya River near Phra Athit Road. The owner, a renowned Thai pianist, invites students and graduates from the Faculty of Fine Arts at Silpakorn University to perform live jazz every night. The atmosphere is relaxed, and it’s an excellent place to enjoy both music and authentic Thai food.
Mulligan’s Irish Bar – For a true Irish pub experience, head to Mulligan’s Irish Bar on Khao San Road. It’s a great place to socialize with friends, offering a wide selection of drinks, including Guinness at reasonable prices. They serve both Thai and traditional Irish dishes, and you can watch sports events on large screens, play pool, or just relax and enjoy the music.
Hippie de Bar – Hippie de Bar is a hidden gem on Khao San Road with a retro, laid-back vibe. It features a mix of reggae, pop, and classic ’80s tunes. The unique seating options
range from flower-surrounded chairs to open-air areas. Besides an array of cocktails and beers, you can also find distinctive cocktails here. Those seeking a nostalgic atmosphere will enjoy the ambiance.
Recommended Clubs on Khao San Road:
The Club – For those who love to dance, The Club is a must-visit. They play various genres of music, including EDM, house, and techno. The club is centrally located on Khao San Road and boasts a massive dance floor filled with partygoers every night. The drinks are reasonably priced, and the music keeps playing until around 3 AM.
Superflow City Beach Club – Just a short walk from Khao San Road, Superflow City Beach Club offers a beach-themed nightlife experience. During the day, it’s a tranquil place to relax with a wide range of beverages. At night, it transforms into a lively cocktail party with reasonable prices. The venue features palm trees, sunbeds, and bamboo huts, creating a tropical beach atmosphere. Every month, they host a special “Full Moon Party” with fire shows, cocktails, and stunning light displays.
The Bank Club and Restaurant – If you prefer a different vibe from the nearby clubs, head to The Bank Club and Restaurant. This three-story club, located on Jakapong Road just off Khao San Road, combines dining, a bar, and a dance club all in one place. Whether you want to have dinner, chill at the rooftop bar, or dance to house and hip-hop music in the underground club, The Bank offers it all.
Lava Gold – Situated in the basement of the Bayon Building on Khao San Road, Lava Gold is a compact dance club perfect for late-night partying. It’s an excellent place to dance and unwind after exploring Khao San Road. In addition to reasonably priced drinks, Lava Gold features skilled DJs who mix music seamlessly. The club usually starts the real party after 5 PM and continues into the early morning, so you won’t have to worry about it getting dull. It’s a lively spot with both Thai and international partygoers.
Must-Try Street Food on Khao San Road:
Fried Spring Rolls – These deep-fried spring rolls are a popular and convenient snack found all over Bangkok, including Khao San Road. Grab a few and enjoy them as you stroll along the street.
Fried Chicken – Fried chicken is a classic favorite, and Khao San Road has its own delicious versions. Whether you like it crispy on the outside and tender inside or with a garlic seasoning, you can find it here.
Fried Roti – After savory dishes, satisfy your sweet tooth with fried roti. Whether you prefer it with banana, egg, or condensed milk, you’ll find all kinds of delightful options.
Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup) – A must-try Thai dish, Tom Yum Goong offers a spicy and tangy flavor. Even while exploring Khao San Road, you can enjoy a hot bowl of this soup.
Coconut Ice Cream – To beat the heat and end your meal on a sweet note, indulge in coconut ice cream. It’s the perfect treat on a hot day.
Jok Moo (Pork Congee) – After a heavy night of partying, many people head to Jok Moo for this comforting and flavorful Thai rice porridge. Customize it to your liking, whether you prefer it with pork, no egg, or any other way.
Grilled Pork Skewers – Thai-style grilled pork skewers are a street food favorite. You can choose from various options like pork with fat, lean pork, or even intestine skewers. They’re grilled to perfection and often served with a delicious sauce.
Mango Sticky Rice – This popular Thai dessert combines sweet mango with sticky rice and a drizzle of coconut milk. It’s a delightful way to satisfy your dessert cravings.
Pad Thai – You can’t visit Thailand without trying Pad Thai. This famous stir-fried noodle dish with shrimp, tofu, or chicken is readily available on Khao San Road.
Fried Insects – For the adventurous eaters, Khao San Road offers a variety of fried insects, including grasshoppers, crickets, and more. They’re crispy and often seasoned for a unique culinary experience.
Enjoy your street food adventure on Khao San Road!