Khao San Road to the Grand Palace: A Walking Route

One of the best things about staying near Khao San Road is that Bangkok's most famous sights are close enough to walk to. The Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun are all within a few kilometres, and together they make an easy half-day or full-day route without a single taxi.

The route at a glance

Khao San Road → Wat Chana Songkhram → Sanam Luang → Grand Palace → Wat Pho → Tha Tien pier → ferry to Wat Arun

The walking sections add up to about 3 to 4 km, so you can take your time. Plan on 4 to 6 hours including the temples.

Before you go

• Start early. Aim to leave your hostel by 8 am. It is cooler, and the major sights are less crowded.

• Dress for temples. Cover your shoulders and knees, and wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off.

• Bring water and small notes. You will need them for drinks, snacks and ticket fees. Check current ticket prices and opening times before you set off.

• Wear sunscreen and a hat. There is little shade on parts of the route.

Stop by stop

1. Wat Chana Songkhram

Start right next to Khao San Road at this quiet temple. It is a calm contrast to the street's nightlife and a good place to warm up your legs and take a first photo.

2. Sanam Luang

Walk south to this large open public field, historically used for royal ceremonies. It is a good place to catch your breath. Check whether the area is open on the day you visit, since parts of it are sometimes closed off.

3. The Grand Palace

Continue to the palace entrance and arrive as early as you can. Inside you will find the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, elaborate golden buildings and detailed murals. Allow around two hours. If anyone outside tells you it is closed, ignore them and check at the ticket gate.

4. Wat Pho

Walk a few minutes south to see the enormous Reclining Buddha, covered in gold leaf and stretching along an entire hall. Wat Pho is also known for traditional Thai massage, so it is a good place to treat your feet after the walk.

5. Tha Tien pier and the ferry

Head to the river and take the short cross-river ferry for a small fee. The ride takes only a few minutes and gives you a nice view of the water.

6. Wat Arun

Finish at the Temple of the Dawn. You can climb part of the way up its steep steps for views across the river. If you can, time this stop for late afternoon, when the light on the spires is at its best.

Where to eat along the way

• Near Wat Pho and Tha Tien. Small riverside cafés and noodle shops are perfect for lunch.

• Across the river near Wat Arun. Look for cafés with river views if you want to sit and cool down.

• Back at Khao San Road. Street stalls are ready for dinner when you return.

Getting back

You can retrace your route on foot, take a river boat upriver, or use a metered taxi or ride-hailing app. Agree the price or the meter before you set off, and avoid accepting rides from anyone who approaches you at the temple exits.