Do you know what time it is? It’s time for Bangkok’s infamous rainy season. That’s right. It means cold, super soaked evenings that drench you to the bone! This can ruin your perfectly planned vacation by limiting your access to the outside world. However, don’t worry about it; even if it’s pouring rain outside, there are places you can travel to and still be fascinated by the sights and sounds. We’re talking about big halls that feature prominent musical performance, restaurants and even stunning aquariums. Here are some great locations to head off to on a gloomy day to brighten up your day.
Siam Niramit Theater
Siam Niramit is one of Bangkok’s famous attractions in the form of larger-than-life spectacular shows that depict Thai cultural and spiritual history. The shows are performed by one-hundred and fifty talented performers, incorporate high-tech special effects and intricate props. The gates of the theater open at 5:30 PM but the real show starts at 8:00 PM sharp.
While waiting for the show to start, you can opt to browse through the theater’s replica villages. If you are fascinated in how Thai sweets are produced, then you are in luck! At the theater, you will have the option on making your very own Thai sweets from scratch!
When the clock strikes 8 PM, Siam Niramit shows come to life. A spectrum of color explodes on stage and sounds echo in the theatre. The show is divided into three acts: Journey Back into History, Journey Beyond Imagination: The Three Realms and Journey Through Joyous Festivals. Each act is intricately performed with larger-than-life props and talented performers. The performances are carefully choreographed down to the last detail and includes, surprisingly, live grooving elephants and goats on-stage!
Bangkok Puppet Show at Aksra Theater
How much do you know about Thai puppetry? Dancing in a sea of gold, are traditional Thai puppets. Each puppet is controlled by three puppeteers (which are on stage); one holds the head and the other two take charge of the arms and legs. Each ‘performer’ dances in-sync with the live orchestra that features an ensemble of traditional Thai instruments and European instruments.
This rich form of Thai puppetry tells the story of folktales, passed down from generation to generation. Each folktale is enriched with vibrant characters; from humans to mythological beings from the Ramakien Epic. Other performances are done by actors. One of the performances is mimicking a rooster fight, a traditional sport now banned in Thailand. This involves two men dressed in a colorful rooster garb and mimic moves made by the rooster during these intense fights.
In addition to mock fights, there are sword fights, traditional stick fighting and Japanese performances. Truly, the Bangkok Puppet Show is a must-see, cultural treat for anybody interested in Thai classical dances, puppetry and charming folktales.
Siam Ocean World
Siam Ocean World is an amazing tourist attraction that keeps you amazed and soak-free. This is Bangkok’s largest aquarium and is located beneath Siam Paragon. Siam Ocean World is an aquarium, densely packed with marine critters of sorts behind thick glass. From sea anemones, sea horses, colorful fish to patrolling sharks, the aquarium is filled with educational information for guests to read. You can always spend a day at the aquarium and watch sharks whizz by overhead. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, you can sit in a Glass Bottom Boat with a glass floor and paddle out into the tank. It costs you 150 ($5 USD) Baht to observe the fishes swimming beneath you!
In addition to displaying richly, colored artificial coral reefs, the aquarium is host to a variety of other animals from other regions of the world. There is an Amazon exhibit to meet one of the world’s largest fresh water fish as well as strange looking amphibians. There is an Arctic section with penguins, an intertidal zone with starfish and a tropical zone with two pairs of river otters to entertain guests.
If you would like a more ‘hands-on’ experience, you have to pay a little more to make the most of your day. This includes programs such as: Diving with sharks, Ocean Walker, 5D Cinema Xtreme and Back of the House tour.
The Eight Restaurant
If you have time to stuff your face with delicious Thai and international cuisine, The Eight Restaurant at Mercure Siam is a good option when the skies are murky. The Eight Restaurant boasts the best in local cuisine and international flavors, all located in one place. Guests can browse through an extensive menu of delights; from freshly picked organic greens, savory pastries, fresh sushi to creamy smoothies and more at this all day buffet. Once you’re done stuffing your face with delicious food and savory pastries, head over to MBK to burn off those extra calories you gained!
Art in Paradise
Following in the footsteps of its predecessor in Pattaya, Art in Paradise at Esplanade Mall is now open. All the paintings (or illusions) are done by crafty painters trick you into posing with something that isn’t there. You can be a part of a painting, standing on a ledge or walking on a crippling wooden bridge! There are even perspective stations where a partial piece of an object is placed several feet in front while the rest of the object is further away.
Art in Paradise is for everybody; from children, young adults to adults, it’s all fun and games here. But just remember to never look down of your walking on a shaky wooden plank! You might just fall!
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