Things To Do
in Chong Nonsi
Chong Nonsi is a busy Sathorn/Bang Rak neighborhood in central Bangkok centered around the BTS Chong Nonsi station and the wide Chong Nonsi canal. It mixes modern office towers, riverside views and pockets of old Bangkok — a daily hub for commuters and a gateway to the Chao Phraya River. The area is compact but diverse: glass-and-steel business blocks, local markets, elevated walkways and easy access to parks and river transport.
At night Chong Nonsi transitions into a scene of rooftop bars, street food and neon-lit streets popular with both office workers and visitors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure in Chong Nonsi by wandering through Lumpini Park, where you can stretch your legs and take in the morning serenity. Enjoy a breakfast of traditional Thai street food, perhaps some khao tom or traditional rice soup. The cool morning air will invigorate you as you watch locals engaging in their morning exercises.
After a relaxing morning, head to the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre to immerse yourself in contemporary Thai art and exhibitions. Enjoy lunch at a charming cafe nearby that offers a fusion of local and international cuisines. Continue your exploration by visiting the nearby MBK Center for some shopping where you can pick up local handicrafts.
As the sun sets, make your way to the bustling streets of Silom for dinner at a popular Thai restaurant. After your meal, take a stroll to the famous Patpong Night Market, where you can experience the vibrant night life and shop for unique souvenirs. Conclude your day with a cocktail at a rooftop bar, enjoying breathtaking views of the Bangkok skyline.
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Wat Hua Lamphong, a lesser-known gem in the city that showcases exquisite temple architecture. Enjoy a simple breakfast at a nearby cafe, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafts through the air. Spend some time wandering the peaceful temple grounds before the crowds arrive.
Immerse yourself in the history of Bangkok by visiting the historic district of the old city, where you can explore temples like Wat Pho, known for its giant reclining Buddha. Stop for a traditional Thai lunch at a riverfront restaurant that offers local specialties. As you walk alongside the Chao Phraya River, enjoy the views and perhaps take a boat ride to see the city from the water.
As night falls, experience a traditional Thai dinner show where you can enjoy a cultural performance along with your meal. After the show, take a tuk-tuk ride to the vibrant Asiatique Night Market for shopping and entertainment. Savor a dessert treat as you wander, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Street food meal | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| ☕Coffee or cafe drink | $1.50-4 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (3–5 km) | $3-6 |
| 🚆BTS/MRT ride | $0.50-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent transport links (BTS, river taxis) for exploring Bangkok
- Blend of modern office life, riverside scenes and local street food
- Close to green spaces like Bang Krachao and Lumpini Park
- Vibrant rooftop bars and dining options with skyline views
- Can be busy and noisy during rush hours with heavy commuter traffic
- Occasional localized flooding during the monsoon season
- Less historic charm compared with older Bangkok neighborhoods (e.g., Rattanakosin)
- Some attractions can be touristy and more expensive near riverside spots
- "สวัสดี (Sawasdee)" - Hello
- "ขอบคุณ (Khop khun)" - Thank you
- "เท่าไหร่ (Tao rai)?" - How much?
- "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน (Hong nam yuu tee nai)?" - Where is the restroom?
- "ไม่เผ็ด (Mai phed)" - Not spicy
- "ไม่ใส่น้ำปลา (Mai sai nam pla)" - No fish sauce
Places to Visit in Chong Nonsi
Visit one of these nice places.
Great for modern urban compositions capturing elevated walkways, canal reflections and city commuters at golden hour.
Iconic abandoned high-rise offers dramatic exterior shots; access inside is restricted and unsafe, so photograph from public vantage points only.
Panoramic cityscapes and sunset shots from one of Bangkok’s highest observation decks — bring a wide-angle lens.
Sunset and river-traffic photos with traditional longtail boats and modern ferries — good for long-exposure and candid street scenes.
Lush elevated paths, small temples and rustic wooden bridges ideal for nature and portrait photography away from the city bustle.
Food in Chong Nonsi
Chong Nonsi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small bowls of intensely flavored noodle soup, often with pork or beef and rich broth; try at canal-side stalls or specialty shops near Sathorn Pier.
Must-Try!
Spicy, tangy and crunchy salad available from street vendors and markets — customize the heat level and ask for less fish sauce or dried shrimp if you prefer.
Stir-fried rice noodle classic available everywhere; good for a quick reliable meal at street stalls or small restaurants in Chong Nonsi.
Charcoal-grilled whole fish or seafood seasoned with salt and herbs; often found in riverside eateries and market stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning and evening street stalls serving breakfast items, noodles, grilled meats and sweets — great for quick, cheap meals and local flavors.
Small market on Bang Krachao with homemade snacks, fresh fruit and local specialties—ideal when visiting the green lung for cycling and sampling local treats.
Touristy night market with street food options mixed among stalls selling souvenirs; good for late-night snacks while exploring nightlife.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
The traditional greeting 'wai' (slight bow with palms together) is common; mirror locals in formal settings, and use 'sawasdee krub/ka' for hello.
Showing respect for the royal family is legally and culturally important—avoid disrespectful comments or gestures.
Remove shoes when entering homes and some small shops; dress modestly when visiting temples (covered shoulders and knees).
Do not touch someone's head (considered sacred) and avoid pointing your feet at people or religious objects—sit with feet away from people/altars.
Safety
Tipping in Chong Nonsi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory: small tips (20–50 THB) for street vendors are uncommon, while 5–10% is customary in sit-down restaurants if service is good. Round up taxi fares or add small change; hotel porters and spa staff expect modest tips.
Cash (Thai baht) remains king for street food, markets and small shops. Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in malls, hotels and larger restaurants; mobile payments and QR-code transfers (PromptPay) are increasingly used. ATMs and currency exchange are readily available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with temperatures often 33–38°C (91–100°F). Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Frequent heavy afternoon or evening showers and occasional flooding in low-lying spots; carry a compact umbrella or raincoat and allow extra travel time.
Most pleasant time to visit with lower humidity, clearer skies and temperatures from 20–30°C (68–86°F). Expect higher tourist numbers and book rooftop venues and tours in advance.
Chong Nonsi at Night
Hiking in Chong Nonsi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Not formal mountain hikes but elevated wooden paths, rural lanes and small green patches perfect for easy walking or cycling and birdwatching; accessible by short boat ride.
Major protected area approx. 2.5–3 hours from Bangkok offering multi-hour hikes, waterfalls and wildlife; ideal for a day trip or overnight nature escape.
Coastal national park roughly 3–4 hours from Bangkok with short hikes to viewpoints, caves and seaside scenery — good for a weekend trip from Chong Nonsi.
Airports
How to reach Chong Nonsi by plane.
Main international airport about 30–45 km east of Chong Nonsi; reachable by taxi (30–60 minutes depending on traffic), Airport Rail Link + BTS connections or private transfer.
Handles many low-cost and regional flights, located north of the city ~30 km; reachable by taxi or bus and then BTS/MRT connections.
Smaller international airport serving some charter and low-cost routes; roughly 2–3 hours drive southeast — useful for some domestic or regional itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Office workers and businesspeople who commute to Sathorn’s corporate towers; daytime population spikes during weekdays.
A mix of long-term expatriates and short-term international visitors working in finance, hospitality and NGOs; international restaurants and services cater to them.
Workers from neighboring countries who live and work in service, construction and domestic roles across Bangkok, contributing to the local labor force.
Residents who run shops, food stalls and small enterprises in sois and community markets around Chong Nonsi.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Thailand’s national sport — training camps and gyms are common in Bangkok for classes and spectator events.
Widely followed with local clubs and casual matches in parks and schools.
Traditional and recreational court sports commonly played in parks and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chong Nonsi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but not always labeled; ask for 'jay' (เจ) for strict vegan Buddhist-style food or request dishes without fish sauce/shrimp paste. Many street vendors can adjust spice and omit meat if asked.
Tell vendors 'mai sai nam pla' (no fish sauce) and 'mai sai kapi' (no shrimp paste); look for vegan cafes and some modern restaurants with clear plant-based options.
Rice-based Thai cuisine is generally gluten-friendly but be cautious with soy sauce and fried items; communicate allergies clearly and consider eating at places with English menus.
Halal-certified restaurants exist in Bangkok but are less common in Chong Nonsi; seek nearby halal eateries or Muslim-friendly restaurants in Silom or Sathorn.