Mad Monkey Bangkok City Session – Walking Tour

The Mad Monkey Bangkok City Session offers an engaging 3-hour walking tour that showcases the vibrant history and culture of Thailand’s capital. Starting from the Mad Monkey Bangkok Madventures desk, this affordable tour takes guests through iconic landmarks like the Wat Bowonniwet Vihara and the Golden Mountain, culminating in a visit to the bustling Khao San Road. With included refreshments and a free Chang beer, this immersive experience promises an unforgettable exploration of Bangkok’s rich heritage. But what makes this tour truly unique, and why should one consider joining?

Key Points

• A 3-hour guided walking tour exploring Bangkok’s historical and cultural highlights, including Wat Bowonniwet Vihara, Golden Mountain, and Khao San Road.
• Priced at $5.33 per person with flexible start times and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
• Visitors can observe local customs and appreciate the serene atmosphere at Wat Bowonniwet Vihara, a revered Buddhist temple.
• The tour offers panoramic city views from the top of the 78-meter Golden Mountain and a visit to the historic Giant Swing.
• Participants can immerse in the quintessential Bangkok experience by exploring the vibrant Khao San Road, sampling local cuisine, and enjoying a free Chang beer.

Tour Overview

The "Mad Monkey Bangkok City Session – Walking Tour" offers a 3-hour guided exploration of Bangkok’s historical and cultural highlights.

Priced from $5.33 per person, the tour has flexible start times and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Participants will visit iconic sites like Wat Bowonniwet Vihara, the Golden Mountain, and Khao San Road while learning about the city’s history and culture from a live tour guide.

The tour includes a free Chang beer upon return to the hostel.

Comfortable shoes and appropriate attire are recommended, as the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or children under 18.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at 2:45 PM at the Mad Monkey Bangkok Madventures desk, where you will meet their live tour guide.

The first stop is Wat Bowonniwet Vihara, a historic Buddhist temple.

Next, the group will visit the Golden Mountain, a famous landmark with panoramic city views.

From there, they’ll head to the iconic Giant Swing before exploring the bustling Khao San Road.

Along the way, travelers can sample local snacks and receive a free Draught Beer Chang upon returning to the hostel.

Meeting Point

Participants meet their live tour guide at 2:45 PM at the Mad Monkey Bangkok Madventures desk. This is the designated meeting point for the 3-hour Bangkok city walking tour.

Guests will gather here before embarking on their adventure through the historic and vibrant streets of Thailand’s capital. The tour guide will greet the group and provide an overview of the day’s itinerary.

From this central location, the group will set off to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, sample local cuisine, and enjoy the rich culture and history of Bangkok.

Exploring Wat Bowonniwet Vihara

After departing the meeting point, the group makes its way to Wat Bowonniwet Vihara, one of Bangkok’s most revered Buddhist temples. The guide provides an overview of the temple’s history and significance, noting its role as the headquarters of the Thammayut Sect of Buddhism.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Architecture | Ornate, golden spires and intricate carvings |

| Murals | Depictions of Buddhist teachings and scenes from daily life |

| Monks | Robed figures in deep meditation or chanting prayers |

| Shrines | Statues of Buddha and other important deities |

| Atmosphere | Serene, peaceful, and conducive to spiritual reflection |

Visitors are encouraged to observe local customs, such as removing shoes and covering shoulders and knees, before exploring the temple’s grounds and inner sanctums.

Visiting the Golden Mountain

From the tranquil grounds of Wat Bowonniwet Vihara, the group proceeds to the iconic Golden Mountain.

The 78-meter artificial hill is a major landmark, offering panoramic views of Bangkok. Visitors climb a steep staircase to the top, passing by Buddhist shrines and statues along the way.

The journey up is rewarded with a 360-degree perspective of the city skyline. Guests can ring the large bronze bell at the summit, believed to bring good luck.

After taking in the sights, the tour continues to the next stop – the Giant Swing, a historic site near the Erawan Shrine.

Stopping at the Giant Swing

Departing the Golden Mountain, the group makes its way to the historic Giant Swing.

This giant wooden structure, situated in front of Wat Suthat, is a famous landmark in Bangkok. The guide explains that the swing was once used in an annual Brahmin ceremony, where men would swing perilously high to grab a bag of gold suspended from the top.

A famous Bangkok landmark, the giant wooden swing was once used in an annual Brahmin ceremony to grab a bag of gold.

Though the ceremony is no longer practiced, the swing remains an iconic symbol of Thai culture. The group pauses to admire the intricate craftsmanship and learn about the site’s significance in Bangkok’s history.

They then continue onward to the vibrant Khao San Road.

Discovering Khao San Road

Arriving at Khao San Road, the group is immediately immersed in the lively atmosphere of this vibrant backpacker district. Rows of shops, food stalls, and bars line the street, offering an array of local delights and international cuisine. The guide points out the iconic neon signs, bustling crowds, and unique street performers that make this area a must-visit for travelers.

| Sights | Food | Activities |

| — | — | — |

| Colorful market stalls | Pad Thai | Bargaining with vendors |

| Bright neon signs | Fresh fruit smoothies | Trying on local fashion |

| Street performers | Thai iced tea | Exploring the nightlife |

The group navigates the vibrant energy, eager to enjoy the quintessential Bangkok experience.

Tour Experience and Feedback

How does the tour experience unfold for participants? The guided walking tour provides an engaging learning experience.

A knowledgeable local guide leads the group, sharing insights on Bangkok’s history and culture. Participants explore notable landmarks like Wat Bowonniwet Vihara and the Golden Mountain. Along the way, they sample local snacks and receive a free beer upon returning to the hostel.

Though the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, overall customer feedback is positive. Reviewers praise the guide’s expertise and the tour’s organization.

With a convenient cancellation policy, the Mad Monkey Bangkok City Session offers an accessible way to discover the city’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Solo Travelers?

Yes, the tour is suitable for solo travelers. The walking tour provides an opportunity to explore the city with a guide and meet other travelers, making it a good option for those exploring Bangkok independently.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Participants can bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on the tour. However, the tour guides recommend trying the local snacks along the way as part of the experience. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited during the tour.

Is There an Option to Book Private Tours?

There doesn’t appear to be an option for private tours based on the information provided. The tour is described as a group walking tour with a live guide. No mention is made of private or customized tour options.

Do We Get a Chance to Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, the tour allows participants to take photos during the stops. The guided walking tour provides ample opportunities to capture the sights and scenery of the historic landmarks and neighborhoods along the way.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

Yes, customers can extend the tour duration if needed, though they’ll need to pay any additional fees. The tour operator aims to be flexible to accommodate guests’ needs and preferences within reason.

Recap

The Mad Monkey Bangkok City Session is an affordable and engaging walking tour that offers an immersive exploration of Bangkok’s historical and cultural highlights. Visitors can expect to visit iconic landmarks, enjoy local neighborhoods, and cap off the experience with a complimentary Chang beer. With its mix of must-see sights and authentic experiences, this tour provides an unforgettable way to discover the vibrant heart of the Thai capital.