Bangkok , Capital city

Not many cities in the world can match Bangkok for sheer vibrancy. Bangkok is a magnet for a broad range of visitors because of its eclectic attractions, and this buzzing metropolis offers surprises at every turn. Gleaming skyscrapers, glittering temples, colourful street markets, sophisticated shopping malls, a bustling nightlife scene, and an energy that reflects the city's incredible economic growth over the past few years.

Despite this growth, the capital of Thailand remains true to its cultural, historical and spiritual roots – as the city's many 'wats' or Buddhist temples are testament to. Bangkok is a melting pot of races, creeds and cults, as well as food and culture. Indeed, 'Khrungthep', as the Thais call their capital, makes for one heady brew.

Bangkok is a huge and modern city humming with nightlife and fervour. Administratively, it is split up into 50 khet (districts), but these are more often used in official business and for addresses. Visitors will find the conceptual division below of the main areas more useful for getting around.

Districts of Bangkok

Sukhumvit The long Sukhumvit Road, which changes its name to Ploenchit Road and Rama I Road going west, is Bangkok's modern commercial core, full of glitzy malls and hotels. The Skytrain intersection at Siam Square is the closest thing Bangkok has to a centre.

Silom To the south of Sukhumvit, the area around Silom Road and Sathorn Road is Thailand's sober financial center by day, but Bangkok's primary party district by night when quarters like the infamous Patpong come alive.

Rattanakosin Between the river and Sukhumvit lies the densely packed "Old Bangkok", home to Bangkok's best-known sights, such as the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.

Khao San Road On the northern part of Rattanakosin, Bangkok's backpacker mecca Khao San Road and the surrounding district of Banglamphu have everything the budget traveler wants and more.

Yaowarat and Pahurat Along Yaowarat Road you will find Bangkok's Chinatown, while Pahurat Road is the home of the sizable Indian community. This multicultural district is filled with markets selling food, gold, fabrics and Bollywood VCDs.

Thonburi The quieter west bank of the Chao Phraya River, with Wat Arun, many small canals and some offbeat attractions.

Phahonyothin The area around Phahonyothin Road and Viphavadi Rangsit Road is best known for the Chatuchak Weekend Market and Don Muang Airport.

Ratchadaphisek The district north of Sukhumvit centered around Ratchadaphisek Road (part of which is called Asoke) and reaching from Phetchaburi Road to Lat Phrao. This area has really opened up recently as the new metro line follows Ratchadaphisek Road.

Around Bangkok are the provinces of Pathum Thani to the north, Nonthaburi to the northwest, Chachoengsao to the east, Samut Sakhon to the southwest, and Samut Prakan to the southeast.