Pratunam Guide | Things to Do in Bangkok’s Popular Shopping District

Pratunam (also written as Pratu Nam) is a neighborhood in Bangkok and is known for being one of the most popular shopping districts in the area. Located between two districts, Thanon Phaya Thai and Ratchathewi, Pratunam is a must see for any travelers who are looking to do a lot of shopping during their visit. With thousands of stores selling everything from high end fashion to bulk goods, electronics, and everything in between, Pratunam is a great area to visit for visitors who want a lot of variety and are looking to get a lot of shopping done in one area.

But do you know why it’s called Pratunam in the first place? This popular neighborhood in Bangkok literally translates to ‘water gate’ in Thai, and the name originated from a water gate that was once located within the vicinity of Sa Pathum Palace. This water gate was constructed in 1905 during the reign of King Chulalongkorn, with the purpose of managing the water flow from Khlong Saen Saep for agricultural use and controling water levels for boats. While the water gate itself is no longer a prominent feature, the name has endured, now identifying the vibrant intersection and surrounding neighborhood.

There is more than just shopping to do in Pratunam. The area is also home to plenty of great attractions, including Suan Pakkad Palace, Trimurti Shrine, Baiyoke Tower II, and more. This guide can help travelers decide what to do during their visit to Pratunam, and provides handy information about the area.

Everything Thing Visitors Need to Know About Pratunam

Pratunam is a busy and exciting district and is especially appealing to travelers who love to shop. When visitors are planning a stay in the area, it would be wise to choose a hotel that is close to public transportation options, or one that offers shuttle/buggy services to and from the attractions in the area. With plenty of hotel options and locations available, visitors can choose to stay in a part of Pratunam that is perfect for them.

Pratunam’s shopping is the highlight of the area, but visitors can also enjoy mingling with Thai people in the district as the markets, malls, and shrines all draw plenty of local shoppers and vendors. For visitors who are looking to experience a thriving commerce area that offers a different experience from some other districts in Bangkok or who are looking to save some money on shopping and accommodations, should consider a stay in Pratunam.

Check In to Amari Watergate Hotel, Step Out to Pratunam

Pratunam Shopping – The Most Popular Shopping Malls and Markets

Some of Pratunam’s shopping centers will focus on clothing, while others specialize in food, and more still in bulk items or even electronics. This list of some of the most popular shopping malls and markets in the Pratunam area can help visitors decide which malls and markets are best for their visit.

CentralWorld Shopping Mall

CentralWorld is the third largest shopping complex in Thailand and has almost 500 stores to choose from. Featuring upscale retailers, popular fashion brands, cinemas, department stores, restaurants, and so much more, it’s easy to see why CentralWorld is one of Bangkok’s best shopping malls. There’s even an ice arena in this mall which is open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. with regular breaks for resurfacing of the ice throughout the day. The cost of admission is 240 baht for one hour, 270 baht for 1.5 hours, 300 baht for 2 hours, and 800 baht for all day. Skates and helmets available at the rink for use and the cost is included in the ice time.

Address: 999/9 Rama I Road, Pathum Wan, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330

Hours: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily

Public Transportation: Located a four minute walk northwest from Chit Lom BTS Station.

Pratunam Market

Pratunam Market is a major market in Bangkok and also Thailand’s third largest clothing market. Visitors who are looking for a market where they can mingle with locals should love this market. The prices are great because items are sold at wholesale, which means budget conscious travelers should make a point to come here if they want to get some inexpensive shopping done. Here, visitors can witness local life in the city and watch as vendors work at sewing machines to make their wares, calling across the way to talk to other shop owners, or as they move back and forth through the market transporting their wares. This market is a great slice of Thai life and not to be missed.

Address: Phetchaburi Road, Thanon Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400

Hours: 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily

Public Transportation: Located a four minute walk southwest from Ratchaprarop Station.

[Other Popular Fashion Malls in Pratunam]

• Platinum Fashion Mall
• Shibuya 19
• The Palladium World Shopping Mall
• City Complex Pratunam
• Indra Square Pratunam

Talad Neon Downtown Night Market

Talad Neon is one of Bangkok’s newest night markets and is a great location for visitors to Pratunam. With plenty of food stalls that feature everything from giant octopus takoyaki to specialty cocktails that feature edible glitter, and even more, this market is a food lover’s dream. Talad Neon has lots of great shopping opportunities as well, so travelers may find that they pick up many of their souvenirs and gifts for home from here. And for fashion lovers, there is a great selection of cute clothes, bags, and accessories. There is so much to do and see at this market, so visitors should plan to spend at least an hour or two walking through the stalls.

Address: 1087, 167 Phetchaburi Road, Makkasan, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400

Hours: 5 p.m. to midnight daily

Public Transportation: Located an 11 minute walk north from Chit Lom BTS Station.

Big C Supercenter Rajadamri

Big C Supercenter Rajadamri is a food lover’s paradise and is located across the street from CentralWorld shopping center. This large supermarket offers cheap food to eat and local favorites, Big C Supercenter Rajadamri is busy with tourists and locals alike. If tourists are in the area looking for a great place to eat, they should be sure to check out the food court here as they offer a variety of cheap, delicious Thai foods for purchase.

Address: Rajdamri Road, Lumphini, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330

Hours: 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily

Public Transportation: Located a six minute walk northwest from Chit Lom BTS Station.

Check In to Baiyoke Boutique Hotel, Step Out to Pratunam Market

Top Attractions in Pratunam

There are many things to see and do in Pratunam, and with shopping, food, and entertainment options all within the same district, visitors can choose from some of the best experiences that Bangkok has to offer. Here is a list of what to do in Pratunam to help visitors decide where they should spend their time.

Suan Pakkad Palace

Suan Pakkad Palace is a museum in Bangkok that displays Thai antiques, including Ban Chiang pottery that is over 4,000 years old. This museum was originally the home of Prince Chumbhotbongs and his wife. In 1952, he decided to convert his private home into a museum and it has been that way ever since. The museum also features traditional Thai houses, one of which, the Lacquer Pavillion, is 450 years old. There is also artwork on display in the Marsi Gallery on the property. The cost of entry is 100 baht.

Address: 352/354 Thanon Si Ayutthaya, Thanon Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400

Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily

Public Transportation: Located a six minute walk northeast from Phaya Thai BTS Station.

WALK Rooftop Bar at Centara Watergate Pavilion Hotel Bangkok

WALK Rooftop Bar is one of Pratunam’s best bars and is also a stunning experience that visitors won’t want to miss. This trendy bar is located on top of the Centara Watergate Pavilion Hotel Bangkok and features panoramic views and delicious cocktails with Thai flavors, so visitors should grab a drink and mingle with the locals–especially after nightfall when the bar lights up with neon, giving it a futuristic atmosphere. Reservations are recommended.

Address: WaterGate Pavillion 20/F Centara Watergate Pavillion Hotel 567 Rachaprarop Road, Makkasan, Ratchathewi Bangkok, 10400

Hours: 5 p.m. to midnight

Public Transportation: Located a six minute walk southeast from Airport Rail Link Ratchaprarop Station.

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is the largest aquarium in South East Asia and is home to hundreds of different species set in stunning exhibits. Take a journey along the Shark Walk and come up close and personal with the four different types of sharks on display. Or, experience the natural beauty of coral and the animals that live within at the Coral Reef display. These displays and so much more await visitors to SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World.

Travelers looking to save money can purchase their tickets ahead of time online, while Thai nationals and Expats living in the area are eligible for an even larger discount provided they supply supporting identification. Single ticket prices for foreigners start at 981 baht online (1090 baht in person) for adults, and 801 baht online (890 baht in person) for children.

Address: Siam Paragon Building, B1- B2 Floor 991 Rama I Road, Pathum Wan, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330

Hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily

Public Transportation: Located a three minute walk northwest from Siam BTS Station.

Trimurti Shrine

Trimurti Shrine is a replica of an ancient statue from Ayutthaya that depicts three of the most powerful Hindu gods, Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Together, they are the Trimurti (the form of one god with three aspects). Locals consider this shrine to be lucky for individuals who are looking to meet their soulmates and worshipers will bring offerings (often red roses) to give to the Trimurti. This shrine is popular, so tourists should expect a wait to be able to see it and place an offering if they would like to do so.

Address: Pathum Wan, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330

Hours: open 24 hours

Public Transportation: Located a nine minute walk from Chit Lom BTS Station.

Baiyoke Floating Market

Baiyoke Floating Market offers more than 100 dishes to choose from at the indoor market and food buffet, which is located on the 75th floor of Baiyoke Sky Hotel. Traditionally dressed staff guide guests through the restaurant where visitors can choose from a variety of Thai dishes to eat while they enjoy the view. With so many foods to choose from, travelers should make sure to visit on an empty stomach.

This spot is located in Baiyoke Tower II, one of the tallest skyscrapers in the city. The construction of Baiyoke Tower II, completed in 1997, further solidified Pratunam’s status as a significant urban center. At that point, it was Thailand’s tallest building, symbolizing the area’s and the nation’s economic growth. It also features two main public observation areas: an indoor observation deck on the 77th floor with large windows and multimedia guides, and an open-air, 360-degree revolving roof deck on the 84th floor.

Address: 222 Ratchaprarop Road, Thanon Phaya Thai, Rajathewe, Bangkok 10400

Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily

Public Transportation: Located a five minute walk southwest from Ratchaprarop Station.

Erawan Shrine

Erawan Shrine (once called Thao Maha Phrom Shrine) is a shrine that’s only a short walk from Pratunam and is a beautiful shrine featuring a statue of Phra Phrom (the Thai representation of Brahama). Thai dance troupes are often hired by the shrine’s worshippers and there are sometimes dance performances in this area as a result.

Address: Ratchadamri Road, Lumphini, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330

Hours: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily

Public Transportation: Located a four minute walk west from Chit Lom BTS Station.

Check In to Grand Diamond Suites Hotel, Step Out to Erawan Shrine

How to Get to Pratunam

From Suvarnabhumi Airport, take the Airport Rail Link from the B level of the airport (below the arrival hall) and take the line all the way to Ratchaprarop Station. From the station, Pratunam is a two minute walk south.

For visitors who are using Bangkok BTS, there are several BTS stations that surround the Pratunam area including Phaya Thai BTS Station and Ratchathewi BTS Station. Pratunam is only a short walk away from these two stations.

Travelers can also elect to take a taxi from the airport and may wish to use the popular Grab App to call a taxi. This cell phone app allows users to input their locations and hail a taxi through their phones. It is a convenient way to help ensure that travelers are able to get reliable transportation and also allows users to track their taxi drivers as they make their way towards the pickup point. After travelers reach their destinations, they can elect to pay in cash or with credit. The app also lets users store payment methods for added convenience.

Check In to Eastin Hotel Makkasan, Step Out to Platinum Fashion Mall

Recommended Hotels Near Pratunam

Pratunam has a variety of hotels in the area that are sure to suit most budgets. While these hotels will be close to the area, travelers should consider how much shopping they are planning on doing and whether they will be making repeated trips to their hotel during the day. If this is the case, choosing a hotel that is close to the locations visitors wish to shop, or close to public transportation options, will be more convenient and help tourists save time. Here are some recommended hotels near Pratunam.

Baiyoke Sky Hotel

Baiyoke Sky Hotel is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Pratunam. As the tallest hotel in Thailand, guests can enjoy the view from this hotel as they relax after a day of shopping. With its great location, free Wi-Fi in all rooms, on-site dining and room service, and amenities including a fitness center, golf course, outdoor swimming pool, and more, Baiyoke Sky Hotel is an excellent location for travelers looking to have a special experience in Bangkok. This hotel also offers guests a shuttle for the surrounding area as well as free access to the 84th floor observation deck.

Address: 222 Ratchaprarop Road, Ratchathewi, Pratunam, Bangkok, 10400

Public Transportation: Located a two minute walk southwest from Airport Rail Link Ratchaprarop Station and 17 minutes southeast of Phaya Thai BTS Station.

Indra Regent Hotel

Indra Regent Hotel offers guests a place to stay and relax without having to sacrifice convenience and location. Situated within Pratunam, there are plenty of great shopping and entertainment options within walking distance of the hotel. The hotel offers a fitness center, an outdoor swimming pool, on-site restaurants, spa and massage services, and can also help guests make tour arrangements during their time in the city.

Address: 120/126 Ratchaprarop Road, Thanon Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400

Public Transportation: Located a two minute walk south from Ratchaprarop Station and 17 minutes southeast of Phaya Thai BTS Station.

Tarawish Hotel

Newly built in 2017, Tarawish Hotel is a great choice for visitors who are looking for a modern hotel, without high prices. With buggy service to and from select locations within the area, a rooftop bar, complimentary Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas, as well as concierge services, this hotel is a great option for visitors who want a quality hotel in a great location but are looking to keep their accommodation costs low.

Address: 45 Petchaburi 13 Petchaburi Road Phayathai, Pratunam, Bangkok, 10400

Public Transportation: Located a 13 minute walk from Phaya Thai BTS Station and 10 minutes southeast from Airport Rail Link Phayathai Station and, while guests can walk to the hotel’s location, it’s recommended that for their first visit they hire a cab as cab drivers better know the area and will help save time.

Baiyoke Suite Hotel

Situated between three department stores, Baiyoke Suite Hotel is the perfect hotel for travelers who love to shop. With 255 individual suites, this brightly decorated high-rise also features great views, a fitness center, an outdoor swimming pool, concierge services, currency exchange, and on-site dining. Within the rooms, guests can enjoy access to a microwave, minibar, free bottled water, bathrobes, and plenty more amenities. With all this and more, Baiyoke Suite Hotel is a great choice for travelers who are looking for a place to stay that almost feels like their own apartment in Bangkok.

Address: 130 Ratchaprarop Road, Khwaeng Thanon Phaya Thai, Khet Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400

Public Transportation: Located a five minute walk west from Airport Rail Link Ratchaprarop Station and 19 minutes southeast of Phaya Thai BTS Station.

Anajak Bangkok Hotel

Anajak Bangkok Hotel is an exceptional hotel for an exceptional price. With its stunning modern design, this photo-worthy hotel will be remembered by guests long after they’ve returned from Bangkok. Anajak Bangkok Hotel amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, concierge, room service, free Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas, on-site dining, and more. With shopping and public transportation options within walking distance, travelers should love their stay at Anajak Bangkok Hotel.

Address: 65/5 Phayathai road, (Soi Kolit), Phayathai, Rajthewi, Bangkok, Pratunam, Bangkok, 10400

Public Transportation: Located a five minute walk southeast from Phaya Thai BTS Station.

Check In to Indra Regent Hotel, Step Out to Pratunam

Indra Regent Hotel

Tarawish Hotel

Anajak Bangkok Hotel

Baiyoke Suite Hotel

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