Patpong district

With its bars, restaurants, and lively nightclubs, Patpong stands out as a hotspot for nightlife. Let's shed light on this vibrant district of Bangkok.

Have a blast in Patpong!

Bangkok, the city of a thousand temples, is not only known for its religious fervor. Entertainment districts thrive in the capital, with Patpong being the most famous. Just observe the groups of young people, mostly foreigners, who fill the neon-lit streets of the area. Originally home to wealthy Chinese immigrants, Patpong started as a regular business center until 1968, when the arrival of American officers in Bangkok changed its destiny: businesses gave way to go-go bars. The popularity of its night market increasingly overshadows its darker side. Whether you're a shopping enthusiast, a stressed businessperson, or a bachelor celebrating a stag party, come to Patpong and enjoy its lively evenings!

History of the district

At its inception, Patpong wasn't a nightlife hotspot bustling with sex workers. It derived its name from a wealthy Chinese family, the Patpongpanich, who immigrated from Hainan Island and purchased land in the area in 1946.

Twenty-two years later, the district's landscape had completely transformed! The Vietnam War was raging at the time. The presence of American military personnel on rest leave in the area inspired new ways to make money. The Patpongpanich family began opening bars, pubs, and discos to entertain the troops during their downtime. Not surprisingly, prostitution flourished.

Once, there was a historic Teakwood residence, but it was demolished to make way for commercial buildings. The canal (klong) met the same fate. By the 1970s and 1980s, Patpong had risen to prominence as one of Bangkok's major tourist hubs, alongside Royal City Avenue and sections of Ratchadapisek Road.

Today

Like the red-light districts of Pattaya and Phuket, Patpong is the top spot for leisure activities. Some come to enjoy the bustling nightlife, while others are drawn by the performances of go-go girls who have made Patpong their headquarters. Some tourists only stop by for a shopping spree in the night market.

Things to see and do

Welcome to Patpong, one of Bangkok's most vibrant and touristy districts! The clientele here is almost exclusively foreigners, vacationers, or expatriates.

Explore the Night Market

Don't miss the Patpong Night Market if you want to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. Taste its street food at more than reasonable prices. In the evening, the streets, which are closed to traffic, are dominated by stands offering drinks and food. Tourists are warmly welcomed. Marvel at handicrafts, jewelry, fashion items, and watches. Some branded products are displayed, but beware: most of them are not authentic, despite what the sellers might claim—they're counterfeit.

Visit the Patpong Museum

Opened in 1919, the Patpong Museum houses a collection of antiques and artworks. The exhibition faithfully traces Patpong's history, from the rise of the Patpongpanich family to its development as a red-light district. The consequences of the Cold War, the presence of American secret agents in Patpong, their extended stays due to the Vietnam War, and espionage missions in Laos—everything is clearly explained using interactive tools.

The museum occupies the second floor of building number 5. Since 2020, a photographic section has been added to the collection. Between permanent exhibitions, opening nights, and retrospectives honoring renowned masters, art enthusiasts will find plenty of entertainment!

Experience lively evenings

Despite the allure of its museum and market, Patpong primarily attracts foreigners for its lively nights spent in go-go bars. Sit down with a beer, watch topless dancers, enjoy a ladyboy show, party endlessly… That's what awaits you here! The gay community is also vibrant in these nightlife scenes. If nightlife isn't your thing, don't turn down a gourmet stroll through Patpong's restaurants and cafes.

Practical information

Getting to Patpong

Patpong is within walking distance from Sala Daeng BTS Skytrain station and Si Lom MRT Blue Line station. If taking the BTS, stop at Sala Daeng and take one of the right-hand side exits. Follow the increasingly crowded street to reach Patpong Market.

The best time to visit

To enjoy the bars of Patpong, it's advisable to visit between November and March. These months are not only cooler but also have the lowest precipitation. From April onward, the heat becomes quite unbearable.

Nearby attractions

Done indulging in Patpong? Not far from its night market, other interesting places await:

• Wat Pho is Bangkok's oldest temple. A marvel to explore, both architecturally and sculpturally. The centerpiece is the giant reclining Buddha, measuring 46 meters long.
• The Grand Palace: With its courtyards, chapels, and mural frescoes, this royal palace houses treasures of Rattanakosin art;
• Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, a temple with iconic pyramid-shaped architecture.