Mad Monkey Bangkok City Session – Walking Tour

Location: Central Thailand, Thailand
Country: Thailand
Rating: 3.7/5 (6 reviews)
Price: $7 per person
Duration: 3 hours
Supplier: Mad Monkey Bangkok

Quick Overview

Imagine spending three hours wandering through Bangkok’s vibrant streets, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way to some of the city’s most iconic sights. For just $7, this walking tour offers a solid introduction to Bangkok’s rich culture and lively neighborhoods. You’ll explore Wat Bowonniwet, climb The Golden Mountain, marvel at the Giant Swing, and soak up the hustle and bustle of Khao San Road—all while tasting local snacks and enjoying a complimentary Chang beer at the end.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how accessible it is, both in price and in the way it gets you straight into the heart of Bangkok’s most engaging spots. Plus, the guides seem to know their stuff and keep the experience lively and informative. That said, it’s a fairly short tour, which means you won’t be covering everything, and the pace might be brisk for some.

This tour is best suited for budget travelers eager for a quick, lively snapshot of Bangkok’s neighborhoods, or for those who want a friendly, guided introduction without breaking the bank. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy local snacks, cultural sights, and a social vibe.

Key Points

• Affordable and concise: A three-hour guided walk for only $7 offers great value.
• Cultural highlights: Visits to Wat Bowonniwet, The Golden Mountain, and the Giant Swing reveal key Bangkok landmarks.
• Local flavor: Sampling snacks along Khao San Road adds an authentic taste of Thai street food.
• Friendly guides: Multiple reviews praise guides like Kate and Jay for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Casual social end: A free Chang beer at the end makes for a relaxed, social finish.
• Dress code considerations: Respectful attire is expected, especially for temple visits, which means covering shoulders and knees.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Timing

The adventure begins at 2:45 PM at the Mad Monkey Bangkok Madventures desk, where a guide will greet your small group. The tour departs promptly at 3:00 PM, and you’ll stay out until about 5:00 PM. This timing is perfect for beating the tropical heat, and it allows you to enjoy some of Bangkok’s cooler afternoon hours.

First Stop: Wat Bowonniwet

Your journey kicks off with a visit to Wat Bowonniwet, a revered Buddhist temple located just a short walk from the hostel. It’s a quiet, spiritual spot where you can observe monks going about their daily routines. Remember, the dress code is strict — females should cover their shoulders and knees, so dressing modestly is a must. Expect to pay a small entrance fee (around 100 Baht), so bring extra cash.

The guides are known to be excellent at explaining the temple’s significance, both historically and culturally. They help you understand the importance of the temple in Thailand’s royal and religious life, making the experience more meaningful beyond just snapping photos.

Climbing The Golden Mountain

From the temple, the tour heads to The Golden Mountain (Phu Khao Thong). Climbing the steps to the summit rewards you with panoramic views of Bangkok’s skyline. The ascent isn’t strenuous, but it’s worth taking your time to enjoy the vista and capture photos. The golden spire is a distinctive feature, visible from many parts of the city, symbolizing its spiritual significance.

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The Giant Swing

Next, you’ll see the Giant Swing, an impressive and historic piece of Bangkok’s cultural landscape. Although it’s no longer used in traditional ceremonies, the swing remains a photogenic relic of Thai festivals. It’s a striking sight and offers a great photo opportunity, especially since the guides will share the story behind its history and significance.

Exploring Khao San Road

The final part of the tour takes you to Khao San Road, famed among backpackers for its vibrant street life. During the day, it’s surprisingly laid-back, filled with stalls selling snacks, souvenirs, and quirky souvenirs. Your guides will help you sample some local snacks, giving you a taste of street food without the risk of wandering aimlessly.

Many travelers appreciate the chance to see this legendary street in daylight, which is different from the bustling nightlife scene. It’s a lively, colorful place with a relaxed vibe, perfect for soaking up Bangkok’s energetic atmosphere.

The End and the Free Drink

After exploring Khao San Road, the tour concludes back at Mad Monkey around 5:00 PM. As a thank-you, you’ll receive a free Draught Beer Chang, allowing everyone to unwind and socialize. This casual ending adds a nice touch, especially if you want to compare notes with fellow travelers or plan your next Bangkok adventure.

What’s Included and What to Prepare

The tour includes a guided walk, visits to the key sights, sampling local snacks, and a free Chang beer at the end. It’s a simple but effective package for those wanting a quick cultural overview without extra costs.

We recommend wearing comfortable shoes — the walk involves some steps and uneven surfaces — and bringing water to stay hydrated. Remember, temple visits require modest attire, so dress accordingly (cover shoulders and knees).

The tour is designed for English speakers, and guides are known for their clarity and friendliness. It’s not suitable for people with mobility issues or children under 18, so plan accordingly.

The Authenticity and Value

For just $7, this tour offers remarkable value, providing a curated introduction to Bangkok’s spiritual sites, iconic landmarks, and lively streets. The price point makes it accessible for budget travelers, backpackers, or anyone wanting an overview without a hefty price tag.

The focus on local culture and sights helps you understand a bit more about Bangkok’s layers — from religious traditions to street life. The inclusion of snacks and a free beer offers a casual, social vibe that many travelers find appealing.

Based on reviews, guides like Kate and Jay are praised for their knowledge and organization, which enhances the experience significantly. Their ability to make the tour both educational and fun is a big plus.

Potential Drawbacks

The tour is relatively short, so if you’re looking to explore Bangkok in depth, this is more of a quick snapshot rather than a comprehensive experience. It also doesn’t include transportation between sights, so be prepared for some walking. The pace can be brisk, especially if you want to linger at each spot.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This walking tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers eager for a quick, friendly overview of Bangkok’s highlights. It suits those who enjoy guided walks, authentic cultural sites, and sampling local snacks. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors who want a safe, manageable way to get acquainted with the city.

If you prefer a relaxed, social atmosphere with a knowledgeable guide, this tour fits the bill. However, if you’re seeking a deep dive into Bangkok’s history or prefer private, more personalized experiences, other options might suit you better.

Final Thoughts

In essence, the Mad Monkey Bangkok City Session offers a lively, affordable taste of Bangkok’s most iconic sights and neighborhoods. It’s a well-paced, engaging tour led by guides who seem genuinely committed to sharing their knowledge. For just $7, you’ll see temples, a historic swing, and a bustling street, all wrapped up with local snacks and a cold beer — an excellent way to kick off a visit or get a quick feel for the city.

It’s especially valuable for travelers on a tight schedule or budget, or those new to Bangkok who want safe, guided insights without fuss. The friendly guides, authentic stops, and social ending make it a solid choice to add some local flavor to your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long is the tour? The walking tour lasts approximately 3 hours, from 3:00 PM to around 5:00 PM, ending back at the start point.
• What sights will I see on the tour? You’ll visit Wat Bowonniwet, the Golden Mountain, the Giant Swing, and explore Khao San Road.
• Is there an age limit? The tour is not suitable for children under 18 years old.
• Do I need to prepare anything? Bring comfortable shoes, water, and extra cash (~100 Baht) for temple entrance fees. Dress modestly for temple visits.
• What’s included in the price? A guided walk, visits to key sights, local snacks, and a free Chang beer at the end.
• Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this tour is a smart choice for budget travelers who want a friendly, authentic peek into Bangkok’s life, culture, and landmarks, all wrapped up in a casual, social package.

You can check availability for your dates here: