Dubbed a backpacker’s ‘paradise’, Khao San is tucked away in a back alley running paralleled to Ratchadamnoen Klang Road. Considered part of the Rattanakosin Island (Old City), surrounded by historical buildings and glittering temples of the Early Rattanakosin Period, Khao San is a destination in itself. After sunset, the entire street bustles with tourists, ... More> hawkers’ carts, street vendors and flashing neon signs from cheap guest houses and hostels. Beer bars and pubs come to life with dance music and live band performances. During the day, regional tour buses leave Khao San around the clock for various upcountry destinations as well as the Cambodian border. From Khao San, the Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho, Giant Swing and historic quarters along the Chao Phraya riverbanks are within easy reach – on foot or via a ‘tuk-tuk’.