Khao San Road wasn't the first place I stayed in Bangkok, but I did spend a few nights there on my first trip to Thailand. I had just returned from Cambodia with an American couple I'd met there. They had recommended I book a hostel on the infamous backpacker street instead of returning to Bangkok's modern center as originally planned.

"It's simply brilliant," they raved, referring to the vast quantities of beer, the cheap Pad Thai and banana roti, and the many other young foreigners in their twenties. Although I followed their lead, I have never stayed overnight on Khao San Road since, even though I have been to Bangkok countless times since then.

So, is a visit to Khao San Road worthwhile? Well, that depends on how you define "visit" and what you expect when you finally decide to go there.

Khao San Road isn't so bad, but…

To be honest, there are several things that make Khao San Road a worthwhile destination, and under certain circumstances, it might even be a good starting point. For example, when I was there in 2010, I was able to book surprisingly authentic accommodation in an old teakwood house, just steps away from the hustle and bustle and neon lights. I also benefited from Khao San Road's location near the old town of Rattanakosin—my instinctive knowledge of that area still stems from wandering around there over a decade ago.

On the other hand, there are no casinos here – as is the case everywhere in Thailand – due to local laws. The easiest way to circumvent this problem is to access an online casino using your computer or mobile device. There you can play your favorite table games (I personally prefer blackjack) and even try out new, innovative games. Alternatively, you can simply fly to a neighboring country where casinos are legal, such as Singapore, Cambodia, or Macau.

Advantages and disadvantages of a stay on Khao San Road

Advantage: Good connection to Bangkok's old town

A glance at a Bangkok city map reveals that Khao San Road is less than a 20-minute walk from many major attractions, including the Grand Palace, Sao Ching Cha (Giant Swing), and Wat Saket (Golden Mountain). Surprisingly, many unconventional, authentic neighborhoods are also within easy reach – the streets around Khao San Road are very local and anything but touristy.

Disadvantage: Lack of public transport

Most people who consider Khao San Road overrated dislike it for reasons directly related to the experience itself. For me, however, its impracticality is a major factor. You can't reach Khao San Road using any of Bangkok's rail networks; the only way is by taxi (whose drivers usually overcharge you), unless you're comfortable taking a riverboat or a public bus – which most tourists aren't.

Advantage: Affordable accommodation, food and drinks

On the other hand, a stay on Khao Sao Road also offers a very practical advantage. There are numerous inexpensive hotels, hostels, and guesthouses where you can stay, as well as just as many restaurants and bars where you can eat and drink during the day. Even if it's not particularly adventurous or authentic, a stay on Khao San Road ensures that you'll be well-rested and satisfied – even if you might have a slight hangover.

Disadvantage: Shady characters everywhere.

To be honest, the people (mostly foreigners, some Thais too) are the worst thing about Khao San Road. I don't want to speculate about what draws some people there, but the fact is: if a place is primarily attractive because of its low prices, it's bound to attract cheap tourists. Furthermore, Khao San Road is something of a sex tourism hub, so expect to encounter a lot of shady characters (and prostitutes).

Advantage: You can see it for yourself

Ultimately, you shouldn't simply rely on my opinion of Khao San Road, or anything else about Bangkok or Thailand. The biggest advantage of visiting Khao San Road is precisely that you can form your own opinion. Therefore, any opinion you form afterward is entirely your own, even if you vehemently disagree with me. (If you do have a different opinion, I'd be happy to read a comment below.)

Alternatives to Khao San Road

Looking for backpacker-friendly accommodation without the seedy atmosphere of Khao San Road? Or perhaps you simply want to stay near the old city, but not right there? Here are some great alternatives to Khao San Road:

  • Chinatown/Yaowarat: Located directly south of Rattanakosin, Bangkok's Chinatown is home to some of the city's best restaurants as well as several MRT stations.
  • Phaya Thai: While you don't necessarily have to stay in a hostel to explore this central district, affordable accommodation makes its great location at the end of the Airport Rail Link even more appealing.
  • Asok: The bad news? Soi Cowboy is no less notorious than the most run-down corners of Khao San Road. The good news? Bangkok's Asok intersection is easier to reach than Khao San Road if you want to experience its seedy charm without a long taxi ride.

    • More frequently asked questions about Khao San Road

    Why is Khao San Road famous?

    Khao San Road is famous for having been Bangkok's main backpacker hub for decades. Furthermore, many travelers visiting Thailand in search of seedy and disreputable places know that Khao San Road is a prime location for this. These factors also contribute to Khao San Road's unpopularity with its critics.

    How do I get to Khao San Road?

    Despite its popularity, Khao San Road is not one of Bangkok's most easily accessible areas. From both of Bangkok's airports, a taxi or bus is necessary, as is the case from Hua Lamphong and Bang Sue train stations. In fact, the only public transport reaching Khao San Road is the boats on the Chao Phraya River. While these are easy to use, they deter most foreign tourists.

    What is there to do at night on Khao San Road?

    Khao San Road is one of Bangkok's liveliest nightlife districts. Dozens of bars and clubs line the main street alone. And if that's not enough, you'll find countless more bars and restaurants in the surrounding area, including near tourist attractions like Sao Ching Cha (Giant Swing) and Wat Saket (Golden Mountain).

    Conclusion

    Is Khao San Road worth a visit? I would definitely recommend seeing it for yourself, although I wouldn't advise staying overnight. Unless, of course, you're using the road's convenient location for day trips to Bangkok's old city – then it might make sense. Many foreigners, however, use Khao San Road as an excuse to supposedly be in Thailand, but experience a Thailand that primarily reinforces unjustified stereotypes about the kingdom and its people. Would you like more tips for your trip to Thailand? Then let us create a personalized itinerary for you today!