Phahurat is one of Bangkok’s oldest commercial districts and is often referred to as the “Indian district” due to the large Indian community that has settled and thrived there. It is also home to Sikh religious site, Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara, which is the center of Sikhs in Thailand. For this reason, Phahurat has earned the nickname “Little India in Thailand”.
Phahurat has also been recognized as a “modern” commercial area since its early days. Many department stores originated in this district and it sold imported goods from around the world, and it also housed the first air-conditioned cinema in Asia.
Although Phahurat may no longer be as bustling as it once was—largely due to the shift in consumer behavior toward large shopping malls with comprehensive dining and amenities—it still retains its distinct charm. The area continues to offer a blend of modern products, ranging from general merchandise, handcrafted jewelry and gold, electronics devices, collectibles, and Art Toys, trendy collectibles across Asia.
Additionally, the nearby Khlong Ong Ang, a canal that runs through the area, has recently undergone landscape improvements. This has helped transform Phahurat into not only a vibrant commercial hub but also a new leisure destination that should not be missed.
Must visit in this area
- Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theater
- The Old Siam Plaza
- Siri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara
- Mega Plaza Saphan Lek
- Khlong Ong Ang
How to get there?
By MRT
This is the most recommended way of transportation to Pahurat.
Take the MRT to Sam Yot Station. The exit 3 of the MRT station is at the corner of The Old Siam Plaza. Walk along Charoenkrung road for about 150 meters, you will find Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre on the opposite side. Cross the street and walk along the Tri Phet road towards the south for about 200 meters, you will find the entrance of The Old Siam Plaza.
From The Old Siam Plaza, walk along Pahurat street for 300 meters until you reach the next intersection. From this intersection, if you choose to go right, in about 100 meters, you will reach Siri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara. If you go to the left, in about 100 meters as well, you will reach Mega Plaza Saphan Lek. If you choose to go straight, in about 60 meters, you will enter Khlong Ong Ang.
By Boat
It is not the ideal mode of transportation to reach Pahurat but it can be a choice if you stay in a hotel along the Chao Phraya riverside and prefer to walk a bit.
The nearest pier to Pahurat is Rajinee pier. This pier is next to Tha Tien pier to the south.
Walk along Chakkraphet road for about 270 meters towards the east. Turn left and enter Ban Mo street.
Ban Mo street is classically known for the electronic specialty shop. Along the entire street, you can also enjoy shopping for electronic components such as wires, light bulbs, digital signage, plug sockets, circuit boards and appliances.
After you walk along Ban Mo street for about 350 meters, you will reach Pahurat street. Turn right and you will reach The Old Siam Plaza which is the center of Pahurat area. After that, you can continue to walk further towards other places.
By BTS
Another option if you come from the inner city of Bangkok, you can choose to go to BTS Sala Daeng Station and take an MRT from there.
By Car
If you drive a car, there are many places you can park. However, there will be a parking fee per hour depending on each place. For our “Must Visit” list, The Old Siam Plaza and Mega Plaza Saphan Lek offer a parking space inside the building or you can park at the Chakkraphet parking lot – a stand alone parking lot – near the Siri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara if you would like.
Parking fees in this area are very expensive. The fee in many places starts from 40 Baht per hour which can be lower if you purchase something inside. Please study the parking fee and the waiver conditions before you enter any parking space.
By Taxi/TukTuk
The driver may offer or charge you an overpriced rate but you can always negotiate for a lower price. It is better to negotiate first before entering the vehicle.
