Mahanakhon Skywalk – Bangkok’s Newest Observation Deck

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As our recent travels have coincided with the recent opening of Bangkok’s newest and highest observation deck, the King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk, we thought we’d head on up (literally) to see what all the fuss is about. Opening on November 16 of this year (2018), this is Thailand’s Highest Observation Deck and rooftop bar, coming in at 314 metres high.

The fun begins with one of the craziest life rides you will ever experience – a 360 degree animated video ride over Bangkok’s rooftops (complete with a digital rendering of the Grand Palace) that plays on HD LED floor to the ceiling TV screens as you ascend to the 74th floor in a matter of seconds (50 seconds to be exact – Thailand’s fastest video-themed elevator!).

Book your discounted Mahanakhon Skywalk ticket online >

Visiting Mahanakhon Skywalk - Bangkok's Newest Observation Deck blog post

Arriving at Mahanakhon Skywalk

As we exited the lift, we had a little combined ‘woooooh’ moment as the sprawling city of Bangkok emerges below you, with 360 degree views, large glass windows to see out and sparkling shiny floors and ceilings that reflect the outside (even the ceiling was mirrorised).

On the day we visited Mahanakhon Skywalk (Monday December 10, Constitution Day), the lower skydeck wasn’t too busy early in the afternoon so it was easy to get spots to yourself to capture the cityscape below with your camera (or even a cheeky selfie shot). A quick tip is to remember that you’ll likely get better shots on the next, upper level as it is outdoor so you won’t have to contend with glass smears or reflections – so if you are short on time, just head straight on up as you soon as you exit the first lift.

FURTHER READING – Things to do in Bangkok at night

If you tire of the view on the lower level of Mahanakhon Skywalk, you can also buy a postcard from a vending machine complete with postage stamp, write the card there and then and pop it into a replica of Thailand’s oldest letterbox. We weren’t too enamoured by the card designs (they need to take inspiration from Taipei 101’s 3D cards that you can also post at the top of their tower) but it is a fun idea.

At the top of Mahanakhon Skywalk

We then got the lift to the top floor of Mahanakhon Skywalk and were equally amazed and astounded by the outdoor 360 views. The upper deck consists of a two sections, including a lower section with a bar and glass walkway (read on…) plus an upper section, with a set of stairs that include some seats to sit down on (although some are reserved for bar service only).

As we’d heard so much about it, I (Neil) was the one who ‘braved’ the glass walkway – one of the world’s largest glass tray floors (63 square meters at 310 metres high). After a short queue of about ten minutes, you are asked to put all your valuables in a blue bag which you keep with you, plus put covers on your shoes – we were then given a 10 minute slot to sit / pose etc on the glass walkway, with that sheer drop of over 300 metres below you.

Definitely not for those with a fear of heights, this is such a thrill, but it also descends into a bit of a zoo, as people fight for space to get their perfect picture (it can get quite territorial). You are also not allowed to take photos yourself whilst on the glass so make sure you ask a companion or members of staff to take for you – the staff are very obliging and more than willing to help.

As sunset loomed, we noticed the number of people at the top of Mahanakhon Skywalk had increased immensely so it was a bit of a shove to find the perfect spot to see the sun go down, jostling with Instagram wannabies who want to get that oh so perfect shot.

Ultimately, the views win out and Bangkok never looked so beautiful as we saw red hues across the night sky and the nightly party boats of the Chao Phraya all lit up – we were also treated to a mini light-show from afar by the also recently opened Icon Siam mall.

As darkness descended across the city, we headed back down via the lift to hit the city streets and become one of those very same ‘ants’ we’d seen from above. As you exit, you have to contend with four floors of shopping; this is great if you are a retail fan, but not so good if you just want to make a quick exit.

King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk is a welcome addition to Thailand’s tourism scene and the fact the views here are totally unobstructed and also outdoor make this easily one of the best observation decks we’ve ever visited. And remember, if you are ‘brave’ enough, walking out on the glass skywalk is worth the visit alone.

The best way to get to King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk is via Chong Nonsi BTS Station, exit 3. It is open daily from 10.00 – 24.00 hrs, with the last admission at 23.00hrs.

Address: 114 Narathiwas Ratchanakarin Rd, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok Thailand

Book your discounted Mahanakhon Skywalk ticket online >

Download the Grab app

Grab taxis are widely used by both tourists and locals, and the fares are really cheap! Download the Grab app here and use the code GRABCKTRAVELS to earn a free ride when you sign up.

Sim cards and pocket WIFI

Having data on your phone whilst travelling is almost essential these days – from planning your route around the city, booking a Grab taxi or for staying connected with friends and family back home. SIM cards are pretty cheap in Thailand with generous data allowances and are available to purchase from both of Bangkok’s airports, malls and 7-Elevens (bring your passport along for identification purposes).

You can also prepay online and collect a SIM from Suvarnabhumi Airport, Don Muang Airport or Siam Centre. Just remember to make sure your phone is not locked to your local network provider before purchasing one.

Alternatively if you do not want to change your sim card then renting a pocket WIFI device with unlimited high speed internet access might be for you. We’ve used them multiple times and love that we can both connect our devices to it. Pre-order one online with Klook for collection when you arrive at either Suvarnabhumi or Don Muang Airport.

Disclosure: Our tickets to Mahanakhon Skywalk were complimentary but as always, opinions are all our own.

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