Bangkok Little India or "Pahurat"
Nestled away in its own community along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, you will find a taste of India. Phahurat (or Pahurat) was established nearly 300 years ago by Vietnamese immigrants but has evolved through the years into one of Bangkok’s most thriving ethnic epicenters of Indian culture.
Indian Spices, Nuts and Dried Fruits
Inside Phahurat, you have access to some of the world’s most flavorful, fresh spices and dried fruits at prices that will make your mouth water. Just a few spices you will find are cardamom, cinnamon and turmeric. But you name it, Phahurat has it. Spices, nuts and dried fruits that can be expensive and hard to find in Western countries are right at your fingertips in Phahurat. Most items are bought by weight and are sold in plastic bags. Stock up, and take some of Little India home with you!
Indian Cuisine and Desserts
Authentic Indian cuisine is definitely a draw for Phahurat. Dozens of locally-owned shops offer a vast selection of freshly-made Indian flat breads, spicy curry dishes and yummy, traditional desserts. You will not leave Phahurat hungry. The price of the food is as good as the taste. Many meals cost less than 100 baht, and desserts are offered three for 100 baht in several locations.
Fabrics and Textiles
Phahurat can be fashion central for the DIYers. Meters upon meters of cashmeres, silks and other gorgeous materials can be found at Phahurat, along with any sewing accessory you might want to pick up. Some fabrics sell for as little as 30 baht (about $1) per meter, and many shops offer custom-tailored designs on the spot. Take home an authentic sari or have yourself measured for some quality work shirts. Prices vary, but you can pick up some well-crafted, made-to-fit clothing for around 300 baht (about $10) per piece.
Siri Guru Singh Sabha Temple
The Siri Guru Singh Sabha Temple is Phahurat’s landmark temple. The area is home for many of Thailand’s South Asian Hindu and Muslim population, making Phahurat rich in culture and tradition.
How To Get There
You can just walk over or take a tuk tuk from Chinatown if you’re already going there for the day.
You also can take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Memorial Bridge Pier (No. 6) and catch a tuk tuk from there, or you can walk a short distance down Tripetch Road until you see Phahurat Road. This is the outer street of Little India. Take a right, and begin your expedition!
Tuk tuk rides from either the MRT or the river pier should not cost you more than 100 baht.
Hours
24 hours a day, every day of the year
Photos of Pahurat - Little India Bangkok (Old Photos from 2004)
View of Pahurat during day time.
Busy as always with a lot of people.
Many small shops inside the small streets beside the old ATM department store.
Indian sweets and convenient stores.
Always crowded despite the heat.
View of ATM department store that caught fire in 2004.