The Sathorn Unique Tower is an abandoned skyscraper in Bangkok, Thailand. It is also referred to as the “Ghost Tower.” It was designed as a luxury condo, but construction was suspended during the 1997 Asian financial crisis. This left a creepy but interesting building. The tower has a creepy atmosphere and stunning city views from the highest point. Because of this, it is now a hit with urban explorers and thrill seekers. Although people cannot easily enter it, it is still a part of Bangkok’s cityscape. This guide has all you need to know, including the Sathorn Unique Tower address, transportation, and things to do around it.
Location
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The tower is located in Sathorn in Bangkok, near the Chao Phraya River. Its address is Soi Charoen Krung 51, Yan Nawa, Sathon, Bangkok 10120, Thailand. The tower has 49 floors, and individuals can spot it from various locations in the city. It was supposed to be one of the most expensive houses in Bangkok, but it has not yet been completed. Due to safety concerns, individuals are not allowed inside, but many tourists view the building from the outside.
How To Reach
Photo: Supanut Arunoprayote / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: The passengers may reach the tower anywhere in Bangkok by taxi, tuk-tuk, or motorbike taxi. The tower is near the primary highways, such as Charoen Krung Road; therefore, it is easy for personal or hired vehicles to access it.
By Rail: The nearest BTS Skytrain station is BTS Station Saphan Taksin. It is 5 minutes from the tower. Exit the station and stroll on Charoen Krung Road to get there.
By Air: The closest airport is Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), 35 km from the tower. You can travel to Phaya Thai Station by the Airport Rail Link, transfer to the BTS Skytrain, and reach Saphan Taksin Station. There are taxis and ride-hailing services available for hire as well.
Places To Visit Nearby Sathorn Unique Tower
1. Wat Arun (Temple Of Dawn)
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One of the most famous temples in Bangkok, the Temple of Dawn or Wat Arun, is a short distance from the Sathorn Unique Tower on the other side of the Chao Phraya River. The stunning temple is famous for its towering central prang (spire), which is adorned with multicoloured seashells and porcelain. Visitors can climb the steep temple stairs to enjoy the stunning river views and Bangkok cityscape. The temple shines golden during sunrise and sunset when its rays highlight its intricate carvings. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride to nearby riverside attractions.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: 100 THB
2. IconSiam
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A few minutes’ drive from Sathorn Unique Tower, IconSiam is Bangkok’s best lifestyle and shopping mall. This giant riverside shopping mall has luxury shops, boutique shops, cultural displays, and entertainment areas. SookSiam, a part of the mall, is a replica of a classic Thai floating market where tourists can taste real street food, handicrafts, and souvenirs from across Thailand. The mall also has a spectacular multimedia fountain display at night. With its combination of high-end shopping, dining, and culture, IconSiam is a great place to visit after viewing the tower from afar.
Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
3. Asiatique The Riverfront
Photo: Boonlert / Wikimedia Commons
For those who enjoy the thrill of night markets in Bangkok, Asiatique The Riverfront is an absolute must-see. Situated along the Chao Phraya River, the riverfront shopping and entertainment compound combines the nostalgic market spirit with modern shopping and dining. Guests can shop over 1,500 boutiques, eat delicious Thai cuisine at riverfront restaurants, or take the Asiatique Sky Ferris Wheel for bird’s-eye views of the night city. The market is also renowned for live acts, including traditional Thai puppet performances and cabaret performances.
Timings: 4 PM – 11 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
4. Lebua At State Tower (Sky Bar)
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If you are searching for a trip to one of Bangkok’s best rooftop bars, you should go to Lebua at State Tower’s Sky Bar. The high-end outdoor bar featured in the Hollywood blockbuster movie The Hangover Part II offers panoramic 360-degree views of Bangkok’s cityscape. It is located on the 63rd floor of State Tower and is one of Bangkok’s highest rooftop bars. The bar offers signature cocktails and gourmet foods, which make it an ideal place to go on a night to remember.
Timings: 5 PM – 1 AM
Entry Fees: N/A
5. Sri Maha Mariamman Temple (Wat Khaek Silom)
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For a religious and cultural experience, visit Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, also known as Wat Khaek Silom. This vibrant Hindu temple, built in 1879, is dedicated to Goddess Mariamman and features vibrant statues of Hindu deities, including Ganesha and Vishnu. The temple is a centre of Hindu worship in Bangkok and is visited by locals and tourists. It is especially lively during the Navratri festival, when processions, music, and traditional ceremonies fill the streets.
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
Where To Stay
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Tourists looking for hotels near the tower have something for every budget. Lebua at State Tower is a luxury hotel with international-grade service and a legendary rooftop bar. Mode Sathorn Hotel has trendy rooms with modern amenities at reasonable rates. Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn provides easy access to the BTS Skytrain for city travel. Budget tourists will enjoy Ibis Bangkok Riverside’s reasonably priced but comfortable rooms overlooking the river.
Where To Eat
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There are several excellent restaurants near Sathorn Unique Tower. The Never Ending Summer, by the River, has innovative Thai food. Baan Phadthai is famous for its award-winning Pad Thai, serving good old-fashioned Thai food. For upscale dining, Blue Elephant Restaurant serves royal Thai food in a charming colonial-style building. For rooftop romantic dining, Vertigo at Banyan Tree features gourmet food with city skyline views. The Sathorn area has something for every palate, from street food to upscale meals.
Tips For Travellers
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- Safety: Access to the tower is restricted for safety reasons. Avoid illegal entry.
- Photography: The eerie atmosphere makes it a favourite spot for photographers.
- Local Laws: Respect local regulations, as trespassing is strictly prohibited.
- Weather: Plan visits during cooler months for a better experience.
The Sathorn Unique Tower is still one of Bangkok’s most fascinating landmarks, celebrated for its haunting presence and interesting history. Though limited access, tourists can still appreciate its peculiar architecture and visit the colourful attractions around it, including Wat Arun, IconSiam, and Asiatique The Riverfront. Plan a trip with TripXL and experience the best of Bangkok’s riverside views and skyline gems!
Cover Photo: Supanut Arunoprayote / Wikimedia Commons