Travel Like The Wind – Suchart Choolee
From rice fields to a vibrant business district, Suriwong Road is one of Bangkok’s most historic and culturally rich streets. Stretching only 1,950 meters from Charoen Krung Road to Rama IV near Hua Lamphong station, it may be short in distance—but it runs deep in story.
This iconic road traces its roots to the reign of King Rama V, during the city’s southern expansion. It was Chao Phraya Surawong Watthanasak (To Bunnag)—a nobleman, statesman, and close friend of the king—who developed this area. In 1891, while still known as Phra Si Harachadechochai, he received royal permission to cut two new roads through his estate: one became Suriwong, the other Decho Road.
Completed in 1897, during King Rama V’s first trip to Europe, the roads were named by Queen Sri Bajarindra, acting regent, as “Surawong” and “Decho.” Though many assume Suriwong Road was named after Chao Phraya Surawong Watthanasak himself, it was in fact named in honor of his father, Chao Phraya Surawong Waiwat (Wor Bunnag).
What was once farmland gradually transformed into a district of elegant European-style homes, fine restaurants, and commercial buildings. By the 1930s, it had become a center for high-society dining and foreign visitors—much like Yaowarat’s Ratchawong Road or nearby Si Phraya. In the 1960s, Suriwong surged ahead as one of Bangkok’s major business zones.
Today, even though the skyline has changed, Suriwong still whispers stories of its past. From hidden shrines to aging shop-houses, every step reveals a layer of living history.
So if you ever find yourself wandering Bangkok’s Bang Rak district, take a stroll down Suriwong Road. Let the wind carry your thoughts—because sometimes, the most memorable journeys don’t take you far, but just help you see more deeply.
Leave a comment