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Where to Watch Muay Thai in Bangkok: Rajadamnern Stadium

I’ve lived in Thailand for over 15 years. And I reckon the 2 best things to do here, in terms of travel bucket list stuff, is an elephant sanctuary visit, and going to watch Muay Thai in Bangkok. With the Muay Thai stuff, there is so many ‘fake’ fights for tourists. In local bars etc. Don’t fall for it. When in Bangkok, check out the World’s Oldest Muay Thai Stadium = Rajadamnern Stadium. Do yourself a favour, buy tickets for a real event (starts at $15 or so) and go watch the real thing there. It was amazing!

This historic stadium is where the world of Muay Thai comes alive in all its glory – from the electrifying atmosphere to the raw power of the fighters. Having been there myself on August 10th, 2024, I can tell you it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.

In this blog post, I’ll break down everything you need to know about seeing Muay Thai in Bangkok at Rajadamnern Stadium. From how to book tickets to the best dates to go, plus tips on getting there, I’ve got you covered.

Why Watch Muay Thai at Rajadamnern Stadium?

When it comes to Muay Thai in Bangkok, Rajadamnern Stadium is the crème de la crème. Built in 1945, this iconic venue is one of the two main Muay Thai stadiums in the capital (the other being Lumpinee). But for me, Rajadamnern stands out not only for its history but for the electric atmosphere inside.

Whether you’re a seasoned fight fan or just curious, you’ll find that the crowd, the fighters, and the whole experience at Rajadamnern Stadium are like nothing else. The stadium hosts some of the top Muay Thai fighters in the world, and every fight night brings a different energy.

If you’re thinking about checking out Muay Thai in Bangkok, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of it.

Best Dates to Watch Muay Thai in Bangkok

You can see the events they have on HERE: https://rajadamnern.com/tickets/

You’ll find Muay Thai in Bangkok being fought nearly every night of the week, but the main event nights at Rajadamnern Stadium are usually on the weekends. I went on a DAZN night, on TV. It was brilliant.

From my experience, weekends tend to have the most intense lineups. When I went on August 10th, 2024, the stadium was buzzing, and the matches were top-tier, with fighters giving it their all. If you’re around Bangkok on a weekend, that’s when the real magic happens.

Fight Schedule

Muay Thai matches typically start in the evening, around 6 PM, and can go on for several hours, with multiple bouts on the same night. Depending on the night, you can expect to see anywhere from 8 to 12 fights.

Ticket Prices and VIP Options

Now, let’s talk tickets. When booking tickets for rajadamnern stadium, you’ve got a few different options depending on the kind of experience you want.

NOTE: Ringside sounds cool, but you can’t see the fights properly. I’d skip that to be honest.

General Admission

• Standard Tickets: If you’re on a budget, the cheapest tickets will set you back around 1,000-1,500 THB (about $30-45 USD). These are for seats further back in the stadium. While the view isn’t as good as the pricier tickets, the atmosphere is unbeatable as you’ll be among the die-hard locals cheering on their favourites.

• Ringside Tickets: If you want to get closer to the action, ringside tickets are around 2,000 THB ($60 USD). From here, you can see every punch, kick, and elbow strike up close.

VIP Experience

THIS IS WHAT I DID. My mate was in town, so we wanted the best experience (and also the free-flow booze!).

For the ultimate Muay Thai in Bangkok experience, the VIP option at Rajadamnern Stadium is an absolute must. This was the route I took during my visit, and I can’t recommend it enough. With the VIP option, you’re treated to a private box, which comes with free-flow food, drinks, and, yes, booze. The cost for VIP tickets ranges from 5,000 to 8,000 THB ($150-250 USD), depending on availability and the event.

The private box was next level. It’s where you’ll find other travelers, expats, and locals who are there to enjoy the fight in style. The food and drinks keep flowing, and it’s a great way to make a night of it. You get the luxury of a front-row view without the madness of the crowd, and trust me, it’s worth every baht.

How to Get to Rajadamnern Stadium

Rajadamnern Stadium is centrally located in Bangkok, so getting there is pretty straightforward. Here are a few options to help you out:

By Taxi or Grab

The easiest way to get to Rajadamnern Stadium is by taxi or Grab (Thailand’s version of Uber). Most drivers will know where Rajadamnern is, but I’d recommend showing them the name in Thai just to be safe: ราชดำเนิน. The ride will cost around 100-200 THB ($3-6 USD) depending on traffic.

By Public Transport

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can take the BTS Skytrain to National Stadium or Victory Monument stations, then grab a taxi or hop on a tuk-tuk for the last leg of the journey. It’s a bit more of a hassle but a fun way to get around if you’re keen to explore.

How to Book Tickets for Rajadamnern Stadium

Booking tickets for Rajadamnern Stadium is pretty straightforward. You can book in advance through their official website or through ticket agencies. I’d recommend booking ahead if you’re planning to go on a weekend or if you’re interested in the VIP experience, as tickets can sell out.

If you’re more spontaneous, you can also buy tickets at the door, but keep in mind that the best seats (especially VIP boxes) might already be sold out.

What to Expect During a Muay Thai Fight Night

The energy at Rajadamnern Stadium is palpable from the moment you step inside. The roar of the crowd, the rhythmic music played during the fights, and the intensity of the bouts themselves make it an unforgettable experience. Unlike western boxing, Muay Thai incorporates elbows, knees, kicks, and punches, making it a fast-paced and aggressive martial art.

Each match is preceded by a Wai Khru, a traditional ritual where fighters pay respect to their trainers and the sport itself. Once the fight begins, the tension ramps up, and the crowd is on their feet, shouting encouragement to their favourites.

FAQs on Where to watch Muay Thai in Bangkok

1. How far in advance should I book my tickets for Rajadamnern Stadium?

For the best seats, especially the VIP box option, it’s a good idea to book at least a week in advance. Weekend fights can sell out, especially for high-profile events. You can book tickets through the official Rajadamnern Stadium website or through ticket agencies.

2. What should I wear to Rajadamnern Stadium?

There’s no strict dress code, but I’d recommend going for casual, comfortable clothes. If you’re opting for the VIP box, a smart-casual outfit wouldn’t go amiss. The stadium can get warm, so breathable clothing is a good choice.

3. How much does a night at Rajadamnern Stadium cost?

Ticket prices range from around 1,000 THB for standard seats to 8,000 THB for the VIP box experience. The VIP package includes a private box with free-flow food and drinks, making it a great deal if you’re looking for a special night out.

4. Can I take photos during the fight?

Yes, photography is allowed at Rajadamnern Stadium, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone! You’ll want to capture some of the action, especially if you’re sitting ringside or in the VIP box.

Whether you’re a seasoned fight fan or a first-timer, watching Muay Thai in Bangkok at Rajadamnern Stadium is an experience that’ll stay with you long after the final bell. If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, make sure to add this to your itinerary.

For more on my adventures in Thailand, check out my experience climbing Lobuche East in Nepal, or how I cycled across the Jordanian desert. And if you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, take a look at my guide on exploring Tokyo’s hidden gems!

If you’re interested in learning more about Muay Thai as a sport, you can check out the full background on Wikipedia.