Rajadamnern Stadium

The basics

The Rajadamnern Stadium opened its doors in 1945, and has been training and producing prizewinning fighters since. Along with the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium to the north of the city, it’s one of the most important Muay Thai locations in the country. Get a close-up view at a (more expensive) ringside seat, or rub shoulders with excited Thais in the stalls. Gambling is allowed further back, and is done with hand gestures. Matches are played four nights a week. Most travelers attend a match independently, but packages can also be booked that provide convenient transfers to and from the match.

Things to know before you go

• Foreigners must generally pay a higher fee for tickets than Thais, but these also usually come with a better seat.
• To get a ticket, simply turn up at the stadium ahead of the match and buy one from the ticket office.
• Matches start around 6:30pm but they continue for several hours. Unless you’re a really avid Muay Thai fan, think about showing up an hour or so late.
• Snacks and drinks are sold at the stadium, including beer.

How to get there

Rajadamnern Stadium is in central Bangkok, in the Banglamphu area, which is a popular hang-out for travelers. This part of the city is not on the Skytrain or Metro routes, so it’s most convenient to get a taxi from wherever you’re staying.

When to get there

Rajadamnern Stadium typically hosts matches on the days that the other Muay Thai arena, Lumpinee, doesn’t host matches. So whenever you happen to be in Bangkok, you can watch a match at one or the other location. It’s advisable to check before you visit for up-to-date match schedules.

Enjoy a night out on Khao San Road

The Rajadamnern Stadium is not far from Khao San Road, the heart of Bangkok’s backpacker scene. All kinds of food, drink, and goods are for sale here, as well as affordable accommodation. Grab an early dinner at a street food stall on Khao San Road before a match at Rajadamnern Stadium, or head there afterwards for a late dinner and a night of partying.

What events take place at Rajadamnern Stadium?

Muay Thai matches take place at Rajadamnern Stadium, just as they have since the stadium opened back in 1945. Events don’t take place every night, and they often are held on nights when the other big Muay Thai arena, Lumpinee, doesn’t have any scheduled matches.

Can I book tickets for Rajadamnern Stadium in advance?

Yes, you can book tickets for Rajadamnern Stadium in advance, both online and at the box office. However, many people prefer to show up just before a match and purchase tickets at the box office, right before an event starts. Day-of tickets are subject to availability.

How much are tickets to Rajadamnern Stadium?

It depends. Tickets to Rajadamnern Stadium vary in price, and seats at ringside or in the VIP section will cost you more. The very cheapest seats are only available for Thai citizens, but foreign visitors can buy seats in most of the sections. VIP tickets include free snacks and drinks.

Can you take photos at Rajadamnern Stadium?

Yes, you can take photos at Rajadamnern Stadium, as long as you aren’t disturbing the fighters or other guests in the process. Taking video is allowed as long as you aren’t blocking anyone’s views, but those wanting to shoot commercially should make advance arrangements with the stadium.

What is the best way to get to Rajadamnern Stadium?

The best way to Rajadamnern Stadium is by public transportation. Take the BTS Skytrain either to Ratchathewi Station or Victory Monument Station or board the Metro to Sam Yot Station. Then, take a taxi the rest of the way. Bus lines 157, 201, 503, and 509 stop near the stadium.

Are there any nearby restaurants or attractions to visit after attending an event at Rajadamnern Stadium?

Yes, there are plenty of restaurants to visit after attending a match at Rajadamnern Stadium. You’ll find a particular abundance of dining options in the nearby Khao San Road backpacker enclave, which offers everything from lively bars to low-key vegetarian restaurants to street-food vendors.