Where to Watch Muay Thai Fights in Bangkok

[yesvwill]

Muay Thai is a great spectator sport. In Thailand, this is the most watched event not only in the stadiums or in a Muay Thai gym but even on television.

This ancient martial arts often attracts sports fans of all ages at the Muay Thai gym. Seeing serious fighters battle it out on the stage is always a thrilling and exciting experience. Some also take this opportunity to learn techniques they can use in their own personal training.

In the capital Bangkok, there are tour operators that offer booking and transfer services to visitors who want to watch live Muay Thai fights. A ticket can even include a free drink and photo opportunity with the boxer service, free transfer from hotel to the stadium and back.

Lumpini Stadium

Also called the Sanam Muay Lumpini, this stadium located on Rama IV Road is a popular and affordable venue for Muay Thai matches. The fights are normally held three times every week. For Tuesday and Friday, the bouts take palce in the evening from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. On Saturdays, the matches are in the afternoons (4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.) and in the evenings from 8 p.m. to 12 midnight. There are an estimated eight matches every night excluding the main fight.

Do take note, however, that ticket prices differ for the locals and foreign visitors. Tourists from abroad are charged a higher rate, an average of $20. The Muay Thai gym ringside area commands a higher price.

Those who don't like to watch the fights live, they can opt to watch the Thai TV broadcasts in their hotel rooms or in Bangkok bars.

Ratchadamnoen Stadium

The Muay Thai matches at the Ratchadamnoen Stadium are more expensive to watch with tickets priced at a low of 1,000 baht and a high of 2,000 baht. A fight here takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday. On weekdays, the matches are scheduled from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. while the Sunday matches start at 4 p.m. and lasts until 12 midnight.

The stadium also known as Sanam Muay Ratchadamnoen in Thai is situated on Ratchadamnoen Avenue.

Lumpini Park

Casual and friendly matches can sometimes be spotted at the Lumpini Park. During daytime, Some fighters engage in friendly sparring matches here and don't mind if people flock around to watch them.

Local Temples

At local temples and fairs, one can also chance upon Muay Thai matches. A fee may be charged, though, to watch a live match.

One final note to remember is to always make it a point to buy your tickets at the ticket office of the Muay Thai gym or venue. Avoid people personally selling tickets to you as they can charge a higher amount than the normal fee.

Edited November 5, 2013 by yesvwill