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Muay Thai, or the “art of eight limbs”, is the national sport of Thailand. It is a martial art that uses knees, elbows, shins and hands to strike the opponent.
The origins of Muay Thai is attributed to the famous Siamese fighter, Nai Khanomtom. As the story goes, he was captured during the battle between the Burmese of the Konbaung Dynasty and Siam. The Burmese allowed him to fight for his freedom which he successfully did so through his unique fighting style now known as Muay Thai.
More recently, the sport gained more popularity with the increased worldwide interest in mixed martial arts.
Why
A trip to Bangkok is not complete without witnessing the country’s national sport.
A number of venues hold Muay Thai bouts regularly and the best arenas are found in Bangkok. They are often packed with locals and tourists alike whenever there is a match.
Best places to watch Muay Thai in Bangkok
Lumpinee Stadium is one of the most popular Muay Thai stadiums in Bangkok. Fight nights are held on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Tickets cost between 200 baht ($5.77) and 2,000 baht ($57.7).
Rajadamnern Stadium ranks second in size among the Muay Thai stadiums of Bangkok. Tickets at this stadium are priced higher at 500 baht ($14.43) to 2,000 baht ($57.7). Gambling is acceptable at this stadium.
Channel 7 Stadium is a smaller stadium that holds nationally broadcasted fights. Admission at this stadium is free.
