Patpong

Patpong is a neighbourhood in Bangkok’s Bang Rak District, situated along Sukhumvit Road near the intersection with Phetchaburi Road. Historically a swampy area in the early 20th century, it developed into a residential and commercial zone during the 1950s. By the 1970s, the area became associated with sex-oriented entertainment, earning a reputation as a red‑light district. In the following decades, it attracted a mix of local and international tourists seeking nightlife, night markets, and adult entertainment venues.

The main thoroughfare is Patpong Road, lined with bars, clubs, go‑go dance halls, and few food stalls, while the adjacent Patpong Night Market offers souvenirs, clothing, and counterfeit goods. The market operates mainly from late afternoon to midnight, drawing crowds for its eclectic mix of merchandise and street food.

Governments and community groups have implemented measures to regulate the district’s nightlife, including licensing controls and periodic police operations aimed at curbing illegal activities. Despite these efforts, the area remains a notable tourist hotspot, often featured in travel guides and media reports as emblematic of Bangkok’s more controversial nightlife scene. The district’s blend of entertainment, market commerce, and complex social dynamics continues to attract researchers, travellers, and policy analysts seeking insights into urban nightlife management.