Thai Boxing - Muay Thai

About Thai Boxing

Thai boxing, known in Thailand as Muay Thai, is an ancient, traditional sport in Thailand. It can be one of the more violent of the martial arts but has gained a lot of popularity.

Essentially, it is a form of boxing where anything but head butting is allowed. Feet, knees, hands, elbows, and shoulders are all legal weapons. In addition to the fighting, there are numerous cultural aspects to a Muay Thai program, including ritualistic dancing, ornamental head and armbands, and music.

For many, a visit to Bangkok is not complete without taking in some Thai boxing

Thai Boxing Stadiums

There are several venues for Thai boxing but the two major ones are the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium and the Rajadamnern Stadium.

Programs at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium are on Tuesday and Friday beginning at 6:30 PM. There are two Saturday programs, the first starting at 5:00 PM and the second at 8:30 PM.

Rajadamnern Stadium

Has programs on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday starting at 6.30 PM. Prices at both stadiums are 220, 440, 1,000 baht (ringside). Special fights, usually held on weekends, can be more expensive.

Some Bangkok travel agents and hotels offer "tours" for Thai boxing. The price often includes pick-up and return to your hotel, a ringside seat and a photo with one of the boxers. Tours run less that 2,000 baht per person.

Muay Thai Gear

If you want to buy some Muay Thai gear you can find it at the stadium. You can also find it at markets such as Chatuchak.

Thai Boxing Gyms

If watching a fight and getting the gear isn't enough for you, there are several places you can learn Thai boxing in Bangkok.

Muay Thai Chaiya, Soi Predepanomyong 41 Road, Sukhumvit Soi 71, North Klongtan, Wattana, Bangkok 10110.

Muay Thai Institute, Phahonyothin Road, Rangsit, Prathum Thanee 12130.

SMAC Boxing Club, Panjit Tower, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Soi Thonglor), Bangkok 10110.