Muay Thai show in Bangkok: Tickets

When traveling through Thailand, many visitors opt to attend a Muay Thai show. Muay Thai is one of the national sports of Thailand, and people often refer to it as Thai boxing.

The arena fills up with locals and visitors alike, and the vibrant atmosphere is something you can’t miss. You can book tickets and attend the show on your own, or you can order tickets through a vendor.

What is the Muay Thai show about?

Muay Thai, also known as “the art of eight limbs,” is a unique type of boxing that originated in Thailand. The matches are very similar to traditional boxing matches and consist of five rounds that last three minutes each.

The history of the sport goes back to at least the 16th century in Thailand, and it was initially used as a combat technique. Muay Thai eventually evolved into a sport where people watched contenders fight for entertainment.

The sport attracted Westerners and it became internationally known during the 20th and 21st centuries. Participants can use every part of their body limbs while fighting, but the sport is frequently differentiated by its combination of fists, elbows, knees and shins.

The International Olympic Committee first recognized Muay Thai in 2016.In Bangkok, there are only two stadiums that host authentic Muay Thai matches: Lumpinee and Rajadamnern.

The Royal Thai Army runs Lumpinee, so all proceeds from the matches are donated. All of the tours will take you to a match at one of these legendary stadiums.

How much do Muay Thai tickets cost?

If you book tickets through a third party, you can expect to pay anywhere between US$40 and US$90. The price varies based on the stadium you go to, the date of the match, transportation, and whether or not you want to pay for a VIP experience.

The tickets usually only cover your entrance fee to the match. Some tickets have built-in VIP experiences for a higher upfront cost that allow you to skip the line and sit right next to the ring. Your vendor may even offer transportation to and from the match, so be sure to check if it is included with your ticket.

When is the best time to see Muay Thai?

Each of the two stadiums hosts matches on select days of the week, so it is best to plan ahead. The matches at Lumpinee typically fall on Tuesday, Friday or Saturday. At Rajadamnern, you can catch a match Monday, Wednesday, Thursday or Sunday.

Are there any Muay Thai combined tickets available?

Muay Thai tickets only include entry to the match and do not allow you to visit other places in Bangkok. You can purchase a ticket that includes a VIP add-on for an extra fee. When you arrive at the stadium, you get to skip the line.

Friendly employees will be waiting to escort you to your ringside seats and ensure you have enough food and drinks. Your ticket may also include a private guide if the vendor provides one.

How to get there to the Muay Thai show?

Rajadamnern stadium sits in Pom Prap Sattru Phai, while Lumpinee stadium can be found in Bang Khen. The best way to reach either of the two stadiums is by cab. Rajadamnern is closer to central Bangkok, so you can take a short walk there if you are staying near Khao San road.

Neither stadium is easily accessible by public transportation, but the 70, 70 AC, 503 and 509 AC bus lines stop right outside Rajadamnern. Lumpinee frequently has issues with rush hour traffic right as the matches begin, so your best bet is to avoid driving and parking there.

After the match, you can take another cab back to your accommodation. You should also reach out to the company you purchase through to see if they offer pickups and drop-offs.

What time does the Muay Thai show start?

The matches begin around 6:30 PM and the doors typically open at 6 PM. Be sure to arrive early and take your seat. You can expect the matches to last until 11 PM to 12 PM.

What is the cancellation policy for Muay Thai shows?

Each operator has its own cancellation policy, so you should confirm the details with them directly. Some offer a fully-refundable cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, while others have a no-refund policy.

Travel tips

• Reach the stadium by 6 PM when the doors open.
• Book your tickets ahead of time! Matches happen on select nights only, so you don’t want to miss out. The stadiums are also full of people selling tickets outside, so you can avoid dealing with this.
• If you take a taxi, make sure to check that the meter starts and stops when you get in/out of the car.
• Carry small notes or coins when taking a taxi. Drivers may not have change.