Best Ladyboy Clubs In Bangkok
Did you know that Thailand’s drag scene began somewhere between the 60s and 70s in ladyboy clubs in Bangkok? That’s right—the community has a long history in the Land of Smiles. Long before RuPaul’s Drag Race (and its Thai spin-off) entered the airwaves and global mainstream consciousness, gender-bending concepts already existed in Thai society.
Bangkok is one of the places where kathoeys (ladyboys) feel welcome. The city is home to many bars and establishments that feature them as nightly performers, expressing themselves freely through art. So if you’re one of those people interested in meeting trans women, you may want to make a pit stop at some of the places we’re about to list. Let us introduce you to some of the best ladyboy clubs in Bangkok!
And the Category Is: Types of Entertainment
Before we list the hotspots, how about we discuss some types of entertainment?
What’s in a drag show?
We’ll give you a rundown of how drag shows typically play out. This provides us with some context on what to expect on a night out in a kathoey club.
A drag show typically consists of lip-synced song numbers with dancing or pantomiming. However, there are times that these numbers are sung live. Performers usually wear heavy makeup and detailed costumes, even imitating famous public figures at times. See the video clip below how lip-syncs work in shows:
Aside from song-and-dance numbers, drags shows also have a humorous element to them. Comedy bits and skits pop up from time to time, with some of them being interactive. Some performers bring audience members to the stage and participate in their acts.
A kathoey show at a glance
Since it’s Thailand we’re talking about here, we can’t avoid bringing up kathoey cabaret shows! Much like Western drag shows, song-and-dance numbers are the main draw. Some perform to international top 10 hits, while other shows showcase traditional music and dance.
They also do impersonations, so don’t be surprised if someone dons an Elsa costume (with the signature icy blonde hair, of course) lip-syncing to “Let It Go!” Comedy is also an essential part of each show, so expect to laugh here and there.
As entertaining as they are, they’re a tribute to womanhood’s beauty as well. Judging by their performances and looks, kathoeys seem to be doing a pretty good job on that front!
Ballroom voguing: an emerging movement
If you’re a fan of Pose, you’ve probably seen the GIF above. Balls are a staple in the African American and Latin American LGBTQ+ communities as a form of defiance against discrimination from sectors of society. It was also born out of necessity to give themselves safe spaces from their oppressors. Participants usually belong to houses—alternative families who provide shelter and protection.
Balls usually involve dancing, lipsyncing, performances, and modeling. Take a look at the video clip below for reference.
In Thailand, the ballroom scene is still in its infancy stage. However, it’s showing signs of growth through its trailblazers. Seasoned pros like AZXULA, Sun, and VASH continue to push societal boundaries through their voguing.
Bangkok’s Best Ladyboy Hotspots
Now here comes the fun part. Don’t miss out on these hip and happening joints in Southeast Asia’s City of Angels!
1. Maggie Choo’s
The first stop on our list of ladyboy clubs in Bangkok is the elegant Maggie Choo’s. The bar’s speakeasy-like aesthetic is a nod to the 30s, giving it a classical and sophisticated touch. Pro-tip: arrive early to book a private room for you and your friends.
Sundays at Maggie Choo’s are for its drag shows. With a $15.30 entrance fee, each show guarantees a good time with a free drink! The bar also hosts seasonal extravaganzas with tons of dancing. Another thing that makes Maggie Choo’s stand out is their burlesque shows—they’re the only place in Bangkok that offers that!
Have a ball and catch someone’s eye at this fancy bar!
| Address | 320 Fenix Novotel, Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok |
| Business Hours | 7:30 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., daily |
| Phone Number | +66-91-772-2144 |
| Socials | Facebook, Twitter, Instagram |
2. The Stranger Bar
This next stop is a hit with drag queens. Silom Soi 4’s hottest ticket features glamorous queens strutting their stuff on stage. No queen is the same, so expect the unexpected when you pop in at The Stranger Bar!
New York City—arguably the world’s capital for all things drag—inspires the bar’s interiors. Did you know that it was awarded as the Best Gay Bar Bangkok for two consecutive years? The Stranger Bar took home the honors in 2016 and 2017, so you know it’s legit! Many queens that make their way here are former Drag Race Thailand contestants, so you’re definitely up for a fun time.
The Stranger Bar doesn’t charge entrance fees on weekends, on the condition that you order a minimum of 2 drinks. Visit the bar during their happy hours (5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.) to get a sip of their house specials!
| Address | 114/14 Silom Soi 4, Suriya Wong, Bang Rak, Bangkok |
| Business Hours | 5:45 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., daily |
| Phone Number | +66-2-632-9425 |
| Socials | Facebook, Twitter, Instagram |
3. DJ Station
DJ Station is for every party animal down for a good time! This famous Silom Soi 2 (or “gay party street”) joint is the best pre-game place with its wide selection of drinks and electronic tunes.
The bar’s illuminating setup isn’t the only attraction worth sticking around for. Stand by for the fun midnight drag show featuring fierce queens! Although its interiors are starting to show signs of aging, its vibes remain immaculate.
DJ Station’s entrance fee comes at a $9.85 price tag. And the best part? You’ll receive two drink coupons you can use at any establishment within the area!
| Address | 11 Silom Soi 2/1, Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok |
| Business Hours | 9:30 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., daily |
| Phone Number | +66-2-235-1227 |
| Socials | Facebook, Instagram |
4. Telephone Pub and Restaurant
Are you looking for another pre-game place among the many ladyboy clubs in Bangkok? Head to this beloved Silom 4 establishment, which has been keeping crowds happy for more than 30 years. Many locals flock to Telephone before heading out to DJ Station. If you want to try that out, why not? You know what they say: do as the locals do!
Its convenient location and low prices make it convenient for both locals and tourists. Not only does Telephone offer great bites and pints, but they have karaoke too! Just go to the second floor and work your magic on the mic. We recommend visiting during their happy hours (6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and 12:00 a.m. until closing time) for the best bang for your buck!
| Address | 114, 11-13 Soi Silom 4, Suriya Wong, Bang Rak, Bangkok |
| Business Hours | 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., daily |
| Phone Number | +66-2-234-3279 |
| Socials | Facebook, YouTube |
Tips to Have Fun While Staying Safe at Clubs
You can never know what’ll happen to you on a night out at ladyboy clubs in Bangkok. You can have a ball while staying safe! Just follow these tips for a stress-free time.
1. Plan things ahead of time
Even a simple thing like heading for a night out needs some planning. Ask yourself these questions:
- Where do you plan to go?
Go for places that guarantee safe environments. Do your research and look at their surroundings.
- Who are the people tagging along with you (if any)?
Are you going alone? If yes, maintain a high alert even while partying. But if you’re with friends, stay close to them to avoid potential dangers. After all, there is strength in numbers, and the buddy system (more often than not) works!
- What will you bring with you?
When going on a night out, just take what you need to bring. Keep an eye out for your things to avoid thieves.
- How are you going to travel?
What will you take en route to and coming back from your night out? Store contact information on taxi services in case you want to book a cab. You can also install ride-hailing apps if you want another option.
If you’re with a group and someone offers to give you a ride to the club or your home, make sure that person is trustworthy. They should be sober as well. Whatever your option, each one should ensure safety above all else.
2. Mind your liquor
If you’re going to drink, we recommend keeping it light. While the idea of drunken nights sounds exciting and all, they can be just as dangerous. And trust us—hangovers are NOT fun!
Your drink should be with you at all times. Some shady people are looking to spike your drinks with dangerous things right under your nose. Have a trusted friend look after it should you need to leave your table for a while. Limit yourself to just one substance at a time; if you’re drinking beer, don’t add anything else to the mix.
Pro-tip: drink plenty of water in between your booze. This keeps you hydrated and makes headaches a little less painful.
3. Trust your instincts
If you sense something wrong’s up, the best solution is to stick to your gut. Don’t accept or buy anything from strangers since you’ll never know what they’re up to. When all else fails, go home immediately!
Going to ladyboy clubs in Bangkok should be an enjoyable and safe experience for anyone. Remember the places and tips we’ve written for a guaranteed great time. Have fun!
