Pantip Plaza

Rumors swirl around Pantip Plaza. Some say it’s a ghost of its former self. Others claim it’s still a treasure trove for techies. Let’s find out. Pantip Plaza stands on New Phetchaburi Road in the Ratchathewi district. It was once a bustling hub for all things computers. It opened sometime in the 1980s. Originally, it wasn’t a computer mall at all. It housed a random assortment of shops. It even became a haven for radio-controlled models and plastic model enthusiasts for a while. By the mid-1990s, Pantip Plaza transformed into the ultimate computer mecca. Five floors packed with everything from hardware and software to repairs and modifications. It became synonymous with IT shopping in Bangkok. But Pantip Plaza also gained notoriety for another reason: pirated software and movies. The availability of these illicit goods drew both locals and tourists. This contributed to Pantip Plaza’s reputation as a slightly edgy, yet exciting, place to shop. Inside, two anchor stores dominated: IT City and Data IT. Hundreds of smaller shops filled the remaining space. You could find anything computer-related here. From the latest gadgets to obscure components. You could even get your laptop screen replaced or find a rare battery. Pantip Plaza had food courts too. You could enjoy a variety of Thai cuisine, desserts, and drinks. This made it a convenient one-stop shop for all your tech needs and hunger pangs. In 2018, Pantip Plaza underwent extensive renovations. Sadly, it hasn’t fully recovered. Many shops closed during the renovation period and never returned. Some floors are now eerily empty. The vibrant atmosphere has faded. However, Pantip Plaza still has a certain charm. If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience and enjoy the thrill of the hunt, Pantip Plaza might still surprise you. Just don’t expect the bustling crowds and overflowing shops of its heyday.