Patpong consists of two streets parallel streets (Patpong I and Patpong II) which run between Silom Road and Surawong Road. The area started as a R&R location for US troops involved in the Vietnam war. In its prime during the 1970s and 1980s, Patpong was the premier red light area in Bangkok; famous for its sex shows. Today, other red-light areas in Bangkok (Nana Plaza, Soi Cowboy, and Clinton Plaza among others) are providing strong competition.
In recent years, the streets of Patpong have been taken over by the Patpong night market making navigation in the area difficult; while at the same time filling the area with farang tourist couples and backpackers. CAUTION: Almost anything purchased in this night market will be far overpriced compared to buying the same item at one of the other markets in Bangkok. (The Chatuchak weekend market has much better prices on the same merchandise).