From the era of King Rama the 6th, the road was Phra Nakorn District's center for rice trade Shipments of rice would be transported from the royal barn along the Lod Canal up the Chao Phraya River to be commodity due to the location's roximity to the main river. Originally named Khao San Lane due to its narrow width, but was later renamed Khao San Road.
A small community slowly develped around the area, giving way to other products being sold in the market. The arrival of foreign tourists did not occur until 1982, which was the year Bangkok celebrated its 200th birthday anniversary. The yer saw a significant influx of foreigners who came to take in the sights and sounds of Thailand's capital. The tourists were soon followed by members of the film industry in Hollywood and their production crews.
A demand for low cost accommodations in the area prompte locals to open up their homes to establish make-shift "guest houses" The period of 1985-1986 saw the start of what is now called the "Backpacker Capital of Thailand", which has become world renowned.
