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Thailand's Floating Markets Travel Guide

Travel to Thailand's Floating Markets - Images of Old Siam

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The klongs or canals of Bangkok are famous, linking each other and the neighbourhoods that sit along side them. The most famous floating market – where women sell goods from heavily-laden canoes - is at Damnoen Saduak a little way out of the city is the city, but there are other waterside markets to discover around the capital.

The klongs of Bangkok and the surrounding areas were far more than just canals to transport goods. People lived over the water on teak stilt-houses and bought from traders who paddled small boats piled high with all sorts of produce, from fruit and vegetables to cloth and household goods. Gradually the sellers move ashore but one or two floating markets remain with that at Damnoen Saduak 110km southwest of Bangkok the most famous.

Attractions in Thailand's Floating Markets

A special journey is required to visit the Damnoen Saduak market (held on a Saturday and Sunday from 07:00hrs to 16:00hrs) and this is easily arranged with a local Travel Expert.

Another market held on the klongs can be found at Taling Chan (held on a Saturday and Sunday from 07:00hrs to 16:00hrs) in Bangkok Noi (just after Pinklao Bridge), this is a small true-to-tradition market.

Lastly another takes place (again at a weekend, 07:00hrs to 18:00hrs) at Talat Ban Mai east of Bangkok in Chachoengsao Province. Though this is outside of Bangkok proper it’s still doable as a day trip. Though the name means ‘new village market’, this is an old market comprising of over 120 wooden shops and stalls lining the riverfront and has barely changed since King Rama V paid a visit in 1907; reach it on a guided tour arranged by your Travel Expert or by bus or train from Bangkok city.

Activities in Thailand's Floating Markets

All markets really require a special visit – allow a full day.

Relaxing

Some of the best food in the city can be had at the floating markets, all cooked freshly right in front of you. Grab a cool drink and take a chance on a local dish and enjoy!