Joanna James
In the city of towering skyscrapers, ornate shrines and vibrant street life, Bangkok’s host of floating markets are undoubtedly a strong contender to the city’s biggest attractions. Savour the colours, chaos and flavours of the atmospheric markets that treat you to an authentic Bangkok experience.
Ain’t no floating market like the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market — the best-known floating market in all of Thailand. In Damnoen Saduak district, about 100 kilometres southwest of Bangkok, the eponymous floating market has made itself more of a tourist attraction than a marketplace, drawing droves of foreign and domestic tourists alike, who come to savour a slice of the epitome of Bangkok’s floating markets. The slew of traditional long-tail boats, sitting on fawn waters, make the stalls for the clamouring vendors selling fruits, vegetables, clothes and other goodies that appeal to the longing shopper.
If there’s anything as good that could rival the renowned Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, it has to be the crown jewel of Amphawa District, the Amphawa Floating Market. The waters of Thailand’s charming Mae Klong give life to the atmospheric market, which makes for an attraction in itself. The quaint wooden houses that line the canal also add to a picturesque scene, while the enchanting little temple swallowed by the giant tree is also an unmissable sight. The marketplace, located just a 50-kilometre drive from Bangkok, has become a popular tourist destination. To avoid crowds, a morning visit is highly recommended.
Strolling through the many bustling markets of Bangkok, a dose of peace and tranquillity is truly an elusive luxury as most travellers to the Thai capital would unhesitantly agree. In Taling Chan District, popular for the vibrant Taling Chan and Wat Saphan Floating Markets, Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market is the district’s not-so-vibrant marketplace where tourists and locals alike go shopping in peace and quiet. A foreigner in the laid-back market is as rare as serenity in Bangkok — an atmosphere whose ambience speaks for itself.
For those looking for a quick sample of Bangkok’s floating market experience, Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market is the perfect spot for you. Small and set in close proximity to Bangkok City, the charming marketplace is the quick floating market experience you are looking for. Don’t let the “small” size lower your expectations. While small, it is chock-full of lovely goodies that are sure to leave you spoiled for choice.
Among all the fun and exciting things to do around Bangkok, a visit to Taling Chan Floating Market would never leave you disappointed. The atmospheric marketplace is often described as the blend of everything, delighting even the most discerning travellers. Pick up an authentic souvenir or two to take back home and retreat to one of the finest hotels or resorts the likes of Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
