Joanna James
Bangkok and the city’s association with shopping is one that needs no introduction. The slew of atmospheric floating markets that call the city home is totally one of a kind, treating you to a slice of retail therapy coupled with authentic experiences galore, making for more than just shopping.
Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi
Daily from 7 am to 5 pm
Nothing says a classic Thai floating market like the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Ratchaburi. A visit to the traditional marketplace involves a good 100-kilometre drive outside the city of Bangkok — definitely not one of the shortest drives for a market run, but one that certainly wouldn’t be in vain. The atmosphere is like any other floating market around the capital city, but its historical significance is one of the most prominent — often referred to as the oldest floating market in the vicinity.
4 Chothamrong Rd, Amphawa, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram
Friday – Sunday from 11 am to 9.30 pm
For the perfect weekend experience around Bangkok City, set out on a 90-kilometre journey southwest of the capital city to Samut Songkhram to make your way to the Amphawa Floating Market. The weekend marketplace isn’t the most serene, with locals and tourists alike looking forward to it every week, but the atmosphere is delightfully idyllic nonetheless. Quaint little wooden houses neatly line the emerald canal, making for a picturesque scene.
Tha Kha, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram
Saturday – Sunday from 6 am to 3 pm
Tha Kha Floating Market can be described as the smaller sibling of the nearby Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. It goes without saying that its close proximity to the bigger, bustling marketplace brings it quite a few visitors, but it makes for a delightful experience nevertheless. After a day of authentic retail therapy, retreat to an elegant hotel in Bangkok, Sathorn, including the likes of Chatrium Residence Sathon Bangkok.
333 Chak Phra Rd, Khlong Chak Phra, Taling Chan, Bangkok
Saturday – Sunday from 8 am to 5 pm
Just 12 kilometres outside downtown Bangkok, Taling Chan Floating Market is one of the closest floating markets to the capital city. It’s not only its close proximity that makes it a favourite spot among many travellers to Bangkok City but also its rather laid-back atmosphere, easily distinct from the majority of floating markets in the vicinity. Hop aboard a traditional longtail boat and ride the emerald waters yourself, immersing yourself in the atmospheric scene.
15-30/1 Bang Ramat Rd, Bang Ramat, Taling Chan, Bangkok
Saturday – Sunday from 8 am to 5 pm
Just a hop, skip and a jump away from the aforementioned Taling Chan Floating Market, Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market is another authentic floating market close to the city of Bangkok. Due to its rather smaller size, it hardly makes it to any Bangkok itinerary. But, it sure does make for a great addition to follow your visit to the Taling Chan Floating Market, given its close proximity.
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.
