Coming over to Thailand? I bet you guys probably did your research and found out that visiting a floating market in Thailand is a must-do. Exploring the local lifestyle and eating all the delicious local food at a floating market is surely one of the best ways to enjoy your getaway to the Land of Smiles.
But, hey! There are a few activities you might enjoy more than just walking and eating at a floating market.
What kind of the awesome things you shouldn’t miss at a floating market then?
1. Gaze upon fireflies – Enchanting stars within your reach
As good as it may sound, you can enjoy watching these magical little light bulbs and its surroundings. With these tiny stars in the air coupling with the sound of the canal, the feeling of relaxation will truly ease your mind. The night sky then enhances the atmosphere, harmonizing with the background of the local environment, creating the best moment that will last in your memory.
Where to: If you are interested in this magical experience, just head to Amphawa Floating Market. The destination is located in Samut Songkhram province which can be reached by highway number 35. There are various boat vendors waiting to sell you delicious food, together with a lot of activities that you can do in this floating market.
How the locals do it: Besides the floating market, Amphawa district has numerous attractions that can be discovered just a couple of hours from the bustling capital. It might be a good idea to visit those places during the day and return by dusk.
2. Dine On A Boat – Immerse yourself in this Thai period scene
Savory meals in local boat vendors is no ordinary thing. Through the exotic dining location, you can enjoy Thai traditional food along the canals. Whichever Thai dishes you’d like to taste, it will be surely to your liking.
Where to: To enjoy the boat meals, it is not necessary to travel afar, but only to the heart of Bangkok itself. Kwan-Riam Floating Market is inspired by a Thai melodrama film, known as a Thai version of Romeo and Juliet.
How the locals do it: From 7:30 to 8:00 am, there will be a Thai traditional ceremony (almsgiving) which people offer food to monks. The ceremony for the market is more special than others as the monks will join by boats.
3. Stroll in the past – Take the time machine back a 150 years
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Stepping into a 150-year-old market, you can hear voices of the past hidden inside. Its wooden floor will creak at every step. The awareness of the long-encapsulated histories and heritage will surely pop up in your mind. The shops and stores here are examples of the steadfast will of the people preserving their heritage. Handmade merchandises are well-crafted, reflecting the wisdom of ancestors passed upon to current generations.
Where to: Bang Phli Floating Market is on the canal side of Wat Bang Phli Yai Nai in Samut Prakan.
How the locals do it: During Thai important religious weekends, boat services are available for the the Nine Temples Worship tradition. It is believed that if you worship nine temples in one day, you will be in good fortune.
4. 2 in 1 Experiences – Canal & Railway passes through the market
Enjoy the experience of a two-in-one journey where you can enjoy local foods and desserts while also taking a boat ride and watching the train pass through the “umbrella market.”
Where to: Damnoen Saduak floating market was originally the name of a canal dug during King Rama IV’s reign. This canal was built to connect the Tha Chin River in Samut Sakhon Province and the Maeklong River in Samut Songkhram Province for improved commerce and transportation.
How the locals do it: The Maeklong Railway Market, where you can see the market on the railway, is the highlight of this market. Yes, you read that correctly! Around 10.30 a.m., the train will pass through the market, and all shops will close their umbrellas to allow the train to pass! It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that you won’t find anywhere else!
5. Participate in the ancient war of Suriyothai – Bear the Hearts of the Fearless Warriors
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Marching through the war-like scene, the feeling of being a Thai soldier may creep up upon you. Not only you can enjoy traditional Thai performances, but you can also suit up in antique armors and weapons as if it was hundreds of years ago here at Surasi Military Camp Floating Market.
Where to: Surasi Military Camp Floating Market is in the Thai Army’s vicinity in Kanchanaburi province. Many tourists constantly give the place a visit as it is not very far from Bangkok. Various food stores and souvenir shops are also available in the market.
How the locals do it: Other zones inside the army camp are also tourist attractions. Besides, you may want to bring a group of friends to enjoy activities such as paintball or rock climbing.
Looking for a unique tour to Thailand floating market? Check out these awesome places to visit and create a memorable journey!
Hungry for more? Check out our complete ebook guide to start floating-market hopping like a local!