Thailand is a country so steeped in culture and history, and full of unique experiences. For people who want to see much more beyond the busy streets of Bangkok, one will find a day spent visiting the iconic Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Maeklong Railway Market very much revealing of traditional Thai life. Both destinations are in their unique settings, with local vibes that make them spots any traveler would want to visit. With Go Thai Transport, your journey from Bangkok to these fascinating places will be as smooth and comfortable as it could get.
Exploring Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Situated about 100 kilometers southwest of Bangkok, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is one of the nation’s most famous and picturesque markets. It comprises a network of narrow klongs brimming with vendors who paddle traditional wooden boats loaded with fresh produce, local handicrafts, and a variety of mouth-watering Thai delicacies.
Credits: @David__kusnadi
What Makes It Special
It’s a different atmosphere altogether at Damnoen Saduak than at any other market in Thailand. The display of items and the view of the vending ladies paddling so expertly through the klongs give further color to the lively scenario, allowing one to relate to an ancient world. This shows an uncensored view of real Thai life, with both locals and tourists involved in friendly haggling over the fresh fruits and vegetables and souvenirs.
Credits: @merycabezuelo
Best Time to Visit
The best time to come to the market is in the morning from 8:00 to 9:00 AM. The activities are at their peak during this moment, with all vendors fully supplied and the morning sun giving out a warm reflection across the canals. Waking up early will also spare you from the larger crowds that normally start building later in the day.
Credits: @merycabezuelo
What to Do
- Take a Boat Ride: Undoubtedly, one of the most befitting ways to appreciate the market is to take a boat ride along its canals. This brings the vendors right up in action and has one feel the entire atmosphere of the market.
- Shop for Souvenirs: Ranging from the simplest stall to big ones selling traditional Thai handicrafts, cloths, and other accessories, everything seems to be there. It is just perfect for shopping for unique souvenirs to take back home.
- Try Local Delicacies: No visit to any Thai market is complete if not combined with the flavorful food available there. Do not miss trying some freshly cooked boat noodles and mango sticky rice, among other Thai snacks sold directly from the boats.
You should be expecting to spend about 2-3 hours at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. With this, you could explore the market on a boat, do some shopping, and have your meal before moving on to your next location.
Transition to Maeklong Railway Market
Credits: @liaoaaron.me
After soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the floating market, it’s time to move on to another unique Thai experience—the Maeklong Railway Market. A short drive from Damnoen Saduak, this market offers a completely different, yet equally fascinating, experience with its unique setting right on the railway tracks.
Maeklong Railway Market, better known as the “umbrella pulldown market,” is one of the most unique markets in the world. Vendors set up the market right on the train rails, pulling back their goods and awnings every time a train bypasses.
What Makes It Unique
It is the thrilling scene of trains passing through the heart of the market that truly characterizes Maeklong Railway Market. Vendors will calmly move their goods off the tracks as a train approaches, then it’s business as usual again once it passes. This routine, happening several times a day, is just an eye-opener and simply a definition of ingenuity and adaptability among locals.
Credits: @andre.nomadee
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the market is definitely when the train passes. The train goes through several times a day, usually with its first train coming out at around 8:30 AM. This is a schedule of when the train will pass; however, we always advise you to check for the most recent schedule:
What to Do
- Watch the Train Passing: This is, obviously, the main attraction—watching the train passing through the market. Be sure to have that camera ready to capture this very special moment.
- Shop Local Produce: The place is well known for its fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables. Take the opportunity to buy some local produce or sample street food being sold by vendors.
- Explore the Market: This market sprawls from the sides of the railway and down the streets beyond, selling everything from clothes to accessories to household goods.
Estimated Time to Spend
1-2 hours is enough time to be spent at Maeklong Railway Market. It gives you ample time to see the market, the train passing by, and shopping for fresh produce before heading back to Bangkok.
Back to Bangkok
After such an eventful day exploring two of Thailand’s most unique markets, it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy this comfortable drive back to Bangkok. The drive should take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the traffic, thus giving you plenty of time to unwind and reflect on today’s experiences.
If you have the time and are up for more adventures, do stop by one of these places on your way home, like the Wat Bang Kung Temple. With Go Thai Transport, flexibility in planning a trip is very possible.
Why Go Thai Transport is Best for Your Day Trip
You can be assured that your day out to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Maeklong Railway Market with Go Thai Transport will be smooth, hassle-free, and enjoyable. Here’s why:
- Smooth and Convenient Experience
You do not have to worry about congested streets and finding a car park or hassling public transports. With Go Thai Transport, you will simply be required to sit back while our professional, experienced drivers provide you with timely and comfortable journeys to all destinations. We also provide diver range of vehicles selection from SUV, Commuter Van and Alphard to meet all your needs.
- Competitive Pricing and No Hidden Fees
We can confidently say that our pricing is very competitive and there are no hidden fees. What you see, you pay for. Easy to plan a trip without pricing surprises.
- Dedicated Support
Our customer support team is there to assist you at every step. From the inquiries one may like to make before traveling, to the help one may need during the journey, or even the feedback one wants to give after the journey, we are just a call or message away.
The day out visit to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Maeklong Railway Market will leave a once in a lifetime experience of the old Thai traditions along with modern-day creativity. Imagine visiting these iconic destinations without the hassles of planning and logistics, so that you can really live life to the fullest in Thailand. Book your day trip today and get ready for a journey filled with cultural insight, bustling markets, and unforgettable memories.