Visit the world famous Mae Klong rail market (video)
The immensely popular with tourists There is a Klong market in Samut Songkhram is a must for anyone who wants to take a special photo or video.
The special thing is the Ban Laem – Mae Klong tren driving through a market in Samut Prakan, the market is therefore world famous. The train passes 8 times a day and market vendors pull down the awnings on their stalls and shift their merchandise to allow the train to pass. The market is one of the largest fresh markets in Thailand and is also known as Talat Rom Hoop (Umbrella Pull Down Market).
The train departs from Ban Laem Mae Klong station in Samut Sakhon.
The origins of the market date back to the early 20th century, when traders and farmers from the area started selling their wares along the railway. This location was chosen for its easy access for the community and its proximity to the Mae Klong River, which guaranteed the freshness and availability of seafood. As the years passed, the market grew in both size and popularity, becoming a focal point for commerce in the region.
The real enchantment of the Mae Klong Railway Market lies in the harmonious coexistence of the daily trade with the train tracks that run straight through the market. Eight times a day, a loud siren announces the train's approach, setting off a hasty but organized ritual in which vendors quickly withdraw their awnings and displayed goods. As soon as the train passes, often just a few centimeters away from the goods on display, the sellers put everything back in its place and business continues undisturbed. This unique spectacle has put the Mae Klong Rail Market on the map as a must-see destination for both domestic and international tourists eager to experience this wonder of flexibility and adaptability.
The market is a melting pot of smells, colors and sounds, offering an extensive range of produce, from fresh fruit and vegetables to fish, meat, spices, and a variety of Thai snacks and delicacies. It is not just a place for commercial transactions; it is a living, breathing microcosm that reflects the essence of Thailand's community spirit and indomitable spirit.
Over the years, the Mae Klong rail market has become more than a curiosity; it has become a symbol of Thai culture and inventiveness, and is a testament to the resilience and creativity of its people. Despite the challenges and dangers associated with setting up a market on an active train line, the Mae Klong rail market continues to thrive, providing an unforgettable experience for all who get the chance to visit.
Video: Mae Klong rail market
In this nice video you can see beautiful images of the market: