Floating Market in Bangkok at Khlong Chak Phra (Virjintah / Shutterstock.com)
Taling Chan Floating Market in Bangkok was originally started in 1987 in honor of King Bhumibol's 60th birthday. Now this one starts floating market slowly becoming more and more popular and an excellent alternative, at least on weekends, to the famous Damnoen Saduak.
Less touristy and in Bangkok it has enough attractions to spend half a day and is much more authentic than the big well known markets. Unlike other newer floating markets that are more like canal markets, Taling Chan has quite a few boats.
The entrance to the market has a green roof and is mainly dedicated to plants, flowers and garden tools, but then the floating part begins. Of course much of that is focused on food, snacks, drinks and more food, the tasting and trying is all part of the fun. Go eat real Thai style, legs crossed, sitting at low tables on wooden floors and order giant shrimps, papaya salad, sticky rice, … and so on. If sitting on the floor isn't your thing (understandable!), there are also some restaurants with plastic tables and chairs near the railway bridge.
Taling Chan Floating Market (Matt Hahnewald / Shutterstock.com)
Sometimes there will be performances by a dance group and/or a Thai classical music ensemble. Other activities range from getting a massage to feeding large catfish. You will see many longtail boats passing by and if you want you can also go on a kalong tour!
- Opening hours: Saturday and Sunday, 08:00-17:00
- Getting there: By taxi is the easiest way, but you can also take the BTS to Wongwian Yai Station and from there by taxi (about 17 minutes) or by bus.
Submitted by Valorous
There are many “Floating Markets” in the Bangkok area, all of which are free.
When we were in Pattaya last February and wanted to visit the “Floating Market” there, 300 Baht pp had to be paid.
Just turned around and bought some things at the entrance.
That's right Peter, I once also stood there and when I heard that I had to pay, my wife and I left.
What do you normally do in a market? Right, do some shopping and spend some money. Shame that you have to pay for this at the entrance. By the way, if I'm not mistaken it was free for my wife. Again the poor farang who was allowed to dock.
I live around the corner and actually visit this market every weekend. Can that be done on foot?
Koen forgot to mention that bus 79 stops at the entrance of the market. This bus line runs from Central World via Sanam Luang (and Khao San Road) and west bus station Sai Tai all the way to Putthamonton Sai 4.
Maximum price 20 baht and always nice and cool in the bus….
Thank you Chris, I sometimes take the 79 from Pinklao to Siam Square. I knew it comes close to that, but not that it stops at the entrance, handy!
You can also take a boat trip to the orchid farms. Cost 99 baht.
from where can you do that boat trip to the orchid farm?
Middle of the market is a booking office; the boat leaves 50 meters further.