Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

The Thai canal system was built between 1866 and 1868 on the orders of King Rama IV, and the floating markets were a response to the new and easy-to-navigate waterways. Since the canals were a faster way to transport goods and people than the roads, they soon became the focal point of communities nearby. The Damnoen Saduek market was built in 1981 and was almost immediately a major tourist attraction, and remains popular to this day. Visitors will enjoy discovering the many items available for purchase, including food, local crafts, and souvenirs, and can engage in some bartering while floating along in a boat in this unique setting.

There are parts of the market that are located on the banks of the canal, but you won’t really get the full experience without taking a boat tour. Most of the market is on the water, and, while being part of the hustle and bustle is part of the fun, you also won’t get to see everything if you stay on dry land. If you’re nervous about taking part in a boat tour then don’t worry, while the river is congested and boats bump into each other, it’s very safe.

The authenticity of the market is debatable. Floating markets were definitely very popular among local Thai people before the majority of people turned away from water traffic and towards cars, mopeds, and improved roads. The number of Thai people who use the markets for their everyday needs is very low, particularly the Damnoen Saduak market, which is well-known to be a tourist destination. That being said, the people who work in the market have often been doing so for years, before the surge in tourism, and their produce (while slightly higher priced than at other markets) is still authentically Thai. Even if you decide not to buy anything, you’ll still find delicious local food being cooked on the water, and you’ll be able to experience a version of the atmosphere that would have existed at the original floating markets.

Day trips to the floating market often include stops at other interesting sights and attractions outside of Bangkok, and it’s a great excuse to see some places outside the city limits. Other interesting spots worth visiting nearby include the Maeklong Railway Market, which sits on top of railway tracks and moves to allow the trains to pass through, and the Elephant Village where you’ll be able to meet and take photographs with elephants.