Enjoying floating markets of Bangkok

Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is a famous tourist destination in Southeast Asia. The city is a favorite haunt for millions of visitors from different parts of the world who come here to see, experience and enjoy at the unique floating markets of Bangkok.

Before exploring the floating markets and enjoying here, let us briefly look into the Thailand’s past. For those who traveled to Thailand prior to mid 20th century, the canals and rivers were the major modes of transportation. The history of floating markets is also traced during this period when people used canals and rivers in a big way for their travel. According to history, the farmers used to take their goods by boat for trading with other merchants and farmers from Thai cities. This activity took place mostly when the sun rose on full and new moon days. The floating markets later on became an integral part of peoples’ life in Bangkok and other Thai cities.

During the modern days when transportation gradually transformed with roads and motor vehicles replacing the boats and rivers, a time came when the floating markets started to gradually fade out. However, over the past decades there had been resurgence in keeping the traditions alive and the floating markets in the city have acquired a place of prominence. Apart from being tourist attractions, the floating markets also provide a fascinating glimpse into local farming economies and emerged as community meeting places.

If Bangkok is your next vacation destination, then you shouldn’t miss out on visiting and enjoying at the floating markets in the city. Here are some famous markets worth exploring. These include Thaling Chan, Khlong Lat Mayom, Kwan Riam, Bang Nam Phueng, Lam Phaya, Don Wai, Khlong Suan, Bang Khla, Ko Kret, Damnoen Saduak, Amphawa and Tha Kha.

The Thaling Chan is the most famous floating market and is the biggest attraction among the tourists today. It is quite convenient to reach from central Bangkok. This market is open on Saturdays and Sundays only. The best way to enjoy here is to reach early as you will be able to reserve a space on the floating platform. Treat yourself to delectable Thai cuisines offered by the floating vendors. This market was opened during late 1980s and is among the first modern floating markets to be established particularly for tourists.

The Khlong Lat Mayom is yet another famous floating market which is quite popular with the local Thai people and foreign tourists. This market came into being five years ago. It is opened only on Saturdays and Sundays. It’s a great meeting place for locals and enjoying food. This floating market is situated on a narrow canal where you will find boat vendors serving fabulous food. The Khlong Lat Mayom is also renowned for its arts and crafts station for kids as well as a petting zoo.

The Lam Phaya is also quite amazing. It is located on Tha Jeen river in an enchanting village. The atmosphere here is local. The market also sees foreign tourists in good numbers. To experience what life is like in Thai villages, consider visiting the Lam Phaya. Here, treat yourself to Thai cuisines and enjoy the sight of food being prepared by vendors on their rowboats. You will enjoy visiting these and many more floating markets in Bangkok and other Thai cities.