Bangkok is pretty famous for it’s floating markets, it has quite a number of them. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is the most famous of them all. I had missed out on the opportunity of visiting this landmark on my first visit to Bangkok in 2015. So i had to make sure that this time at no condition i could miss it.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is located about 100kms away from downtown Bangkok making it a 2hours drive. As i had taken a taxi it had cost me around 700 Baht for a round trip from my hotel at Sukhumvit Soi 7, if you’re looking for cheaper options you can always go to Victory Monument located close to the city and catch a mini van which costs around 100 Baht for a person.

On reaching the pier we were said at the boat renting counter that some of the shops might be closed as we went in the afternoon. So as a warning to all people who are considering to visit the floating markets, do reach there early, the floating markets open from 7am and the best time to visit is during the morning slot. Some shops get closed 12pm onward so BEWARE.

Finally we considered renting a private boat which turned out to be a pretty costly affair, the boats usually charge 3000 Baht for a 2 Hour ride across the market, but as it was already afternoon with pretty scorching heat we decided to take the boat for only an hour and it cost us 2000 Baht.

After 10 minutes ride across the klongs (canals) we started seeing the floating shops, various curio items, souvenirs, food stalls, clothes and what not. But again as Floating Market is a major tourist attraction the prices of the products are pretty higher than the market prices in Bangkok. But the food sold their is very fresh and delectable. Coconut ice cream, the very famous Pad Thai noodles and Grilled Bananas are the most common to find. The floating eateries mainly serve Pad Thai and Mango with Sticky Rice, i tried the former of them and must say it was pretty savory with three big pieces of tiger prawns and the authentic Thai flavor. There are boats which also sell fresh vegetables and fruits which usually directly come from the farms so as fresh as daisy.

All in all Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is a one-time experience, and a must visit. It’s something distinctive and shows various colors and culture of Thailand. The locales are very affable and always greet you with Swaadee Ka. It’s a bit of a costly affair but must say it’s worth it.

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Khaapkhun Ka!